What is foundation made of?

Have you ever thought about what a foundation is made of? In 2023 it’s very difficult to imagine using makeup without a foundation. However, the history of foundations dates back thousands of years. The usage of foundations has been going on since ancient times, and modern makeover owes a lot to it.

We at Tira present you a brief introduction to foundations where you’ll know a lot about them including the essential components.

An introduction to foundation makeup

Foundation makeup is a type of cosmetic product that provides your skin with an even tone and good texture. A perfect foundation should match your natural skin tone while covering the dark patches.

Around 200 BC, the ancient Greek and Roman folks used white paint to look good. The journey of foundations started back then and now we use a wide range of modern ones as our make-up base.

Modern-day foundation was invented by Max Factor in 1920 and it was known as pancakes. Then came the liquid foundation which went on to become a game changer. Eventually, it went on to become a significant theatrical make-up item and foundation at that time was made from white lead powder although that was discontinued because of how poisonous it was.

Since then, foundations have come a long way to become one of the most essential items in a makeup kit.

The ingredients of a foundation makeup 

Now let’s dig deeper to understand what it takes to make a foundation. What are the things that are used in a foundation?

Regardless of the different classifications of foundations, there are some common components present among all of them. Most of the foundations include talc, colouring components and sunscreen essentials which are necessary for your skin to glow.

1. Oil-based foundations 

Most of the time an oil-based foundation is made of argan oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, mineral oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. These foundations work best on dry skin to provide nourishment and hydration.

2. Oil-free foundations

Oil-free foundations are mostly known as silicon-based liquid foundations which are available in bottles. Silicon-based foundations provide a matte or dewy finish. Water is used with silicon such as Methicone, Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, or Phenyl Trimethicone. These foundations are long-lasting and great for oily skin.

3. Water-based foundations

In a water-based foundation, the main component is mostly water but it contains a very small amount of oil as well.

4. Water-free foundations 

Water-free foundations are mainly cream foundations. These are great for dry skin types since there is a good portion of oil. Wax is also used to create the desired cream formulation.

Different forms of foundations 

Foundations are available in the market in quite a few forms which makes it tough to pick one.

Thus you need to figure out which one you are comfortable with and most importantly which is the easiest to apply. These are some of the common types of foundations.

1. Liquid foundation

If you are looking for more of a naturalistic makeover, then applying some liquid foundation is the best option out there. These types of foundations come in tubes or bottles.

2. Powder-based foundations

Most women prefer powder foundation as their makeup because it is easier to apply. In case you have to travel in summer, they can provide you with protection against the sun.

These foundations are mainly made with talc, emollients, and pigments along with some binding agents and synthetic or natural wax.

3. Cream foundations

Women with dry skin prefer cream foundations. They could be your new best friend too just in case you have too much pigmentation to cover.

4. Stick foundation 

Stick foundations are something you can rely on while going places. Since they come in sticks, it means that they can be applied like a concealer as well.

How to choose the perfect foundation

You need to be absolutely sure about a foundation before purchasing one. What works best for your friend may not suit your skin tone or type at all. You have to keep these things in mind while choosing a foundation for yourself.

Skin type 

• For oily skin, oil-free foundations work best. They can be powdery or liquid as a good foundation should soak up the excessive oil oily skin has to offer.
• For dry skin, a cream foundation is appropriate. They can moisturize dry skin and prevent it from looking dull and lifeless.
• Combination skin is a mixture of oily and dry skin. Thus use a foundation that hydrates and absorbs extra oil as well.
• For acne-prone skin, a paraben and an irritant-free foundation is best.

Skin tone

Apply a small tip of the foundation on your jawline before buying one. If the shade of the foundation gets perfectly blended on your skin, then this is the one.

Skin undertone

Skin undertones can be determined by the colour of your veins. Check your veins closely, and if they appear blue or purple then you have a cool undertone. People with green veins have a warm undertone. If confused, consult a beauty expert before purchasing a foundation for yourself.

Go for a matte finish in case you’ve oil skin. For normal to dry skin a dewy foundation can do the job.

Conclusion

There are several types of foundations to match your skin tone and type, but some components are quite common in all of them. The formulation of foundations has indeed evolved with time, but they are still as important as they were always. You need to choose your foundation very carefully or else your hard work may go in vain.

Go through our blog section to read more interesting blogs like this. Also, make sure to check out our wide range of makeup products which can help you achieve your dream makeover.