I’m of the opinion that full coverage foundations should not be left in the noughties. They’re not only perfect for when you’re in the mood for a full beat moment, but also for whenever you have anything major in your social calendar. I’m thinking weddings, hen-dos, birthdays and days when you’re updating your LinkedIn pic with the ultimate corporate girl headshot.
Forget about the drying, creasing and pore-clogging formulas of the past. Today’s best full coverage foundations are anything but cakey. There’s a common misconception that such formulas aren’t breathable and don’t offer a “natural finish”, however, there’s a handful of weightless foundations that will make you forget that you’re wearing a full face of makeup in the first place (Estée Lauder, we’re looking at you) – but cover practically everything.
And if you’re wondering whether a full coverage foundation will suit your skin type, there’s good news to be had. Aesthetician and makeup artist Erica Marie Gatt (whose clients include Vanessa Hudgens, Sofia Vergara and Kim Kardashian) says that full coverage foundations can be used on all skin types, as long as you choose the right formula for your skin type and individual needs.
“For dry or mature skin, I love a luminous finish with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. This provides a dewy look that’s still full coverage, and helps to prevent the foundation from settling into fine lines and wrinkles,” she told us. “If you have oily skin, use a matte foundation, which controls excess sebum while giving you a healthy glow without looking shiny.”
If you tend to have acne or frequent breakouts, the expert recommends looking for hydrating, non-comedogenic formulas, which will care for your skin whilst preventing the development of further breakouts.
And don’t be tempted to go gung ho and pack on the pigment. “Less is more. Start small and build up your coverage to achieve a more natural look,” says Erica. “Using too much product at once can lead to caking. Reach for a liquid or cream based foundation, which will offer qualities similar to a moisturiser, so that you can achieve a more natural and radiant finish.”
Of course, as with most beauty shopping feats – especially where makeup is concerned – it’s not easy to sift through every product out there and figure out what’s best for your own individual skin type and concern. Enter, stage right, our guide to the best full coverage foundations, from Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless to the iconic Estee Lauder Double Wear.
SKIP TO: Our reviews | How to choose the right full coverage foundation | How do you get flawless full coverage foundation?
How we tested best full coverage foundations:
Throughout the years, the GLAMOUR beauty team has tested hundreds of full coverage foundation formulas, from budget options to premium buys. We’ve made sure to test said formulas on a variety of skin types and skin tones, all the while accessing the shade range, the finish and the feel on the skin. Find out more about how we test here. After something else? Shop the best powder foundations, the best drugstore foundation, the best oil-free foundations and read our Il Makiage foundation review.
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Reviewed, the best full coverage foundations…
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