Finding a fool-proof foundation is no easy task, throw a case of acne-prone skin into the mix and you've got yourself a real challenge. The struggles of dealing with adult acne or hormonal acne adds a new layer of consideration when selecting the most suitable beauty products for your skin type, especially when it comes to foundation – the single make-up buy that sits evenly across the entirety of your face and acts as a barrier between your skin and the products that follow.
Features such as texture, finish and coverage will dictate the foundation you opt for as will the specific ingredients included within the formula. Skin-first foundations will include brilliant hero ingredients like charcoal to clarify, niacinamide to support the skin barrier and help fight breakouts, and salicylic acid to help unclog pores, and will promise breathable, buildable bases that help control shine, too. Ideal if you ask me.
The Best Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin: Our Shortlist
Best foundation overall for acne-prone skin: Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup
Best full coverage foundation: It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Matte SPF 40
Best lightweight foundation: Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint
Best breathable formula: Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation Blemish Control
Granted, there's a lot to think about, but luckily there are a host of foundations on the market that all cater to acne-prone skin. These clever formulas don't just help conceal any pesky imperfections instantly (if you so choose to cover them, though you certainly don't have to), they also help to heal skin over time. If you're looking for a fresh, skin-perfecting foundation to add to your collection, check out our edit below.
Shop: The Best Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin
www.lookfantastic.com
Loaded with salicylic acid, this oil-free foundation creates an even, fresh, natural-looking base for the rest of your make-up to follow. If you enjoy a medium coverage with skin-like natural matte finish, this is worthy of your attention.
www.boots.com
The cult classic CC cream reiterated for those with an oily, acne-prone complexion. Available in a game-changing matte version, It Cosmetics' Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Matte SPF 40 delivers natural-looking full coverage all while putting skin first thanks to a plethora of hero ingredients like charcoal and tea tree extract to detoxify as well as hyaluronic acid and antioxidants. Expect a reduction in the appearance of redness, pores and shine.
www.facethefuture.co.uk
Formulated specifically for blemish-prone, sensitive, and problematic skin, this breathable foundation features a Ceravitae Complex to increase the skin’s oxygen uptake and a skin loving blend of 2% salicylic acid, aloe vera and vitamin E to help unblock pores and sooth inflammation. It maintains the skin’s natural pH level and contains SPF30 for all rounded protection.
uk.erborian.com
Priding itself on being 50% skincare and 50% make-up, this self-proclaimed 'super' BB cream is a solution to full coverage without the heavy feeling. Packed with two Korean super-ingredients (white Ginseng and fermented Ginseng flower) it works to visibly reduce imperfections, smooth, nourish and clear skin while supporting an even, velvety complexion.
www.notino.co.uk
Capable of concealing acne and blemishes as well as scars, dark circles, rosacea, vitiligo even tattoos, this high coverage, long-wear foundation is formulated with 25% pigment concentration for a hydrated, even canvas. The non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic base features SPF35, too.
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Hyaluronic acid and squalene form the basis of this soothing, lightweight skin tint. While it is definitely sheer, hence the name, it creates a fresh and glossy even complexion which cancels redness, pores and uneven skin tones.
www.boots.com
Ideal for a soft focus finish, this blurring tint quickly smooths and evens with an effortless medium coverage that stays put. Perfect for days that call for a more made up version of no make-up make-up.