We can’t deny it – finding the best foundation suited to our individual skin type isn’t always the easiest of tasks. Thankfully, that’s where Grazia come in. The beauty team have personally tried and tested an abundance of foundations suited to all skin types, tones, and textures- from cult classics beloved by celebrities to new-generation heroes that have set TikTok alight.
Whether you’re after the best full coverage foundation (for those who love to conceal their blemishes), the best radiance boosting foundation for mature skin, the best bases for drier complexions, (or perhaps just want all the insider insight into the the best drug store foundations out there) – we have you covered.
Today? We’re shining a spotlight on the best foundation for combination skin. Those with combination skin (Grazia's Junior Beauty Editor Rachael, included) will know only too well the fine line we have to straddle when choosing the best base. 'In general, those with combination skin tend to grapple with an oily t-zone, more pronounced pores, breakouts, and drier patches of skin,' explains make-up artist Enya Sullivan. 'Finding balance, then, should be key.'
How To Choose Foundation For Combination Skin
'I always tell clients with combination skin to choose a foundation that won't block pores, is formulated with skincare ingredients, and isn't too drying,' explains Enya. 'That said, it really is a matter of personal preference and it's important for me to reiterate that there is no rule book. You can use a dewy foundation and team it with a mattifying powder just as you can team a mattifying foundation with a glow-giving powder.'
Don't be afraid to pop to your local make-up counter for some samples before you make a purchase.
The Best Foundations For Combination Skin To Buy: Our Shortlist
Best for radiance: Nars Cosmetics Natural Radiance Longwear Foundation
Best for flawless skin: Armani Silk Luminous Glow
Best BB Cream: Erborian Super BB
Best Budget Option: L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation
Understandably choosing a good foundation for combination skin can be tricky. The dream? Something that will combat excess oil, hydrate drier areas and cover blemishes…all without feeling or looking cakey.
Shop: 7 Of The Best Foundations For Combination Skin 2023
Best For Radiance
www.lookfantastic.com
It’s no secret that Nars are renowned for their excellent foundation offerings, and their Natural Radiant Longwear foundation is no exception. It’s perfect if you’re after lightweight medium-to-full coverage foundation that encourages a lit-from-within luminosity. It’s also ideal if you’re after a natural looking finish. Junior Beauty Editor Rachael says, 'I have a lot of foundations at my disposal (the joy of the Grazia beauty cupboard) but I'll always come back to this one. I'll team it with my favourite mattifying powder, and always end up glowing - while never looking greasy.'
Pros
- Contains raspberry, apple and watermelon extracts to improve skin texture over time
Cons
- One user described the coverage as 'insane' so if you prefer a light base then this mightn't be for you.
Best For Flawless Skin
www.lookfantastic.com
A cult classic among make-up artists the Armani Luminous Silk foundation finds the sweet spot between glow-giving and mattifying - it's oil free and infused with skin plumping glycerin. One LookFantasic reviewer called Grace wrote, 'This one though is my staple, my fall back, it’s easy, beautiful on, long lasting, decent coverage. On a day where I look in the mirror and think “ughhhh you’re looking a bit old today Grace” I pick up my trusty Armani and immediate improvements!' In our experience, this one works best when set with a light dusting of powder.
Pros
- Oil-free
- A make-up artist favourite
Cons
- Some reviewers have cited they aren't keen on the 'make-up smell.'
Best BB Cream
www.lookfantastic.com
For a truly beautiful, skincare-infused BB cream look no further. This Erborian number makes light work of blurring imperfections. While it's incredibly light (and feels undetectable on the skin) it is full coverage making it ideal for those who like a little something extra. Bonus points for the infusion of white ginseng, fermented ginseng flower and niacinamide - all of which are known for their skin soothing properties. Grazia's Junior Beauty Editor Rachael says: 'If my skin is looking like it needs a little something extra then I'll apply this with a damp beauty blender - it gives great coverage without feeling like it's blocking my pores.
