ICYMI, the Sephora Savings Event is on now. During it, you can save serious dollars on some of the best beauty editor–recommended items. Here are the details: Rouge members save 20%, VIB members save 15%, and Beauty Insiders save 10%. All Sephora shoppers can score 30% off all Sephora Collection products. The sale ends on Monday, November 9, so if you want in on the savings, I suggest you act fast. After all, your favorite products aren't guaranteed to stay in stock until then…

While I've been known to obsess over budget-friendly beauty products (I don't run a monthly series called Drugstore Heroes for nothing), I also appreciate the odd designer item now and then. That's only if—and it's a big "if"—it's *actually* worth the investment. And there are quite a few that meet my strict criteria. Ahead, see the 17 designer products I recommend investing in, especially during the Sephora Savings Event. These have been tried, tested, and approved by yours truly.

As a beauty expert and consumer, I just know certain products will require extra work beyond a simple purchase. Take foundation, for example. If you have a brand you've been using for years, restocking is a cakewalk, but when you're going for something new, it's not that simple.

Not only do you have to find your right shade (which, let's be honest, isn't always the easiest), but you also have to find a formula that has ingredients that complement your skin type. This can be especially tricky if you have acne-prone skin. You want coverage, but you also don't want to use something that's going to make your acne worse.

It's a process that requires trial and error, but that doesn't mean you have to go into it without guidance. Ahead, three celebrity makeup artists reveal the foundations they use on their clients with acne-prone skin.

The Best Foundations for Acne-Prone Skin, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup Foundation
• Best for Mature Skin: Estée Lauder New Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lightweight Longwear Matte Foundation
• Best for Redness: Nars Light Reflecting Skin Improving Medium Coverage Foundation
• Best Splurge: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation
• Best Blurring: Tower 28 Beauty Swipe Serum Non-Acnegenic Foundation

The Best Foundations for Acne-Prone Skin in 2026

Best Overall: Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup Foundation

Best for Mature Skin: Estée Lauder New Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lightweight Longwear Matte Foundation

Best for Redness: Nars Light Reflecting Skin Improving Medium Coverage Foundation

Best Lightweight: Givenchy Prisme Libre Glow Serum Blurring Foundation

Best SPF: Dermablend Professional Continuous Correction Tone-Evening CC Cream SPF 50+

Best Splurge: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation

Best Blurring: Tower 28 Beauty Swipe Serum Non-Acnegenic Foundation

Best Powder Formula: BareMinerals Original Loose Talc-Free Powder Mineral Foundation

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best foundations for acne-prone skin, we leaned heavily on celebrity makeup artists, firsthand testing, and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including shade range, finish, key ingredients, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

Any beauty lover will tell you that good makeup starts with good skin prep. While that's true, this can be extra tricky for people with dry skin. Not only do they need the right skincare products and primers, but they also need makeup that's suited for their skin type. This is especially the case when it comes to foundation. Without the right ingredients, foundation can make dry skin look even drier and bring out any patches, peeling, or rough texture.

“When I’m working with dry skin, I will always look for a foundation that’s going to work with the skin rather than sit on top of it,” says celebrity makeup artist Alexa Persico. “I tend to gravitate toward a hydrating liquid or serum like formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin and finishes that are natural radiant or dewy.” She adds that matte and full-coverage formulas often emphasize visible dryness, so it’s better to keep it light and build it up as needed.

Considering I have combination skin that tends to run dry in the cooler months, I decided to go straight to the pros to find out which foundations are actually worth the investment. Curious about their top picks? Keep scrolling for all the details.

The Best Foundations for Dry Skin, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Westman Atelier Suprême Bio-Complex Liquid Foundation
• Best for Mature Skin: Chanel Les Beiges
• Best Medium Coverage: NARS Light Reflecting Skin Improving Foundation
• Best Dewy Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation
• Best Medium-to-High Coverage: Dior Forever Skin Glow Liquid Foundation 24hr Wear

The Best Foundations for Dry Skin in 2026

Best Overall: Westman Atelier Suprême Bio-Complex Liquid Foundation

Best for Mature Skin: Chanel Les Beiges

Best Medium Coverage: NARS Light Reflecting Skin Improving Medium Coverage Foundation

Best Dewy Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation

Best Medium-to-High Coverage: Dior Forever Skin Glow Liquid Foundation 24hr Wear

Best Shade Range: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Best Splurge: Clé de Peau Beauté Beauté Radiant Fluid Natural Foundation

Best for Fine Lines: La Mer The Soft Fluid Foundation Spf 20

Best Drugstore: L'oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best foundations for dry skin, we leaned heavily on first-hand testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients, shade range, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

Welcome to Who What Wear UK's Next in Beauty Awards 2026. Here, we are crowning and celebrating the very best in beauty, from game-changing industry innovators to the tried-and-tested classics that remain mainstays in our bathroom cabinets and makeup bags. To help us find the worthy winners, we called upon our esteemed panel of industry experts, hard-to-please editors and in-the-know influencers, who put each and every product to the test. We enlisted our judges to document and share their testing for every product they tried, so you can see all the winners in action—as well as those very important before-and-after results. After much testing, swatching and reviewing, the results are in. Join us in celebrating the best makeup products of 2026.

Who What Wear UK Next in Beauty Awards 2026: Best in Makeup

Best Makeup/Skincare Hybrid Product

If there's one product we love, it's a makeup/skincare hybrid. The very best? By Terry Tea To Tan Golden Glow, a water-based serum that adds instant radiance.

"This product gives a powerful and immediate glow," says Who What Wear UK graphic designer Emily Post. "The result? A long-lasting glow that washes off easily with cleanser. When wearing it, I received multiple comments on how bronzed and glowing my skin looked—what more could you want?"

Shop the Winner:

Best Concealer

We all know Chanel Beauty creates top-tier products, but this concealer is honestly one of the best launches we've tried all year.

"If, like me, you adore a no-makeup makeup look, then this is the concealer you absolutely must have on your radar," says Who What Wear UK beauty director Shannon Lawlor. "It leaves skin looking healthy and glowing, and delivers just enough lightweight coverage to make you look and feel alive. I never want to be without it."

Shop the Winner:

Best Base

I know we've spoken a little about base products already, but we have to discuss Sculpted By Aimee's Cream Cushion Foundation. We crowned this our best base product overall, and for good reason.

