'Base'ic Steps

• Step 1
  
  Apply a light moisturiser and under-eye cream and leave for 10  minutes.
  
• Step 2
  
  Take one pump of liquid foundation on your palm. With your finger, dab single spots on chin, forehead, each cheek and nose. In case you have acne or pimples, dab concealer on the affected area before applying foundation.
  
• Step 3
  
  Using your finger or a buffing brush (fat make-up brush), spread the foundation on your face in clockwise and anti-clockwise motion.
  
• Step 4
  
  Apply translucent powder (light shade of compact) with a buffing brush.
  Depending on the amount of coverage  you want (in case you have acne scars), another coat of liquid foundation can be applied. To prevent eye shadow from running off, apply light foundation on your eyelids. A light coat of foundation can be applied on the lips if they have pigmented.

Find your Foundation

Make-up artist Namrata Soni helps us choose the right shade. She says, "Always choose a shade closest to your skin tone. When you are at the cosmetic counter, ask the assistant for help. Make her apply different shades on your cheek."

According to her, if you plan to invest in a good foundation, spend more than a day choosing the right shade! "Ask the assistant to apply a thin coat of foundation all over your face and spend the rest of the day outdoors. Make sure it does not make you look pink. Spend a few days testing foundations in this manner and then decide which one made you look best throughout the day, advises Namrata."

Right Texture

Make sure you choose a foundation that not only suits your skin tone but also your skin type. While cream foundation is best for dry skin, use liquid and compact or powder foundation for normal or oily skin and extremely oily skin respectively.

Don't forget to remove make-up before going to bed. Always use a cleanser and then wash your face. If you directly wash your face, it will be tougher to remove make up, especially a thick base. Moreover, too much soap or face will make your skin dry.

A good base prevents your skin from the harsh sunrays and dust. It is like warming up before exercise; make sure you never miss it!