No more are foundations the sticky, powdery or patchy product of the past—there's a texture and type that'll work for your skin type and need. But if you're loyal to a bottle you've loved for years, you might be missing what's new and cool on the market. Here are the foundations you can try your hand at now.
1) Liquid foundation
Liquid foundations are most likely the first format that comes to mind when you think of base makeup. Within liquid, there are silicone- and water-based foundations along with the newly popular pigment drops that go on like a light serum—almost all of which are available in dewy and matte finishes. Liquid foundations are usually medium-to-full coverage and can be built up based on the look you’re after, making them a must-have in your beauty kit. Need your makeup to stay intact for a long duration? A liquid base is the way to go. They “are very easy to blend, [some even] hydrate your skin and are long lasting,” says Mumbai-based celebrity makeup artist Savleen Manchanda. The cons she says you should look out for: “They can clog your pores if you’re not using a non-comedogenic formula and can oxidise on your skin and change colour.”
2) Serum foundation
Serum-like foundation formulas have become a popular choice over the past couple of years since they come loaded with skincare benefits and are easy to buff and blend in place. A few drops go a long way and they’re also usually made to be blended into your moisturiser to create a tinted version of your favourite hydrator.
3) Tinted oil foundation
If you have ultra-dry skin, an oil that wears as a foundation is a one-step way to moisturised, well-covered skin. You'll look glowy and bright, as the all-over tint works to highlight and even out the skin tone.
4) Cream foundation
These formulas go on as a soft cream and blend into your skin for a flawless, hydrated finish. “They are easy to apply and are generally highly pigmented so provide good coverage and are great for dry and mature skin types due to their hydrating properties,” says Manchanda. However, be wary if you’re using them in humid weather since they can crease easily. They are definitely “not recommended for those with oily skin”.
5) Whipped mousse foundation
Super lightweight, these formulas are made for those with oily skin. “Whipped mousse foundations are known to prevent clogging of pores, are airy and lightweight since they are essentially liquid makeup with air whipped in, and leave a matte finish”, making them perfect for those with oily skin. However, they’re slightly harder to figure out in terms of application—if not blended well, they can easily look patchy. Plus, “they’re light in coverage so might not stay on as long as you want,” unless you set it well.
6) Stick foundation
Possibly the easiest to apply since all you’ve got to do is dot and blend, stick foundations are another very popular category. “They’re mess-free, easy to travel with, can be used as concealer and provide buildable coverage,” says Manchanda. However, their thick texture makes your skin prep even more important—you don’t want to be left with a cakey look; let your skin look like skin but better, not like you’ve got multiple layers of product on.
7) Powder foundation
If you’re someone who loves the barely-there look, you’ll find your favourite in the powder foundations category—they’re available in powder and pressed compact versions. They’re super easy to apply, lightweight (perfect to be worn under a mask), and soak up any excess oil your skin may have. Prep your skin, conceal any spots and seal it all in with a light dust of your powder foundation and you’re set. Make sure your skin is hydrated and prepped enough, if not, “it’ll accentuate dry patches, fine lines and wrinkles.” Of course, it’s light coverage and finish also means they don’t last very long so add these to your cart for the days you’re looking for just a little bit on your skin. A lot of powder foundations tend to be mineral-based, making them ideal for those with sensitive, irritable skin—no pore clogging in sight.
Also read:
7 foundations that Bollywood’s best makeup artists can’t get enough of
This Vogue writer took a full year to find her perfect foundation shade
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s makeup artist shares the products you need to go 12 hours without touch-ups
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