All-Natural DIY Foundation

Making your own all-natural foundation is easier than you might think!

It simply involves adding relevant ingredients a little at a time until you find the perfect consistency and color blend.

By making the switch to all-natural DIY foundation, you will save money, time, and will be able to limit your skin’s exposure to excess toxins. What’s not to love?

All-natural foundation can be made and tailored to your exact complexion using just a few ingredients, including cocoa powder and cinnamon, which can be found right in your pantry.

However, it’s important to achieve the correct blend of ingredients to guarantee the health of your skin.

In all honesty, the process might seem a little daunting at first. But we’re here to help!

This article will act as a guide for all of you who enjoy the visible smoothing effects of a high quality foundation, but are seeking ways to limit the amount of chemicals your skin – particularly your face – are exposed to.

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, feel free to keep reading!

The Main Types of Foundation

There are several types of foundation to suit all skin tones and skin types. We’ve outlined the different categories of foundation currently available on the market.

  • Liquid Foundation provides the most skin coverage and is an efficient way of smoothing any imperfections on your skin.

It also tends to produce the most ‘skin like’ appearance, when compared to other types of foundation.

  • Powder Foundation is highly convenient and easy to apply. It’s great for on-the-go touch ups for oilier skin.
  • Mineral Powder is perfect for those interested in organic and natural makeup solutions. It is loose and often comes in a sifter.

It can be quite messy, so you must be careful when applying.

  • Cream Foundation mimics the appearance of skin almost effortlessly.

They tend to create a more doll-like finish, and are ideal for those with acne prone or mature skin.

  • Stick Foundation is easy to use and great for covering up a variety of blemishes.
  • Tinted Moisturizer tends to provide sheer coverage.

As a result, it isn’t the greatest foundation choice if you want to cover blemishes or skin discoloration.

  • BB Cream is made using a creamy formulation that moisturizes and evens your skin tone.
  • CC Cream is similar to CC cream. It is intended to provide a light layer of coverage with a natural tint.

These creams are hydrating and frequently contain anti-aging ingredients.

Is Foundation Toxic?

It’s important to note that not all foundations are made purely with natural ingredients.

Some are formulated with more toxic chemicals than others, and may be harmful to your skin.

This is mainly the case with liquid foundations, which contain many harmful chemicals, including Propylparaben, propylene glycol, and methylparaben – also known as endocrine disruptors.

Loose powders and brush-on foundation feature endocrine disruptors such as propylparaben and methylparaben, and also have other chemical-based ingredients that may be of concern if inhaled.

That being said, it’s a great idea to look for foundations formulated using arrowroot powder.

This has many health benefits such as improving circulation and promoting sleep, and is all-natural.

How To Make An All-Natural DIY Foundation

Making your own foundation may be a little easier than you’d expect.

But if you’re trying it for the first time and don’t know where to begin, we’ve got you covered.

Try out any of the following methods to make your own all-natural foundation.

Base Options

The base is an essential part of making your own foundation. Some of the most popular choices for this include:

  • Arrowroot Powder – This is a very white powder.

It can be used to create fair shade foundations or to even lighten up a powder mixture if it is needed.

  • Rice Bran Powder – This powder adds a creamy color to your foundation mix.

However, it isn’t as good at absorbing moisture.

  • Cornstarch – It is a white powder, so it provides you with a completely blank canvas to get started on making your own all-natural foundation.

All you need to do is add in the color to match the tone of your skin.

  • Orris Root Powder – This makes a good base and consists of a light cream color.

Foundation Color Options

All-Natural DIY Foundation

You can use powders or certain spices to make the correct foundation color for your skin tone.

However, you may need to play around with this part for a little while to find the perfect shade.

Thankfully, this process allows you to start with less and add more as you test out the consistency and color.

For example, if you get too much color or the mixture gets too dark for your skin tone, add more arrowroot powder or cornstarch to lighten it up.

You can add any of the following powders to help create your perfect foundation shade.

  • Bentonite Clay Powder will make a great foundation shade for cooler skin tones.

It is white, meaning it can also be used to help lighten up your mixture if you accidentally make it too dark for your skin. It’s readily available to purchase online.

  • Cocoa Powder is a great choice for light to medium brown skin tones.

Due to flavanols, raw cocoa powder can be used to soften, clear, and detoxify your skin, leading to an overall increase in skin health.

Raw cocoa powder may also reduce the appearance of scars and skin imperfections. It is also easy to find and creates a delightful scent.

  • Cinnamon is perfect for warmer skin tones. If you’re after a great scent then you may want to add Ceylon Cinnamon powder.

This features more essential oil making it smell a little nicer, however it can irritate the skin.

Cinnamon Cassia, however, is rich in antioxidants and helps to treat acne and hyperpigmentation.

Therefore, Cassia may be a better powder to use in your foundation.

  • Adding Nutmeg will make your foundation a light brown color.

Nutmeg is pretty versatile and can be mixed with other color options to create a beautiful shade of foundation for your skin.

  • Clove will add a darker reddish-brown hue. This means it’s a great way to darken up your foundation mixture without you having to put too much effort in.

Top Tip: Be wary when adding these powders into your foundation mixture.

Although they will not be harmful if added in small quantities, they may be a cause for concern if a large quantity is inhaled. Use your common sense!

