We Tried 24 Of The Best Foundations In 2025 For All Skin Types And These Are The Winners

What the brand says: ‘The Luminous silk foundation glides on weightlessly for a flawless lit-from-within glow. Using exclusive micro–fil™ technology to sculpt and brighten, this buildable, medium coverage foundation improves texture and blurs imperfections. Comes in 24 shades to match every unique skin tone.’

What we know: A firm favourite with the A-List, this wonder product is a must-have in any beauty junkie's arsenal - you'll notice it consistently makes the 'best' lists for most skin types including mature and even dry. Not only does it blur imperfections, but it lights up your skin to give you that post-holiday glow. 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. In our experience, this one works best when set with a light dusting of powder.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'The multi-award winning foundation is as lightweight as they come and offers a medium coverage which can be built up to impart a covetable natural-looking second skin finish. I still remember the first time I picked up a bottle at duty free many (many) moons ago, having instantly fallen in love with its silky-smooth velvety finish which, to my surprise, sat perfectly fine on my bumpy, acne-ridden face. Breathable, long-lasting and primed to cater to suit-all with an extensive 40 wide shade range, it's no wonder this OG is still a winner. And, like many of the newer foundations now available on the market which are infused with skincare ingredients, this classic has long put skin first that to the inclusion of glycerin (a hero ingredient that helps to lock in long-lasting moisture) and an oil-free base to keep acne at bay and maintain comfort-levels to enjoy all day wear. It's one of my favourites for combination skin types.'

What the brand says:’You asked, Rihanna answered. We paired up with our experts to refine and perfect our shade range. After doing extensive consumer testing and rigorous research, we refreshed our shade range to give y’all the most inclusive 50 shades yet. We figured out that it takes the right balance of tone and texture to make matte foundation work on every skin type. We obsessed over custom pigment levels to capture your truest tones with a soft matte finish that’s just right - not too matte and not too shiny. The results? A comfortable longwear formula that lets skin look like skin. Made for all people to love.’

What we know: Who needs a Valencia filter when you have Fenty Beauty's Pro Filt'r Foundation? The make-up bag staple gives skin an instantly smooth, pore-diffused, shine-free finish. This foundation comes in 50 different shades and it is a matte formula, with a buildable coverage to give you a medium-to-full coverage. It's particularly good for those with very pale, or very dark skin-tones.

Renee Washington, beauty assistant, says: 'I remember when Rihanna dropped her Fenty foundation with 50 shades - the internet almost shut down! I immediately got my hands on shade 430. This foundation has everything—long-wear, medium coverage, and a natural-looking luminous finish that gives you that perfect glow without any greasiness. And if you’re an oily girl, it works wonders in reducing surface oil and shine. The formula feels like a second skin, and with 50 shades, it makes it super easy to find your match. The only con? It oxidises a bit, so it can get darker after application, and you have to be careful about what you pair it with to avoid separation. Despite these minor quirks, its still one of my favourite foundations for its impressive performance and inclusive shade range.'

What the brand says: 'A ring light effect in a hydrating foundation stick! It blurs and smooths for a soft-focus skin glow!'

What we know: Ultimately, the Unreal Skin Glow has been formulated to create a 'soft focus, blurred glow that looks natural, refreshed and rested.'For this one, Tilbury has trademarked the term 'light mapping mesh tech' which, she says, allows for a ring light effect - there's her 'soft-focus blurring, smoothing emollients and glow moisture mesh formed from hyaluronic acid and pearlescent pigments' to thank for that.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Molly Carter is 21 and says her skin errs on the dry side, 'the product is creamy and light, there's a slight glimmer to it too. It's easy to apply and does feel moisturising, but I found that it emphasised the texture of some of the drier areas of my skin. Perhaps it would work better for someone with more moisturised skin. The packaging is great and it glides across skin easily, it just didn't suit the natural texture of my skin.'