"A gorgeous product," says fashion and beauty blogger and founder of Byfrow, Victoria Magrath. "It made my skin look really beautiful. It offers gorgeous coverage but with a blurred, glowy finish."

Shop the Winner:

Best Multi-Use Product

Who doesn't love a multi-use makeup product? It not only makes your makeup routine much quicker, but it also means you don't have to carry a million products in your bag. Our favourite? Byfrow's Pigment Pencil.

"I was initially sceptical about the idea of using a pencil for the lips, eyes and cheeks, but I've been pleasantly surprised," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "These pencils are creamy and versatile, allowing you to line the lips, eyes or even add blush, bronzer or freckles depending on the shades. The formulas blend really well, but have impressive staying power, too. I love the idea that you can throw a couple of these in your bag and create a full face of makeup; such a great time- and space-saver."

Shop the Winner:

Best Skin Tint

No skin tint impressed our judges quite like the Kylie Cosmetics Skin Tint Blurring Elixir Foundation: a lightweight, light-to-medium-coverage, "your skin but better" formula.

"I loved this skin tint. It really impressed me, said Victoria. "It has a gorgeous texture: light, glowy and blurring. Really lovely overall!"

Shop the Winner:

Best Bronzer

I never thought a bronzer could be so impressive until I discovered Victoria Beckham Beauty's Colour Wash Bronze Water Tint, which imparts a sheer, sun-kissed glow to the skin. It seems our judges were equally blown away.

"Beautifully packaged, a gorgeous product with a beautiful finish. It's really special," says Victoria.

Shop the Winner:

Best Blush

This year, it seems more is more when it comes to blush, and I'm certainly not complaining. If you're looking for a new one to add to your basket, our judges recommend Wonderskin's Wonder Blading All-Day Blush Stain.

"This product is highly pigmented yet surprisingly blendable," says Who What Wear UK senior shopping editor Marina Avraam. "It melts into the skin before setting to a weightless, radiant stain with genuinely impressive staying power."

Shop the Winner:

Best Eye Product

We love eyeshadow sticks for their quick and easy application, but it's no secret that they don't always deliver on pigment and staying power. However, Charlotte Tilbury's Exagger-Eyes Easy Eyeshadow Stick ticked all the boxes for our judges.

"This is a nice take on the classic cream eyeshadow stick. The shades are great," says global makeup artist and brand founder Ruby Hammer MBE.

Shop the Winner:

Best Lash Enhancement

Lash enhancements can be hard to get right, but Eyelure's Fluffy Underlash Pre-Glued Clusters delivered on every single level.

"These certainly take a bit of practice to apply, but once you’ve mastered it, you’re good to go," says Who What Wear UK beauty contributor Perdita Nouril. "Considering they’re worn under your lash line, they’re surprisingly comfortable, but best of all, they look just like your natural lashes."

Shop the Winner:

Best Eyeliner

When you find an eyeliner you love, you keep hold of it forever. And when Ruby Hammer MBE says she's found an eyeliner she loves, you add it to your basket straight away.

"This is a great eyeliner that does exactly what you expect," Ruby says. "Just a great product. The dry-down is relatively quick, and once it sets, it stays put. I would be happy to have it in both my personal and professional kits."

Shop the Winner:

Best Mascara

There are so many incredible mascaras out there, but it was Merit's Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara that really impressed our judges.

"This is a great addition to the Merit brand," says Ruby. "I like the little brush, and I love that [the formula] is tubing. It gave me better results than others [I have] tested."

Shop the Winner:

Best Palette

If there's one eyeshadow palette we can't get enough of this year, it's Makeup by Mario's Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette. Filled with 12 wearable shades and a mix of matte, metallic and shimmering finishes, you can create so many showstopping looks.

"A brilliant palette which I would happily recommend to others and have already bought for myself and my kit," says Ruby. "The formulas are fantastic."

Shop the Winner:

Best Lip Liner

Never underestimate the power of a good lip liner. Especially Sacheu's DoubleDown Lip Definer, a two-in-one liner and balm.

"Why has no one thought of this before?" says entrepreneur and author Sharmadean Reid MBE. "It's so good for someone who wants a less-than-perfect liner look."

Shop the Winner:

Best Lip-Colour Product

If there's one brand that knows how to make an outstanding lip product, it's Hourglass, and Phantom Blur Balm is no exception.

A hybrid blurring lipstick and nourishing balm, it delivers a silky-smooth, soft-matte finish. "It's a really lovely product that I would happily use," says Ruby.

Shop the Winner:

Best Brush for Makeup Application

Sometimes, the tools you use are just as important as the products themselves. Our favourite makeup brush? The Domed Buffer Foundation Brush from Caia Cosmetics.

"This brush applies and diffuses your product evenly; it feels soft without loose bristles and picks up the product really well," says Marina. "The shape allows for good blush placement, too."

Shop the Winner:

Best Finishing Product

When you've spent time creating the perfect makeup look, you want to make sure you're using the best product to set it in place. Our judges couldn't get enough of Dior Beauty's Backstage Airflash Mist.

"I love that this product combines makeup-setting performance and hydration in one very fine, lightweight mist," says Marina.

Shop the Winner:

Best Brow Product

We couldn't test the best makeup products without talking about brows. Possibly one of the hardest products to get right, our judges were blown away by the Brow Tamer from Shavata Singh.

"This is one of the best brow gels I've tried in a long time," says Eleanor. "The clear gel provides lasting hold that keeps brows in place, but they still feel flexible to the touch without that stiff feeling you get with some brow gels. It's easily layered and doesn't go flaky. I'm really pleased I discovered this product."

Shop the Winner:

Best Reformulation

It was big news in the beauty industry when Esteé Lauder decided to reformulate its iconic Double Wear foundation. We didn't think it could get any better, but the new formula has proved us wrong.

"A great shade range with full coverage," says Ruby. "It goes on heavily, but can be sheered out. It's great for people who require more depth of coverage."

Shop the Winner:

The autumn/winter 2026 runways have spoken: the "cashmere makeup" trend spotted at the shows of all the most coveted luxury fashion houses is about to dominate the season, and several professional makeup artists have already hopped on the trend, showcasing the most beautiful cashmere looks on the chicest celebs. Personally, after a long summer of constant heatwaves forcing me into a lightweight, stripped-back routine, I cannot wait to experiment with a more complete makeup look, and this trend feels like the perfect one to try.

