I Used to Hate Foundation, But These 6 New Formulas Have Totally Levelled-Up My Makeup Game

I know what you're thinking: a beauty editor who hates to wear foundation? It's true. Although I've been working in the beauty industry for years, I've always favoured tinted moisturisers, skin tints and BB creams over foundations. Why, I hear you ask? Not only do I prefer the natural, dewy finish they give, but these products often contain lots of skincare ingredients to help improve your complexion over time.

However, in the last six months or so, there's been a shift. Gone are the days of heavy, thick foundation formulas that clog pores and exacerbate breakouts and skin texture, as more brands are starting to launch new-gen foundation formulas that contain all the skincare benefits I'm after, with natural-looking finishes and coverage that I'm yet to get from my go-to skin tints.

Not only that, but brands such as Armani and Estée Lauder have reimagined some of their most popular foundation formulas, making them even better than before. I've been busy testing these new-gen foundations and have rounded up my favourites below, from glowy foundations to matte options, too.

What Are New-Gen Foundations?

As mentioned, new-gen foundations feature advanced formulas that contain added skincare benefits alongside natural-looking finishes and wider shade ranges. Although new launches are constantly coming out, some brands are reformulating iconic foundation formulas, such as Amarni Luminous Silk.

The Best New-Gen Foundations, Tried & Tested

• Best Hydrating Formula: Clarins Double Serum Foundation, £49
• Best Naturally Radiant Formula: Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, £49
• Best Luxury Formula: Dior Forever Skin Glow, £52
• Best Full-Coverage Formula: Estée Lauder Double Wear, £40
• Best Matte Formula: Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation, £105

1. Clarins Double Serum Foundation

I have to start with the new Clarins Double Serum Foundation. The iconic Double Serum has been a mainstay in my skincare routine for as long as I can remember, but when I heard that the brand was launching a foundation version, I was a little confused. I immediately imagined a greasy, oily finish that would slip and slide all day, but I couldn't have been more wrong.

This serum formulation glides onto the skin effortlessly, offering a naturally luminous finish that makes my complexion look so healthy and glowy. Although my skin is dry, I can get quite oily throughout the day, but I found I only had to reapply powder once or twice when wearing this, which is no more than usual. As you can see from the bottle, the unique technology dispenses the perfect amount of both foundation and serum onto the back of your hand, and thanks to the medium-to-full coverage, a little goes a long way. I love that I'm getting both hydrating skincare ingredients (hello, hyaluronic acid and peptides) and a luminous foundation in one, and the next-generation formula has made getting ready so much quicker, as I don't feel the need to apply hundreds of different hydrating serums before applying my foundation in the morning.

2. Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

If you've read my review of the original Luminous Silk Foundation, you'll know it's one of my favourite products for a slightly more full-coverage finish that still looks natural and radiant. I honestly didn't think it could get much better, but then I tried the brand-new formula and was blown away by the results.

As explained to me by the brand, the new foundation contains skincare ingredients such as glycerin and niacinamide to improve your complexion over time and add more luminosity. Not only that, but the shade range has been extended, and there are now 44 shades on offer. In my opinion, this new formulation feels incredibly lightweight and hydrating, and gives my skin a fresh, glowy look that, while subtle, has been earning me so many compliments.

3. Dior Forever Skin Glow

Dior has launched not one, but two next-generation foundations that are giving my skincare products a run for their money. Forever Skin Glow and Forever Skin Wear are the ultimate makeup and skincare hybrids. While Forever Skin Wear offers a natural matte finish, Forever Skin Glow is my personal favourite thanks to the luminous finish.

Infused with a "triple action complex" of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides, this foundation has all the ingredients I would look for in a top-of-the-range facial serum, combined with medium coverage and a radiant effect. I would personally say the coverage is light but buildable, but I love the second-skin finish it gives. It's the ultimate "your skin but better" product for spring and summer.

4. Estée Lauder Double Wear

If I'm being really honest, I've never been a huge fan of the original Double Wear foundation. Don't get me wrong, the coverage is amazing, but it always felt a little heavy on my skin. However, this new formula has won me over.

A buildable, breathable iteration of the popular foundation, with 60 shades now available, I can't see anyone not liking this. It feels so much more lightweight compared to the original but still delivers medium to full coverage for those days when you want a more seamless makeup look. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid hydrate the complexion, so although it still has a natural matte finish, it doesn't feel drying whatsoever. The only thing I could possibly fault is that the bottle doesn't come with a pump, but apart from that, it's perfect.

5. Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation

I know this foundation is eye-wateringly expensive, but I wouldn't be including it in this roundup if I didn't think it truly deserved to be here. While the words "matte foundation" aren't usually words I gravitate towards (we all know I love a glowy finish by now), matte formulas have come a long, long way in recent months, and this Hermès foundation is a prime example.

I wouldn't say it's a true matte finish, but more of a natural, soft matte effect that still lets some luminosity through. Packed with active skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and white mulberry, it feels incredibly hydrating on the skin and wears comfortably throughout the day. When I first used it, I was surprised by how watery the formula was. I think I thought my Dream Matte Mousse days were coming back to haunt me, but of course, Hermès has created an innovative foundation that seamlessly blends with the skin.

6. Victoria Beckham by Augustinus Bader The Foundation Drops with TFC8®

The Victoria Beckham Beauty foundation needs no introduction. This formula went viral when it launched, and for good reason. Powered by Augustinus Bader’s TFC8® technology, the skincare-focused foundation works to rejuvenate the complexion over time.

I fell in love with the lightweight, serum-like feel when testing this foundation out. It melts into the skin, and although it doesn't offer lots of coverage, it adds natural luminosity and a blurring effect that always makes it look like I'd just had a very expensive facial. The best bit? It feels like you are wearing nothing at all.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.