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'When this one first did the rounds in the office we were, to say the least, slightly apprehensive. One swatch across my hand revealed what looked like a glittery, almost iridescent pigment. Considering it's aimed at those who prefer no to minimal foundation, it all felt a little overwhelming. In fact, I had to double check the packaging to ensure it wasn't actually a highlighter I was about to blend all over my face. Yet when I was brave enough to apply it properly I was pleasantly surprised. The pigment melted into my skin beautifully, improving the overall tone and texture with just a few swipes. It felt comfortable too, and played well over my skincare. As for those aforementioned pearlescent pigments? Well, they were working hard. Although erring on the more subtle side of sparkly it's helpful to note that this formulation is a glittery one. And there's no getting away from it. If you don't mind a touch of shimmer then that's all well and good but if, like me, you err on the oilier side, then you may not want quite so much added luminosity. That said, with a bit of trial and error, I was impressed with the overall finish. Teamed with a touch of concealer and a dusting of of setting power my complexion looked brighter and more radiant. Don't judge a foundation by the initial swatch....'

What the brand says: ’The no. 1 prestige foundation in the UK, Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is our best oil-free foundation for all skin types – including oily skin – thanks to its wide shade range that matches skin tones from fair to deep. It evens skin's appearance, controls oil and covers blemishes – all while feeling so lightweight and comfortable, you won't believe it's long wear. Double Wear Stay-in-Place's buildable formula means it can be worn as a medium- or full-coverage foundation. This 24-hour foundation is free from synthetic fragrance and oil.

What we know: ‘A firm favourite that is probably used by majority of your friends at any given one time. This complete coverage foundation promises to (and definitely does) last all day long. We love it for its lightweight formula that gives a matte finish and a buildable coverage to blur blemishes.’

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'I tested the Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation several times in the run up to my wedding and I realised I was incredibly impressed by it – in fact, it quickly became my weekend foundation– the perfect option for when I wanted to feel a little bit more “done” when compared to my daily, more sheer finish. The key to beautiful skin was keeping the amount I applied to a minimum. The more delicate I was with the application, the happier I was with the finish. My skin appears more matte while a touch of my natural sheen is still able peek through. Overall I'd describe this as a great, medium to full-coverage foundation that plays well with all skin types, especially oilier complexions. There's also an impressive 60 shades comprising of cool and warm tones - meaning there's likely to be something for everyone. While those who love a totally natural look might not find favour with this one, others will be delighted by the promise of longevity and flawless looking finish.'

This foundation is described as 'weightless, waterproof and long-wearing.'

What the brand says: According to the brand Laura Mercier, 'this long-wearing foundation blurs the line between makeup and skin to reveal a healthier looking complexion. The skin-loving formula provides perfecting medium buildable coverage so weightless, you'll forget you're wearing anything at all.'

What we know: The skin-friendly ingredients are there - camellia seed, vitamin E and cacao extract - meaning this foundation is rich in antioxidants, which, with regular wear, will help to tone down the dulling effects of aggressors like pollution, blue light, you name it. The formula is billed as lightweight and blurring thanks to a cocktail of bamboo silk powders and a fancy lipid matrix that works to control shine, though not to the extent of being fully mattifying, this thing boosts your glow too.

What Grazia’s Beauty Testing Panel say: Anna Skuse is 38 and describes her skin type as 'combination'. Skuse tested this foundation over a period of one week and here's her verdict: 'I'm a make-up addict and have combination skin, which seems to be changing a lot since having my first baby. Being pretty active and working full-time with a baby means my make-up really gets put to the test. I applied this one before work with a foundation brush, sometimes over a primer. It had medium, buildable coverage, is serum-like in texture and is pretty long-wearing. I was impressed by its longevity, especially when worn over a primer and finished with a setting spray. Mine looked good for 8 hours but tended to go a little patchy beyond this point. I loved that it didn't have a scent and that it was so lightweight - I couldn't feel it on my skin at all. I'd recommend this for anyone with combination-to-oily skin, especially those who hate heavy formulas.'

