Makeup
Editors' Pick: 12 Best FoundationsWe've put tons of foundations to the test over the years — see which ones won us over |
Finding the best foundation can feel a bit like winning the lottery. More so than any other beauty product, foundation can make or break your entire look — and the trial and error process to find the right formula can be arduous. Got oily skin? You need matte coverage that stays put all day. Mature skin requires something lightweight and dewy that won't cake or settle into fine lines.
So what are the best foundations that rose to our lofty standards? Whether they were drugstore brands or high-end splurges, these 12 top-performing foundations charmed our editors by transforming even the blotchiest and oiliest among us into women with flawless, radiant complexions.
Some foundations were multitasking and eliminated the need for concealer or powder. Others were just good ol' one-hit-wonders that got the job done. Bottom line: These top foundations totally delivered.
But, before you give them a go, keep these expert foundation tips in mind:
• Apply foundation to the center of your face and blend outward. Always use powder sparingly, and to conceal or brighten dark circles, select a concealer with a pink undertone then gently pat it on. — Jane McKay, makeup artist for MAC
• "Always prep with a moisturizer before applying foundation. The extra bit of moisture helps makeup slide on smoothly and evenly." — Barbie Laurino, a global makeup artist for Laura Mercier
• Ideally, your makeup should allow your natural skin to show through, not blanket it. "To get the lightest, most sheer layer of coverage, use a damp sponge or synthetic brush instead of using your fingers." — Makeup artist Sonia Kashuk
Image via @lorealmakeup
SEE NEXT PAGE: Best Foundation No. 12: Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder, $46
So what are the best foundations that rose to our lofty standards? Whether they were drugstore brands or high-end splurges, these 12 top-performing foundations charmed our editors by transforming even the blotchiest and oiliest among us into women with flawless, radiant complexions.
Some foundations were multitasking and eliminated the need for concealer or powder. Others were just good ol' one-hit-wonders that got the job done. Bottom line: These top foundations totally delivered.
But, before you give them a go, keep these expert foundation tips in mind:
• Apply foundation to the center of your face and blend outward. Always use powder sparingly, and to conceal or brighten dark circles, select a concealer with a pink undertone then gently pat it on. — Jane McKay, makeup artist for MAC
• "Always prep with a moisturizer before applying foundation. The extra bit of moisture helps makeup slide on smoothly and evenly." — Barbie Laurino, a global makeup artist for Laura Mercier
• Ideally, your makeup should allow your natural skin to show through, not blanket it. "To get the lightest, most sheer layer of coverage, use a damp sponge or synthetic brush instead of using your fingers." — Makeup artist Sonia Kashuk
Image via @lorealmakeup
SEE NEXT PAGE: Best Foundation No. 12: Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder, $46
Older comments
Good variety of lines and price levels. I want to try the Laura Geller now. The review for the Lancôme was so good, I'm tempted to try it too. Well done!
by tonyadiamond Saturday, April 27, 2013 at 10:07AM Report as inappropriate
So I have to try the "Laura Geller Real Deal Foundation Stick," it looked so interesting! I had to look at this article and the worst foundations article just to see if what I use was on either list (it wasn't).
by bookish Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at 01:42PM Report as inappropriate
I love the revlon foundation powder because when applied ISPs cooling the only problem is u have to get another brush to use. I also love loreal lift foundation it goes on like a Serum.
by telesales2 Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at 08:27PM Report as inappropriate
Great information!
by Susan051 Monday, April 8, 2013 at 11:55PM Report as inappropriate
greaat article good job
by littlesweets801 Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 02:49PM Report as inappropriate
great article!
by butterfly11 Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 07:02PM Report as inappropriate
this is a great article !!
by wvblj1947 Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 04:18PM Report as inappropriate
Great rang of products!
by Kbhaber Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 05:58AM Report as inappropriate
I like that you consistently give a range of products with prices everyone can afford. I didn't see my favorite foundation, however--Lancome's "Dual Finish Versatile Powder Foundation." It is never, ever cakey but just leaves me looking like my skin is flawless. It blends seamlessly. And coverage is buildable. I can't go without it.
by GigiSD Friday, March 8, 2013 at 09:09PM Report as inappropriate
Cool article. I would add to the list Maybelline Airbrush foundation. Use it with a stippling brush and your foundation will look - flawless-dewy but flawless. Milani mineral foundation was a surprise to me.-interesting.
by ZEEG Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at 07:06PM Report as inappropriate