essence Foundation Stick: Your New Favorite Under $10

Foundation sticks are having a major moment. The minimalist makeup trend, with its fresh-faced, skin-breathing beauty has us hooked on the less-is-more approach to makeup. Think enhancements vs. heavy layers. Plus, minimalist makeup has given us so much in the innovation department (hello, moisturizer that doubles as UV protection and multi-sticks that can be used on our eyes, cheeks and lips). Now? We have the foundation stick–the mother of all convenient skin perfectors. Here’s everything you need to know about this new cult beauty fave.

What is a Foundation Stick?

A foundation stick is a solid, cream-based version of foundation housed in a twist-up tube, like a lipstick, but for your face. It’s loved for its convenience and buildable coverage, because you can swipe it directly onto your skin and blend with your fingers, a brush, or a sponge. Because of its creamy texture, it’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, contouring (with multiple shades), and achieving anything from natural to full glam depending on how much you apply.

Choosing The Right Formula

For natural-looking results that perfectly fit into the clean girl aesthetic vibe, go for a foundation stick with a formula that has sheer to medium coverage. For the warmer months, especially, and general everyday wear, a creamy, lightweight formula is your best bet. If you’re looking for more coverage, you can build up to your desired effect. However, if you’re used to using a heavy-coverage foundation, this may be better as a touch-up tool vs. a complete complexion one.

How to Apply a Stick Foundation 

Stick foundations may be super convenient, but they aren’t supposed to be used in the same way as a liquid formula. For example, we don’t recommend applying the stick to your entire face. Instead, apply it to areas of skin that have uneven color or texture. The goal is a seamless finish that looks natural (not a mask!). To encourage it to melt into your skin, you can use a buffer brush to blend it in for a seamless finish. The result? A smooth, radiant complexion that looks polished but not overdone.

Tip: No contour? No problem. Buy a shade that’s a few tones deeper than your natural complexion and use that as the perfect contour colour. Its stick applicator allows you to target areas, like the upper sides of the forehead, cheek hollows, sides of the nose and jawline, for maximum results. 

Do’s and Don’t’s for Using a Foundation Stick

Do prep your skin with a hydrating primer to help the foundation glide on smoother and stay put longer.

Don’t apply a foundation stick too heavily all over your face. Stick formulas can look cakey if overused–focus on the center of your face and blend outward.

Do warm it up: A few swipes on the back of your hand before applying can help soften the product for a creamier blend.

Don’t skip the setting step. If you’re oily or it’s a really hot or humid day, a light dusting of translucent powder can lock everything in.

Do blend your stick foundation in quickly. Stick foundations often set fast, so blend as you go using a brush, sponge, or your fingers.

Don’t forget to choose a shade that works for your undertone. Picking the wrong one can make your formula look off.