The beauty world is abuzz with the return of an icon. Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Foundation, a product that achieved near-mythical status in makeup bags across the UK, has been reformulated. But in the quest for perfection, has the brand managed to improve upon a classic, or has it tampered with greatness?
First Impressions: Luxury Unboxing
True to the Charlotte Tilbury brand, the experience begins with the packaging. The iconic rose-gold glass bottle feels substantial and luxurious, signalling the premium product within. The pump dispenser is a welcome feature, allowing for hygienic and controlled application, ensuring you never waste a drop of this precious liquid.
Putting The New Formula To The Test
We rigorously tested the new formulation to see how it performs where it matters most. The claim is a poreless, airbrushed finish that lasts for up to 16 hours—a bold promise for any foundation.
Coverage & Finish
This is undoubtedly a full-coverage foundation. A single pump is enough to even out skin tone and cover most imperfections, from redness to dark spots. The finish is instantly matte, delivering that coveted airbrushed effect that blurs the appearance of pores and fine lines. It's the kind of finish that looks impeccable both in person and under the harsh glare of camera flashes.
Application & Blendability
The texture is rich yet surprisingly fluid. It blends seamlessly into the skin using a dense makeup brush or a damp beauty sponge. We found that working in sections yielded the best results, as the formula sets quickly to its matte finish. Building coverage is easy without the product appearing cakey or heavy.
Longevity & Wear
This is where the foundation truly shines. Through long workdays and even longer evenings, it barely budged. There was minimal fading around the nose and chin after several hours, and no oxidisation was observed—the colour stayed true from morning until night. For those with oily skin, this foundation's oil-control properties are a dream come true.
Who Is This Foundation For?
The Airbrush Flawless Foundation is a powerhouse for anyone seeking a impeccable, full-coverage matte finish. It's ideal for:
- Oily and combination skin types that need superior oil control.
- Special occasions, events, or photography where a flawless complexion is non-negotiable.
- Those wanting to cover acne, scarring, or significant redness.
However, those with very dry or mature skin may want to proceed with caution. The matte formula can emphasise dry patches if the skin is not meticulously prepped with a rich moisturiser and primer.
The Final Verdict
Charlotte Tilbury's reformulated Airbrush Flawless Foundation is a triumph. It has retained everything that made the original a cult favourite—the unparalleled coverage, the luxurious feel, the stunning matte finish—while seemingly perfecting its staying power. It is a worthy investment for anyone in pursuit of a complexion that looks professionally retouched.
Rating: 5/5
Pros: Incredible full coverage, truly long-lasting, blurs pores, luxurious packaging, extensive shade range.
Cons: Can feel heavy for some; requires careful skin prep for dry skin types.
