Foundation Reviews

Every brand in the market has multiple foundations with different claims. Selecting a foundation can get a little confusing especially for beginners. So we have we have compiled reviews of 5 foundations that may help narrow down your next foundation purchase.

Remember: This is not a top 5 foundation list.These are just products we have personally used and feel it can meet different needs in terms of coverage, longevity and skin type.

•  Maybelline’s Fit Me Foundation Matte and Poreless : which retails at Rs.525 for 30ml. It is one of our favourite foundations for normal to dry skin. It has medium coverage but can be easily built up to full coverage. It has a range of shades which are available in stores and online as well. This foundation does live up to its claims of giving a matte finish while matching natural tones and still gives a seamless finish. The foundation has a very runny texture and needs to be set by powder. It lasts for a good 5 hours without a touch up and if set with powder, the oxidisation is negligible. It does not make the skin oily and photographs well. The only complain from this product, is the packaging. It comes in a glass bottle like most foundations, but does not have a pump. After the first use itself, the product is all over the cap and if not shut well, it may spill easily.
• You can buy it here-

• L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation- retailed at Rs.1025 for 30ml.The claims and texture of the product is similar to Maybelline’s Fit Me foundation. It also has SPF 17. It it not very thick in nature making it easy to blend. It has an amazing shade range available in stores and online. It provides medium coverage which makes the skin look healthier ,just like any other foundation. However once the foundation is taken off it gives no additional benefits to the skin, like it claims to. It looks fresh for 3-4 hours after which it does tend to oxide slightly and must be set with settling powder. It comes in a glass bottle with a pump making the application easy.
• You can buy it here - 

• Lakmé 9 to 5 weightless mousse foundation- retailed at Rs.575 for 29ml. It has a thick texture and consistency providing a matte finish. It comes only in 4 shades, all having yellow undertones. Like it claims, it provides coverage for daily use, blends effortlessly and is still weightless. This is definitely the most lightweight or weightless foundation we have come across. Even the most lightweight BB creams feel heavier than this foundation. However, it has low coverage and cannot conceal any blemishes. This can be your go to foundation if you are looking for a everyday natural look. This can be blended without a brush or makeup sponge and does not need to be set by powder. It lasts for a good 5-6 hours before it stars to oxidise. As for the packaging, it comes in a plastic tube with a nozzle, making it travel friendly.
• You can buy it here-

• L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation -retailed at Rs.1325 for 30ml. Its consistency is thicker than most liquid foundations and may feel a bit heavy on the skin. It has a range of shades available in the market and online as well. It comes with SPF 18 , with almost no oxidation and  photographs well too. It claims to last for 24 hours, cover all imperfections with no transfer and dry outs. It is easy to blend, has high coverage and lasts long if not for 24 hours. If not set with powder, it does transfer. It is perfect for all skin types as it prevents the skin from getting oily or dry. It may be a pinch on your pocket but it is really good for special occasions. It is packed in a glass bottle and is not messy as it comes with a pump.
• You can buy it here -

• Za Perfect Fit Liquid Foundation- retailed at Rs.700 for 30ml. The foundation has a water based formula with  SPF 17 PA++. It is an extremely lightweight foundation which  provides sheer coverage lasting for 4 hours. It is a good option for daily wear since it makes  your skin look healthy. It has a limited range of shades with mostly pink undertones. It needs to be set with powder to prevent oxidisation. It is packed in a small plastic bottle with a nozzle, making it easy to carry. I believe this is a good alternative for  the Lakmé 9 to 5 foundation if you have predominant pink undertones or cannot find your shade in their range.

• You can buy it at http://www.nykaa.com/   or  http://www.flipkart.com/

We hope you found this post helpful. Let us know if you have any feedback or questions.We will be back with a new post next week.

Photography Credits:Shivam Bhatt.

Foundations 101.

Foundation is the most popular among the base make up products.That being said,we have realised a lot of people have misconceptions about foundations. They feel it makes them look “white” and unnatural. Add to that the hot humid weather of India, which makes people dread even the thought of having a layer of product all over their face. However with a simple understanding of foundations and the requirements of your skin, we can help you get rid of all your misconceptions.

What is foundation?

Foundation is a product that aims to provide an even toned coverage and make your skin look healthy. It may differ from high coverage to low coverage depending on the product and requirements of the skin. It is usually preceded by primer and colour corrector and is followed by concealer.

Types of Foundation:

Liquid foundation- The most common among all kinds as it suits all skin types. Liquid foundations may provide a matte or dewy finish. 

Stick foundation- It is a bit rare and is mostly used by professionals. This is not the best option for beginners since it is a little hard to blend. It should be avoided by people having dry skin.

Powder foundations- Another common type of foundation. Mostly used to set the liquid foundation and prevent it from slipping and transferring. It is a good option for people with oily skin since it helps with oil control.

Cream foundation- Also known as mousse foundation is not a popular choice. It works best for normal to dry Skin.

How to pick the correct shade of foundation?

