As we're moving into warmer weather, I'm finding that the liquid foundation I am currently using, which is some kind of Loreal full coverage product, is looking, for lack of a better description, "cakey" and fake. I need, I think, a lighter (in terms of consistency, not color) foundation that still offers full coverage. Can you give me some tips for good ones, along with nice concealers to go along with that?
I'm willing to spend more than I did on the Loreal foundation for the right product that will bring out the best in my skin, so no need to stick to budget suggestions.
You know, you may want to go to a store with higher end makeup brands such as Estee Lauder, Benefit, Clarins, Chanel, and so on — like Sephora for instance — with people on staff who will let you test all these foundations and concealers out. You will pay more money than you would for a lower end product like Loreal foundation, not just because you are getting a better quality foundation but also because you get the benefit of expert advice and trying products out in person before making a decision. I'm sure plenty of people reading these boards are more than happy to tell you what foundations and concealers work for them, but that isn't going to give you much info on what foundations and concealers will work for your skin. Higher end brands also tend to have way more shades than cheaper brands and different formulations to choose from. In my mind, almost everything else can be done on the cheap but your foundation is literally your "foundation", you know? It pays to take it seriously. A good foundation will transform you completely.
Wrong thread... sorry folks.
I just got MAC studio fix (again, had it years ago as well, but since switched to cheaper foundations). I didn't get their concealer this time 'cause I don't really have issues with pimples right this minute but have had their concealers in the past too... in charming little jars, easy to apply and easy to carry around in your handbag. MAC has tons of different foundations. Studio Fix is the full coverage one. I get what you mean about the cake and MAC isn't like that for sure. It sounds like you'd really like that brand. The only thing is that try to flog you all sorts of other stuff while you're there getting your makeup done. I'm still wondering if I made a mistake not getting the fix spray the lady recommended...
It's true that it costs a bit more than some others but it also lasts you a long time.
I try to avoid foundation in favor of BB cream usually because I often find foundation too heavy and mask like, much as you describe in the OP as it happens. On the rare occasion that I do wear foundation, such as for important work meetings and evenings out, I choose Stila illimunating liquid foundation. It is light enough to not make me feel like I am choking my skin and has a very nice, natural looking finish. It almost makes your skin look dewy without giving you that "look at me, I'm wearing foundation" look.
Hmmm... come to think of it, this Estee Lauder called Double Wear is what I used to wear once upon a time, like 10 years back. When I see pictures of my self at that stage it's not hard to see why it's called double wear, LOL. It sure covers the most extreme pimples, which I had at the time, but it def gives that cakey finish the OP here was not that thrilled about. Isn't Clinique owned by the same company as Estee Lauder? I'm actually wondering if these two foundations could be very similar in all ways? If so, the OP may not want it.
I have rosacea, and the following foundations have worked reasonably well for me.
- Bare Minerals Original Foundation. This is a powder mineral foundation with all natural ingredients that do not irritate the skin.
- Dermablend Smooth Liquid Camouflage Foundation.
- It Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Correcting Cream.
Other products are very hit and miss for me, though I do try sometimes. I am not sure if this answer helps you in any way, but even if you don't need products for people with sensitive skin and a lot to conceal, I figure that someone reading this thread will benefit, so I am throwing this out there too.
OK folks so it has JUST come to my attention that the loved yet dreaded Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation is now available as a light version. 'Cause it was really quite a good foundation that just did TOO MUCH you know, I'm now considering giving that Double Wear Light version a go. I am mentioning it here both 'cause I'd be interested in hearing reviews of this foundation and because I thought the OP might actually like to look into ELDW light for herself, you know? It comes in a plastic tube and I assume offers slightly lighter and more natural looking coverage, hopefully...