How to choose the right base

While most of us have multiple colors and formulations of products for our eyes, cheeks, and lips, we tend to stick with the same face base with each look. Admittedly, it can be tough to find the right base and so it can be tempting to use the same foundation every day. I, however, have a foundation wardrobe, so to speak, where I've narrowed it down to three formulations for weekend, every day, and for more fancy occasions. Having this rotation makes it easy for me to prepare my face for whatever the day brings.

- For weekends or days when minimal makeup is required (or desired!) I reach for Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. It's like a jazzed up tinted moisturizer, a bit more creamy, with a hit of SPF and anti-aging benefits. Just a dab brightens and evens my skin tone, leaving a dewy finish that is perfect for running errands or whatever. You can find it at drugstores for around $13 or so.

http://www.garnierusa.com/_en/_us/our_products/product-struct.aspx?tpcode=OUR_PRODUCTS^PRD_SKINCARE^SKINCARE^SKINCARE_DISCOVER^SKIN_RENEW

- For everyday I prefer a lightweight foundation that I know will give me lasting coverage. While the dewy finish of the BB Cream is great, for a long workday I want something that will keep my face looking clean and tidy. For this I prefer bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15. The loose powder formula feels really light on skin while giving it a beautiful, almost airbrushed effect. The powder manages to keep my face from feeling greasy by the end of a busy day.

http://www.sephora.com/bareminerals-original-foundation-broad-spectrum-spf-15-P61003?skuId=747410

- Finally, for occasions when I can spend a little more time on my makeup, or want the most flawless finish possible, my pick is Clinique Stay- Matte Oil Free Makeup. This is a traditional liquid formula, which makes my skin look incredible. I use a foundation brush to apply (I like Sonia Kashuk's, available at Target) and with a little time this product makes my skin look amazing! It does take a few extra minutes and feels just a hint heavier than the bareMinerals which is why I save this for special occasions. If you have the time to spend or are preparing for a big night (or day) this is a great choice.

http://www.sephora.com/stay-matte-oil-free-makeup-P310726?skuId=1411172

For the finishing touch, I dab on a translucent loose powder. I like bareMinerals Mineral Veil. It just keeps everything in place.

http://www.sephora.com/mineral-veil-P61004?skuId=1073014

Keep in mind that I tend to have combination-to-normal skin, which means my skin is relatively clear with occasional acne and dryness. If your skin type is extremely oily or dry these may not be the best choices for you.

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, Tupelo Beauty Examiner

Caitlin Loder has been an avid reader of fashion magazines since she first picked up a copy of InStyle at age 6. She does all the research for her readers,reading every fashion magazine available and poring over a variety of fashion and beauty blogs in an effort to bring you the best and most...

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