Favouring beige and brown hues, a blurred, soft-focus finish and flushes of colour as opposed to overly pigmented tones, there’s just something about the cashmere makeup trend that feels particularly well-suited for the cold-weather seasons. And, after many attempts, I think I’ve found the perfect nine-step routine to achieve the ultimate cashmere makeup look. Keep scrolling to see and shop the nine makeup products I recommend so that you too can re-create the cashmere makeup look at home.

What Is "Cashmere Makeup"?

The cashmere makeup trend focuses on creating a soft-focus, velvety base featuring the neutral hues that mimic the cosy but weightless look and feel of a cashmere knit. Sitting somewhere between a matte and dewy finish, but without any of the glow or shine found in a typical makeup routine, the cashmere makeup aesthetic stays away from harsh lines and shimmery bases and instead focuses on a natural-looking, diffused look that’s perfectly suited to the current autumn and upcoming winter season.

The Best Cashmere Makeup Products

• Best Cashmere Foundation: Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation, £54
• Best Cashmere Concealer: Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur, £42
• Best Cashmere Blush: MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush, £28
• Best Cashmere Eyeshadow: Danessa Myricks Groundwork Palette, £74
• Best Cashmere Lipstick: Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick, £36

1. Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer

2. Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation

3. Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur Flawless Finish Concealer

4. Refy Skin Finish Setting Powder

5. MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush

6. Marc Jacobs Beauty Legally Bronze Bronzer

7. Danessa Myricks Beauty Groundwork Palette

8. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Contour Duo

9. Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

As a girlie who's passionate about foundation, this article is already exciting to write. I've tried a ton of formulas over my yearslong career as a beauty editor, but there's one formula on my vanity lately that's become extra special to me. I consider it so for a few reasons. One, it was made by renowned celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman. Westman's long list of A-list celebrity clientele speaks for itself, as it includes everyone from Nicole Kidman and Britney Spears to Taylor Swift and Jennifer Aniston.

That said, it's safe to say that she knows a thing or two about what makes the perfect foundation. "I've been looking for a foundation like this my entire career, and I knew we had to do it the right way," Westman tells me. "I wanted it to blur, diminish the look of texture, and feel like nothing on the skin." Another major plus is that this formula is a clean one, which, given how Westman wanted the formula to perform, wasn't easy. "All of these benefits were incredibly difficult to achieve without silicones or microplastics," she added.

Another reason I consider this formula the crème de la crème is that I struggle with dark spots, dehydration, and a bit of skin-barrier damage. You can imagine finding the right foundation to work with those issues is tough. Some foundations emphasize texture and make me look dry after a few hours, but this one is so elite and practically presses the delete button on all the above struggles. For my full review, along with everything else you need to know about this formula, keep reading below.

Westman Atelier Suprême Bio-Complex Liquid Foundation

The Ingredients

Here is a quick breakdown of all the ingredients to know about in this does-it-all foundation.

• Suprême Bio-Complex: A blend of peptides and vitamins that jump-starts skin renewal, smooths, visibly brightens overall tone, and firms.
• Biocompatible pigments and amino acid powders: Melt into the skin immediately for payoff that lasts, blurs, and absorbs excess oil.
• Sunflower, rosemary, and seaweed extracts: Antioxidant blend that restores the skin barrier, soothes, and smooths skin.
• Niacinamide: Helps strengthen and support the skin barrier, calms irritation, fades dark spots.

My Review

If you couldn't tell from my earlier statements, this formula is hands down my new favorite. For starters, it's so easy to apply. It provides medium coverage upon first swipes, but it's so easy to build up if you'd like a little extra coverage. What I was most amazed by is that my dark spots virtually disappeared as soon as I gave this a swipe. Usually, I find that I have to go in with a concealer to cover those or just accept that, despite wearing foundation, my dark spots will most likely still be visible. I really could not get over how nicely it camouflaged those without feeling heavy or caky on the skin.

It also gives you that subtly airbrushed look that doesn't look overly done. Instead, it just looks like your natural skin! I can tell Westman put a lot of thought and effort into this formula just by how it sits on the skin. She was right about the whole "feels more like a serum" thing. While I would categorize this as more of a soft matte formula, it's never drying or appears patchy after long hours of wear. It adds just the right amount of hydration and melts right into your skin.

I also try to be a more conscious consumer and have been searching for the perfect clean foundation formula for a while. This one is definitely my top contender in that category. I really can't say enough good things. As a picky beauty editor, it's hard to find formulas that really speak to me, but this one's ability to cover those dark spots so easily along with how well it sits on the skin really make it a winner.

And while I don't have dry skin, I could see this formula being good for most skin types, as it's a perfect mix of dewy and matte. It doesn't swing too far either way, making it really nice to use, and it's comfortable on the skin. And, most importantly, for my fellow acne-prone folks, this did not break me out at all. In fact, it covered some angry, inflamed, red areas beautifully.

More Westman Atelier Products I Love

Victoria Magrath is a Who What Wear UK editor-in-residence and founder of byfrow Beauty, a premium brand rooted in multi-use products designed to "enhance your everyday". One of the UK’s most established luxury creators, she is known for her expertise across beauty, fashion, travel and refined living, with over 12 years of experience working with leading global brands.

With summer holidays in the rearview mirror, it’s time to get excited about the most stylish time of the year: fashion month. This season is set for some incredible runway comebacks, and as always, wherever there is incredible fashion, you’ll also find incredible beauty looks.

As a fashion week veteran across New York, London, Milan and Paris, let me tell you that it’s essential to pack the beauty products you know and love; ones that work well, stand up to the demands of each day and boost your travel-weary skin. After flying around the world and attending some of the biggest shows over the years (Max Mara, Khaite, Dior, Victoria Beckham and Fendi, to name just a few), my travel makeup bag contains some true holy-grail products.

Whether I rely on them for between-show touch-ups or pre-event rituals, here are the beauty products I'll never attend fashion month without.

