Foundations are the most important aspect of creating a lovely make up
Not only the color, which in itself is a mission to get right – but also the correct foundation for the look you want to achieve. So we have a rundown of 10 different types of foundations for you to consider – no matter what your preference we have it covered!
Welcome to the Goldilocks quest of finding the perfect foundation. Discovering the “just right” shade is only one factor that goes into the mix. From tinted moisturizers to serum foundations to airbrush makeup, the formula benefits and finish options are dizzying.
“The first step is to figure out how much coverage you want: sheer, full or a buildable formula,” says Lori Taylor Davis, Smashbox pro lead makeup artist. “Then, it’s onto the finish, whether you’re looking for matte, glowy or something in between. And perhaps most importantly, consider your lifestyle. If you’re the the type of person who has the time to touch up throughout the day or you need a formula that makes it through a full work day, that makes a big difference,” she says.
Read on for pro makeup artists takes and real-life road tests to help you sort through the base-packed market—and make sure you’re covered.
Tinted MoisturizerWhat it is: It’s a very sheer, lightweight formula that condenses skincare and coverage in one step.
Why it’s great: Particularly beneficial for dry skin types, there’s very little overthinking involved with a tinted moisturizer—just apply a small amount of product on your fingers, blend and you’re out the door. “If you already have pretty good skin (lucky you!), but just want to even out your tone, this is the perfect type of coverup to give you a sheer glow while pumping your skin with moisture at the same time,” says celebrity makeup artist Kirin Bhatty. Especially during the transition to fall’s cooler temperatures, the extra boost of hydration could be exactly what your skin craves.
What to consider: The sheerness of tinted moisturizer won’t last all day long, so it isn’t right for someone who’s looking for durability or heavier coverage.
Products: Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 ($14), Perfekt 10 Skin Perfection Plus ($48), Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($49)
BB Cream
What it is: BB cream stands for Beauty Balm or Blemish Balm. This offers slightly more coverage than a tinted moisturizer, yet gives you the same airy, lightweight feel. It usually contains a higher dose of SPF and is loaded with ingredients like antioxidants and vitamins typically found in skincare.
Why it’s great: A multitasking beauty product makes it easy to get #UpNOut, and there’s nothing quite like a BB cream. It not only addresses specific concerns like anti-aging, redness and acne, but you don’t even need a mirror to apply the super blendable (read: forgiving) formula. “It’s for the girl who has a busy or really active lifestyle, but still wants to take care of their skin,” says Davis. Plus, it works on any skin type.
What to consider: The shades aren’t as broad as liquid foundations, so sometimes the color can look off if it’s not blended properly. “And because of the higher SPF content, it can almost give off a slightly gray-ish tint,” says Davis.
Products: Smashbox Camera Ready BB Water ($42), Estée Lauder DayWear BB Anti-Oxidant Beauty Benefit Creme SPF 35 ($42), DTRT Boys Be Bold BB SPF 25 ($24)
Mineral Makeup
What it is: Technically most makeup is considered mineral makeup, as foundation often contains many of the same ingredients like iron oxides and mica. But true mineral makeup doesn’t include fragrances, preservatives, alcohol, oils or chemical dyes and is usually found in powder form. You can expect to get sheer to medium coverage.
Why it’s great: Acne-prone and oily skin types love this formula for its lightweight consistency and buildable coverage. The mineral nature of the formula doesn’t encourage bacterial growth, making it a safe to use over blemishes. “The application is really straightforward, too” says Nick Lujan, Make Up For Ever pro media educator. “A large, fluffy brush helps so that it doesn’t concentrate the formula too heavily in one area and it mattifies your skin at the same time. Just buff it onto your skin in circular motions.”
What to consider: If you don’t moisturize well beforehand, or have extremely dry skin, a matte mineral foundation can accentuate flakes and rough patches.
Products: Black Up Loose Powder ($37), Amazing Cosmetics Velvet Mineral Loose Powder Foundation ($17), Philosophy the Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas 4-in-1 Mineral Makeup SPF 15 ($27)
Read more great foundation choices from Christa Joanna Lee below:
Image: Self
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