In order to identify the correct shade of foundation for yourself, you first need to identify your undertones. If you have a warm toned skin, then you predominately have yellow undertones. If you have a cool toned skin, then you predominately  have pink undertones. It is highly unlikely for an individual to have only yellow or pink undertones. Most individuals are a combination of both. However whichever undertones dominates your skin is your primary undertone. Most Indians have yellow undertones. So while picking up your foundation, if the shade seems fine but it does not seem to match your complexion, you probably need to check for a product with different undertones.

Often while choosing a foundation, people swatch the foundation on their wrist. However there might be a slight difference in shade on your wrist and on your face. So, to get a more accurate match it is better to swatch the foundation on your jaw line.

Foundations also tend to oxidise which means they become a little darker a while after being applied. The oxidation depends on the product. Thus never pick up a foundation in a rush. Take your time.  Swatch various shades. Look at other products and then come back and decide which shade works the best for you.

How to apply foundation?

Once the primer has settled into your pores, you can begin with the application of the foundation. The application depends on the texture of the foundation and the coverage you are looking for. If you are not looking for full coverage, just take a small amount of foundation on the back of your palm, dot it all over your face and neck with your fingers and blend it with a buffer brush or make up sponge. However if you are looking for higher coverage, use a foundation brush instead of your fingers. This is the general method of application for liquid and cream foundations.

The application for powder foundations is comparatively simpler. All you need to do is dab a powder brush into the product (You can remove the excess product) and then just simply swirl the brush all over your face in downward strokes. 

To avoid a patchy look remember to put some foundation on your neck as well.

Alternatives for Foundation:

BB Cream( Blemish Balm or  Beauty Balm) - It is a tinted moisturiser with anti aging properties  providing a limited coverage. It can be used as a primer, to conceal blemishes and to brighten one’s skin. This is definitely a better option during those breakout days, giving you a glow without applying too much.

CC cream (colour correcting or complexion correcting cream)-  It is similar to a BB cream but differs in coverage and texture. It has a higher coverage with a thicker texture compared to a BB cream.

We hope you found this post helpful. Let us know if you have any feedback or questions.We will be back with a new post next week.

Photography Credits: Shivam Bhatt.

Colour Correcting 101.

Sometimes even a good concealer can't help you get rid of discolouration on your face. Through layers of built up concealer, you can see acne scars or grey dark circle peeping. That is when you need some colour correcting. 

What is colour correcting?

Colour Correcting is rectifying any discolouration on your face due to pigmentation, dark circles or acne scars. It is applied after primer and is followed by foundation. It counteracts the discolouration and helps you get flawless skin

Make Up Forever 5 Camouflage Cream Palette retails for Rs.3500.

How to pick the right colour?

Colour correcting is based on the colour wheel. Firstly, you need to identify the areas of discolouration or dark patches on your face. After that you need to find the opposite shade of the discolouration according to the colour wheel. 

That is the colour you need to use to get rid of that particular discolouration.

Example:

Blue is corrected by Orange.

Types of Colour Correctors:

Peach colour corrector: corrects dark Circles, pigmentation and acne scars for people with a light skin tone.

Salmon colour corrector: corrects dark Circles, pigmentation and acne scars for people with a dark skin tone.

Green colour correctors: covers redness, blemishes and acne scars.

Lavender colour correctors: brighten the skin and get rid of pale yellow skin.

Yellow: corrects purple under eyes circles, blue bruises and veins.

How to apply colour correctors?

Once your primer has settled in, you are good to go. Applying the colour corrector with your fingers may seem a little messy but is surely a better option. When you apply it with a brush, it may get layered and difficult to blend. Thin layers work best, but if you feel the need for some more product, build it up little by little. The next step is applying your foundation. Applying the foundation using a beauty blender or makeup sponge is the best choice as a brush could move or remove the colour corrector. We definitely don't want that right? 

Is it the same for everyone?

Just like each one of us is different, so is our skin. The intensity of under eye bags, spots or acne marks differ from person to person . Not everyone needs colour correcting. But if you do, you must  understand your skin tone, its requirements and accordingly pick the colour corrector. Use only what your skin needs and get closer to achieving that perfect base.



We hope you found this post helpful. Comment below and leave us your feedback. We'll be back with a new post next week.
 

Foundation only(left), Foundation with colour corrector(right)

Foundation only(left), Foundation with colour corrector(right)

Photography by Shivam Bhatt.

Primers 101.

Most people believe make up starts with foundation. However it actually starts with applying a primer. Primer is a product that I personally feel does not get its due. There are some who believe it's unwanted and avoid applying it. For those who don't know or want to know more about what a primer is, keep reading.

 

 What is a primer? 

Applying a primer is the first step in a makeup routine. It keeps your makeup fresh and long lasting. The primer is basically used to even out the skin, cover redness and blur out imperfections like fine lines and large pores.

Types of Primers:

According to your skin type, there are specific primers that help with the requirements of your skin.

Pore filling primer: Primer that fills your pores.

Mattifying primer: Primer that controls oil and keeps the face matte.