Victoria Magrath's 6 Fashion Month Beauty Essentials

1. Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Cream Foundation

2. byfrow Hue Glazing Balm SPF50

3. Aerin Amber Musk Pistache

4. No.98 Hydra Bond Hydrating Masque

5. Vieve Skin Nova Concealer

6. Dyson Corrale CoolShine 

If you're deeply craving a fall beauty reset, well, same. The "back to school" energy of September inspires plenty of beauty fans to switch up their hair color, find a new signature scent, commit to an autumn-coded manicure, and, of course, adjust their skin and makeup routines to the cooler, drier weather. It also helps that beauty brands typically drop their splashiest launches this time of year (new beginnings and all that jazz), so really, there's no better time to overhaul your vanity.

But if you're not exactly sure where to start, I personally think Violet Grey and Bluemercury both do a fabulous job curating a chic, seasonal selection. Just a few days ago, I was scrolling through their respective new arrivals (or, rather, the "Just Approved" page on Violet Grey) and found myself creating quite the comprehensive fall wishlist. Curious which items I saved? Scroll ahead to discover the products I highly suggest scooping up.

Violet Grey

Bluemercury

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

In my early days of trying makeup, there were always products that I was more open to than others. I loved brow gel, eye shadow palettes, and all things contour and highlight. But if there's one thing I consistently stood away from, it was full-coverage foundation. I was always open to using concealer and tinted moisturizer, but the idea of a heavy formula that would clog my pores, cause acne, or look straight-up cakey was the last thing I wanted.

Since then, I've spent my years as a beauty journalist learning what makes a quality product, and in the process, I learned that not all full-coverage foundations are made equal. "A full-coverage foundation contains enough pigment to conceal most visible discoloration, including blemishes, redness, and hyperpigmentation, creating a more even-looking complexion," says celebrity makeup artist and educator Thynna Wagenblast. "Although full coverage is often associated with thicker formulas, newer technology has made it possible to achieve that level of coverage with lightweight, breathable textures."

Beyond my days of avoidance, I've grown to love quite a few of these foundations, but it also helps to have colleagues who've tested their fair share of them too. Between myself, my fellow beauty editors, and top-notch makeup artists, we've put together a list of the 10 best options on the market in 2026. Keep scrolling to see our picks.

The Best Full-Coverage Foundations, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
• Best Dewy Finish: Live Tinted Huestick Complexion Stick
• Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 32 Hr Liquid Foundation
• Best Multipurpose: Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer
• Best Budget: Sheglam Skin Magnet High Coverage Foundation Stick

The Best Full-Coverage Foundations of 2026

Best Overall: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Best Dewy Finish: Live Tinted Huestick Complexion Stick

Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 32 Hr Liquid Foundation

Best Multipurpose: Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer

Best Budget: Sheglam Skin Magnet High Coverage Foundation Stick

Best Matte Finish: Tarte Face Tape Full-Coverage Foundation

Best for Redness: Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation

Best for Mature Skin: Shades by Shan The Foundation

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lightweight Longwear Matte Foundation

Best Blurring: Huda Beauty Easy Blur Natural Airbrush Foundation

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best full-coverage foundation, we leaned heavily on firsthand testing, insight from makeup artists, and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including shade range, key ingredients, finish, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

If you've spent hundreds of hours (and dollars) trying to make your foundation look like skin—just without pesky sun spots, blemishes, and bouts of redness—you're not alone. It's an expensive and defeating task to try one foundation after another only to be met with more formulas that feel like acrylic paint. But as the beauty industry continues to evolve, brands are getting smarter about their products—fusing skincare with pigment to create good-for-you formulas that not only make your makeup look flawless, but also improve your skin along the way. While these hybrids can be found in the form of tinted peptide balms, SPF blushes, and skincare-infused concealers, the most popular are serum foundations: the makeup gods' (ahem, your favorite brands and chemists) answer to the dry, crackly, over-pigmented foundations of yesteryear.

"Serum foundations definitely fit in with my broader complexion philosophy of ‘less is more,'" says celebrity makeup artist, creative director, and brand founder Lisa Eldridge. The multi-hyphenate describes these formulas as fluid, lightweight, and skincare-packed, with "a second-skin finish" over heavy coverage. "[They] should allow the beauty of your natural skin to shine through," she adds. Celebrity makeup artist Kelly Zhang agrees, saying these wunderkind formulas should offer the "best of both worlds—feeling like skincare but performing like makeup."

If these skin perfectors sound too good to be true, fear not. Who What Wear editors found and tested the very best serum foundations on the market, keeping budget, skin type, and function top of mind. Keep reading for our nine "Your skin looks so good!" compliment-winning favorites.

The 9 Best Serum Foundations of 2026, At a Glance

• Best Overall: Victoria Beckham The Foundation Drops
• Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Serum Foundation
• Best Luxury: Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation
• Best for Mature Skin: Lisa Eldridge Beauty Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint
• Best Coverage: Drunk Elephant Kamo Triple-Peptide Multi-Use Serum Foundation

Best Overall: Victoria Beckham The Foundation Drops

Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Serum Foundation

Best Luxury: Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation

Best for Dry Skin: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Best for Oily Skin: MAC Cosmetics Studio Radiance Serum-Powered Foundation

Best for Mature Skin: Lisa Eldridge Beauty Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

Best Coverage: Drunk Elephant Kamo Triple-Peptide Multi-Use Serum Foundation

Best Glow: Outside In Silk Serum Foundation

Best Lightweight: M.Ph Le Skin Weightless Serum Foundation

What to Look For in a Serum Foundation

• Texture: Eldridge cites the best serum foundations as those that have "fluid" textures with a "second-skin finish," meaning that they almost sink into the skin instead of laying on top. These formulas offer a brush of pigment versus something too thick and chalky, accentuating your blemishes or wrinkles rather than smoothing them. These foundations should be the best of both worlds—where makeup and skincare unite.
• Skincare: The ratio of skincare ingredients to foundation formula are what makes these products stand out among the rest. Picks like Lisa Eldridge's Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint are made of 78% skincare, allowing the nourishing plant oils and actives to do their job while a believable barrier of sheer pigment makes the skin look healthy and even. Not all serum foundations consist of the same ingredients, but they should have some hydrating and pore-smoothing qualities—making niacinamide and hyaluronic acid two options to keep an eye out when searching for your perfect product.
• Coverage: Zhang looks for formulas that feel "lightweight and comfortable while still giving enough coverage to even out the skin tone." Many formulas are customizable and can be built up or sheered out (ahenm, the Drunk Elephant Kamo Triple-Peptide) to offer your desired results. "The best formulas leave your skin looking healthy, fresh, and like your own skin—just a little more polished," Zhang adds.

