Not all foundations are created equal: some are made for "good skin days," while others act like spackle, concealing every blotch or blemish in sight. Finding a formula that segues seamlessly from sheer to opaque is nearly impossible, which is why many women keep an arsenal of creams, liquids, tinted moisturizers, and BB creams on deck. L'Oréal Paris set out to cut through the clutter and provide an all-in-one option with the brand's latest base innovation: True Match Lumi Cushion, a new liquid formula captured in a cushion that layers effortlessly and leaves skin looking fresh.

Tapping—not swiping—is the key to building a seamless base with a cushion compact, says makeup artist Rommy Najor. He recommends patting the product on with the included anti-microbial applicator because it doesn't absorb (and waste!) the liquid and delivers the perfect dose of foundation. One tap with the puff offers a translucent veil that lets freckles shine through; a double tap provides a more "polished" look; and three taps camouflages imperfections minus any cakeyness. After all, a girl should be able to change her coverage level as easily as she changes clothes. Here, how to layer L'Oréal Paris' new Lumi Cushion like a pro:

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Christine Hahn

The Bare Minimum

Nobody needs a full face of makeup after the gym or during a morning coffee run, but canceling out redness is always a good idea. (After all, Murphy's Law practically guarantees you'll run into your boss or ex when you're least expecting it.) Before you pat, prep your complexion with a fast-absorbing face oil (such as L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Facial Oil Light) to provide skin with some "slip" and help foundation glide on effortlessly, Najor says. Then, use the sponge strategically and single-tap the Lumi Cushion only where you need "a little love"—typically down center of the face, under eyes, and around the nostrils where the face is the most porous and prone to discoloration or broken capillaries. "Focusing foundation on specific areas evens out the skin tone without covering like a mask," Najor says. "It creates a luminous finish that looks healthy and hydrated—not greasy." After all, I-woke-up-like-this skin is the best revenge when bumping into an ex.

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Christine Hahn

The Happy Medium

Building up your base for a big meeting is easy: Stipple Lumi Cushion out towards the perimeter of your face. (If you're starting from square one—i.e., no makeup—opt for the double tap action to quickly increase coverage.) Adding that second layer of foundation provides a "more balanced and polished" finish, Najor says. Complete the look with a wash of taupe shadow across lids and lower lash lines. That's how a #girlboss does beauty.

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Christine Hahn

The Full Monty

After-hours is the time to amp up your foundation. Use the puff to tap on one more layer—creating an "S" shape from the forehead, across the nose, and finally to the chin, Najor says. (Or try the triple tap motion if you're starting from baseline.) The Lumi Cushion quickly camouflages any redness, blemishes, and signs of fatigue, but it "still allows your skin to look like skin," Najor says of the versatile formula that offers sheer to medium coverage. "It's breathable—not pancake makeup." Bonus: The compact boasts a shield that prevents any spillage when you're on the go—making touch-ups easy no matter where the night takes you.