Georgia Scott, beauty and fashion product writer for Grazia says: 'Since trying this foundation, I can honestly say I've found a new favourite. It's described as a lightweight formula and I 100% agree. The texture really reminds me of a serum, in the way it comfortably sits on the skin. I typically apply my foundation with a dense, buffing brush, such as Hourglass' Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush or Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Complexion Brush. One of the best things I noticed about this foundation is a little bit goes a long way. I love that I can achieve an even, flawless complexion in a flash and I was even more impressed with its staying power.If, like me, you love a flawless complexion without feeling cakey, this foundation is definitely one to add to your make-up bag. I would describe this foundation as offering medium yet buildable coverage, but its a product that can work for your skin all year round throughout the different seasons. The blurring, airbrush finish you might've spotted on TikTok is not a hoax - it's definitely visible in real life and I noticed that my skin looked just as flawless after hours of wear.'

What the brand says: ‘Made for real life. An 89% skincare-based, gel-cream foundation that leaves skin looking moisturised with a natural-to-you finish. Formulated to fuse with skin (never cake on-top), to blend seamlessly and wear up to 12 hours.’

What we know: Glossier's Stretch Fluid Foundation launch arrived hot on the heels of the brand’s OG Stretch Concealer, £22. This nourishing gel-crème formula is brimming with a medley of plant-derived squalene and glycerine - both hero hydrators. Shine never reaches OTT levels thanks to the help of mattifying rose berry and plankton, while amino acid-coated pigments make for seamless blendability.’

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'It takes a lot for a new foundation to turn my head. After all, there's a lot to consider: the finish, the glow factor, the shade range, the list goes on. For me, the right one delivers a natural-look, even coverage that lasts and blurs my post-acne pigmentation, all while blending seamlessly into my olive toned South Asian skin. I did warn you it was a lengthy list. That said, this foundation ticks every box. And patchiness with wear? Not a hint. It doesn't take much for a beauty product to make it big on TikTok these days, but as far as Glossier's Stretch Fluid Foundation is concerned, the hype is well-deserved.'

What the brand says: ‘A clean, tinted gel cream that’s a fresh take on tinted moisturiser—it delivers a refreshing burst of active skincare, light buildable coverage, and a smooth, hydrated, natural finish.’

What we know: Chances are you'll have seen this one on TikTok - it's beloved by content creators thanks to its skin beautifying abilities. It's light, but buildable, and can be teamed with a concealer for added coverage.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'I've been testing this tinted gel for a few months now and I'm officially hooked. I have problematic skin (to say the least) so I need to be rest assured that incorporating any new base products into my routine won't break me out. This, I kid you not, has left me with some of the best skin I've had in years. I apply a small amount with my fingers tips and blend it across my whole complexion. Not only does it refine and even out my skin instantly, but the assortment of skin loving ingredients (think zinc to minimise redness and copper peptides to boost collagen) has plumped and soothed in the long run, too. I do have to give it a little top up around about lunch time, though - but it leaves me looking so radiant that I can't really complain.'

What the brand says: 'Discover True Match, a skincare infused foundation. The formula provides perfect, natural and true-to-skin coverage. Now upgraded with a new skin-matching technology, which includes up to 6 different pigments for a more precise match. Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid. The formula provides up to 24H hydration. Improves skin quality in 2 weeks.'

What we know: A tried-and-tested classic that puts skin first. The formula includes hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe vera extract and boasts 48 inclusive shades that promise to match a whopping 99.5% of skin tones. Expect impressive shade matching, all-day hydration and an enhanced natural glow thanks to skin ingredient heroes. One of the best drugstore foundations to get your hands on right now.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Rebecca Hollywood is in her late 40s and describes her skin as 'combination'. 'I work in an office and my lifestyle outside of work is busy, so my foundation needs to be "life proof". I trialled this foundation for a few weeks and one of the first things I noticed about it was how blendable the formula is. It felt very lightweight too, like I wasn't wearing anything at all. The coverage is medium, so I could build it up in fine layers to minimise the appearance of redness. The hyaluronic acid in the formula was a definite plus, it meant my skin stayed hydrated throughout the day. As someone with mature skin I'm wary of new foundations as I find some can accentuate the texture of my skin, but this one delivered a smooth finish and didn't settle into any of my fine lines. I was really impressed.'

