Foundations used to do one job – provide coverage for an even complexion.
Today’s foundations, however, go beyond that. They pamper the skin, with a range of benefits, from hydration to brightening and anti-ageing. In fact, some brands claim that the more you use their foundation, the better your skin will be – because these makeup products work like skincare.
That said, it doesn’t mean you should skip your skincare. Makeup artist Larry Yeo says foundation should still be considered as makeup, and proper skincare steps are still a must. They’re important as they prep the skin, giving you a smooth canvas so that foundation applies easily, enhancing its flawless finish.
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“Treatment products like serums address skin concerns, while moisturisers keep moisture in, prevent moisture loss and reduce skin dryness. And sunscreens protect your skin from UV damage,” Yeo says.
“Your foundation then comes in to sit as a layer on the skin and help even out skin tone visually. The skincare benefits are a bonus.”
Here, our list of the best skincare foundations, reviewed by the Her World team.
What’s great about the latest Clinique Even Better Clinical™ Serum Foundation, is that it’s super buildable so you can customise the level coverage you need. But that’s not all that it does. In fact, it effectively helps to visibly reduce dark spots, evens out and brightens your skin tone, while hydrating your complexion with 3 serum technologies. It’s also been said that after 8 weeks of using the foundation, you’ll start to notice that your skin is more even-toned, radiant, and smoother, even after your makeup is removed.
Using it: Apply the foundation with a foundation brush for a full coverage look, or pat it onto your skin after your morning routine with your fingertips to achieve a more natural complexion.
Buy it here.
Besides offering full coverage, the Clarins Everlasting Foundation is known for its potent list of skin-loving ingredients that do wonders for your skin. Formulated with bamboo powder, quinoa and oat sugar extracts, as well as a plant-based micro-patch extract, the foundation works to protect your skin from dehydration while concealing any redness or blemishes. What’s more, it’s also really lightweight so it feels like you’re not wearing anything on your face.
Using it: After you’ve prepped your skin in the morning, apply the foundation onto your skin with a brush for a flawless application, or use your fingers to apply for a finish that’s sheerer.
Buy it here.
The brand’s iconic vanilla planifolia water and oil help enhance skin health, while giving a soft long-lasting glow. In six shades.
Using it: Its serum-like texture gives a natural, second-skin finish. You can even skip makeup primer as your skin will still look flawless and fresh, even at the end of a long day.
Buy it here.
The serum foundation contains hyaluronic acid to protect skin and give it a youthful glow. In 10 shades.
Using it: One pump covers the entire face. The finish is very dewy and can get a little too shiny by midday – a light dusting of translucent powder will keep the shine more radiant than greasy. Skip the glow-enhancing primer.
Buy it here.
The light-to-medium coverage keeps skin smooth and hydrated all day. In 25 shades.
Using it: Its water-light texture gives a flawless, second-skin finish that stays fresh for hours. It’s also transfer-resistant under a mask. Use a “liquidy” sunscreen as thicker textures may make the product pill.
Buy it here.
The 90 per cent skincare base helps boost radiance and hydration. In 16 shades.
Using it: Very fluid, with a light but buildable finish, so apply more to cover blemishes, dark spots and dark circles. Skin looks dewy and healthy, and the hydrating formula keeps skin looking smooth even after a day of errands.
Buy it here.
The formula helps skin retain moisture, and keeps it nourished and looking flawless. In 12 shades.
Using it: Its fluid texture, like a watery tint, goes on easily. It feels hydrating and goes on beautifully, covering small blemishes. Skin looks more awake and has a soft glow. The foundation transfers only minimally onto your mask.
Buy it here.
Offers buildable coverage along with a formula that protects skin. In 48 shades.
Using it: Despite its creamy texture, the coverage is pretty light, so concealer is still needed. It stayed on the whole day, even without a primer. I even got compliments.
Buy it here.
A BB+CC cream that’s a primer and foundation with a dewy finish, with SPF 50. In 10 shades.
Using it: It hydrates and nourishes skin, and coverage is decent, concealing blemishes and moderate dark circles. But the glow is intense, so give it a few minutes before heading out. For oilier skin, dust on translucent powder first.
Buy it here.
It covers imperfections, and leaves skin looking fresh while staying hydrated. In 30 shades.
Using it: As a foundation, it gives decent light to medium coverage. It’s also pigmented enough to conceal dark circles and blemishes. It’s perfect for busy mornings – just swipe, blend, set with loose powder, and go.
Buy it here.
Text: Vanessa Chia & Shazrina Shamsudin/HerWorld