Abstract: A cosmetic system suitable for application to the skin as a multi-step cosmetic product. The system includes two compositions. The first composition is composed of from about 5 to about 90% of a low-volatility material with a vapor pressure of less than 10 mmHg at 1 atm and 25° C. and from about 0.05 to about 10% of an emulsifier which is soluble or dispersible in the low-volatility material. The second composition is composed of a continuous phase fluid, solid, gel, or semi-solid having an interfacial tension with the low-volatility material from the first composition which is at least 0 dyne/cm. The second composition is topically applied to the skin after the first composition. The invention further relates to methods of using the cosmetic system in order to effectively deliver a satisfactory foundation product to a user's skin.