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This has been an everyday classic for sometime, not least because of the affordable price tag. I have skin prone to redness so I find it quite tricky to find the correct shade, but there's 48 here meaning there was plenty of options to consider for my own unique undertone. Where application is concerned, I put a small amount on my hand first before smoothing onto my skin with a stippling brush - this helps me to have better control of how much product I'm using. It glides on beautifully, the finish is smooth, and there's a subtle glow there too - I assume there's the hyaluronic acid and glycerin to thank for that. I've tried it without powder before, but, because of the hydrating properties, it does tend to slide off. With some setting powder, however? I'm left with hydrated, dewy looking skin without so much of a hint of oiliness. No touch-ups needed. 'And did I mention it also contains SPF? While it's only SPF17 (you will need a standalone SPF too) it's still reassuring to know it's bolstered with protection. It's a beauty bargain.'

What the brand says: ‘The unique hybrid formula of the Enhancing Tint works to seamlessly even tone, lift shadows, tone down redness and boost luminosity... Think your skin, but on its best day.  
The ultra-lightweight texture delivers a burst of hydration whilst simultaneously delivering  blurring  pigments to perfect and even the skin tone. Skin is soothed, smoothed and strengthened.  
The  tone perfecting, crease-proof formula means it also works like a dream under the eyes.’

What we know: Lisa Eldridge is well known for her prowess in the beauty sphere - her newly launched skin tint ticks boxes and is one of the best foundations for older skin that we have tried.

Cassie Steer, freelance beauty editor, says: '"Your skin but better" is a phrase bandied about rather loosely in the beauty world but makeup maven Lisa Eldridge has absolutely nailed the kind of smooth, luminous, even skin that alludes to a certain lifestyle where you have the luxury of carving out time for ‘self-care’ whilst supping on golden mylk and gua sha-ing the bejesus out of a mere suggestion of dullness. She’s also got the tones (with 18 all-encompassing shades) just-so; I’m T3 which is one of the few pale shades I’ve tried that is neither too pink or too yellow. I also love that whilst it’s packed with 78% skincare ingredients to soothe and hydrate, my skin isn’t left feeling greasy. Did I mention I love it?'.

What the brand says: ‘A light-weight, skin nourishing, tinted treatment with SPF20 that provides hydrating skincare and perfecting makeup in one, without the need for a foundation. A long-lasting luminous, even and plumped flawless finish without having any cakiness.’

What we know: This light-weight, skin nourishing, award-winning tinted treatment contains SPF20 to protect the skin. It has a buildable formula that can give full coverage while treating your skin.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'When it comes to anything to do with base, a close to perfect shade match is one of my top requirements. Brulée Beauty takes pride in catering to golden and yellow skin tones as well as those in-between shades that are all too often neglected on beauty counters. With an innate understanding and respect for the spectrum of colours within the medium shade range, it's not a surprise that I found my perfect match with Brulée Beauty's Skin Nectar, Shade 3 to be exact. Described as a nourishing tinted moisturiser, it's quickly become my go-to amid the return of warmer weather thanks to its lightweight, comfortable feel, no-fuss application and high-quality, soft second skin finish. The best bit? Unlike most skin tints, this can be built up to full coverage, all without that heavy feeling. It will easily give your favourite foundation a run for its money this summer.'

What the brand says: 'A futuristic formula that's one part next-gen moisturiser, one part intuitive skin tint—for boosted luminosity, minus the weight of makeup. Each flexible, self-adjusting shade blends like a second skin, nourishing with deep, sustained hydration and skin-fortifying ingredients. Powered by SIREN Capsule Technology to precisely deliver hydration, it visibly improves texture, leaving skin with a 3D moisture shield and dewy, sheer finish.’