What should shoppers with mature skin look for in a serum foundation?

Above all things, Zhang emphasizes the importance of a serum foundation with hydration when it concerns mature skin. "I recommend looking for formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and squalane because they help the skin look plumper and smoother rather than emphasizing dryness or texture," she explains. "SPF is another must-have to protect against premature aging."

To get the best results on mature skin, Zhang says a lot of the results are in the application technique. One of her favorite ways to squeeze the most moisture out of a serum formula is by doing what she calls the“hydration sandwich.” "Apply a lightweight moisturizer first, then your serum foundation, and finish with a hydrating setting spray," she advises. "It helps everything melt together and gives the skin a fresh, youthful finish."

How do you apply serum foundations?

Zhang recommends reaching for a brush or damp sponge when applying serum foundation. "A brush creates the most seamless, airbrushed finish while using less product, [while] a damp sponge gives you slightly more coverage," she explains. The most important step, however, is to work in thin layers to create coverage slowly and carefully. "Apply one light layer first, then add more only where you need it," says Zhang. "This creates the healthy, skin-like finish that makes serum foundations so beautiful."

Serum foundations aren't typically full-coverage, so you may need to spot-treat blemishes afterward. To do so, Eldridge recommends using her "pinpoint" technique. "Use a small brush and a concealer with intense coverage to address any areas that you think still need it," she instructs. Eldridge designed the Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil for this very task, making it easy to "scribble" over a blemish and buff at the edges. "I think of it like digital retouching!" she exclaims.

To set the spot treatments, Eldridge recommends dipping a fluffy eye shadow brush into a small amount of translucent setting powder before dusting over the blemish. "Pinpoint powdering," she affectionately dubs it.

Who shouldn't use serum foundations?

"Beauty isn’t a one size fits all and you must pay attention to the formulas that work for your skin type," says Eldridge. "Serum foundations and skin tints are designed to enhance rather than conceal, and as they’re typically lightweight with sheer to medium coverage," she explains. "If you have perceived problem areas, you may find yourself reaching for formulas with heavier coverage. It really does depend on your needs—everyone’s different." In short, play around with different consistencies to see what your skin requires and what you ultimately like as a final result. Just remember that less is more when it comes to complexions.

How We Chose

WWW editors found the best serum foundations on the market by personally testing several formulas—from drugstore to designer—to see which are the best for different skin types, textures, and budgets. We also interviewed celebrity makeup artists Lisa Eldridge and Kelly Zhang for their professional insights, product recommendations, and application tips.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

If, like me, you have oily skin, you'll know how hard it is to find a good foundation. Back in the day, I'd opt for a matte formula, but they were so drying that my makeup would end up looking cakey and flat by lunch. However, when I went for a more hydrating, glowy formula, I found it made me look even shinier and didn't last for more than a few hours before sliding off my face. It's definitely been a challenge finding a base product I like, and I've often resorted to the best primers or concealers to achieve my desired finish.

However, makeup has come a long way in recent years, and I myself have learnt more about my skin type and what formulas work best for my complexion. These days, there is a range of foundations for oily skin that deliver a soft matte finish without that dreaded drying effect. Plus, if you still like a luminous look but want your makeup to last, there's a foundation for that, too.

I've been busy testing some of the best foundations for oily skin, and I've rounded up my top formulas below. Plus, I spoke with an expert to learn more about choosing a foundation for oily skin, so that you can find your perfect match.

What to Look for in a Foundation for Oily Skin

So, what should you look for when shopping for a foundation? According to the experts, it's all about longevity. "During the day, natural oils can start to come through on the skin and disrupt the look of your complexion, making it shiny and reducing coverage," says Jennifer Lyons, national education manager at Nars Cosmetics. "A long-wear product means your makeup will look great all day." It's also important to think about coverage and finish. Do you want a high-coverage foundation, or one that lets your natural skin shine through? Once you've decided that, choose between a matte or luminous effect.

How to Apply Foundation for Oily Skin

Now that you've found your perfect formula, it's time to think about application. "At Nars, we love applying foundation with our hands, as this helps the product to warm and melt into the skin," says Lyons. "It still provides you with the level of preferred coverage, and it means you can control the product and apply it where you need it most." Lyons also recommends adding a little setting powder with a fluffy brush for extra smoothness and longevity.

The Best Foundations for Oily Skin

• Best Overall: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation, £40
• Best Matte Finish: Nars Natural Matte Longwear Foundation, £45
• Best Luminous Finish: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, £49
• Best Full-Coverage Finish: Estée Lauder Double Wear Longwear Matte Foundation, £40
• Best Affordable Option: L'Oréal Paris Infallible 32hr Freshwear Liquid Foundation, £14

1. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

First up, a favourite of mine from Charlotte Tilbury. This is one of those do-it-all foundations that provides good coverage, a natural matte finish and a long-wearing formula, so you can go about your day without worrying about your makeup sliding all over your face. The lightweight formula creates a blurring effect and feels surprisingly hydrating despite its mattifying qualities. It creates this somewhat radiant matte finish, rather than a flat, dull effect (it looks especially great in photos). My biggest advice when using this product is to start small and build up coverage wherever you need it. The reason I say that is that if you do have patches of dry skin like me, it can sometimes cling if you apply too much. Apart from that, I can't fault it.

2. Nars Natural Matte Longwear Foundation

I recently got my hands on this Nars foundation, and have since been asking myself where it's been my whole life. It is so lightweight, yet one swipe, and my skin suddenly has a smooth, blurring effect. Yes, the finish is naturally matte, but it doesn't feel drying and still lets your natural skin texture shine through. Honestly, this is just a great everyday formula I can see myself using for years to come.

3. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

When I first started in the beauty industry, everyone was raving about the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. However, as someone with oily skin, I saw the word "luminous" and immediately assumed it wouldn't work for me. Oh, how wrong I was. Offering good coverage, impressive lasting power, and a naturally luminous finish that never looks shiny or greasy, this is actually a great formula for oily skin if you don't want a mattifying effect. Plus, the new formulation is packed with skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, which helps to balance oil production. I can't imagine my makeup bag without this now.

