The key to creating a personalized look
Foundation choices can be bewildering. Whether you want a natural, sophisticated look or a flawless, glamorous finish, a buildable coverage foundation gives you the flexibility to customize coverage to suit your needs.
What exactly is a buildable coverage foundation and how do you use it? We explain why this foundation is so popular with makeup minimalists and beauty enthusiasts.
What is a buildable coverage foundation?
In short: With a buildable coverage foundation, you can customize your coverage, going from light to full coverage in just a few coats.
A buildable coverage foundation is a foundation that can be applied in multiple layers to achieve your desired coverage. Unlike a full coverage foundation that completely hides blemishes and imperfections with just one coat, a buildable coverage foundation starts with a lighter finish, giving you the control to apply more product for a fuller look.
Why choose a foundation with buildable coverage?
Versatility: You can choose the coverage based on the occasion. Whether you want a light, airy layer for a natural daytime look or want to add more makeup for an evening look, a buildable foundation has you covered (literally!).
Control: With a buildable formula, you can control the amount of product you apply. This is perfect if you only want to cover certain areas (like redness or blemishes) while leaving other areas sheer and natural.
Lightweight: Buildable coverage often starts with a lighter, airy base that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin even with multiple layers.
Ideal for combination skin: If some areas of your face need more coverage (like blemishes) while other areas need less makeup to look better, a buildable foundation gives you the flexibility to apply different amounts as needed.
How to Apply a Buildable Foundation
The magic of a buildable foundation is its ability to be applied in multiple layers without caking. How to Use It to Create the Perfect Base for Any Look:
Step 1: Prep Your Skin
As with any foundation, it’s important to prep your skin. Keep your skin hydrated with our simple 4-step skincare routine: cleanse, toner, serum and moisturize. Primer smooths skin texture and ensures it lasts.
Step 2: Apply Thinly First
Begin by applying a thin layer of foundation. You can use your fingers, a makeup sponge or a facial brush, depending on your preference. Evenly blend foundation onto your face for a natural base.
Step 3: Apply Thinly First
After the first layer has set, decide if you need more coverage. Apply another thin layer of foundation over areas that need more attention, such as redness or blemishes. Pat the product into the skin rather than rubbing it in to avoid damaging the first layer.
Step 4: Apply the remaining primer
For extra coverage, especially under the eyes, now is the perfect time to apply concealer. For a flawless foundation, highlight your facial features with a bronzer, apply some blush, and use a highlighter to accentuate the high points of your face. This creates a beautifully balanced and radiant look.
Step 5: Repair (if necessary)
Depending on the effect you want (fresh or matte), you can set your makeup with foundation. Apply translucent powder on oily areas and then use a setting spray to restore shine.
When should you use a buildable foundation?
One of the great things about a buildable foundation is its versatility:
For everyday wear: Apply a single layer for a light, airy look that balances your skin tone without looking heavy. Perfect for school, work, or running errands.
For special occasions: Apply one or two more layers for medium to full coverage – the perfect, long-lasting base, perfect for parties, weddings, or evening outs.
For targeted coverage: Apply light coverage to most areas of your face, only where you need it most, such as under your eyes, around your nose, or on blemishes. Personally, I prefer to use the lightest layer on my cheeks because I like to let my freckles show through my makeup!
For those who want flexibility in their makeup, a foundation with buildable coverage is perfect. It lets you customize your look from light to full coverage depending on the day, giving you total control without feeling heavy or cakey. Are you ready for the ultimate customizable foundation?