What we know: A skin tint is the perfect way to mesh the complexion perfecting prowess of a foundation with skincare ingredients - there's a reason why Google searches for 'skin tint' are up 114. U Beauty's offering is a go-to.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: 'Science-first skincare brand Ubeauty takes innovation seriously - peruse the clinical testing and white paper (a rarity for a beauty brand) if you so wish. Something called SIREN technology is the secret to the brand’s sell out success. Seriously, those moisturisers fly off the shelves. All you need to know is that each of the products is very, very hydrating. The same principle has been applied to the Super Tinted Hydrator. The skincare/makeup hybrid is essentially a tinted version of the best selling moisturiser. Coverage is sheer, almost imperceptible, but my god you’ll glow (not shine, don’t panic). Avocado and grapeseed oils plus hyaluronic acid feed skin with good stuff and you’re left with that much coveted skincare status of looking well rested. Yes, it’s eye-wateringly expensive but, in my experience, a little really does go a long way and the compliments you’ll receive go some way to justifying the cost.'

What the brand says: ‘A Long-lasting, luminous matte formula that offers skincare benefits.
24H wear & matte finish complexion with a blurring effect. Its lightweight formula corrects the complexion while preserving its hydration. Ultra-comfortable, its second-skin finish offers a couture finish and adjustable coverage. Non-comedogenic formula.’

What we know: Here's a foundation that truly puts skin first. With a 97% natural-origin formula that boasts 24-hour hydration and up to 12 hours of radiant coverage, it blurs, corrects and leaves behind a believable natural glow. Colour-corrective pigments and light-reflecting.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This foundation is wonderfully versatile - I can keep the coverage feeling light and subtle, or else I can build it for a more glamorous, evening look. I would say that a little goes a long way initially here - especially if you're wanting to begin with a light base. I use a wet beauty blender to apply the formula, paying extra attention to my t-zone where I would naturally be more oily. After just the smallest amount and my complexion immediately appeared more radiant, moisturised and even. My pores looked less prominent and my redness virtually undectable. The staying-power is also excellent. I wore this to the office recently and I didn't need to top up come evening drinks - and I hadn't even used setting powder!'

What the brand says: ‘An award-winning, medium buildable coverage, high-performance, clean foundation infused with our proprietary fermented arnica that helps reduce redness, helps even skin tone and protects from environmental stress. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. HausTech Powered™ with 20+ skincare ingredients including our patent-pending Fermented Arnica.’

What we know: Redness prone? This medium coverage, weightless, gentle foundation contains fermented arnica that helps reduce redness. A little goes a long way to perfect and enhance.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'The last time I stopped a lady at a party to compliment her buttery skin, I was told it was the work of Lady Gaga's Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation - which Molly Mae has also waxed lyrical about. A revelation of sorts, it's taken the TikTok community and make-up experts everywhere by storm thanks to its wide shade range, gentle and weightless feel and impressive coverage. I love the way it manages to make skin look natural but doll-like at once. It's extremely long lasting (no top-ups neccessary) and has a good range of colours. I'd recommend this one.' Finish wise, we're talking satin - not crazy glowy. You could call it one of the best matte foundations, but there's a little sheen to it that speaks to subtly glowing skin.

Renee Washington, digital fashion and beauty writer says: ‘The formula is on the thinner side almost serum-like but don’t be fooled. It builds to a solid medium coverage while still feeling lightweight and breathable. I wear shade 480 but had to opt for 500 due to no stock. It gives skin a healthy, slightly luminous finish without looking greasy. It’s packed with skincare-grade ingredients too: fermented arnica to calm inflammation, hyaluronic acid for hydration, squalane to support the skin barrier, and a mix of plant extracts. It’s clean, cruelty-free, vegan, and feels like something your skin actually wants to wear. While I wouldn’t recommend sleeping in it, I accidentally did after a long night out (gross, I know), and weirdly, my skin didn’t punish me the next day. No breakouts, no tightness - just skin that still felt surprisingly calm.’

What the brands says: 'A weightless liquid foundation that delivers 16-hour medium, buildable coverage with a natural, soft glow finish. With light-diffusing formulas powered by Photoluminescent Technology, our Ambient collection captures, diffuses, and softens surrounding light for skin that appears lit from within and glowing in any light.’​

What we know: ‘Ideal for travelling, the Vanish Seamless Foundation Stick is a long-wearing high-pigment dream suited to those who prefer a bit of extra coverage.’

