The Top 6 Best Foundations for Every Skin Type

By Lexi Novak, Allure

 

Oily Or Acne-Prone

[post_ads]The best way to control shine is with an oil-free foundation, so avoid any formula that claims to have a "dewy" or "luminizing" texture. Makeup artist Jeannia Robinette loves Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Instant Perfecting Makeup. It contains salicylic acid to kill bacteria and help control breakouts. And during inevitable flare-ups, resist the urge to apply a heavy base, which can draw attention to skin issues. Robinette mixes an oil-free moisturizer with an oil-free foundation and rubs a single, thin coat over the face to even out color.
 
Dry

Parched skin can handle rich, thick formulas like creams or moisturizing liquids—Dior DiorSkin Nude Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup SPF 10 is a perfect option. "It just gives a glow instantly, and it's really got a nice texture that glides right on," says Robinette. Plus, it offers good coverage that doesn't slide off like some hydrating formulas. Several drugstore brands also make foundations that soak into dry skin like a lotion while still providing an even finish (such as L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Makeup).
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Aging

In the world of skin care, powder and fine lines go together about as well as the Hatfields and McCoys—meaning not at all. Powders or formulas that dry to a powdery finish settle into wrinkles, making them more obvious. Instead, choose a water-based foundation, like Chanel Vitalumière Aqua Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Makeup. It's lightweight, natural-looking, yet still moisturizing enough to smooth and plump the skin.
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Minimal Coverage

"For me, the whole foundation thing is really just evening your skin tone. I don't like to cover everything up all the time," says Robinette. Her solution? A tinted moisturizer, like Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer. "You can see your freckles. You can see your skin. And it's got all the stuff you need: moisturizers and sun protection. Plus, it gives you a little color. What more could you want?"

Anti-Foundation

For those who don't like the feel of foundation but still crave a little coverage, look for lightweight formulas that melt into skin instead of forming a thick or creamy layer on top of it. Robinette uses Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup. "It's really thin. You put it on, and it's almost like it isn't even there. And it makes your skin look really smooth," she says.
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Sensitive

 

Mineral-based powders conceal problem skin without irritating or drawing attention to touchy areas. Robinette likes Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen—which provides UVA and UVB protection—for correcting rosacea and discoloration. "You could put a ton of it on, and it doesn't look heavy," she says. "It's pretty amazing for people who have issues with their skin and who want to use mineral makeup. I even put it on myself, and people were saying, 'Oh, your skin looks so good!'" Robinette also recommends powders from BareMinerals for those with sensitive skin.

   

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