Since foundation is, well, the foundation of your makeup routine, it’s incredibly important to get this step right. The point of foundation is to help your skin look its best, not mask your beautiful face. But finding the perfect match for your skin type and tone is no easy feat. If, like us, you’ve sifted through countless formulas that cake, crease, look too orange or make your complexion look flat, you’ll understand this predicament.
With this in mind, we’ve created this simple three-step guide to finding your perfect foundation and putting it on like a pro.
-
Determine your skin type
The first step is finding a product that is right for your individual skin type. After all, whether you want to conceal blemishes, reduce redness, or simply covet a healthy glow, your foundation should hold the key.
-
Match a shade to your skin tone
Swipe shades along your jawline or chest to determine the right hue (hint: it should disappear into your skin.) Just be sure to stand near a window or head outside to check the shade, because harsh overhead lighting can cast unflattering shadows.
-
Application tips and tricks
Different formulas require different application strategies. As a rule of thumb, brushes are best for liquids, mousses and creams. However, fingers and make-up sponges are great for a natural, seamless finish.
Now, time to put this guide into action. Lucky for you, we had four Amodrn writers (with four different skin types) road test four Rimmel London foundations.
Match Perfection Foundation
“Best for: Normal/Combination skin”
Why Georgia loved it: This medium coverage, soft-fluid foundation is the epitome of natural perfection. It covers slight imperfections, and has a pore blurring effect. Best of all, it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing makeup at all.
What to consider: Although this formula offers weightless coverage, I found it quite easy to control and build up. This was great for night-time events, when I wanted a little more oomph.
Lasting Finish 25H Foundation with Comfort Serum
“Best for: Dry/Combination skin”
Why Emily loved it: While many full coverage foundations can be on the drying side, this one is enriched with a comfort serum to give you extra hydration and that subtle, dewy finish, without looking greasy. And right now, my skin (dry patches and all) needs all the moisture it can get. Additionally, it is sweat, humidity and transfer proof for up to 25 hours, so it will stay put all day long.
What to consider: For a seamless, second-skin look, try warming the product onto the back of your hand, and then buff it into your skin (jawline and neck included) using a brush or sponge.
Wake Me Up Foundation
“Best for: Dull, tired skin”
Why we loved it: If your skin feels tired and looks lacklustre like mine, you’ll love this foundation. It works to instantly revive tired skin for a healthy, glow. How so, you wonder? This foundation has a visible anti-fatigue effect with peptides and a vitamin C moisturising complex.
What to consider: If you’re prone to an oily t-zone, be sure to set this foundation with powder to make sure it lasts from morning to night.
Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation
“Best for: Oily skin”
Why Andy loved it: Offering a matte, weightless finish with heavy coverage, this creamy mousse foundation is perfect for oily skin gals – it didn’t turn my face into an oil slick at any point during the day. I also love the size, shape and packaging of the product, which makes it easy to apply on the go.
What to consider: It is very pigmented so a little product goes a long way.
