The best foundations for every skin type

The results of a recent study commissioned by Estée Lauder showed a massive 94% of women are wearing the wrong type of foundation for their skin. When considering skin type, product factors such as coverage, composition and ease of application are important to consider alongside shade and finish. The categorisation of skin types depends on elements such as water and oil content, and sensitivity. Advancements in cosmetic technologies have ensured more products available catering to all skin types.

Normal skin

Normal skin is defined by few imperfections, an even complexion, little or no sensitivity and barely visible pores.

MAC Studio Sculpt SPF15 foundation £25.50, maccosmetics.co.uk

Studio Sculpt is a water-resistant, gel-based foundation with medium to high coverage which can be built up to the desired effect with a satin finish.

Problem skin

Application to uneven or blemished skin is as important as the product: make-up artist Gabriel Almodovar recommends using a “stippling motion” to place foundation exactly where it’s needed.Benefit Big Easy, £28.50, benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Benefit’s Big Easy multi-balancing complexion perfector is a liquid, blending like a cream and with a powder finish, giving a light to medium coverage with a moisture balancing formulation to control oil.

Oily skin

One of the key aspects to perfect make-up for skin prone to oiliness is to keep a matte base.

Clarins Ever Matte skin balancing foundation SPF 15 £27.50, clarins.co.uk

Clarin’s balancing foundation uses a plant-based complex regulating sebum production with a pore tightening effect. Combining an SPF 15, the fluid also provides breathable long-lasting coverage.

Combination skin

Combination skin types need a product which strikes a balance between shine control and moisture in the skin.

Bare Minerals Original foundation £26, bareminerals.co.uk

Bare Minerals’ Original foundation is unique not only for its powder delivery which buffs on to skin for a cream-like finish, but it only contains five ingredients protecting dry areas and combatting oil and shine and benefitting skin in the long term with SPF15 and softening fine lines.

Dry skin

Dry skin needs moisture and protection from further dryness, with an even and long lasting coverage.

Chanel Vitalumière satin smoothing fluid make-up SPF15 £36, chanel.com

A rejuvenating liquid combatting tired, dull complexions, containing SPF15 and active ingredients for a moisturising effect, revitalising and protecting skin. The product guarantees eight hours of hydration and comfort with a satin finish.

Mature skin

Lighter products are better suited to mature skins, so liquid foundations are widely recommended.

Guerlain Parure de Lumière £38, guerlain.com

Guerlain’s Parure de Lumière lightweight foundation captures light in this moisturising and illuminating product containing marine spring water that absorbs deeply into skin for long-lasting hydration and luminosity.

Emma Pugh