Foundation Type: Liquid Vs. Powder

For those who wear makeup every day or most days, one of the first big choices to make revolves around foundation. There are many different types of foundation out there, and which is right for a given person will depend on a number of factors.

At Collectiv Academy, this is just one of many areas covered in our cosmetology school programs. We’ll show you how to examine client skin and make makeup recommendations, including foundation. One big question many clients have is whether to use powder or liquid foundation – here’s a brief primer on a few basic tips you can give them.

Powder Foundation

In general, powder foundation is for people with younger, oilier skin. Powder is less likely to stay on any cover acne in general, but it’s easily brushed over concealer for a great matte finish. It won’t be absorbed in the same ways as a liquid will, which is part of why it’s so great for people with oily skin or who sweat often. It’s also commonly recommended for people with sensitive skin or want a quick application product.

On the flip side, powder foundation is known for being a bit tougher to apply evenly and smoothly. It can become patchy and appear caked on in some situations. For people who prioritize a smooth, glowing finish above all else, powder sometimes isn’t the way to go.

Liquid Foundation

Liquid foundation is perfect for covering acne and blemishes, and comes in many different formulas that work for different skin types. It lasts a long time without requiring touch-ups, and is often used by people with older or dryer skin. It’s also perfect for those who have wrinkles or might be sensitive to the sun.

Liquid foundation does take more time to apply than powder, and it takes some work to blend it evenly between the face and neck. It can be tougher to match to skin tone, and mistakes here can make the product look unnatural more easily than powder.

Can Both Be Used?

Absolutely! Many people choose both liquid and powder foundation to combine the matte and glow together. It’s important here to not over-apply, and to be sure to put the liquid foundation on first – applying the powder first will cause the liquid to just wipe off, since the powder doesn’t stick to the face.

While some cosmetology programs stop at the eyebrows, we believe that having a solid understanding of make-up basics is required to be competitive in today’s beauty market. That’s why introductory make-up is a standard part of our cosmetology program. For more information about the program, including start dates and costs, click here.