We've managed to quickly fix botched eyeliner or even smeared lipstick, but if there's one step in your makeup routine that you really don't want to mess up, it's laying down your groundwork, er, foundation. One wrong move and you have to wipe the slate clean and start all over again. This means you might as well call in late to wherever you're going because this could take a while. To ensure your foundation is right on point every single time, follow these 10 rules of application we should all live by!

#1. Start with a smooth canvas: If your skin is flaking, peeling or oily, you can't expect your foundation to go on smoothly! Exfoliating once or twice a week will help slough away any dry patches, dead skin cells and excess oil to ensure your foundation goes on just right.

It's all in the skin prep! No matter your skin type, moisturizing before applying makeup is the key to an even looking application. Skip this step and your foundation could "cake up" in certain areas. For an extra dewy- and supple-looking complexion, spritz your skin with a face mist #2. Hydrate your skin: after applying your daily moisturizer.

#6. Find the right shade for your skin tone: This one brings us back to our high school days, doesn't it? Use the wrong shade, and everyone can tell! Don't make this amateur mistake! Next time you go foundation shopping, bring a friend or have your skin tone matched at the makeup counter.

If you're trying to cover up a pimple or under-eye circles, concealer alone may not do the trick! After your foundation application - but before concealer - dab on the appropriate #8. Apply your color corrector: color corrector (we love the NYX Color Correcting Palette) to neutralize any dark spots or redness.

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