I can think of no better topic for starting up this new endeavor than talking about foundation. Foundation in makeup is much like the foundation in a house, it helps support everything else. Which is why selecting the best one for you is SO important.
Below are a few of my favorite foundations with different price points, you might just find your new favorite!
Favorite Foundation for Beginners
NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation $50
A question I often ask makeup artists is if you could only use one brand of makeup what would it be? Almost always they answer with NARS.
The Radiant Longwear Foundation has a fantastic shade range, and buildable coverage. This foundation is best applied with a brush or make up sponge, and pairs well with most primers.
PROS: Shade range, buildable coverage, easy to work with.
CONS: May not be enough coverage for some, pricey.
Favorite Drugstore Foundation
I don’t believe that every makeup product you use needs to be prestige, however when it comes to foundations I do prefer to spend a bit more money on a high quality foundation. That being said there are a few drugstore options I recommend one being the Maybelline FIT me.
This foundation comes in both a matte and a dewy finish. I find a dewy to be easier to work with which is why I prefer this version. The coverage is buildable however I do find that it can settle a bit into my lines and pores midway through the day. Also if you are sensitive to smells this one has a slight chemical smell.
PROS: Price, easy to work with, nice immediate finish
CONS: Shade range is limited, not the best staying power, has a slight chemical smell
Favorite Pricey Foundation
ARMANI Luminous Silk Foundation $64
The first time I used this foundation I immediately understood the hype. It has this very light fragrance that smells like a fancy hotel that I would charge my phone in for 30 minutes. Best applied with a brush it glides on for beautiful dewy finish. Additionally the shade range is fantastic.
For my full coverage friends this one might not give you that full on coverage you prefer. Also the price tag is worth pausing over, however I stick to using this one for special occasions.
PROS: Shade range, perfect finish, buildable
CONS: Price, not completely full coverage
Favorite Overall Foundation
When I discovered this foundation it was game changer. Firstly, I always struggle with shade matching, hence why so many of my picks have that pro in common. Additionally I like full coverage that wears beautiful for the day, not always an easy feat but this one checks the boxes. For best results apply this one with a brush.
Some folks have told me they find this foundation to be a bit drying. I like to pair it with the Lancome Le Base primer however another option it to pair with a more hydrating primer. Also the bottle itself doesn’t come with a pump which can make it tricky to pour out the right amount, and it can get a little sloppy.
PROS: Shade range, longwearing, full coverage
CONS: Pricey, packaging, perhaps too full coverage for some
Stay tuned for a post on my favorite lighter coverage options for minimal make up days!
With SO much gratitude, xox Meredith
Meredith M. Lynch 