4. Estée Lauder Double Wear Longwear Matte Foundation

This is somewhat of an icon in the foundation world, and for good reason. A full-coverage, mattifying formulation that's ideal for oily skin, editors and experts are always raving about its magic powers. That being said, when I first tried it, I found it way too heavy (and a little drying) for my tastes. However, the brand recently reformulated the foundation, creating a breathable, buildable version offering medium-to-full coverage depending on your preference. Plus, it's packed with hyaluronic acid, so it doesn't feel as drying on the skin. I would probably still save this one for heavier makeup days and special occasions, but it's safe to say I'm now a big fan.

5. L'Oréal Paris Infallible 32hr Freshwear Liquid Foundation

I wasn't sure what to expect from this drugstore foundation, but according to the brand, it's one of the best options for oily skin, so I was keen to give it a go. The lightweight formula is really long-lasting and provides natural-looking coverage with a subtly radiant finish, which is great for those of you with oily skin who don't want to look too matte. Another plus is that the formula is non-comedogenic. One thing I will say is that this works best when you have prepped your skin correctly; otherwise, it can cling to dry skin in places. However, for under £15, I really can't complain.

6. Hermès Plein Air Luminous Matte Skincare Foundation

I know this foundation is eye-wateringly expensive, but if you're looking for a luxury option, I can't fault it. The formula contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, so it feels nice and hydrating whilst remaining balanced enough for oilier skin types. I personally think it's a great example of how far matte foundations have come in recent years. It has this beautifully soft matte finish that looks natural and healthy, seamlessly blending with your complexion for a second-skin effect. It's heat-, humidity- and perspiration-resistant, so a great option for the summer months, but I can definitely see myself reaching for this in autumn and winter, too.

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

While I'm not easily influenced by BeautyTok (very few viral products genuinely impress me), I do often refer to the app for quick, easy-to-follow tutorials. Read: how to use a high-frequency wand, secure a French comb, apply eyeliner, and so on. I'm a visual learner, so even though I speak to derms, hairstylists, and makeup artists daily, it helps to see those beauty tips in action.

So there I was completing my daily scroll, when I came across a makeup video from model Aisha Potter. (If you're into dewy looks, trust me, she's worth a follow. She has some of the glowiest skin I've ever seen!) After underpainting with bronzer, she created her own foundation-highlighter concoction on the back of her hand before applying it to her skin ("The most airbrushed base," she wrote in the caption), and I was immediately floored by how perfect it looked. I know this phrase gets overused a ton, but there's no other way to describe it: Potter looked legitimately lit from within. Naturally, I had to try this trick for myself, and I can confirm that it's the best dewy makeup combo to ever exist. I now refuse to do my makeup in any other way. Ahead, discover the exact products Potter and I use, plus other tried and tested ways to replicate the ethereal beat.

You only need two base products here: a foundation stick and liquid highlighter. For the former, Potter uses the Dior Forever Skin Perfect Multi-Use Foundation Stick, which, for the record, is already a viral hit in its own right. In fact, seven Who What Wear editors (including yours truly) gave it 10s across the board, praising its buttery glide and natural, blurring finish. That said, the soft-matte formula becomes even more sheer and flexible with the addition of liquid highlighter—namely, Rhode's Highlighting Milk. After swiping the foundation stick on the back of her hand, Potter shakes a few drops of shade 2 (a pearly champagne) right on top, then blends the two together using the rounded side of Rhode's Pocket Brush. She applies the concoction to her skin using light, circular motions, and the product diffuses effortlessly and evenly. And there you have it: a lightweight, airbrushed-looking base.

You can use any liquid highlighter you please, but the milky base of Bieber's formula is what I suspect makes the foundation look perfect. Shade 2 is currently sold out, but you could replicate the results with any of the other three luminizers, or simply use a milky toner you already own with a drop or two of liquid highlighter. I'd wager Laneige's Cream Skin Milky Toner and Westman Atelier's Liquid Super Loaded All-Over Highlighter in the shade Peau de Pêche would lend a similar champagne glow.

If you don't have the Dior foundation stick on hand, I've also tried the same trick using Merit's The Minimalist stick and find that it works just as well. For those who don't love stick formats, you could also totally use a lightweight cream or liquid formula, such as Chanel's Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint. The main trick is applying it to the back of your hand, which warms up the formula and results in a softer, streak-free finish. Then when you add in the highlighting milk (or milky toner, whatever you've got!), that finish becomes even creamier. Give it a go, and I promise you won't ever look back.

Shop the Routine

Around February, my weekly screen time reports started to scare me. When the work days were long, the days cold, and alone time scarce, I started staying up until the late-night hours gave way to early morning—watching the lives of others through a ceramic glass screen and wishing mine felt a little more… fun.

With 20/20 hindsight, I can see that this was a bout of seasonal depression fueled by mild social media addiction. This is precisely why I swore that when the temperatures rose and my friends came out of seasonal hibernation, I would make every effort to create memories that live in my mind rather than my social feed. Now that we've reached August, I'm proud to say that I've achieved this goal. I've seized every opportunity to twirl on the dance floor, sip wine under humid stars, and traipse through ancient French coastal towns without worrying about my makeup when a friend whips out her phone for a candid photo—not because I'm not wearing it (I love playing with the stuff too much) but because I've edited my collection down to a few long-wearing mainstays that never crack under sweaty pressure.

You, too, should worry less about the way you look in a photo, to onlookers, or in your phone's front camera when you step outside this summer. Embrace these last few weeks of laid-back August bliss with certainty, knowing your glam looks how it did when you left the house. So go ahead—give that kiss on the cheek, eat the pasta, and dab your brow. These formulas are here to stay.

10 Summer-Proof Makeup Products I've Trusted This Season

I'll be honest, I'm not really a foundation lover. When I was a teenager, foundation formulas were thick, heavy and breakout-inducing, constantly settling into patches of dry skin and somehow making my skin look worse, rather than better. Instead, I reached for tinted moisturisers and skin tints, pairing them with my favourite concealers when I needed a little extra coverage.

However, formulas have come a long way in recent years, and brands have been creating sheer foundations that deliver everything I've ever wanted in a base product. Light-to-medium coverage, a lightweight feel, and a glowy finish that makes it look as if I spend my days getting weekly facials. What more could you want?

Since discovering these sheer foundation formulas, I've made it my mission to test some of the best on the market, and I've whittled it down to a concise edit of products that I know will be in my makeup bag for years to come. I've never had more compliments on my skin since swapping out my usual base products for these sheer formulas, so I highly suggest you keep on scrolling...

