What I'm about to say may come as a total shocker to many of you readers (especially you makeup minimalists). Recently, there have been claims that complexions can benefit from a daily dose of foundation, as opposed to remaining bare-faced and makeup-free. This then begs the question: Doesn't foundation (and makeup in general) clog pores and suffocate skin? My answer is plain and simple: No. Check out why I lobby for foundation and its potential for anti-aging and general beauty benefits.

De-Bunking the Pore-Clogging Myth

Truth be told, if you stick to a foundation formula that's designed for your specific skin type, you shouldn't run into any problems. For instance, if you have dry, more mature skin, a moisturizing, cream-based formula like L'Oréal Paris Visible Lift Blur Foundation will help nourish fine lines and dry skin. And for all of you who suffer like mad with oily, shiny faces, an oil-free and/or mineral foundation (like The Body Shop Tea Tree Flawless BB Cream) is perfect for mattifying your mug. As for concerns that makeup suffocates the skin and doesn't allow it to breathe, here's the deal: Skin can't perform the functions of respiration, so stop worrying!

The REAL Culprit

While you shouldn't stress so much about the foundation on your face, you should be concerned about the foundation on your brushes. If not cleaned regularly and thoroughly, brushes can carry bacteria and foundation residue that can in fact clog your skin. Make sure to adhere to the following cleansing laws to ensure your face stays in the clear -- literally.

Foundation's Knight in Shining Armor

Believe it or not, makeup can offer a barrier of protection against harmful UV rays. If you didn't already know, sun damage is a leading cause of premature skin aging. Lucky for us, many foundations contain sunscreen, so get on the preventative bandwagon and cover up that face! Based on this benefit from wearing products like Armani Beauty Lasting Silk UV Compact, I never leave my skin bare and never suggest my clients do either.

What's your foundation of choice? Sound off in the comments below!

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