Pros
- A half skincare, half make-up formula
- Contains SPF
Cons
- Sells out often
Best Budget Foundation
www.lookfantastic.com
Beloved by beauty editors and influencers alike, L'Oréal's True Match Foundation is something of a cult classic - and it's perfect for combination and oily skin types alike. Beautifully blendable and buildable, the lightweight liquid foundation boasts an ultra-creamy formula allowing it to melt onto the skin effortlessly. Hello smooth, luminous skin in an instant. 'Apply this one with a tapered, fluffy brush for the best results,' says Enya.
Pros
- Infused with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera extract, vitamin B2 and provitamin B5
- Contains SPF
- Great price
Cons
- Pump can be temperamental
Best Oil-Free Foundation
www.lookfantastic.com
Made with 'self-refreshing' technology - yes, really - this foundation works hard. It resists heat, oil, and humidity and adapts to skins condition texture and tone for the smoothest finish on even the hottest of days. Bonus points, as it contains SPF 30 - ideal for bolstering your daily sunscreen. One reviewer said, 'I bought this having seen a YouTuber rate it and so pleased I did. I’m really fussy with foundation, I want good coverage without looking cakey but also don’t want a flat matt or glossy finish. This ticks all of the boxes, it goes on easily and doesn’t pile over SPF. I was a bit put off by the slightly higher price but it’s 100% worth it. Love that it has SPF in it too.' Consider us sold.
Pros
- Oil-free
- SPF 30
Cons
- Expensive
- One reviewer said the consistency 'seemed a little watery.'
Best Matte Foundation
www.lookfantastic.com
Do you have combination skin but still like a matte finish? This one's for you. The Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Luminous Matte Foundation is feather-light and formulated to effortlessly cover imperfections - all while providing a barely-there, second-skin feel. Apply a little to the back of your hand then sweep on with a foundation brush for buildable coverage that lasts from dusk until dawn. Grazias Junior Beauty Editor Rachael says, 'I wore this one to my Christmas party last year and my skin remained flawless for hours - not even a hint of excess oil seeped through!'
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- SPF39 PA++
- Suited to sensitive skin
- Boasts long wear
Cons
- We noticed one reviewer said they did notice separation after 'a long day.'
Best Lightweight Foundation
www.lookfantastic.com
Recommended by make-up artists around the world The IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation and Glow Serum is a must have for those with combination skin who love a radiant no-makeup makeup look. Infused with soothing niacinamide (a dream for calming redness) and hyaluronic acid (the ultimate skin plumping hero) your skin will be left looking balanced and beautiful. It's also a great foundation for those with paler skin tones.
Pros
- Contains SPF
- Infused with hyaluronic acid and green tea extract
Cons
- 'I wish there were more shade options,' wrote one reviewer
Best for sheer coverage
www.lookfantastic.com
Those with combination skin should consider a sheer base. Grazia's junior beauty editor Rachael says: 'I love to apply a light layer of this foundation then use a heavier concealer to hide any blemishes. I'll then follow with a dusting of powder to my T-Zone. I've been so impressed by this combination.' Illamasqua Head Of Education Mel Barrese shares her top application tip for a dewy glow, 'Ensure you are primed to perfection by using Hydra Veil Primer, this will ensure your skin looks stays in place all day and will smooth away any pores or fine lines for a youthful, perfected glow. I then like to apply a 10 pence size of product around the T-Zone after moisturiser.'
Pros
- Made with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not suited for those who like full coverage
Foundation For Combination Skin FAQ's
What's The Best Way To Prep Combination Skin For Make-Up?
'Firstly I'd look out for products that are non-comedogenic which means non-pore clogging ,' explains Enya. 'You can prep your complexion with two different products to suit your combination skin. Use a more mattifying primer around the t-zone and a more hydrating product around the cheeks or anywhere else where you might be dry.
Her top tip?
'Leave behind any rich moisturisers. Those should be saved for bedtime. Otherwise, your make-up will slide off the skin.'
What's The Best Way To Apply Foundation For Combination Skin?
'The best way to apply foundation for combination skin is dependant on what finish you're after. I don't believe there's a right or wrong way to apply foundation for an oily meets dry complexion. It's so much more important to ensure you're using the right foundation for your skin type. I would use a flat brush starting from the middle of the face and out towards the jaw line if I wanted a heavy finish. For a lighter finish I'd use a more rounded fluffy brush, and for a 'flawless filter' type look I'd always use a sponge.'