Method 1: Powder Foundation

This method is useful if you want to make a powder-based foundation.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 tablespoon of base (see list above)
  • 1 tablespoon organic cocoa powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon of color as needed
  • 5-10 drops of oil for scent (essential oil, vitamin E oil, or carrier oil)
  • A relevant storage container

Directions:

1. Combine your cocoa powder and base powder in a small mixing bowl.
2. Add in a small amount of the relevant color powder to match your skin tone.
3. Rub a small amount of powder on the hand or wrist to test the color. Add more color as needed.
5. Add in 5-10 drops of your oil of choice until the desired texture is reached. (More info on this below!)
6. Transfer to an airtight container and you’re done!

Method 2: Easy Powder Foundation

What You’ll Need:

  • 1/4 cup Arrowroot powder
  • 1/4 cup Kaolin Clay
  • Organic Cocoa Powder
  • A mixing bowl or small storage container

Directions:

1. Measure 1/4 cup of your preferred base into a small container. You could also put it directly into a mixing bowl if you want.

2. Slowly add in the color options until you achieve the shade that fits your skin the best. Slowly add in 1/4 tsp. at a time so you stay in control of the mix.

To make future batches easier, it might be a good idea to note down exactly how much powder you end up using.

Method 3: Liquid Foundation

This particular recipe will help you to make your own liquid foundation.

What You’ll Need:

  • A powder foundation recipe (see method 1)
  • A drop or two of your chosen Essential Oil (for scent) including almond oil or jojoba

Directions:

1. Make a powder foundation recipe. See the above methods for instructions.

2. Slowly begin to add several drops of your chosen essential oil. The darker the oil, the darker the foundation shade will be.

Lighter oils such as apricot kernel oil are better for very light skin. If you find your foundation to be too dark, then begin with a lighter powder base.

3. You can keep this fairly dry and press it into a compact. Use a brush like you would normally.

Or you can add more oil or lotion to create a liquid.

Method 4: Mineral Foundation

For those of you who want a more complex recipe, here is our selection for a mineral foundation.

What You’ll Need:

Base

  • 1/4 Tablespoon of Arrowroot Powder
  • 1/2 Tablespoon of Kaolin Clay
  • 1/2 Tablespoon of Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
  • 1 Tablespoon of Sericite Mica
  • For extra shine, add some Diamond Pearl Mica
  • Container or small bowl

Color

  • 1/2 tsp of Yellow Iron Oxide
  • 1/2 tsp of Brown Iron Oxide

Directions:

1. Combine the base ingredients together into a bowl or container.
2. Then add the ingredients to achieve your perfect skin color and adjust the levels according to your complexion.
3. Enjoy!

Liquid vs Powder Foundation

Powder foundation is generally far better for your skin than its liquid counterpart.

This is especially true if you have oily, sensitive skin, or acne-prone skin that requires a little more TLC.

And, if your skin is cracked and dry, a powdered foundation may provide you with better coverage than using a liquid foundation and powder would.

Applying Powder Foundation

Whatever foundation you intend to apply, it is always best to start with a clean canvas.

All you need to do to achieve this is moisturize your face before applying any makeup.

1. Begin by cleansing your face, patting it dry with a microfiber cloth, and then applying your favorite natural face moisturizer.

2. Apply a setting spray or a base powder to ensure that your foundation stays on longer and looks better.

3. If you want to use a concealer, you should then apply your chosen product under your eyes and to any areas of concern.

4. Now it is time to apply your foundation. Lightly dab a large makeup brush into the powder foundation you have made. Tap the brush against the container to get any excess powder off.

5. Apply the foundation under your eyes and to your T zone.

6. Using a circular motion, begin to apply the foundation to your cheeks.

7. Add more foundation wherever it is needed and blend into the cheekbones and the rest of the face.

8. Follow these steps with blush, eye makeup, and lip gloss. Or whatever else you usually wear.

9. And you’re done! Enjoy your all-natural foundation base.

The Cost Of DIY Foundation

Creating your own makeup can save you money in the long run.

With DIY all-natural foundation, you can cook up enough to last you a month for only a couple of dollars (or less).

It all depends on the exact products that you purchase.

Overall, you’ll still be saving money by making your own instead of purchasing a drugstore or high-end foundation!

How To Make Your Foundation Stick Better

You can add in a small amount of essential oil, carrier oil, or vitamin E oil to alter the texture of your foundation.

The amount you add in will depend on how much powder you use.

Since everyone’s skin tone is so different, it is hard to determine the exact amount of powder your foundation will have.

As a guideline, you can start by adding between 5-10 drops of oil, stirring well, and then testing the consistency and appearance of the foundation on the back of your hand or on your wrist.

You can continue to layer the product until you have reached the desired texture.

Adding in oil may also help the foundation to last longer on your face and may provide your skin with some needed benefits.

Shelf Life

If stored in an airtight container, your DIY foundation can last up to one year!

This matches the shelf life of pre-made foundation (drugstore and high-end value) which usually have a shelf life of between 6-12 months.

Conclusion

And there you have it! These are some of the most effective ways to make an all-natural DIY foundation.

The process can be as simple or as complicated as you make it.

Not only will it be far better for your bank account, but your skin may benefit from a makeup product with fewer chemical properties, too!

Hannah Shiftle
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