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'My all-time favourite foundation comes in stick form! It may look thick and uber-coverage at first but upon application you'll find it blends out a dream and comes equipped with a natural-looking finish – and that's all down to the innovative formula which means it boasts the fluidity of a liquid and the weightlessness of a powder in one. It's both my go-to for a quick fix face and an ultra-glam evening. There's several shade options suited to most undertones, plus it's incredibly long lasting.'

What the brand says: 'A skincare-active foundation that reveals skin's healthy glow. This buildable, medium coverage SPF foundation visibly improves bare skin in just 1 week (consumer tested on 109 women).'

What we know: Shiseido's Revitalessence Glow Foundation has found favour among beauty editors thanks to its lightweight serum-like texture that allows for a radiant, glowing finish.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Nina Gregory is 49, has combination skin (that became much drier after going through the menopause) and has been a make-up artist for over 20 years. 'This foundation is quite watery in texture and can be applied either with your fingers or a buffing brush. It leaves your skin with a bit of a glow, but not excessive shine and lasts well throughout the day, though anyone with oily skin may want to set it with a bit of powder. The formula is hydrating and after three weeks of wearing it every day, my skin definitely felt more moisturised.'

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: 'It was love at first swatch for me and this lightweight foundation. It’s more of a megawatt tinted moisturiser than a traditional foundation; skin is warmed up and enhanced but not covered, so your real skin peeps through making for an overall effect that is natural and healthy. The clue is in the name, this stuff really does make your skin glow. I have friends who prefer a matte finish who find that it makes skin look too dewy, but for me there’s no such thing as too glowy. I have put many a beauty editor onto this brilliant everyday formula and they’re very thankful.' 

Rachael Martin, beauty editor says: 'Best foundation, ever! It's my skin but MUCH better. I'll apply a light layer with a fluffy brush and my skin is transformed from dull to radiant. A little goes a long way for the most natural result.'

What the brand says: 'Sheer Glow Foundation provides sheer, buildable coverage with a natural-looking finish that hydrates and evens skin tone, leaving skin softer and smoother.'

What we know: Few products could be quite so iconic as the Nars Sheer Glow Foundation - it's been a staple in the kit of make-up artists around the world for years now thanks to its ability to impart a dewy radiance on even the most parched of complexions.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Emily Smith is 31 and describes her skin as combination-to-oily, 'I love the classic black and white packaging, it screams luxury to me. I prefer to apply it with my fingers - I tried a brush but it went on a little heavy for my liking. The pump doesn't come with the bottle, it costs an extra £6 and is pretty vital - it's fairly messy to use without a pump. The texture is lovely, creamy and lightweight and it has a satin finish, which was great for my slightly oilier skin. If you have dry skin, though, you might want to try something more moisturising.'

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This was the first high-end foundation I ever used, and I've used it consistently ever since - it remains a favourite despite many, many new launches since. One of the main reasons I love it is because it's brimming with skincare benefits. Glycerin works a treat to perk up my tired complexion while turmeric brightens in the long-run. Just a small amount adds a subtle, soft glow to my skin, but it's also buildable if I find I need a little more coverage. I would say it's long-lasting but also that it benefits from a setting powder or spray - especially if you're oilier around the T-Zone like me. I'd suggest popping to the Nars counter at Space NK for an excellent shade match - there's over 40 options suited to all undertones.'

What the brand says: '85% skincare serum, 15% weightless pigment for 100% your best skin ever. Our lightweight skin tint foundation provides skincare benefits, medium coverage and a luminous, second-skin finish.' 

What we know: A new cult classic in the making, Saie's Glowy Super Skin Foundation delivers bright, radiant skin with minimal effort. The fact that this foundation is brimming with hero humectants like hyaluronic acid make it a must-grab for anyone with older skin - you'll see instant radiance and bounce upon application and it will help your skin retain moisture throughout the day - hyaluronic acid hangs on to up to one thousand times its weight in moisture and that science pays dividends when it's working its magic on the surface of your skin.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Emily Law is 34 and looks for products that are quick and easy to apply. 'The packaging feels sleek and premium and I was pleased to see that it is Leaping Bunny approved and certified plastic negative. I tested this base over a period of four-to-five weeks and found the best way to apply it - because it's quite runny - was to pump a little onto the back of my hand, then use a foundation brush to buff it onto my skin. A little goes a long way. The coverage was great, it toned down areas of redness without masking my skin entirely. It kept my skin hydrated - that's the hyaluronic acid in the formula - and didn't settle into fine lines. It lasted well too.'

