What are you in the mood for?
HOME / MAKEUP / FACE / UNCOVERED! YOUR PERFECT FOUNDATION MATCH

Uncovered! Your Perfect Foundation Match

by | 2 shares 95.4K views 95.4K views  
Trial and error is the last thing on your mind when you're shopping for a foundation. Pick the wrong texture or shade and kiss your look goodbye. If you thought finding the right shade was all that mattered, you're wrong! That's only the start. The texture and formulation are equally important, so here's our guide to finding the right formula for your needs.

Liquid Foundation

The commonest formulation available. It provides medium to full coverage (depending on how much you apply) and is available in a variety of formulations: oil-based, oil-free or water-based.  Each foundation gives a different finish from dewy to matte and are suitable for all skin types.
Liquid Foundation recommendations
Oily Skin
Lucky you! You can pick either type depending on the look you're after. We recommend Maybelline Dream Satin Skin Liquid Foundation.
Dry Skin
Choose a foundation which also moisturizes skin. Look for an oil-based formula or one that's enriched with Vitamin E such as L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24h Foundation.
Normal Skin
Choose a foundation which also moisturizes skin. Look for an oil-based formula or one that's enriched with Vitamin E such as Nykaa SkinShield Anti-Pollution Matte Foundation.
Blends best with: A makeup sponge like Nykaa BlendMaster All-rounder Makeup Blender Sponge.

Cream Foundation

These are heavier than liquid formulas and provide full coverage.  They're easier to work with and blends easily. For obvious reasons they're not recommended for oily and aging skin as they tend to exaggerate shine and settle in fine lines. Typically, creamy formulas give a smooth finish.  These can either be liquid or pressed.
Cream Foundation recommendations
Normal Skin
If you have normal skin and are looking for coverage with moisturizing you can try Nykaa SKINgenius Sculpting & Hydrating Foundation.
Dry Skin
Look for a moisturizing formula that hydrates skin. We recommend Revlon Colorstay Makeup For Normal / Dry Skin
Blends best with: Foundation brush like Real Techniques Expert Face Brush.

Stick Foundation

This is basically a cream foundation in stick form.  Since these are heaver in formulation they're not recommended for oily or acne prone or aging skin.  They give full coverage and a smooth finish.  The best part, it's a travel-friendly way to carry your cover-up. No messes or spills.
Stick Foundation recommendations
Dry Skin
If your skin is super dry (flaky) use a stick foundation, but moisturize before using it. They tend to settle much faster than regular formulas. Try Natio Clever Stick SPF 15.
All Skin Types
Nykaa SKINgenius Foundation Stick blends effortlessly with your skin type for a perfected complexion. This unique formulation is enriched with Vitamin E. 
Blends best with: Makeup sponges like Colorbar Peppy Duo Foundation Sponges (2 Piece).

Mineral Foundation

This one is best for sensitive skin. They provide medium to nearly full coverage. These come in either pressed or cream form.  They suit almost every skin type except dry skin.
Mineral Foundation recommendations
Oily Skin
Pick one in a pressed/loose powder format like Faces Mineral Loose Powder.
Normal to Combination Skin
You can choose any one, depending on the coverage you're after. Try L'Oreal Paris True Match Minerals Skin-Improving Foundation.
Blends best with: A foundation brush like Real Techniques Foundation Brush.

Cream-to-Powder Foundations

This is a cross between pressed powder and liquid foundation.  It provides sheer to full coverage depending on the formulation of the product. Most of them are very creamy, which makes your face looks almost greasy if you have oily or combination skin. But if you choose carefully, chances are the creaminess will settle into a semi-matte or slight dewy finish.
Cream to Foundation recommendations
Normal Skin
Again pick any formula. We recommend Maybelline Dream Satin Skin Two Way Cake Foundation.
Dry Skin
Not recommended for extremely dry skin. However, if you have slightly dry skin you could use the one that gives a dewy look like L'Oreal Paris True Match Minerals Skin-Improving Foundation.
Oily Skin
Use this only if you have slightly oily skin and pick the one that settles into a matte finish.  We like L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Powder Foundation.
Blends best with: It comes with an applicator designed for good coverage.

Sheer Foundation or Tinted Moisturizer

They lightweight formulas add just the right hint of color with light to semi-medium coverage.  They form the perfect base for a casual brunch or weekend getaway. The best part, most of them are infused with SPF so you don't need extra sunscreen.
Tinted Foundation recommendations
Normal Skin
You can use it if you're not looking for heavy coverage. We like L'Oreal Paris True Match BB Cream.
Dry Skin
Use a formula that is also moisturizing like theBalm BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer SPF18.
Slightly Oily Skin
Use Maybelline Clear Glow Bright Benefit Cream only if your skin is clear and you're not looking for extra coverage.
Blends best with: A makeup brush like NYX Professional Makeup Pro Brush Flat Foundation.
Read more about foundation makeup:
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
MORE from Makeup