Saturday, January 31, 2009

Prescriptives All Skins Foundations Campaign

Prescriptives is one of the few companies out there that do custom foundations right at their counters. Many bloggers I know love these. I haven't tried them yet, I hate to say. It sounds like a great idea though. Lets face it it can be hard to get just the right color & blend.


Here's a Q&A with Jillian Veran, Prescriptives Director of Artistry, on commonly asked foundation questions .

Granted this is Prescriptive based, but there is plenty of sound advice in there.


1. Do different skin types need different foundation formulas?


Absolutely - the environment can affect how our skin behaves so the same skin can even need different types of foundation during the year. In today’s beauty world there are so many options, the best thing to do is to address what you want and need from your foundation. Do you like a sheer, luminous, satin or matte finish? Do you like liquid, cream or powder formulas? And of course what is your skin type - normal, dry, oily, combination?



2. What is the best way to apply foundation? Should I use a sponge, a brush or my fingertips?

Applying foundation is a personal preference and each method creates a different finish. Using your fingers will allow for a sheerer finish; a sponge is a little tricky for a non-makeup artist as it can place a lot of foundation in one spot so be sure to move quickly across the areas you are applying to; a brush is always great as it helps you create a very smooth even finish.
Also, I always recommend using the Px Buff Brush after your foundation is dry to soften the look of the makeup and create a sheer air brushed effect.

3. If I'm testing foundation in a department store, is it ok to do a swatch on my hand? Or should I always test the foundation on my face?

The best and most accurate way to test foundation is on the side of the face along the jaw line. Stick to this method for fool proof matching.

4. If my skin tone is between foundation shades, what's the best solution?

Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation is ideal for this. Your foundation can be blended not only to exactly match your skins own unique undertones, but also to create whatever finish and skin care needs you desire.

5. What foundations are best for acne prone skin? For dry skin? For mature skin

All skin types should start with a foundation primer like Px Flawless Face Primer. This will allow the makeup to wear longer and for a seamless finish.
Dry skin should wear a moisture based formula and should steer away from powder formulas. But if you prefer powder, use a soft cream-to-powder formula like Px Photochrome Light-Adjusting Compact Makeup SPF 15.
Normal skin can wear whatever they like, it’s all about preference.
Oily or acne prone skin should wear an oil-free formula. Powder foundation is great for this type of skin.
Mature skin must be hydrated before applying any foundation. The foundation shouldn’t be too matte or heavy as this can accentuate the age of the skin.

6. Do foundations with sunscreen provide enough protection? Should I need to wear extra sunscreen?

Sun damage is the leading cause of aging. So no, using foundation as sunscreen isn’t the best idea. Foundation doesn’t provide a full mask on the skin so the sun will get through.
Always use an SPF under your foundation for that extra layer of protection. I highly recommend Prescriptives All Weather Friend SPF 40 as it’s incredibly lightweight and feels great under foundation.


There's even an All Skins video shoot http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvZmRTsWJUI.



Full line at http://www.prescriptives.com/ or at counters.

2 comments:

Miss Kolleen said...

I work at Benefit right next to PX at Macys in Salem, NH. Their custom blends are amazing, and if the beauty artist knows her stuff, its actually not that hard. Lisa, the counter manager, is a pro at making cutsom blends. I suggest you go for the gold and try it. You'll love it!

Beauty Alchemist said...

Thanks for the scoop. I think I just might .