When it comes to makeup application it’s not always about choosing the right shades for eye colour and lips… choosing the right products for different skin types is vital!

Prior to applying any makeup, it is essential to know about the skin itself.

After all, you don’t want to make oily skin look even shinier… or aggravate sensitive skin by using the wrong cosmetics and products.

Here are some tricks of the trade that some of the best makeup artists use once they have identified their client’s skin type, in order to know which products to use, and which ones NOT to use.

NORMAL – People with a normal complexion have the ideal skin type. The skin is not too oily or dry, and it appears smooth, clear and healthy. Normal skin has a nice balance of moisture and oil, with good elasticity. The pores are minimally visible, and the skin has an even tone.

Choose liquid foundations with any finish – matte, dewy, luminous – whatever you prefer. Pretty much any foundation is going to suit!

DRY – Dry skin does not retain enough moisture, which makes it more prone to wrinkles and fine lines. A lack of oil makes the skin flaky and fragile and reduces its ability to act as a protective barrier. As a result, the skin is much more susceptible to the effects of external elements such as pollution, UV radiation and extreme weather.

Choose liquid or cream foundations with a luminous or dewy finish. Stay away from matte or oil free formulas, as these will accentuate and highlight dryness.

OILY – Some people have oily skin, particularly during adolescence. The skin has large pores and produces too much oil, which gives it a greasy, shiny appearance. People with an oily complexion tend to develop lots of blemishes, pimples and blackheads, and the skin looks plump because dead cells do not shed as quickly.

Choose matte or semi-matte foundations, mineral powders or compact powder foundations for the best oil-control properties, to keep away oily shine. For special occasions, choose a mattifying primer for pre-base.

COMBINATION – People with a combination skin type have both dry and oily areas. The skin is usually most oily in the T-zone, the forehead, nose and chin with dry patches on the cheeks and around the eyes. Combination skin can be difficult to manage because the various areas of the skin require different treatment.

SENSITIVE – This skin type is the most fragile. People with sensitive skin tend to burn easily, and the skin is prone to irritation and redness.

Choose liquid or cream foundations with a luminous or dewy finish. Stay away from matte or oil free formulas, as these will accentuate and highlight dryness. Mineral formulations with natural and organic ingredients will help to reduce and cover redness and irritation.