The never-ending foundation battle

Finding the perfect foundation for your skin type and your preference is a never-ending battle for some. There are so many different factors that come into play and it is such a personal purchase, unlike a lipstick which is down to little more than the formula and shade, whereas a foundation that looks great and work wonders for your friend wont necessarily do the same for you. Also, when you do eventually find that 'one' that ticks all your boxes it makes all the difference!!!

What to consider when choosing a foundation:

What is my skin type?
What sort of coverage am I looking for? Do I need to cover uneven skin tone, scarring, pigmentation?
Do I need this foundation to last all day?
Is my skin prone to sweating?
What is my undertone and what shade is best for my skin type?

This is my personal preference when it comes to foundations and how I answer the above questions:

What is my skin type? I have a normal/dry skin type so prefer a dewy foundation rather than a matte formula (which are better for oilier skins).

What sort of coverage am I looking for? Do I need to cover uneven skin tone, scarring, pigmentation? I am looking for a light to medium coverage during the day, however, for a special event I prefer a more medium/buildable coverage to create a more flawless appearance. Esp when I am going to an event like a wedding where photos will be taken and where things might get sweaty on the dance floor.

Do I need this foundation to last all day? This is not high up on my priority list as with a primer and a setting spray I generally don’t have a problem with my skin eating up my make-up. I think drier skins don’t need to worry about this so much; however, oilier skins really need to consider this point as generally their foundation wears off within a few hours.

Is my skin prone to sweating? No

What is my undertone and what shade is best for my skin type? I have a yellow undertone so lean that way with foundations. That being said, I truly believe there is no space in this world for pink undertone foundations as when someone does happen to have a pink undertone, this is not something that anyone would want to accentuate, therefore, they should also be opting for a yellow based foundation to counteract any redness/pinky tones. For example at MAC their NC foundation range is yellow toned and their NW is more pinky toned – my opinion – steer clear of these! So this does make this questions slightly redundant when it comes to foundation colour (as no matter what you will always pick a yellow based foundation), yet it is still important to factor in as you still want this to be a good match and accentuate the best part of your skin.

My Favourite Foundations

Right, so onto the foundations that I would recommend, all addressing different concerns. Again, I would advise you go into stores and either ask for a sample (which they should all give you, even if you have to take a tiny container for them to put a few pumps into) and try this on your skin – this is the only way you will be able to tell if it will work for your skin type:

Clarins Everlasting Foundation – R415

Who should consider this product? Anyone who battles to find a good shade match, there is a huge shade variety here, particular for darker complexions. This product is great for a good coverage that lasts all day without looking too heavy on the skin. It has bamboo extract in it which helps with oiliness and prevents the skin looking shiny come midday. A little is needed and it goes a long way in evening out the skin town and concealing imperfections.

Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua – R660

Who should consider this product? Younger skins and someone who is looking for a sheer, glowy finish. I would avoid this if you have problematic skin as the coverage isn’t great but if you are looking for something to even out your skin tone and a product that will make you look like you have been sipping coconut water on an island for months, then have a look at this. Sadly, it is rather pricey, but it’s a best seller for good reason.

L’Oreal Infallible Foundation 24HR – R199

Who should consider this product? I am such a fan of L’Oreal foundations. I honestly can’t rave about them enough, from Infallible and True Match to Lumi Magique and Visible Lift. Their prices are amazing and I find their shade matches really good too. Infallible is great for all-day wear without looking cakey. The coverage is pretty full, but on days when you want something more sheer then one pump mixed with day cream and a drop of an illuminator goes a long way.

Revlon PhotoReady Airbrush Effect Foundation – R289

Who should consider this product? Someone who is wanting better coverage with skin that has spots and discolouration. I actually use this and don’t have problematic skin but love this for a bigger event when I need my make up to last (and look good in photos). It’s a much loved oldie (recently improved formula), but really good!

NARS Sheer Glow – R600

Who should consider this product? Anyone. This is hands down my best foundation which I recently bought in Europe. You can’t get it here (sorry) but if you are able to get your hands on it then give it a go. The coverage is medium and the finish is glowy, radiant and so, so beautiful. It’s perfect for day and night and makes skin look 10 years younger! Also buildable if you want a fuller coverage.

Smashbox Liquid Halo – R455

Who should consider this product? Someone with a good skin who is looking for a light foundation to even out their skin tone. I bought myself this a week ago and really love it. I was quite surprised at how light the coverage is, but for that sheer, even, glowey look it is perfect. I prefer it for day wear rather than night. Oh, only comment here is the smell isn’t the best.

Estee Lauder Double Wear – R415

Who should consider this product? If you are into your make up and want a good coverage that will last all day and night (and forever after) then this is your baby. It gives you flawless skin so a teensy bit is all you need. Lauder are great with samples so give it a try, so many people love this one and go back to it year after year so it may just be the foundation you’ve been after!

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Foundation – R219.95

Who should consider this product? Younger skins looking for a good coverage with a great glow. Again, Bourjois foundations and tinted moisturisers are up there with some of my favourites. Cheap as chips and bloody brilliant. Only issue here is shades as their range isn’t that wide but I just go for a lighter shade and add in some of my trusty Stila 10-in-1 Illuminating Balm.

Clarins True Radiance – R415

Who should consider this product? This foundation is great for all skin type. The coverage is medium and the finish is, as the name says, radiant and glowy, however, nothing too over the top. It is also very buildable and works well when mixed with the Radiance Boosting Complexion Base from Clarins to amp up the bronze glow. Such a great combo!

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