So you've achieved perfection when it comes to skincare. You've exfoliated, moisturized, and SPFed to the max and you are an ace when it comes to being conscientious about your skin. But why do you look pretty much the same?

Daily wear and tear on your face, even despite using top of the line cleansers and creams, can give your mug a dull look instead of that vibrancy you expect when you are religious about your skincare. Unfortunately most skin care experts will agree that while all those soaps and lotions out there definitely help more than they hurt, a substantial percentage of what makes your skin look good comes strictly from genetics. So let's face facts. Some women naturally have it, and others (most of us in fact) have to cheat.

For all of us "cheaters" out there, the world of skin care and makeup is tough to navigate through at times, but really the secret lies within the most basic of products - foundation and powder. These two skincare items tend to be outdone by all of the fancy stuff on the market, but without these two supporting players as your solid base, the rest of the makeup that you apply to conceal your flaws may not be working to its fullest potential.

Foundation is something that skin care pros have recognized as a vital tool for years, and because of this there are dozens of different formulas on the market. Long lasting, moisturizing, acne fighting, whatever it is you are looking for, if you can dream it, someone probably sells it. Foundation works just as its name suggests - it's the foundation for the rest of your makeup, and without it, you are merely decorating flaws rather than concealing them.

Consider checking out the makeup counter in your local department store, where people who work regularly with different types of cosmetics and skincare can give you a quality "diagnosis" on what products will work best for your specific skin care needs. However, be conscientious that these professionals, while extremely helpful, are trying to make a sale. Don't be afraid to walk away and then come back after you have had time to weigh your options and purchase the foundation and other makeup that will work well with your already established skin care products.

Along with foundation, you need to finish off the look with some sort of powder. Loose powder is one of the most popular, due to its final look on the skin. According to the website Love To Know, "Loose powder is great for at home makeup application and can be applied with the provided powder puff or with a makeup brush. Many people enjoy using loose powder because of the porcelain effect it gives the skin, clinging loosely in a way that results in a flawless face."

Pressed powder is a skincare alternative for those who don't have time to be extensively concerned about their appearance. Are you always on the go? Do you have oily skin that demands that your makeup be reapplied throughout the day? If this is the case, then pressed powder may be good for you.

Also according to Love To Know, "Whether you choose loose or pressed really depends on your skin type and the look that you desire. If you are a natural girl who likes a gentle romantic finish, consider loose powder. If you are more active and sporty, the matte look of pressed powder may be ideal for you."

Always apply your foundation with a makeup sponge. Don't use your fingers, as you will bombard your face with extra oils and cause your skincare efforts to be futile. Apply sparingly and be sure to take extra care around your eyebrows and jaw line. Be on the look out for streaks or spots that you won't want someone else to discover for you as you go about your day.

Powder can be applied with a powder puff or makeup brush. Try to get a powder puff that is middle of the road in size and texture. Anything thicker may shed all over you, and anything too thin or coarse can cause lines or separations in the powder. Big makeup brushes are great for your cosmetic skincare, as they enhance the flawless, naturally brushed look, and besides that, they are fun to use!

Skin care is about more than just clean faces and anti-aging. So be sure to include a quality foundation and powder with your skin care for a winning combination!