When was the last time you wore a full face of make-up? A combination of lockdowns, self-isolation and WFH mean it’s probably been a while.
Instead, chances are you’ve been splurging on nourishing skincare to alleviate Zoom face rather than glamour-giving cosmetics. But as our social lives roar back to life and we return en masse to the office, you might be looking for a more hybrid solution when it comes to acing your base layer.
We’ve come a long way since the cakey, ageing and drying consistencies we all knew too well in our teens. The best brands are now formulating products packed with skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.
Let us introduce you to the hi-tech foundations.
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation
Everyone’s talking about Charlotte Tilbury’s Beautiful Skin Foundation, for which Kate Moss is the new face. It’s a hybrid formula containing hyaluronic acid, coconut extract and rose to hydrate, plump and brighten the skin, while also offering buildable coverage and an impressive 16 hours of wear. Coming in 30 shades and three undertones, this is ideal for anyone wanting something that offers all the hydrating benefits of a tinted moisturiser but with added coverage and staying power (for which we can vouch for).
£34, charlottetilbury.com
The Body Shop Fresh Nude Foundation
Anyone who is a fan of The Body Shop’s Fresh Nude foundation will be pleased to hear it has been reformulated and now comes in 40 shades and three undertones, making it easier than ever to find your match. It is vegan, bottled in 100 per cent recyclable packaging and enriched with vitamin E and Fair Trade organic aloe vera. The lightweight formula feels silky on the skin, whilst delivering a smooth and demi-matte finish that leaves you looking refreshed and awake. Bonus points for the uplifting, floral scent.
£18, thebodyshop.com
Nars Light Reflecting Foundation
Want skin that glows from within? The new Nars Light Reflecting Foundation is packed with skincare ingredients which are gentle on the skin barrier, making it suitable for sensitive skin types (it’s also vegan-friendly). The wow factor comes down to the “photochromic technology” — a “photo-friendly” powder said to enhance skin tone in any light. Meanwhile, a light-reflecting complex gives a prism-like effect on the skin, resulting in serious luminosity. With 36 shades, enough coverage to blur imperfections and a light, breathable texture, we predict a bestseller.
£37.50, narscosmetics.co.uk (available from February 1)
Sculpted by Aimee Connolly Tint & Glow Enhancer
I receive compliments whenever I wear this. Irish makeup artist Aimee Connolly launched her makeup brand over here in 2020 and her products have quickly garnered rave reviews among beauty editors. Technically a tinted moisturiser or skin tint, Tint & Glow contains a blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and SPF 30 to boost skin and offer a wonderfully glowy finish. Team with the Brighten Up Concealer, £15, for extra coverage. A little goes a long way, making this great value for money.
£23, boots.com
Dior Forever Skin Glow Foundation
For something longer-wearing, Dior’s reformulated Forever Skin Glow Foundation promises an impressive 24 hours of wear. Again, the base predominantly consists of skincare ingredients (86 per cent, to be exact), with extracts of iris, wild pansy, hibiscus and nasturtium to help to lock in hydration and deliver a radiant finish that lasts, and it comes in 48 shades. If shine control is a concern, Forever Skin also comes in a matte version.
