How to avoid heavy, unclean feeling from foundation makeup?

Question

I'm currently using Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation, which I am somewhat content with. However, it seems like with EVERY foundation I try, within an hour of application my face feels slightly dirty, uncomfortable, and the makeup feels heavy. It drives me crazy!

My skin is not excessively oily, and I make sure to thoroughly wash and exfoliate my face prior to applying makeup. I use a clean makeup sponge to apply, never my fingers.

So, is there any way to avoid this? Do all foundations leave your face feeling unclean and uncomfortable?

If anyone has any makeup tips, brand recommendations, etc- I would appreciate it.

I would be willing to try a new brand of foundation, if you know of one (preferably available at a drug store) that is very natural feeling and nearly unnoticeable to the wearer- but still provides plenty of coverage and will last through an entire day. Also, I know that loose mineral foundations are very popular right now, but I need something that will cover up small imperfections and last- which I'm not sure those do?

Thanks!

Answer 1

I wear loose foundation. Its like your powder with a natural color instead of white. You feel refresh though you have to apply every time it fades away like powder. My skin is bit of sensitive that's why its best for me to use loose foundation. My sister use it with mouse foundation  before applying a loose foundation it will last longer. Try maybelline or skin food.

Answer 2

it sounds like you need to moisturize and apply some sort of primer. it should prevent it from being dry and cakey. oh and using a foundation brush is generally better than using a sponge.

Answer 3

you definately need MAC studio fix and studiofinish!

Answer 4

Well I wear Avon minerals, cant remember exactly what they're called, but I can't feel it on my face. I never liked foundation. But this product really works for me, and I have oily skin and it never cakes on my face. It leaves my skin looking flawless.  

Answer 5

Neutrogena foundation and powder always messed up my skin and irritated it too. Now I have used bare minerals for the past 3 years without any problems. I think it's worth the money and haven't heard that many bad reviews about it. I may be switching to everyday minerals though because it has the same ingredients minus the bismuth oxychloride that's shiny and can irritate some peoples' skin, plus it's 1/2 the price. You can get a free custom sample kit for the price of shipping (mine was $3) at everydayminerals.com. I like that they have 4 finishes (matte, semi-matte, intensive which is oil control and glow) instead of just 1 like bare minerals. I'm going to try the first 3 kinds.