The Best Sheer Foundations, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Nars Cosmetics Sheer Glow Foundation, £41
• Best Luxury Foundation: Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops With TFC8, £104
• Best Affordable Foundation: No7 Pro Artist Weightless Silk Sheer Foundation, £20
• Best Foundation Stick: Merit The Minimalist, £34
• Best for a Glowy Finish: Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch, £56

1. Nars Cosmetics Sheer Glow Foundation

This is the OG of sheer foundations, and for good reason. The lightweight formula feels undetectable on the skin, and whilst a small amount offers a sheer, naturally radiant finish, the coverage is buildable, so you can create a slightly heavier base if desired. I love wearing this when I want to smooth and even out my skin, without feeling like I'm actually wearing a lot of makeup. My only complaint? I wish the bottle came with a pump, as I find it can be quite messy to apply.

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops With TFC8

I know, I know, this Victoria Beckham Beauty foundation is so expensive. But I wouldn't recommend it if it wasn't one of the best lightweight, sheer formulas on the market. It takes a skincare-first approach, powered by Augustinus Bader’s TFC8, but it's the finish that I can't get enough of. The product glides on like butter, creating this "your skin but better" effect that has everyone asking me what my current makeup routine is. I will say, a little goes a surprisingly long way, and if I apply too much, it can sometimes settle into dry skin or fine lines, so start with a small amount for the best results.

3. No7 Pro Artist Weightless Silk Sheer Foundation

I was really impressed when testing this No7 foundation. It has a lightweight, almost serum-like texture that melts into the skin, creating a beautiful, natural, second-skin finish. It definitely helps even out your skin tone; however, if you have any blemishes that you want to cover, you might want to go in with a concealer, too. It's packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and vitamin E, so there are lots of added skincare benefits, but for me, the best thing about it is how quick and easy it is to apply. If you like a "no makeup" makeup look, you will love this.

4. Merit The Minimalist

If you prefer a foundation stick, this one from Merit is one of the best natural-looking options I've tried. It somehow seamlessly blends a lightweight, sheer finish with impressive coverage, essentially replacing both foundation and concealer in your makeup bag. You can either apply it to areas where you want more coverage, or all over for a blurring effect. My complexion can't get enough, but if you do have very dry skin, you might want to prep with a hydrating moisturiser or primer.

5. Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch

I really, really love this complexion product from Chanel. So much so that I've worn it every single day since getting my hands on it. The unique, gel-like formula is actually made up of around 60% water, which means it hydrates the skin whilst creating the most gorgeous, glowy finish. Micro-droplet pigments burst onto the skin for impressive coverage, whilst remaining incredibly lightweight. Similar to the Victoria Beckham Beauty foundation, a little goes a long way. In fact, just one or two pumps gives an even, illuminated finish that has everyone commenting on how good my skin looks.

6. Dior Forever Skin Glow

I know it seems a bit counterintuitive to say that a sheer foundation has good coverage, but what I love about this formula is that a light layer gives a gorgeously glowy, sheer finish, but when you build it up, you can achieve a little more coverage if desired. It's a great middle ground packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides. Fair play, Dior, fair play.

7. Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation

It seems strange to have the words "Estée Lauder Double Wear" and "sheer" in the same sentence, but here we are. Whilst the original Double Wear formula is incredibly high coverage, this sheer iteration is ideal if you prefer a lightweight, second-skin base. It's so sheer that when I wear it, I feel like I'm wearing nothing at all. It doesn't cover blemishes, but it does even out your skin tone and add a natural radiance to your complexion, which both get big ticks from me.

8. Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint

I know this is technically a skin tint, but it's so impressive that it felt wrong not to include it in this roundup. Lightweight? Yes. Skin-loving ingredients? Yes. A blurring effect? Yes. A radiant finish? Yes! It's everything I want in a sheer foundation and more, wrapped up in Hourglass' chic packaging. If you feel like a sheer foundation is still a little bit too much for your "no makeup" makeup look, I urge you to try this.

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.

As beauty journalists, we're used to seeing hundreds of new beauty products pass our beauty desk every single month. So, we're always testing new makeup, skincare, fragrance and hair care (we're truly spoilt, I know). But despite having access to a cupboard full of beauty products, there are always our firm favourites that have a permanent residency in our makeup bags. These are the products that we're never swayed away from, no matter what shiny new launch comes along. And for me, the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint (£39) is a skin tint I just know I'll be using forever.

Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

The Formula

Lisa Eldridge MBE is one of the world's top makeup artists who has worked with just about every famous face you could name, so I never doubted that this formula wouldn't be anything short of exceptional. Eldridge is renowned for her natural-looking approach to the complexion, preferring to place foundation and complexion products only in the places they're really needed rather than masking the skin. And she has totally bottled this ethos in this skin tint.

Inside the pebble-shaped bottle is a tint with a water-like consistency, which immediately sinks into the skin, offering a sheer, lightweight finish that's akin to a second skin and does so without highlighting enlarged pores or fine lines.

The formula contains hydrating ingredients such as squalane, glycerin and prickly pear and sunflower seed oils. As someone with oily-leaning skin, I was initially worried it would be too heavy on my skin, but it sits beautifully. I love a naturally radiant finish, and this skin tint delivers just that. It's neither too dewy nor too matte, but just looks like skin that has a healthy glow. This would be perfect for those with dry or combination skin, but is still matte enough for those with oilier skin who favour a more glowy finish.

The Finish

What I love about this skin tint is that it offers the perfect amount of coverage without feeling like you're wearing anything at all. It blurs redness and pigmentation, yet it still lets my freckles peek through. Of course, the sheer finish won't offer enough coverage to hide inflamed acne or redness, but it's perfect for day-to-day makeup when you want to even your skin, and it makes a great base to then apply a little concealer in just the places that require it. It's the ultimate "no makeup" makeup skin tint.

It wears so well throughout the day, whether worn alone on top of SPF, or finished with concealer and powder. The finish isn't so dewy that it disappears, yet not too matte that it clings to any dryness. I'm prone to oiliness around my nose and chin, yet this holds up throughout the day and never turns oily or cakey—a little powder on top sets it perfectly.

