Foundation Makeup: Reviews

Liquid foundation makeup is by far the most popular formula when it comes to base makeup. Liquid foundation is suitable for every skin type and provides varying degrees of coverage. L'Oreal Paris True Match Super… expandBlendable Makeup SPF 17 outranks pricier department store brands and wins kudos from experts and consumers. That's because it's available in 24 shades (a large number for a drugstore brand) and is easy to blend. This L'Oreal Foundation is suitable for all skin types, but experts warn that it tends to emphasize dry patches and fine lines so a good moisturizer and exfoliation are a must. The formula is oil- and fragrance-free; it has a lightweight texture and dries to a powdery matte finish. Shades are available in warm, neutral and cool tones and range from fair to dark. collapse

Powder foundations, in general, provide light to medium coverage with a lightweight texture -- a good fit for those who like the barely there feel of pressed powder but need a bit more coverage and staying ability.… expandReviewers say that MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation has a silky texture and is long-wearing. It comes in a large range of colors for every skin tone and is ideal for those with normal to slightly oily or combination skin. Those with very dry skin will find this powder foundation makeup a bit too drying, while those with very oily skin may find that it tends to clump up and oxidize (change color) with excess oil. collapse

Cream-to-powder foundations start off with a creamy texture but dry to a more powdery finish. Cover Girl CG Smoothers AquaSmooth contains mineral oil and silicone to give it a smooth, creamy texture and hydrating feel. It… expanddries to a light, powdery semi-matte finish that offers light to medium coverage. Reviewers say this lightweight product dries quickly; so speedy blending is a must. Cover Girl AquaSmooth is oil-free, provides broad spectrum sunscreen protection (SPF 15) and comes in 15 shades. collapse

This type of makeup relies mainly on crushed minerals instead of chemicals and dyes, but experts say that most mineral foundations aren't as natural as they claim to be. Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation… expandSPF 20 is one exception. It contains a short list of mostly natural ingredients and is oil-, talc-, dye- and paraben-free. It also lacks bismuth oxychloride, a common ingredient in mineral powders that causes sensitivity for some. Reviewers say that PurePressed Base goes on smoothly with a lightweight feel that looks as if you aren't wearing foundation makeup at all. It comes in a compact and provides light to medium coverage with a semi-matte finish. It's a great (though expensive) option for all skin types and comes in 24 shades. collapse