Makeup Application: “poreless” Skin

An always in demand Hollywood look is the “Poreless Face”.  This look can easily take you from Red-Carpet to Wall Street and back again.  The secret to the success and long-wearing effect of this look is in the application process.  In this article, I will highlight my favorite products to achieve this look, which are all by Laura Mercier and work best because of their availability in various formulas for different skin types.  So if you want to look as good as Halle or Angelina do in the spotlight, follow these steps and you will achieve the showstopping “Poreless Face” that everyone is talking about.

Step 1: Primer-To put it plainly, you must “prime” or prep your face for the various layers of product that will be used.  Foundation Primer is a colorless, virtually weightless product that serves the purpose of creating an even, smooth surface on the face so all of your makeup will go on flawlessly.  To get the best results, use a primer that best fits your skin type.  A great choice is Laura Mercier Foundation Primer, which is available in three different formulas.  The original formula is best for normal skin types, the hydrating formula is best for dry skin types, and the oil-free works best for combination and oily skin types.  To apply, squeeze about a dime size amount into your hands, and liberally apply as you would facial moisturizer.  Choosing the correct primer at this phase will determine how well your makeup will look and how long it will last later on.

Step 2: Tinted Moisturizer-After allowing the primer to dry slightly, which takes about 3-5 minutes, apply a tinted moisturizer.  This product acts as a boost for your foundation and reduces the amount of concealer you will need later on because it is a lightweight, sheer foundation with buildable coverage.  As with the primer, you will apply the tinted moisturizer in the same manner and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.  Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer works like a charm, the Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer works best with dry skin types, the Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer works best for those of us with combination or oily skin types, and the original formula is for those with normal skin types.

Step 3: Foundation-Probably the most misunderstood cosmetic product on the market is foundation.  Since foundation itself comes in about 6 different forms, it is sometimes hard to get know which is the right one for you.  For the purposes of the porless face, you want to use what works best for you in terms of your skin type and desired coverage.  If you have dry skin, go for Laura Mercier Silk Crème Foundation or Laura Mercier Moisturizing Foundation.   If you have combination skin, I suggest Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation, Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15, or Laura Mercier Foundation Powder.  Finally, for normal skin types, Laura Mercier Stick Foundation SPF 15 or Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15 will work best.  As a general rule of thumb, liquid, crème, or stick foundations should be applied with a makeup sponge only in areas you desire more coverage.  Blend the areas of the face where you use foundation with the tinted moisturizer so as not to have a blotchy effect.  Powder Foundations should be applied with a foundation brush in areas where needed and blended. 

Step 4: Concealer-Concealer does just that, it conceals.  This step may not be necessary if you do not have any serious skin discoloration, scars, etc.  However, if you have dark undereye circles, blemishes, scars, hyperpigmentation, or any other visible flaws on the face at this point, you will want to use concealer at this point.  For undereye circles, Laura Mercier Undercover Pot works best, because it contains a concealer and a setting powder in one convenient package.  For all other skin imperfections that are still visible, I love Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage.  To apply either concealer, use either concealer brush and gently dab the product in the exact areas you wish to cover. A little goes a long way, so you don’t need much product.  After you are finished applying the product, use a makeup sponge and blend the concealer into your foundations in smooth strokes. 

Step 5: Setting Powder-For the grand finale finish and to “set” all of your work, you need to apply a Setting Powder.  Setting Powder is a colorless, preferably translucent product that adds that last little bit of polish to your look.  It also serves double duty by absorbing any excess oil that may form on the skin while wearing makeup.  Laura Mercier Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder is my pick for this last step.  To apply, use a foundation brush and gently swab over the entire face.  For women who are tad bit oilier, go back with a clean makeup sponge and dab a little extra on your t-zone.

Ladies, now you are ready to face the world with your “Poreless” face.  The products and process described above will give you that camera-ready look any time of day or night.  This look is classic and timeless because it can be worn alone for daytime or with eyeshadows, blushes, and lipsticks to make it great for nighttime.  As with any makeup application, practice makes perfect, and in no time flat you will be ready for any Red-Carpet.