Longevity primer: Primer that helps your make up look fresh for long hours

Colour correcting primer: Primer that reduces redness and any other discolouration.

How to apply a Primer?

A primer should be applied typically 5 minutes after putting some moisturiser, so that the primer does not slip off. The primer can be applied with your fingers. All you need to do is, take some primer on the back of your hand , dot it on your face and gently massage it into your pores. Once massaged on your face, let it settle and then get started with the rest of your makeup.

What are the benefits of using a Primer?

The primer is helps people with an oily T zone , oily skin or combination skin since it gives a mattifying look. The primer works well for people with dry skin too,  since it gives you a smooth base to apply your foundation. It prevents your foundation or base from looking caked up, creased and keeps it intact for a long time.

Some of the primers available in India :

L’Oreal Base Magique Transforming Smoothing Primer: It retails for Rs.995 for 15ml. This is not only perfect for oily skin but also for people with normal skin who end up spending a lot of time outdoors. It is packed in a tiny glass jar but is a little heavy, making it less travel friendly compared to other primers. The absence of a pump is a let down since you have to dip your finger in the jar and use it. This not only becomes messy but also a bit unsanitary. However a plus point is that it goes really well with the sunscreen.

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer : It retails for Rs. 820 for 22ml (on amazon).This is not available in the Indian market but is available in the US. It is packed in a tube with a nozzle making it travel friendly and easy to apply. It is light, has a smooth texture and glides onto the skin easily.  This primer helps to keep your makeup on for a long time and is a good choice when travelling. 

 

Miss Claire Studio Perfect Professional Makeup Primer: Retailed at Rs.395 for 30ml. This is a dupe for the NYX Primer. It is available in two shades 01 Clear and 02 Beige. It comes in  a tube with a nozzle and applies easily on to the face. The clear one has a similar texture to the Maybelline Baby Skin primer due its high silica content. It also has anti redness properties and is suitable for dry to combination skin. Good packaging, good quantity and easy on the pocket. This is definitely my favourite.   

 

Benefit’s The POREfessional Primer: This is retailed at  Rs.2860 for 22ml. This one of the best primer I have come across. It works for all skin types. You can just skip foundation if you have this on. Even though it claims to be a pore filling primer, it does all that is required of a primer. It gives a matte finish, increases the wear time of your makeup and colour corrects your skin. It is a little heavy on the pocket  but it is totally worth it. It has a little tint in it and comes with a nozzle for easy application. This too is packed in a tube making is easy to carry around.

Nivea Men Cooling After Shave Balm : It retails for Rs.245 for 100ml making it one of the most economic primers available in India. This is a product some of you may already have in your houses. This is not a primer but can be used as one. This was initially tested and made popular by Nikkie Tutorials. Since it is not originally a primer, the packaging seems a little inappropriate and application may get a little messy due to the absence of a pump. The bottle is made of glass and is heavy thus making it difficult to carry around.The texture is creamier than most primers and may feel a little heavy on the skin during application but settles into the skin quick enough. It works best for dry skin. It helps with keeping your make up on for long hours. 

 

Some of the other primers available in the Indian market with good reviews are The Body Shop Tea Tree Pore Minimiser and Sivanna Colors Skin Primer. However since we have not personally used them, we did not include them in the post.

We hope you found this post helpful. 

We will be back with a new post next week.

Welcome To Compact Matters.

   Hello there :)

Blogging has been on our minds for a while. We had ideas and concepts that we wanted to blog about but procrastination got the better of us . Finally after some ideating, we decided to work together, pen down things that interested us so we could finally act on this little idea we had. 

Compact Matters is a blog through which we will  share our  passion for makeup, style and various things under the sun. We share this passion with  each other and all of you and would like to share our knowledge and opinions about things that intrigue us.

As you may have guessed by now, the brain behind Compact Matters is not of one but two of us. So here is a little bit about us, we are Brinda and Ritu. While Brinda loves her Ruby Woo and Chilli , I on the other hand love my Sugar Plum Fairy and Sultry. Ritu is all about her long curls and I cannot imagine myself without my poker straight hair. Sephora is Brinda's paradise but I would prefer spending my day at Forever 21. We may be poles apart in some of our choices but what brings us together is our love for defined brows and heels #ShortGirlProblems 

We believe an individual's appearance is an expression of their personality. An individual should be comfortable in his/her own skin and  should not be afraid to try and find their own style. If you want to dye your hair purple or wear a smokey eye with a bold red lip, nothing should stop you.

 However experimenting and spicing things up always help in standing out in a crowd. 

We shot some pictures a while back in which we attempted to spice up the classic look of black singlets and black high waisted pants with fun accessories and make up to create an everyday look. We went for these beautiful pairs of silver jhumkas. They were a good bargain from Colaba Causeway for Rs.100 each.

For our makeup, we chose  an everyday look with special emphasis on the base. To accompany the flawless base, we winged it and added a touch of our favourite lipsticks.

Our next blog will be about a highly underrated product, Primers. If you would like to know how this product helps you ace your base make up, make sure you come back.

Photography by Shivam Bhatt.