Deciding which is the right foundation for your skin type isn't difficult. First, work out what sort of texture you want. For instance, do you like a rich, dewy effect or are you more of a matte-finish woman? Once you've worked this out, analyse your skin type and concerns. Do you have dry or oily skin? There are various formulas available and the easiest way to decide what's best for you is to visit the cosmetic counter of your local pharmacy and try them all on. You'll then be able to see how the different textures react to your skin.

Sample a few shades

When choosing a shade, always match the foundation to your chest and not your jawline. Your jaw blocks out natural sunlight, so your neck's often lighter than your face and chest. Invest in two different shades of foundation - one closest to your natural skin tone and one two shades darker for when you have a tan. When you sample your foundation, stand near sunlight and hold up three different colours to your chest. The shade closest to your skin tone is the correct colour.

It's in the application

A good application is when foundation blends into your skin leaving no obvious traces. Start with an oil-free or silicone-based primer to create a smooth layer for your foundation. Conceal spots and shadows, then add a small amount of foundation to a sponge or brush. Begin at the centre of your face, around the nose, and blend up and outwards towards the hairline. Wash and dry your hands, then gently press the foundation into your skin.

Find your texture

There are as many different foundations on the market as there are different types of complexions. Whether you're young or old, have oily, dry or problem skin, there's something to suit you.

Tinted moisturiser

Coverage: A sheer formula that gives a natural appearance to your skin, almost as if you're not wearing foundation at all. It works as a moisturiser but adds a hint of colour to your face. The lightweight texture won't hide any spots or dark circles under your eyes.

Suitable for:Women who have normal-to-dry skin and are looking for a more natural appearance. Since there's little pigment in tinted moisturisers, they are perfect for those with clear complexions.

How to: Blend the product with your fingers, then onto your face, starting in the centre and working up and outwards. If you have flawless skin, conceal only the areas that need covering.

Try: Ultraceuticals Protective Daily Moisturizer SPF 30+, $72.

Liquid foundation

Coverage: A medium-consistency foundation that contains more pigment than tinted moisturiser. It balances the skin's complexion and hides dry, flaky skin without covering freckles or beauty spots.

Suitable for: Most combination types, although if you have oily skin, use an oil-free formula. If your skin is drier, steer away from water-based foundations as they'll accentuate dry spots.

How to: Pour a small amount on a sponge and spread it on your forehead, nose and chin. Blend across the cheeks and face, ensuring don't miss any areas. Blend well along the hair and jawline.

Try: Estee Lauder Nutritious Vita Mineral Liquid Foundation, SPF 10, $74.

Cream foundation

Coverage: A heavier texture that offers full coverage with a rich dewy effect. It's best to begin with a small amount first and then if you need more coverage, apply a second coat.

Suitable for: Women with dull and dry skin. The downfall to cream solutions is that they can accentuate the size of pores, making them less suitable for those with larger pores.

How to: Apply with a foundation brush, then use your fingertips for those hard-to-reach places. This is best used sparingly, but if you do overdo it, press a tissue to your face to remove excess.

Try: L'Oreal Paris Age Re-Perfect Foundation, $49.99.

Cream-to-powder

Coverage: A medium formulation that offers moisture but with a matte, smooth finish. It's great for concealing spots and evens out the skin tone without looking heavy.

Suitable for: Those with oily-to-normal skin but not ideal for drier surfaces. The coverage of these foundations is so good you can even skip using concealer and loose powder.

How to: The texture is a lot thicker than most foundations, so use a sponge to even it out. Swipe the sponge in the foundation pot, then smear it onto the centre of the face and work towards the edges.

Try: Avon Personal Match Creme-to-powder Foundation, SPF 1, $29.99.

Pressed powder

Coverage: Light to medium consistency and ideal for eliminating shine.

Suitable for: Women with normal to oily skin types. Avoid using pressed powders if your skin is dry or prone to flake.

How to: This is a breeze to use and most compacts come with a built-in mirror and thin sponge, which press the powder onto the skin. Easy to apply anywhere.

Try: Almay TLC Truly Lasting Colour Pressed Powder, $28.

Mineral powder

Coverage: Medium to heavy, depending on how many times you layer it. Most mineral foundations tend to be a bit more expensive, but the investment is worth it.

Suitable for: Sensitive and acne-prone skin, although all skin types will benefit from wearing mineral powders. They prevent breakouts and don't clog pores.

How to: Dip a kabuki brush (short bristle) into the powder, shake off the excess, and move the brush on your face in swirling motions. Start with a small amount and blend.

Try: BareMinerals Foundation, SPF 15, $75.