Why we love it: This unique cream foundation stick has a formula that features a nourishing complex that helps create a smooth finish. It’s incredibly portable too, and can be used in many different ways, whether that’s as a foundation or concealer. Its greatest strength is that it’s natural-looking and undetectable and leaves a soft matte finish.
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11. Best affordable
- Coverage: Medium-to-full.
- Finish: Blurring.
- Shade range: 12.
Why we love it: L’Oreal’s Infallible Shaping Stick Foundation has a long-lasting wear of up to 24 hours, making it perfect for even the busiest of days. It has an ultra-creamy formula which seamlessly melts into the skin for buildable coverage to create shine-free base for your look. And yes, you can also use it as a concealer or to highlight and contour, depending on the shade.
What is the best way to apply stick foundation?
“The first rule is to prepare your skin correctly. Start with a clean, moisturised face. To me, skincare is part of the makeup process because it creates texture. Use a primer that suits your skin type to create a smooth base and support the foundation’s wearability,” Dior MUA Jamie Coombes advises.
As far as application goes, Kay suggests opting for “a ‘stipple’ makeup brush to apply the product,” starting from the centre of your face while working outward. In order to achieve a more natural look, Chanel MUA Kay Montano advises using fingers, “and if needed, pat the product around your nose with your fingertips or use a small brush to conceal any blemishes.”
Jamie shares that “foundation brushes build more coverage, makeup sponges offer a more natural finish, and fingers help warm up the stick formula for more effortless blending.” Jamie’s top tip for a “polished” look consists of finishing up the application “with a light buff down using a clean brush.”
If you want to avoid a cake-y finish, Jamie suggests “focusing on specific areas of your face instead of sweeping the stick across your entire face. Target the centre of your forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin, then blend outward in circular motions”
“Stick foundations such as Dior Forever Skin Perfect are buildable, so start with a thin layer and add more only where needed. This helps avoid a heavy mask-like finish. It’s easier to add a little more than to take away.”
Lastly, Jamie recommends finishing everything off with a setting powder and a setting spray to ensure a lasting finish.
How to prep skin before applying stick foundation
“A good skincare routine is essential for foundation, as makeup can only do so much,” shares Chanel MUA Kay Montano.
“Often people think their skin is dry, when it’s actually just dehydrated, and people forget about exfoliating. Using a facecloth daily is enough to keep dead skin from ‘dulling’ the skin. Find a good exfoliator to use (around the nose and chin especially) at least once a week, and use a face serum followed by a good moisturiser after washing/cleansing,” Kay explains.