Renee Washington, digital beauty writer, says: 'The Saie Glowy Super Skin Foundation in Shade 29 has quickly become a staple in my makeup routine. This foundation delivers on its promise of a radiant, dewy finish without compromising coverage. Its lightweight, serum-like texture blends effortlessly onto my skin, creating a smooth, even base. I've found that pairing it with e.l.f. Power Grip and REFY primer enhances its longevity and overall performance.'

What the brand says: 'Get the ultimate soft matte look with Maybelline New York’s SuperStay 24H Hybrid Powder Foundation. Up to 24 hours of medium to full matte coverage. Non stop comfort, weightless feel. Resists sweat, water and transfer. No caking, no patchiness.’

What we know: Good things come in small packages if this foundation is anything to go by. A pressed powder foundation, the coverage is medium to full matte. You can apply it with a sponge applicator.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'When I was first introduced to this product, I thought it was too good to be true. I powder foundation that can boast the same coverage as a regular foundation but with the lightness of a powder? No way. But this proved me wrong. 'Full coverage in one swipe' – are the words of make-up artist Adeola Gboyega, who demonstrated its benefits on my skin when it launched. The results still astound me.'

What the brand says: ‘YSL’s bestselling foundation, Touche Éclat Le Teint is a medium, breathable coverage foundation infused with the illuminating light of Touche Éclat for a natural healthy glow.
Touche Éclat Le Teint Foundation offers up to 24 hour breathable coverage for a truly weightless feel, and 24 hour hydration for a long-lasting, flawless finish. Touche Éclat Le Teint Foundation includes SPF 22 for every day skin protection.’

What we know: Despite having been something of a stalwart in the realm of foundations, YSL's coveted Éclat Le Teint Foundation has proven it's staying power - quite literally. It's gone viral on TikTok in the last few months thanks to its skin-perfecting formulation.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: On the rare occasions that I opt for a more pulled together makeup look I reach for this, and have done for the past ten years. To caveat, this foundation isn’t one of YSL’s most high-coverage offerings and it’s not a matte finish either but it’s about as full-coverage as I go. The creamy formula melts into skin and - crucially - doesn’t cling to any dry bits, or blemishes. You can build it up easily to achieve your desired finish but I find that one layer is enough to give me a natural-looking (but better) look.

What the brand says: ‘A lightweight skin tint that instantly boosts skin’s moisture levels by 52% and provides all-day hydration for a dewy, healthy-looking glow. It’s formulated with 94% naturally-derived ingredients including hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and enhance skin’s radiance. Also infused with plant-based squalane, meadowfoam seed oil, and a rambutan blend, the formula instantly makes skin look and feel smoother while providing continuous nourishment throughout the day.'

What we know: Another day, another excellent skin tint foundation. Hourglass know a thing or two about creating a candlelight glow on the skin, and the new Hydrating Skin Tint definitely doesn't disappoint. The lightweight, hydrating formula melts into the skin to provide an even yet sheer coverage ideal for dry and dehydrated skin types.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'If you're after a "your skin but better" finish then you've come to the right place.The Hourglass Veil hydrating skin tint contains squalane, meadowfoam seed oil and a rambutan blend, which 'work to provide nourishment and leave skin feeling smooth.' And, I can confirm, it does just that. I use the warmth of my finger tips and blend it in like a moisturiser - it's creamy and easy to work with. It also "sets" quickly leaving it feeling virtually undetectable on the skin - this is great for me as I hate to feel like I'm wearing anything on my skin. If I have any pesky spots or blemishes I'll use a concealer as well - the coverage is enough to even out skin tone, but not enough to cover spots. As it's so light on the skin I would say that you may need a little top-up during the day - especially if you're oilier around the t-zone. Use SpaceNK's handy shade matching service if you need a hand choosing a colour.'

