With the economic downturn, many women are finding it necessary to explore mass market and drugstore brand foundations in order to save money, Marcus says.
"Don't feel you're getting an inferior product at your local drugstore. Mass market brands are very sophisticated now and a great deal of research has gone into developing these products. Basically you're cutting out the fluff and going straight to a great value and product," Marcus adds.
Remember the key to looking flawless and natural is blending. You can choose to use your fingers or a foundation brush to apply liquid foundations and a damp sponge when applying cream bases. The BEAUTY BLENDER is also a great tool to use.
Here are some of Marcus's favorite foundations, ALL under $15. You can find these products at ULTA COSMETICS ulta.com, WALGREENS walgreens.com and other outlets where beauty products are sold. To reach Marcus, email him at Marcus@themakeuptherapist.com
FOR MATURE SKIN
Revlon Age Defying Spa Foundation SPF 18--$11.29
This foundation was developed for mature women and is formulated not to settle in fine lines and gives the skin a youthful appearance. A foundation brush is attached to the product for easy application.
L'Oreal Visible Lift Line Minimizing And Tone Enhancing Makeup SPF 17-$12.99
The unique formulation of this foundation will minimize fine lines and give the skin a toned, youthful look.
FOR TEEN SKIN
Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil Free Makeup-$11.99
This unique formula not only covers, it also is a blemish treatment and contains Salicylic Acid, an effective treatment for acne. The consistency is light, natural and not chalky.
FOR NORMAL SKIN
L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup SPF 17-$8.99
A unique formula that not only matches the tone of the skin, but adapts to the texture as well, giving the skin a clear, natural, and flawless appearance.
Ulta Fabulous Face Natural Finish Foundation SPF 15-$12.50
This light oil and fragrance free formulation is a medium coverage product and erases imperfections and visible pores very well.
SPRAY ON FORMULAS
Sally Hansen Airbrush Makeup-$13.99
You can use this product to spray on a long lasting flawless look. It's great if you need speed and a very light application.
FOR WOMEN OF COLOR
Covergirl Queen Collection-$9.49
Formulated for women of color, this light textured, blendable crème makeup is great for those women with darker skin tones and those who want light to medium flawless coverage.
LONG WEARING
Maybelline New York SuperStay 24 hour Makeup-$10.49
The unique Micro-Flex formula will last and not separate for hours. It is formulated to withstand heat and humidity, feeling both breathable and flexible.
CUSTOM BLEND
Revlon Custom Creations-$13.99
If you have problems finding a foundation that matches your skin, this is a good pick. You can dial up a shade to customize the perfect color. This is a great product for those women who have seasonal skin tone changes. As you get more color during the summer or cruise season, you can just adjust the color to accommodate the change.
ACCESSORIES
Beauty Blender-$20 at BEAUTY BLENDER beautyblender.net
The Beauty Blender is the perfect elliptically shaped sponge that mimics the skin for perfect professional blending of makeup.
WINDOWS OF LOVE
Throughout October, donations will be accepted at every ULTA store (333 locations nationwide) to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®. ULTA will guarantee a minimum donation of $50,000 to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and invites consumers to help in ULTA's goal to raise one million dollars to support the fight against breast cancer.
Customers who donate $1 can register for a chance to win a beauty bag of pink products; one winner per store will be chosen by random drawing after October 31. A donation of $10 or more will receive a pink "love" hat or scarf.
During the month of October, ULTA's Windows of Love will be filled with letters honoring those who are fighting the battle with breast cancer. The letters also thank the unsung heroes that provide these women with strength and support. For more information got to www.Ulta.com
