The best foundations in the UK 2023

Whether it's fluid, cream or liquid, finding the best foundation is an uphill battle! There are so many brands, shades, and variations to choose from that it's hard to know where to start. Luckily for you, our guide features the best foundations for this year, as well as tips on how to make the right choice and practical advice.

Estée Lauder Double Wear 1
9/10

Best value for money

Estée Lauder Double Wear

The best foundation in 2021

Estée Lauder Double Wear comes in over 55 shades, including cool, neutral and warm shades, suitable for all skin tones. Oil-free and oil-controlling, this foundation holds up in warm, humid weather.

30,24 £ on Marionnaud
Revolution Pro Foundation 2
7/10

Best value for money

Revolution Pro Foundation

The best entry-level foundation

With Revolution Pro Foundation Drops, you can create a silky, breathable base. Available in 18 shades, Revolution Pro Foundation Drops is a foundation made with an ultra-light, water-based formula.

4,47 £ on Marionnaud

Revolution Pro Foundation is a foundation in drop form with an applicator. The formula is water-based and the texture of the product is fluid and light. It takes a bit of effort for the mixture to blend into the skin, as it is a liquid formula.

Revolution Pro Foundation drops offer medium coverage and the formula is buildable. You only need to apply a small amount to easily cover redness and blemishes. The result looks and this foundation makes skin healthy, smooth and luminous.

Sisley Sisleya Le Teint 3
8/10

Best value for money

Sisley Sisleya Le Teint

The best high-end foundation

Sisley Sisleya Le Teint will reveal a youthful, radiant complexion. This luxurious anti-aging foundation evens out skin tone and instantly blurs imperfections. It is both a complete anti-aging solution and a perfect foundation for the skin.

72,80 £ on Marionnaud

Sisley Sisleya Le Teint is a luxurious anti-aging foundation that evens out skin tone and smoothes, firms and plumps skin over time with a lightweight, natural-looking finish. It contains a youth-boosting botanical component that combats all three types of aging: genetic, environmental and behavioral.

This formula instantly reveals luminous, even-toned skin thanks to the blurred, light-diffusing effect of mica and hectorite. With this foundation, fine lines and wrinkles disappear and the skin becomes denser and firmer thanks to the stimulating power of collagen peptides, vitamin E and white willow extract.

Dior Forever 4
7/10

A great choice

Dior Forever

A great value

Dior Forever offers a velvety matte finish on the skin. After application, its non-greasy liquid texture remains particularly light. Your complexion is unified and matte while remaining luminous.

29,12 £ on Marionnaud

Dior Forever foundation does not only provide a correction of imperfections on your skin. Its composition reinforced in active ingredients allows to improve the state of your epidermis. Its pigment-based formula guarantees an even and blemish-free result. A rosy complexion is obtained with the rose extract. This substance tightens the pores of the skin.

The wild pansy extract continuously moisturizes the skin and improves its health and beauty. The Dior Forever foundation with its SPF 35 PA++ + protects the skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. This product beautifies your skin and improves its beauty. It also reveals all its sensuality.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best foundation

Any specific needs?

The best foundation in 2021

The best entry-level foundation

The best high-end foundation

A great value

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best foundations

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Estée Lauder Double Wear 5
9/10
Revolution Pro Foundation 6
7/10
Sisley Sisleya Le Teint 7
8/10
Dior Forever 8
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Estée Lauder Double Wear
Revolution Pro Foundation
Sisley Sisleya Le Teint
Dior Forever
Estée Lauder Double Wear comes in over 55 shades, including cool, neutral and warm shades, suitable for all skin tones. Oil-free and oil-controlling, this foundation holds up in warm, humid weather.
With Revolution Pro Foundation Drops, you can create a silky, breathable base. Available in 18 shades, Revolution Pro Foundation Drops is a foundation made with an ultra-light, water-based formula.
Sisley Sisleya Le Teint will reveal a youthful, radiant complexion. This luxurious anti-aging foundation evens out skin tone and instantly blurs imperfections. It is both a complete anti-aging solution and a perfect foundation for the skin.
Dior Forever offers a velvety matte finish on the skin. After application, its non-greasy liquid texture remains particularly light. Your complexion is unified and matte while remaining luminous.
Product quality
Texture
Fluid and lightweight
Fluid and lightweight
Non-greasy liquid
Non-greasy liquid
Coverage
Modular
Modular
Medium
Modulable
Color/Dye
Available in 55 shades
Available in 24 shades
Available in a dozen shades
Available in 22 shades
Other feature
Extreme 24-hour wear
12-month shelf life
Oil-free formula
SPF 15 PA +++

