How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Meet Shaina, a young woman who wants to even out her skin tone for a clear and balanced complexion. Makeup artist Eve Pearl will show us how to apply foundation to deep-toned skin while remaining true to Shaina's rich, natural color.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Before applying any makeup, prime and moisturize the skin. If you have oily skin or any shininess on the forehead and nose, follow the moisturizer with an anti-shine gel to provide a matte surface for the foundation.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Apply the HD Dual Foundation (Deep) to the skin using a foundation brush. (TIP: When choosing a dual foundation, try to match the lighter shade of foundation against the color of your neck.)

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Here, Eve uses a technique called Reverse Contouring, a method that contradicts traditional contouring effects to create a more natural look. With one side of the foundation brush, apply the darker side of the dual foundation on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Using the other side of the brush, apply the lighter foundation on the chin and along the jawline.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Use a damp makeup sponge to blend the foundation for a smooth complexion. You can adjust the amount of coverage to suit your needs; using a dryer sponge will provide full coverage, while a moister sponge will provide sheer coverage.

To match the darker skin under the eyes and around the mouth to the rest of the face, apply a cream concealer with a concealer brush. Be sure to use the Salmon Concealer (Deep) to counter the bluish tones in the skin. Blend the concealer down into the foundation with a moist sponge for an even skin tone.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Use a powder puff to press (not wipe) HD Pressed Powder (Dark) into the skin. This will set the foundation and concealer and ensure that it does not move.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

To give your face added definition, apply a Blush Trio (Dark) with a Fan brush. Sweep the brush across all three colors (brown, pink, and bronzer) and apply to the apples of your cheeks

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones

Complete the look with a little lip gloss for a face that is clear and radiant.

How to Apply Foundation for Dark Skin Tones