Foundation not giving me the look I want!

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

So I've tried changing my foundation routine a few times because I just can't seem to get the look I'm going for. I finally just "settled" on a routine mainly because I've given up. I have really dry skin and a lot of discoloration, also freckles only around the eyes due to sun damage. If someone could PLZ offer some advice, I'd appreciate it! Here's what I'm doing now...
I moisturize first with olay active hydrating cream. Then prime with MAC prep +prime. Then apply MAC studio fix fluid in NC 30 with a MAC stippling brush. Then lightly brush MAC studio fix powder in C4. (I've also tried using a sponge to sap it on, but got same effect) Lastly I spray MAC fix + all over.
The coverage is good, but I feel like I look "powdery" and really dry. I'm not getting a smooth dewy look. Also I notice it doesn't photograph well. I look "powdery" and almost even a little grey-ish! If someone could please offer some advice, I'd appreciate it sooooo much! Thanks in advance! :)

Jan 28, 2013

Meg O.

Please please go to your local bare minerals store and get their starter kit. It has changed my life. It take a tiny bit of time to get use to. But you need to use this product for your face. I promise you will not be let down. 

Jan 28, 2013

Meg O.

Between their foundations. Blushes. And mineral veils you look FLAWLESS and it does not feel like you are wearing ANYTHING 

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

I feel like bare minerals is not enough coverage

Jan 28, 2013

Alexa C.

If you're looking for a more "dewy" look try substituting the Studio Fix Powder with MAC's Mineralize. Not only does the Minieralize reflect light but also photographs really well! 

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Well mineralized powder also still give full coverage??

Jan 28, 2013

Kayti S.

the studio fix is where your going wrong and for more glowing look try a highlighter like benefit highbeam . 

Jan 28, 2013

Meg O.

I know what you mean but it's something you just hve to get use to. When I use bare minerals I start with the foundation and cover my face. Then use the maximum coverage brush to spot blend any imperfections. Then I do a quick buff of their faux tan bronzed and a bit of their blush and finish off with a quick swipe of the mineral veil. I promise you will look absolutely natural and flawless! 

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Thanks ladies! I'll def keep this all in mind!

Jan 28, 2013

Yesenia P.

Studio Fix fluid and powder are both matte foundations. I know Mac has a full coverage Dewey foundation - Studio Sculpt. Maybe try that?? 

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Ok I'll look for it, thank you so much!

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Ok I'll look for it, thank you so much!

Jan 28, 2013

Yesenia P.

No problem!! Good luck!!

Jan 28, 2013

Weslyn K.

i like m.a.c matchmaster its great! its light to medium coverage very buildable when needed. i too have dry patches that can be visible under studio fix at times especially before i developed my skin prep routine. so i start with korres pomegrante balancing cream gel mosturizer, then m.a.c prep &prime, next matchmaster, two pumps is good for me i dab all over my face then take a sponge moistened with water and dab to blend in. set with finishing powder an joila! flawless looking foundation every time!

Jan 28, 2013

Kimberly H.

A luminizing primer might help also!

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Thank you all so much for the ideas. Gonna check out all these things!

Jan 28, 2013

Alexa C.

Yes the mineralized skinfinish will still give you full coverage if paired with Studio Sculpt, just less powdery and more "dewy" try it!

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Thank you Alexa I am def going to try this!!

Jan 28, 2013

Regie E.

Use loose powder instead of pressed powder. Try other brands other than mac like make up for ever lift foundation. I find mac too powdery.

Jan 28, 2013

Teodora V.

i have similar problem, i look powdery :D just on the places where i have acne.and nothing helps.

Jan 28, 2013

Nairy S.

why dont you try bb creme? its not the same coverage as foundation but still. I like to moisturize my skin before using bb creme eventhough bb creme is a moisturizer, I feel like my skin looks healthier that way, if your want to cover your freckles u can always use a concealer

Jan 28, 2013

Serena H.

Nairy, I just read up on bb cream last night and I think I'm gonna try that out as well, for a moisturizer

Jan 28, 2013

Maggie M.

I'd look for a different brand all together. I finally got a sample of the Armani maestro and it's aaaammaaazing. Almost a bit too dewy for my oily skin but I'd check it out if I were you! Mac tends to be overhyped..I can't stand any of their foundations. Shadows, brushes, fix+ and skin finish is about all I like. Good luck! 

Jan 28, 2013

Maggie M.

Also using bb cream before foundation def gives you more coverage :) 

Jan 28, 2013

Grace L.

You can try Vichy bb cream it's designed for dry to eczema prone skin so it won't dry you out and it's a wonderful finish!