Yes, you absolutely can mix foundation with moisturizer. This is a common practice that creates a custom blend, essentially turning your foundation into a tinted moisturizer.
Creating a Custom Tinted Moisturizer
Mixing your liquid foundation with a moisturizer allows you to dilute the foundation's pigment, resulting in lighter coverage than foundation alone. According to Jamison, "Mixing foundation with moisturizer creating a tinted moisturizer allows you to customize the coverage and finish." This blend not only adjusts the look but can also improve the feel of the product on your skin. Jamison adds that it "can help the wearer feel like their skin is more quenched and less dehydrated."
Benefits of Mixing Foundation and Moisturizer
Combining these two products offers several advantages for your skin and makeup application:
- Customizable Coverage: Easily adjust the coverage from sheer to light or medium by changing the ratio of foundation to moisturizer.
- Enhanced Hydration: Infuses your foundation with the moisturizing properties of your chosen cream or lotion, which, as noted, can make skin feel "more quenched and less dehydrated."
- Lighter Feel: A mixed blend often feels less heavy on the skin compared to full-coverage foundation.
- Natural Finish: Creates a more natural, often dewy or skin-like finish, perfect for an everyday look.
- Simplified Routine: Combines a step, saving time and effort, especially for minimal makeup days.
How to Mix Them Effectively
Mixing foundation and moisturizer is simple, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results:
- Start Small: Begin with a small amount of both products. It's easier to add more foundation for coverage than to remove excess.
- Choose Compatible Products: Use a moisturizer that works well with your foundation's base (e.g., water-based with water-based).
- Mix on a Surface: Dispense both products onto the back of your hand, a mixing palette, or a clean surface.
- Blend Thoroughly: Use your fingers, a brush, or a sponge to mix until the color is uniform and there are no streaks of white moisturizer.
- Apply: Apply the mixture to your face as you would a regular foundation or tinted moisturizer, blending outward from the center.
This simple technique allows you to tailor your base makeup to your skin's needs and desired look on any given day.