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Buying guide - foundation

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How to choose your foundation

Foundations should also be tailored to your needs and preferences, according to :

#1 - Skin type

If your skin is dry and marked, thick, high-coverage foundations can leave a mark. Opt for products rich in moisturizing ingredients. For oily and combination skin, the use of a mattifying foundation is recommended. It considerably reduces excess sebum and the appearance of blackheads and spots. For optimal hold and application, apply specific bases beforehand.

#2 - Ease of application and coverage

Some foundations are easier to apply than others. For a natural look, it's best to choose a fluid foundation with more adjustable coverage. If you want a simple and smooth application, prepare your skin for makeup.

#3 - Skin tone

To avoid demarcation marks, choose your foundation according to your neck color. In recent years, beauty brands tend to create large selections of shades. Many users alternate between two shades depending on the season. Many of them mix them to get the ideal color.

#4 - Composition

To

avoid possible dangers related to its use, it is necessary to learn about the ingredients in the product. In this sense, conventional beauty products often contain several silicones that have no benefit on the skin. Some of them contain mineral oils that do not nourish your skin. Most foundations (even organic ones) contain titanium dioxide. Nowadays, the use of this dye in its nanoparticle form in products that can be swallowed or inhaled is so contested.

How to properly apply your foundation?


Before applying your foundation, it is essential to clean your skin to remove all impurities. A good exfoliation is also necessary to remove all dead cells. In addition, moisturize your skin properly to facilitate application. Moisturizer is an excellent base for your makeup and ensures a perfectly even result.

To start, apply a tiny bit of foundation where you want to put it on. Then you can add more depending on the amount of coverage you want. Put a touch on the bridge of your nose, one in the middle of your forehead, and one on your chin. Then blend it outward. You should always pat on your foundation, whether you use your fingertips or a brush.

It is imperative not to rub it in as this will stretch your makeup and cause marks. Next, apply a little powder over your foundation. The powder will, in fact, ensure a good fixation of your makeup. It will prevent it from fading throughout the day. To do this, use a large, full brush and dip it into your powder. Tap and shake it to remove excess powder, then gently sweep it across your face, focusing on the T-zone, chin and eye area.

Finally, you can apply a little concealer where you notice the foundation wasn't enough. Then tap it on to your skin without removing your foundation. Don't forget to apply some on your ears, which are also part of your face.

The different types of foundations

The foundation is available in various textures to ideally meet the needs of your skin. For a flawless look, it is the ideal ally for your beauty. Discover its different types in our instructions.

The fluid foundation

This type is ideal to unify in transparency the complexion

. Its light texture offers a make-up with little covering and natural. The fluid foundation exists in two versions: moisturizing and mattifying. The first version generates a luminous and satiny effect to your make-up. The second version matifies shine and camouflages small imperfections.

The light texture of the fluid foundation does not cover all the defects, it is better to choose a compact foundation for a more pronounced make-up. Here are the advantages: it can be used for any type of skin. The liquid foundation does not dry or grease the skin.

The mousse foundation

Foam

foundation

is easy to apply. Indeed, its vaporous and airy texture liquefies on contact with your skin to offer a velvet aspect and a natural makeup.

The mousse foundation offers a great result and the most comfort on combination to oily skin. It should be noted that dry skin requires a much richer foundation to introduce water into their epidermis. This foundation is slightly smouldering. If you want a more pronounced result, it is better to opt for a compact texture.

The compact foundation

The compact foundation evens out and conceals imperfections. It is more covering and thicker compared to the other types. It comes in two variants: the powder compact and the cream compact. The result obtained with the cream compact foundation is rather satiny. It is ideal for dry to combination skin. It is not suitable for oily skin because of its oil-rich composition. These require a treatment with a product that matifies the skin like the compact powder foundation. It is practical and offers the possibility of making touch-ups throughout the day. It is not recommended if you want a light daytime make-up.

