There’s a self-improvement psychology to clearing out habits and beauty products to make room for something better. “It’s like getting a new pair of shoes,” says David Goveia, a Toronto-based makeup artist. Or ditching your regular go-to foundation for one that’s better suited to your current skin tone and needs. “You can spend that extra money and it makes you feel good everyday.”

Need further proof on why switching up your foundation may be the easiest way to
freshen up your complexion? Goveia shares his expert tips on how to get the
perfect shade and formulation for your skin tone (and why it’s a totally justifiable investment).


1. It’s time.

Foundation has a shelf life of typically six to 12 months—and that lessens if your bottle has been left out in the sun or exposed to excessive sunlight. (It’s best to store in a cool, dark part of your bathroom.) Using your same bottle of foundation on a daily basis is actually good for extending its longevity. “When you shake it, everything resettles and combines again,” says Goveia. Making for the
perfect flawless application every time. But keep an eye out for any discolouration in your foundation. “If the colour looks different and there are lighter spots to it, get rid of it,” he says.


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2. Because your skin tone changes with the season.

Your skin tone tends to lighten up in the winter months, so your tan-enhancing summer bronzer needs to be swapped in with a creamier, iridescent foundation equivalent. “Skin is prone to dry patches this time of year,” explains Goveia. So opt for an oil-based foundation for a richer consistency.

When switching up your shade, apply foundation to your nose and cheek at the beauty counter. “It should disappear completely into the skin,” he says.


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3 more reasons to switch up your foundation on the next page…
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3. Switch to a liquid foundation.

Simply put, “A liquid foundation is best for people with problem skin,” says Goveia. (Or for double-duty coverage, he recommends Lancôme Dual Finish, which can be applied as a sheer powder or with a damp sponge for flawless finish.)

For long-lasting coverage, mix in
primer with your
winter moisturizer, and pat in to a clean face—that way you can get away with a thin layer of foundation. Apply foundation to the middle of the face—centre of the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin—and blend outwards. Again, the colour should disappear completely into the skin. “Then dab concealer where needed,” he adds.


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4. Err on the darker side.

A foundation that has a darker tint to it than your natural skin tone is perfect for a
low maintenance beauty routine in the morning. “It’s important to go with a darker shade because you get better coverage, faster,” says Goveia. When going for a deeper hue, test out foundation on your shoulder, where skin tends to be darker.

If you’re using a pressed powder afterward, choose a shade that’s within the same range as your liquid foundation, he says. “Only cover the parts that need it,” he says (think middle of the face, nose and chin). “It keeps the look natural and sexy.”


5. It makes you feel good (seriously).

If for no other reason, switch up your foundation simply because the change makes you feel better. Whether you’re looking for a foundation to perfectly match your skin tone or to leave a
velvety finish to the complexion, everyone can benefit from a little extra coverage this time of year. “It’s more than cosmetic,” says Goveia. “It gives you a new mindset.”


Read more:
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Makeup tips: 10 foundation rules to live by

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Find the perfect foundation for your skin tone