Daily Mail journalists meticulously select and curate the products featured on our site. Should you make a purchase via links on this page, we will earn a commission. For more details, please learn more about our affiliate partnerships. Achieving the flawless, lit-from-within complexion of a Bridgerton heroine is a common aspiration, yet most individuals require some assistance to reach this ideal. The solution lies in foundation.
The Foundation Dilemma: Enhancing Beauty Without Compromise
The finest foundation products expertly disguise redness and pigmentation, blur blemishes, brighten shadows, and effectively control shine. Conversely, inferior foundations can appear mask-like, leave unsightly tidemarks, cake unpleasantly, settle into wrinkles, and develop an ashy or orange hue. Cosmetic formulators have attentively addressed these widespread concerns, resulting in a plethora of innovative new products designed to meet our fundamental base makeup needs. Continue reading for comprehensive verdicts on the leading contenders.
Best for a Barely-There Veil: Revolution Superdewy Skin Tint SPF 30
Coverage: Sheer
Finish: Glowy
This remarkably affordable product delivers a super-light, skin-enhancing veil that feels pleasantly moisturising. Due to its light pigmentation and effortless blendability, application without a mirror is entirely feasible. A word of caution: the formula is notably runny, so open the container carefully. The effects are subtle yet effective, significantly dialling down redness while imparting a dewy, polished appearance. Additional benefits include a mineral SPF and vitamin C for brightening. Its non-pore-clogging formulation makes it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Best for Flawless Radiance: Hourglass Illusion Luminous Glow Foundation SPF 30
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Radiant
Expectations were high for this foundation, given that the Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint (£49) is a trusted go-to base. Promising enhanced coverage without sacrificing radiance, this foundation boasts a thick consistency that blends seamlessly with a brush. It effectively evens out skin tone; however, for a completely flawless look, blemishes may require additional concealer—arguably the best approach. The product also claims to visibly lift skin within 14 days. While scepticism towards such assertions is natural, it reassuringly does not settle into fine lines and maintains longevity throughout the day. For optimal results, apply over a layer of moisturiser.
Best for a Youthful Glow: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Luminous
Since its launch 25 years ago, this iconic product has secured a permanent place in every professional make-up artist's kit. The moisturising and brightening formula is particularly beneficial for mature users, adding a healthy glow and essential hydration. It feels silky smooth and integrates with the skin rather than sitting atop it, creating a your-skin-but-better effect. The original formula has been updated to include added skincare benefits, such as glycerin and niacinamide, alongside new pigment technology for more skin-true colours. Available in 44 shades, with 18 being newly introduced.
Best for a Long-Lasting Finish: Nars Natural Matte Longwear Foundation
Coverage: Medium to Full
Finish: Matte
Matte foundations were once considered démodé as beauty trends shifted from flat, powdered finishes to glassy, dewy skin. Responding to the modern demand for a more polished aesthetic, Nars has introduced a product offering serious coverage and exceptional staying power without appearing heavy or flat. It effectively conceals redness, evens out pigmentation, eliminates shine, and adheres securely to the skin for lasting wear. When worked around the nose and under the eyes, it can eliminate the need for concealer in those areas. An added bonus: a selection of 46 shades.
Best for Covering Blemishes: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
This long-standing favourite has been reformulated with skincare actives and improved shades for a more true-to-tone appearance on the skin. Surprisingly blendable, a single application covers most imperfections effectively. For concealing flushing or more conspicuous blemishes, layering is recommended—allow each layer to dry for a minute. It promises to be transfer-, water-, and sweat-proof, with a claimed 36-hour longevity. After a rigorous workout, the foundation remained intact with zero shine, validating its durable claims.
The Luxury Question: Is a Foundation Worth Over £100?
Victoria Beckham By Augustinus Bader Foundation Drops retail at £104, a substantial investment. As an admirer of Victoria Beckham's range, with many products in personal use—such as the contour-creating Contour Stylus (£38)—and given the rave reviews from professional make-up artists, expectations were optimistic. Road testing revealed a thick liquid that delivers the holy grail: excellent coverage while appearing barely there on the skin. Infused with Augustinus Bader's renowned skincare technology, it offers added benefits. However, is it twice as brilliant as, for instance, an Hourglass foundation? The verdict leans towards no. Nevertheless, for those seeking a bougie treat, it remains a compelling option.
