Mickey Contractor's Myth Busters

A common myth is foundation doesn't suit dusky or dark skin. M.A.C has come out with shades of in-between colors that have been formulated to suit Pakistani/Indian skin tones. And Mickey, who is the Director Of Makeup Artistry, India, for M.A.C Cosmetics, chipped in with his expertise to make that possible.

Myth 1: Applying foundation is an art few can master.
"Untrue," enthuses Mickey. "All it requires is some practice. If you have never used foundation before and have just purchased one, than I won't want you to wear it and step out on day one. I would instead suggest that you try on a few times at home until you are satisfied with the look it gives you."

Myth 2: Powder or liquid foundation can be used anytime of the day
That's true partially. "Foundation should give you a natural look. For beginners I suggest that they use powder foundation because it's easier to apply. M.A.C Studio Fix is an easy foundation to wear during the day and night, especially for working women who don't have time. Once you know how much powder suits your face, it will takes literally five minutes to buff it on, I recommend using the 182 Buffer Brush for it" he says. Reserve the liquid foundation for evening or night. And if you use liquid foundation use the 187 Duo Fibre Brush, and use Select Sheer/Loose Powder to set it," he informs.

Myth 3: Dusky or dark skin tone should use more foundation to lighten the skin tone.
Untrue. Mickey uses darker colored foundation on dusky skin tones and matches it with the neck color. He explains, "The first thing to do is to even out the facial skin tone. So firstly, use Select Cover-Up to hide the dark circles and a then a darker tone of Studio Fix to even out the color all over the face. The trick is to use it sparingly and at the same time make the face look smooth and even toned."

Mickey says:

Buy the right shade
Go to a make-up store and try out different foundation shades. Don't stick to just one shade just because someone suggested it's good. Ask the make-up artists to show you at least three different shades that work for you. Try on all three. Walk around the store with the foundation on for a while. This is because foundation oxidizes on some skin. If you think it's going darker, you have to counter balance it with the right color. So take time to choose the right one.

Know your skin type
Oily skin: A powder base foundation works because that will keep the skin dry.
Rec: M.A.C Studio Fix

Dry skin: Use a foundation with a slight emollient in it, which is a slightly oily texture. Dry skins tends to look a bit weather beaten with the foundation on so what you need to moisturize your skin really well before applying the foundation.
Rec: M.A.C Full Coverage Foundation

Mixed skin: Check if you have a T-zone (which is the forehead and the nose). Don't use the moisturizer on that area but use it on the rest of the face which is dry. Then apply either powder or fluid foundation.
Rec: M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid

Working women don't need foundation (at work)
Mickey Contractor feels that a working woman doesn't need anything more than a concealer. "Yes, if she wants to use a foundation, then go ahead. Though I would suggest that you keep the foundation for evening or night functions. A blush, lipstick, kohl and mascara and you are done," he says. If you like color on your face, you can use an eye shadow.