What the brand says: 'Get luminous without looking greasy. A benefit-packed, hydrating foundation that’s longwear and delivers a naturally radiant finish with a second-skin feel—in 50 shades for all skin types.'

What we know: Fenty are renowned for their top quality foundation formulas and their extensive shade ranges. No Fenty foundation or base launches without hype. This one is available in 50 shades and is intended to deliver a cool, dewy glow - just the right amount of shine. It's made with Kakadu plum extract to brighten and papyrus leaf extract to hydrate.

What the Grazia Beauty Testing Panel says: Anna Skuse, who is 38 and describes her skin type as combination, says, 'this one does what it says on the tin. The formula is hydrating, breathable and long-wearing. It's serum-like in texture, blends effortlessly onto skin - I used a brush to apply it - and easily competes with other similarly lightweight foundations I have tried that are much more expensive. It gives me a glowing complexion that lasts. I wore this foundation daily for a week.'

What the brand says: 'A sweat, humidity and transfer-resistant natural matte foundation that provides 16 hours of breathable full coverage - while visibly evening skin tone and texture over time.'

What we know: This one’s a pressed powder that offers full coverage and tempers shine without making your skin look flat and dull. It’s hydrating thanks to a nourishing cocktail of shea butter, coconut oil and squalane.

What the Grazia Beauty Panel says: Anna Skuse is in her late thirties and describes her skin as combination. ‘This foundation is great for anyone who wants a smooth, full-coverage, shine-free finish that lasts all day. I tried this foundation out over the course of a week, applying it before work every day. I applied with a brush if I only wanted a very sheer, light dose, and with a sponge when I wanted more coverage. I have never used a powder foundation before and was pleasantly surprised – I’ll be keeping it in my make-up bag from now on.’

What the brand says: ’The innovative formula is packed full of skin loving ingredients. Hyaluronic Acid is a key component and helps to plump and hydrate, alongside Upsalite which works to absorb and balance skins excess oils/sebum.’

What we know: With over a million Instagram followers, Myricks is a powerhouse in the beauty industry, known for her innovative, multifunctional products that cater to all skin tones and types. She’s mastered the art of complexion-perfecting formulas.  

Renee Washington beauty writer says: ‘If you have oily skin, you and this product need to be acquainted. Throughout the day, my make-up did not budge, and I didn’t even need to touch up. I wear shade 9 and received so many compliments on how flawless my base looked - it’s honestly like having a built-in blur filter on your face. I don't even think the pictures do it justice.  This product has genuinely transformed my make-up routine, and I can’t wait to wear it in the summer. If I had to recommend one beauty product wholeheartedly, this would be it. And no, I don’t have stocks or shares in the company - but I wish I did!

What the brand says: Not Just A Tinted Moisturiser. This 94% skin care formula is enriched with active ingredients, carefully selected for their skin-boosting properties.'

What we know: Billed as 'no make-up make-up' the Clarins Skin Illusion Tinted Moisturiser has been designed to deliver radiance and lots of it. It's made with brand's pioneering skin fit technology, which, though slightly mind-boggling when you get down to the nitty gritty tech details, is pretty fancy stuff. Organic oat sugar forms a 'three-dimensional plant-based film' that moves with skin and maximises longevity. Combined with actives that sound good enough to eat (organic kiwi extract to nourish and hyaluronic acid to plump) it's a perfectly placed to hydrate and brighten.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor says: 'I have fine lines around the sides of my eyes and across my forehead, yet found my skin looked plumper and more lifted after application - there was none of the unflattering creasing or caking that I'd associate with a typical, full-coverage foundation. It's also joyful to apply - the texture is lightweight and silky, very soft to the touch - there's no tight, sticky feeling. For a dewy finish with plenty of skincare benefits you'd be hard pressed to find something better. Without make-up, I believe my skin looks a little more hydrated too - there's the hyaluronic acid and kiwi extract to thank for that. In short? Would recommend.'