The stick foundation

The foundation stick is characterized by its format, easy to use. You simply take it with you, slipping it into your bag. It is applied in a line on the face. Afterwards, you just have to stretch it carefully. This type allows you to make touch-ups during the day. Its rich texture, makes this product, an ideal foundation for the dry and mixed skins. However, it may suffocate oily skin.

Foundation or tinted cream?

Foundation

Foundations are brighter, less shiny, lighter and less covering. They contain camouflage pigments that smooth the skin's surface thanks to light reflectors. They are enriched with micro-powders that ensure long-lasting coverage. Hyaluronic acid limits dryness and fixes water. The packaging in a pump bottle ensures good conservation, impeccable hygiene and perfect dosage. However, the application of the foundation requires beforehand a day cream. At the end of the day, dry skins can complain about the lack of comfort.

Tinted cream

Tinted creams guarantee a healthy glow. They contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, anti-UV filters, yuzu seeds, vegetable sugar, shea butter and aloe vera to protect against aging and dryness. Their content in nourishing and moisturizing ingredients brings the necessary comfort to dry or normal skins. A tinted cream may not adequately moisturize very dry skin.

Verdict

Foundation conceals skin aging and signs of fatigue. It evens out the complexion. Thanks to a low dose of pigments in its formula, the tinted cream moisturizes the skin and subtly enhances its color.

Why buy foundation?

To even out your skin tone

The foundation creates a backdrop that evens out the color of your skin. Indeed, it contains specific pigments that are dedicated to this effect. By applying foundation to your face, you will achieve an even skin tone.

To correct defects on your face

If you have acne, wrinkles or fine lines, foundation can help you make them less visible. In fact, in addition to covering your imperfections, foundation makes them easier to remove. It does this by creating a soft mesh that adheres to your skin. By purchasing good quality foundations, you will be sure to have a product that does not melt and is perfectly resistant to perspiration.

To delay the aging of your skin

Some foundations contain anti-aging ingredients. This type of product acts on the surface of your skin while illuminating it from the inside. This way, you get an instant healthy glow.

To mattify your skin

The T-zone often tends to be oily. To remedy this, simply apply foundation to this area. So you can choose a foundation that contains algae or zinc extracts. These components are extremely effective in removing excess oil. There are also new generation foundations that guarantee a long-lasting effect and are much lighter.

To maintain your skin

Foundation is particularly suitable for dry skin. Indeed, the liquid foundations allow to maintain the hydration of your skin and contain fatty matters. These products are therefore perfect for protecting your skin during the winter. There are several formulas that are in adequacy with your skin, which brings a perfect rendering in a permanent way.

The best brands of foundations

In our opinion, the best brands of foundations in 2022 are :

Chanel
Lancôme
Clinique
Dior

Chanel offers high-end beauty products including skin care, makeup. Chanel foundations are the best and most expensive on the market today.

A French brand of beauty and luxury products. The name is selected for its "very French" sound. Foundations made by Lancôme offer a perfect complexion regardless of the desired result, from the most matte to the most luminous.

A manufacturer of skin care products, often marketed in high-end department stores. Its foundations, rich in skincare ingredients, are made with custom formulas that adapt to your every need.

Dior is well established in the fashion world. This brand also offers skin care products. Its foundations are the best on the market today.

What is the price for a foundation

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
11 £ to 43 £
Mid-range
43 £ to 132 £
High-end
more than 132 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Start with clean skin.

In general, foundation only looks good when applied to beautiful, well-groomed skin. Therefore, it is essential to have a consistent skincare routine for your skin. Before applying foundation, it's important to cleanse your skin to help prevent clogged pores and remove any dirt that may dull your natural glow. Next, gently exfoliate your skin to remove dead and dry skin cells that can make foundation look flaky or uneven. Finally, apply a moisturizer: foundation will hold up better on hydrated skin.

Take time to apply a primer.

The

primer is the base of the makeup, applied underneath the foundation and an extra step in your makeup routine, but applying it will help your foundation look flawless. Because it transforms the skin into a perfectly smooth surface. If you have skin issues such as redness, dullness, or uneven pigmentation, a color-correcting primer helps even out your skin tone to give it a more natural look.

