Tester: Emily, Former Associate Editor Rating: 9.5
What she thought: This foundation is pricey and I can't pronounce the name, two characteristics which would normally make me pass it by. But I gave it a try, and I love it. It matches my skin perfectly and has a way of gliding over my imperfections that makes it a daily must for me. Foundation is one of those products you have to get just right -- if it's too orangey or even a shade off, it ends up highlighting your flaws and creating a streaky, overdone look. Le Metier de Beaute in shade 2 ended up being an exact match for my fair skin. The very fluid formula manages to provide enough coverage to hide flaws without being superthick -- truly, makeup that doesn't look like makeup. I feel like I've found the holy grail of foundation.
Tester: Tiffanie, Former Assistant Editor Rating: 10.0
What she thought: As much of a beauty junkie as I am, I typically try to keep my face makeup pretty basic. But after stumbling upon a Bare Minerals infomercial nearly 10 years ago, I was hooked. It goes on matte, so there's no need to apply a ton to get a soft, even tone. It also matches my shade to a T.
Another plus is how confident I feel wearing it alone even without any other makeup. My skin looks visibly smooth and natural. The container can get a little messy, but it's compact enough to fit in my clutch (a major plus). Just two dips and swirls into the lid with a buffing brush is all I need for full-coverage. It's so light, I don't have to worry about breaking out or looking like a clown.
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
