Finding the right foundation is a deeply personal journey. Getting the right shade, marrying your skin type with your texture of choice, and then the type of coverage you want is hard enough -- then summer comes along and throws humidity and sun into the mix.
Switching foundations to suit the warmer months is something most complexions need to do -- dewy formulas often cross the line into oily territory when the mercury is high.
Here, our picks of the best bases for summer:
This foundation has a mousse consistency and it's that sponge-like formula which absorbs oil and shine throughout the day. The coverage is full but not mask-like, and also works to visibly reduce pore size. It's proudly free from parabens, sulphates and phthalates.
This foundation was made for the dance floor. It's waterproof -- which means it's also sweat proof -- and the matte finish is one of the most long wearing we've seen. The pigment is super rich, meaning a little goes a long way, and the result is skin that looks airbrushed.
While it will cost you pretty penny, this liquid formula withstands hardcore humidity and boasts an SPF of 20. Super lightweight, the coverage in medium but buildable and is super blendable -- it's pretty hard to get application wrong.
An unusual gel-like texture makes this foundation sorta fun to apply. Formulated for combination skin, the coverage is light but can be built up to medium, and holds shine at bay -- even on the oiliest t-zones. It's so light on you'll forget you're wearing base, which is a bonus in the heat. Oh, and it has an SPF of 15, too.
Revlon 2-in-1 ColorStay Compact, $34.95
Probably the most famous player in the long-wear category, Revlon recently released their iconic Color-Stay foundation in compact form. Super portable, which makes it ideal for touch ups, the packaging also includes a shade-matched concealer. Be sure to wash the provided sponge every week to avoid transferring any bacteria.
PRO TIP: If you get a sweaty upper lip, try swiping a small amount of antiperspirant roll-on across the area with your ring finger before applying foundation. Really. The antiperspirant actives work wherever they're applied. Magic!
Genie Mineral Foundation, $39.95
Mineral foundations and their time a few years back yet only a few standouts remain. While the powder and kabuki combo can be a bit messy, mineral makeup is great for oily skins that may be acneic, too. You can also wear mineral to the beach if you're self conscious without base, as it won't block pores.
While it's not technically a foundation, it's an integral step in making your base last all day (or night) long. Use this makeup setting spray to mist over your entire face to finish your look and call on it again later to refresh a tired complexion.
GREAT DEBATE: Setting powders aren't used nearly as much as they used to be, due to leaving the complexion chalky and sucking any dewiness out of the base. Newer formulas set without adding a heavy extra layer, but an easier option is blotting papers to spot-control oil throughout the day.
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