Be methodical.

Always

start

by applying a bit of foundation, then add layers as you go, until you get the look you want

.

Work from the inside out.

Focus on the center of the face where imperfections are most visible. Apply a small amount of foundation, in the center of the chin and forehead, on either side of the nose, then you blend outward.

Don't forget your ears!

Often

neglected, the ears are also part of the face. If your earlobes have a tendency to redden, sweep them lightly with your foundation brush so they don't stand out from the rest of your face.

FAQ

What is the best foundation?

The best foundation depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.

What to do to choose the color of your foundation?

We

test on the neck and face and its oval. Choose the ideal color, this one would blend completely into the neck, to avoid possible demarcations.

What texture of foundation to choose?

In

summer, opt for light textures and gel formulas that will not trap the skin. In winter, you can choose "cocoon" and thick textures like cream foundation. Choose a moisturizing texture for dry skin. If you have oily skin, a light, gel-like texture is for you. It won't add more complementary oil to your skin.

What method to choose to properly apply your foundation?

At the

brush is the most used technique at the moment. It ensures a truly natural result and allows the foundation to blend into the skin. There are no traces if you pass the brush everywhere as it should.The sponge is the technique that guarantees a very covering result. It is recommended for those who have a lot of skin imperfections.

Can I put foundation on my ears?

Yes, of course. Ears are part of the face. So if yours tend to blush, don't hesitate to lightly sweep them with your foundation brush.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Marionnaud : perfume makeup, marionnaud.fr
  2. soin-parfulerie et institut, puretrend.com
  3. Zoom on the different types of foundations, fr.clinique.com
  4. Clinique-Soin Maquillage Parfum Coffret CadeauxLancôme-Parfum maquillage cosmétique soin du visage, lancome.fr
  5. CHANEL Site officiel Mode Parfum Beauté Horlogerie..., chanel.com
  6. 17 of the best face powders, harpersbazaar.com
  7. 11 of the best (non-cakey) face powders you need to try, cosmopolitan.com
  8. Foundations-Teint-Makeup BB CREAM FOUNDATION, dior.com
  9. CC CREAM OR CREAM TINT: HOW TO CHOOSE?, sephora.fr 
  10. Why use next-generation foundations?-Top Health, topsante.com
  11. Foundation ≡ SEPHORA, sephora.fr
  12. Foundation ️ buy online | Nocibé, nocibe.fr
  13. Foundation - Amazon Beauté, amazon.co.uk
  14. The 12 best foundations everyone is clamoring for, aufeminin.com
  15. Makeup Foundation - Foundation - L'Oréal Paris, loreal-paris.fr
  16. Foundation - Foundation - Makeup | DIOR, dior.com
  17. Foundation - Yves Rocher, m.yves-rocher.fr
  18. Foundation : the best foundations ..., easyparapharmacie.com
  19. Foundation Bourjois Couvrants et Naturels | Bourjois, bourjois.fr
  20. How to choose your foundation ? - Cosmopolitan.fr, cosmopolitan.fr
  21. Natural foundation, coverage or powder - Maybelline New ..., maybelline.fr
  22. Best cheap foundation - Marie Claire, marieclaire.fr
  23. Top 10 best foundations - Carline Beauty, carline-beauty.com
  24. Matte, liquid and coverage foundation | IT Cosmetics, itcosmetics.fr
  25. Professional foundation from 1€ on BYS Maquillage, bysmaquillage.fr
  26. How to Choose Your Foundation Shade? | Maybelline ..., maybelline.fr
  27. Foundation | Di, di.be
  28. Foundation | Clinique | Clinique France, clinique.fr
  29. Foundation | Estée Lauder, esteelauder.fr
  30. How to find your foundation shade on the Internet?, moncornerb.com
  31. Foundation - Wikipedia, fr.wikipedia.org
  32. What is a foundation for? - Cosmetoonails.com, cosmetoonails.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Estée Lauder Double Wear 9
Estée Lauder Double Wear
Revolution Pro Foundation 10
Revolution Pro Foundation
Sisley Sisleya Le Teint 11
Sisley Sisleya Le Teint
Dior Forever 12
Dior Forever

Lecteurs

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