Foundation isn't just the base of your makeup look -- it can make or break your whole damn face. What good are perfect smoky eyes or impeccably lined lips if foundation isn't high-quality, natural-looking, suited to your skin type and the precisely perfect shade?
These 11 foundations are game-changers. Some, like Born This Way foundation, are old, some are new; some are inexpensive, some are luxury buys; some give a barely there veil of color, and some make dark circles, hyperpigmentation and blemishes disappear like a real-life version of FaceTune. But they all leave skin looking jaw-droppingly beautiful.
Here are 11 game-changing foundations that stand up to all the fuss.
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Too Faced Born This Way Foundation, $39
Born This Way Foundation gives us the kind of skin we wish we could have inherited genetically. Coconut water and hyaluronic acid give skin a plump, juicy look enhanced by radiant, light-scattering particles that diffuse fine lines and blemishes. And the pigmentation of this Too Faced foundation is potent (it's medium-to-full coverage), hiding a multitude of sins and flaws.
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a staple in practically every professional makeup artist's kit. This high-end Armani foundation is practically undetectable on the complexion -- it's no wonder why so many celebs wear it on the red carpet -- and leaves skin with a poreless, glowing appearance. Fans love Luminous Silk Foundation's excellent range of shades (there are 24) and silky finish that lasts and lasts.
Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation is simply parfait if you love dewy-looking foundations (a la Armani Luminous Silk Foundation or YSL Touche Eclat Foundation) but can't spend beaucoup bucks on makeup. This Bourjois foundation is formulated with light-reflecting particles that immediately perk up the complexion and fruit extracts (apricot, melon and apple) to brighten skin over the long term. The only caveat: It's best for women with a light or medium skin tone, since the darkest of the foundation's eight shades is merely medium bronze.
Marc Jacobs Foundation Genius Gel Super-Charged Oil-Free, $48
This Marc Jacobs foundation really is genius, especially if you're the type who can't stand thick, cake-y makeup (meaning: just about everyone). This foundation is great for mature skin, thanks to its radiant finish and infusion of anti-aging vitamins; those with oily skin will love the weightless, long-wearing formula. But just about anyone can appreciate the non-greasy, buoyant gel texture.