The shade range is expansive, covering a range of undertones across different shades so that you can find a good match for your skin tone. I'm writing this review in the height of summer, where I have a bit more of a tan at the moment, and shade T7 has been a great match for my complexion, which has neutral undertones. In short, I'll never be without a bottle of this skin tint in my makeup bag.

Shop Now:

How We Tested

I've been using the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint since it launched, and it's become an everyday staple in my makeup bag. I have oily-combination skin, so I've put this skin tint through its paces to see how it holds up on my skin type, as well as how it wears over SPF and with other makeup. I've also tested a couple of the shades in the range during the warmer and cooler months.

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 some 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.

If you’ve ever put on foundation in the morning and felt like you can feel it all day, you’re not alone. That heavy, slightly mask-like sensation is often what puts people off base makeup altogether, especially if you prefer something that looks like skin rather than sitting on top of it. But the answer doesn’t necessarily lie in avoiding foundation entirely—it’s more about how you apply it, and the kind you choose.

Full-coverage formulas have their place, but they’re not always the most versatile option for everyday wear. In fact, one of the most effective ways to achieve a natural, skin-like finish is to start with a lightweight, buildable foundation and apply it in thin, controlled layers. Rather than trying to achieve your desired coverage in one go, this approach allows you to gradually even out the complexion where you need it most—whether that’s around the nose, on areas of redness, or just to subtly blur the skin—whilst still letting your natural texture show through.

The result is a base that looks more like real skin, but better. It moves with your face, feels lighter throughout the day, and is far less likely to settle into fine lines or look cakey by the afternoon. It also gives you far more flexibility: you can keep things sheer for everyday wear, then build up coverage in specific areas for evenings or days when you want a little extra polish.

The key is choosing formulas designed to be layered rather than masked. These foundations tend to have more fluid textures, blend easily with fingers, brushes or sponges, and can be customised depending on your skin's needs that day.

So, instead of reaching for the fullest coverage option in your makeup bag, think of foundation as something you can build, not block out. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best buildable foundations that let your skin look like skin—just a little more even, smooth, and luminous.

What Should You Look for in a Buildable Foundation?

The key to finding a truly buildable foundation comes down to the formula. A good buildable base should allow you to gradually increase coverage where you need it, without becoming heavy, cakey or obvious on the skin. Celebrity makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis explains that it's “the right formula, texture and amount that allows the makeup to be layered and build up coverage while still looking like skin”. She adds that it should contain “long-lasting ingredients that don’t separate but can stay in its true form” even after multiple layers are applied.

For this reason, lightweight textures tend to work best. Nguyen-Grealis recommends “thin, serum or satin and lightweight formulations” because “they melt instead of sitting on the skin.” These types of foundations are much easier to customise depending on your needs that day, whether you want a sheer wash of coverage or something more perfected for a special occasion.

Buildable foundations are particularly useful if your skin isn’t completely uniform, but you don’t want a full-coverage finish across your entire face. As Nguyen-Grealis explains, they’re ideal for skin that “needs variation of extra coverage especially for acne or pigmentation,” as they allow you to add more product only where it’s needed. The result is a much more natural-looking complexion because, as she says, “several layers are better than one.”

What Is the Best Way to Build Foundation?

When it comes to building foundation, the application technique is just as important as the formula itself. The goal isn’t to apply one thick layer and hope it covers everything—it’s to create a lightweight first layer, then gradually add more coverage where needed. Nguyen-Grealis recommends starting with properly prepped skin, explaining: “I like to ensure skin is prepped fully with a well-cleaned, moisturised base, primed for a smooth base before application.” This creates a smoother canvas and helps the foundation sit evenly throughout the day.

She suggests thinking of your first layer “as a tinted moisturiser first,” using a foundation or stippling brush to apply a light, even finish across the skin. From there, you can assess where you need more coverage and go back in with a firmer foundation brush to build up specific areas. “Stipple or dab using blenders also helps with building more control,” she adds, as pressing the product into the skin rather than sweeping it around helps maintain that natural, skin-like finish.

The foundation itself also makes a difference. Nguyen-Grealis recommends “light and cream foundations” for the most seamless buildable finish, as they “don’t dry or oxidise as much.” She advises avoiding formulas that are more difficult to layer, noting that “mattes, mousse, and powder foundations” don’t tend to offer the same flexibility. The trick is to build slowly—you can always add more coverage, but removing excess product once it has been applied is much harder.

The Best Buildable Foundations

1. Best Overall: Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm
2. Best for Dry Skin: Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint
3. Best for Oily Skin: Makeup By Mario SurrealSkin Foundation
4. Best for Combination Skin: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation
5. Best for Sensitive Skin: Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Foundation Stick

1. Vieve Skin Nova Complexion Balm

You don't actually need to layer much of this foundation to get a decent coverage. The balm texture melts into the skin and creates a soft-focus veil rather than any obvious layer of makeup, so it’s ideal if you want to even out tone while still seeing your skin underneath, and it builds beautifully without ever looking heavy or cakey. I especially like it for days when I want a “your skin but smoother” finish rather than full foundation.

2. Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint

This skin tint is all about comfort and glow. It has a silky, fluid texture that sinks in quickly and leaves skin looking hydrated and luminous rather than shiny. It layers well without clinging to dry patches, making it especially good in colder months or for skin that tends to feel tight throughout the day. Coverage is light to light-medium but very easy to build.

3. Makeup by Mario SurrealSkin Foundation

This is a modern, skin-like foundation that manages to stay fresh without sliding off the face. It has a lightweight, serum-like texture that evens out tone while still allowing skin to look like skin. What stands out most is how well it balances glow and control—it doesn’t lean overly matte or overly dewy, making it especially good for combination-to-oily skin types.

4. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation

This is a beautifully balanced foundation that adapts well to different textures on different areas of the face. The formula blends effortlessly and can be built from a sheer veil to a more perfected medium finish without ever looking heavy or mask-like. What I really like is how well it wears throughout the day—it stays smooth, doesn’t cling to dry patches and keeps shine in check without looking flat.

5. Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint

This is a gentle, fuss-free option that feels more like skincare than traditional foundation. The stick format makes it easy to apply exactly where needed, and the formula is designed to be soothing and non-irritating, so it's ideal for skin prone to breakouts and sensitivity. It gives a natural, dewy finish in one layer but builds smoothly for fuller coverage.

6. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Foundation Drops