How to Choose the Right Foundation for Your Skin Type

July 13, 2022

By: Alanna Martine Kilkeary | Makeup.com by L'Oréal

The search to find the perfect foundation for your skin type can leave you overwhelmed by options. With so many different formulas, finishes, textures and ingredients out there, we know that choosing one that works with your complexion can be tricky. To help you sort through the different options, we caught up with makeup artist Gabriel Almodovar. Here, he’s sharing his advice on how to pick the best type of foundation, coverage and finish (think: matte, dewy, velvet) for acne-prone, aging, oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin

If acne is a major skin concern for you, Almodovar recommends a foundation with medium- to-full coverage.. When applying your foundation, use a “clean brush or a clean sponge and apply the product in a stippling motion.” We also like to choose formulas that have a full-coverage consistency that’s non-comedogenic (so it won’t sink into your pores) with color-corrective properties, like the Dermablend Continuous Correction CC Cream SPF 50+.

Aging Skin

Heavy products can settle into fine lines and wrinkles so opt for a light coverage liquid foundation, tinted moisturizer or a foundation specifically formulated for mature skin. The breathable products will keep your skin looking plumped and luminous. We recommend the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect 4-in-1 Foundation Balm that’s infused with an anti-aging firming serum.

Dry Skin

To quench your dry skin throughout the day, Almodovar recommends a light-coverage, hydrating foundation. When applying your product, use your “fingers and press the product into the skin,” for longer-lasting coverage, says Almodovar. We love the Giorgio Armani Neo Nude Foundation or the IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare which is infused with hyaluronic acid.

Oily Skin

To ditch the shine, choose a foundation with medium-to-full coverage.. When applying your product use a “sponge or brush because using your fingers can transfer the oil from your hands to your face,” says Almodovar. We recommend the Maybelline Fit Me! Matte and Poreless Foundation, a drugstore cult favorite.

Combination Skin

If you have combination skin, you can choose whether you want to be more on the dewy side or more on the matte side. We suggest a velvet matte foundation that will keep the T-zone oiliness at bay. Then, add a highlight to your cheeks for a glow. Your coverage level and application tool is completely up to you, but try not to use your fingers on your oily areas to avoid clogging pores. We love the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation because it’s long-wearing, has buildable coverage and works to smooth and blur pores.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can act up so stay away from products that are too heavy or too fragranced. You want to keep any and all aggressors to a minimum. Keep the coverage on the lighter side and always apply with a clean brush or sponge. We love the Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation SPF 25 because it’s full of soothing ingredients like niacinamide, squalane and provitamin B5.

Photography: Chaunte Vaughn