How to choose the best makeup for your skin type

No two people have identical skin. In addition, the condition of your skin can vary from week to week and day to day, depending on the weather, your diet, your emotional state and your general health. Picking the right makeup for your skin type can prevent further problems and make the most of your complexion.

Oily skin
Choose oil-free foundations that won't compound your oil problem or block pores. Although there are many types of blush and eye shadows, avoid those that have a creamy consistency as they contain far more oil than others. Add them to oily skin and not only will they literally slide off your face as the day goes on, but they can cause pores to block and more blemishes to occur. Stick to powder, which won't crease or smudge on oil-prone skin. If you have oily skin, it is particularly important that you follow a thorough, but gentle cleansing routine, removing all traces of grease, grime and makeup each night to prevent clogged-up pores erupting into unsightly blemishes and blackheads.

Dry skin
The opposite of oily skin, you are looking for a foundation that also adds moisture to your skin to prevent your "base" from looking caked or cracked. The same applies to eye shadows -- always opt for cream shadows, or if you use powdery ones, make sure that your skin is well moisturized underneath. Eye makeup tends to "disappear" on dry lids; try an eye shadow primer to help the colour particles adhere for longer.

Combination skin
It may be beneficial for combination skin types to wear two different textures of foundation on the skin, but ensuring the same colour. For the oily T-zone, an oil-free foundation will work to keep your skin looking matte and composed, while a moisturizing foundation will tackle any dryness in the surrounding areas. Depending upon where your oil flare-ups occur, cream-to-powder eye shadows can work well, being neither too oily nor too dry. As with oily skin, it is essential for combination skin to be treated with careful and methodical cleansing before applying makeup and when removing it.

Normal skin
Normal skin types should stick to a lightly moisturizing foundation, but are lucky enough to take their pick when it comes to blush and eye shadows. You may find your skin varies from time to time in its level of dryness, so have a selection of cream and powder shades to play with.

Blemished skin
Experts would say that if you have problem skin you shouldn't wear makeup at all; however, it is people with this skin type whose confidence is boosted most by coverage. Look for mineral foundations -- literally ground minerals, both pure and natural, that allow the skin to breathe and give coverage. Some skin experts claim mineral makeup can help to treat acne and scarring thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, and because inert minerals are unable to support bacteria. It also carries a natural SPF of between 15 and 20.

Click here for tips on achieving the most radiant skin.