Are you stuck between dewy and matte foundation? We’ve all had an awkward phase with foundations, some started with a shade way too pale or dark for our skins. Others played it on the safe side and used whatever their moms had in their makeup kits.

To be fair, foundations are a matter of trial and error. We need to consider various factors like formula, colour, coverage and finish. Arguably, the last one is a huge factor in buying makeup as our skin reacts to foundation depending on its finish ie, whether it’s matte or dewy. How then do you choose the right one for your skin type? And does it matter that your choice of foundation finish is the wrong one? Today, we explore all things related to matte and dewy foundations, so you can find it a little easier to shop for your favourite one.

Dewy Foundation 101: What You Need to Know

Dewy foundations have humectants and nourishing oils to give off that soft, plump, and hydrated finish. These ingredients reflect light, helping us achieve the Korean glass skin with zero effort. They also keep the skin hydrated longer, so a foundation with a dewy finish is like skincare turned into makeup. You’ll often find your favourite influencers sporting a dewy foundation – it is the shortest way to getting that pearly finish we’re all after. However, if you have oily skin, dewiness may not feel as attractive to you. After all, who wants to add more shine on shine?

What We Love About Dewy Foundation:

Effortless glow. Giving credit where it’s due: the oils and humectants in dewy foundation act as highlighters for the skin. These make the skin beam with radiance and an effortlessly luminous, youthful look.

Keeps skin hydrated. Humectants are vital in maintaining moisture because they attract water from the air into the skin. Thanks to the hefty dose of humectants found in dewy foundations, our skin can be free from dryness and flakiness.

Easy to blend. Dewy foundations feature a lighter formula, making them easier to apply and blend into the skin. Add a drop to your favourite moisturiser, and you’ve got a nice cc cream formulation – light coverage and glow included!

Cons of Dewy Foundation:

Not long-lasting. When choosing between matte or dewy foundation, it’s important to compare longevity. A downside to dewy foundations is that they do not last all day long. We might have to apply several touch-ups to stay fresh. A quick visit to the dressing room can solve these worries, but really, who has the time?

Has a lighter coverage. Want that absolute, solid coverage product? Unfortunately, dewy foundations do not give as much coverage. Because of their sheer finish, dewy formulations might be harder to cover up blemishes and pimples. Another downside is that they can make our breakouts more visible. 

Adds shine to oily skin. The biggest difference between matte or dewy foundation is of glow or shine. Since dewy foundations reflect light, our friends in the oily skin bracket might find this troublesome. They can make the skin look greasier and shinier as they cannot hold excess oil. 

Matte Foundation 101: All the Basics 

Now, to the other side: matte foundations. Typically, matte products don’t contain any oil and the finish is more polishes – sort of what you may call, airbrushed. Matte foundations ensure that your skin is mattified without any light bouncing off it. These are great for oily skin because they can keep skin shine-free all day. Plus, matte formulations have more coverage – you can use them to cover up tattoos, enlarged pores, or even that angry unpredictable zit! Matte foundations also even out the skin, so get ready to bid goodbye to hyperpigmentation, even if it’s just for a few hours.

Why We Love Matte Foundation:

Better, fuller coverage. When it comes to coverage, the battle between dewy or matte foundation is won by the latter. No more texture, blemishes, and spots! We can conceal everything with a swipe or two of a matte foundation. From acne to pigmentation, nothing can hold up against a good matte foundation.

Oil-free. For those with oily skin, matte foundations are perfect. Most formulations absorb excess oil so we can go on with our day without worrying about shine or grease.

Long-lasting. Whether for four, eight, or 12 hours- matte foundations last longer. We stay fresh and oil-free for hours, even without touch-ups!

Cons of Matte Foundation:

Can enhance texture. Matte foundations can seep into your lines, pores, facial hair, and wrinkles, making them look more profound. If you also have dry skin, they can accentuate patches and flakes.

Heavier than dewy foundations. As they offer more coverage, matte feels heavier than dewy foundation. Moreover, they are harder to blend, and if we do not bake or set them, our makeup will look cakey.

How To Wear Dewy and Matte Foundation

Whether you choose to get dewy or matte foundation, make sure you know how to apply these. While dewy foundation can be used lightly, and often doubles up as a slightly better form of coverage than your BB or CC creams, matte foundation requires a little more technique and the right tools to get the most out of it.

How To Wear Dewy Foundation

Nail that glow with a dewy foundation! If your nutrition, lifestyle and late nights are keeping you from radiant skin, you can create that fresh-glass-like hue with a dewy foundation.

Step 1: Skincare

Remember that your skin needs to be clean, bouncy and well-moisturised for a product to work. So stick to the basics before you apply makeup – cleanse, tone and hydrate.

Step 2: Apply

Before you move on to the foundation, consider adding a primer first. Primers create a smoothing effect on your skin and form a protective layer between your skin and the foundation.

Next, take your dewy foundation product and apply using a tapered brush for precise coverage. You can also use a sponge instead to give a softer, lighter finish. Keep adding coverage in layers to optimally cover all parts of your face and slowly watch your face go from normal to radiant!

Tip: Apply concealer to under-eye circles or blemishes after.

How To Wear Matte Foundation

We absolutely love matte foundation for its coverage, non-greasy effect and most of all, the ability to last all day long! But, getting great coverage with a matte foundation isn’t as simple as just slapping it on. You need to prep your skin and apply the product, layer by layer – we promise it’s worth the extra patience (and effort!).

Step 1 – Prepping The Skin

Prepping your skin is important to ensure you get a natural finish that lasts longer. Matte formulas are notorious for highlighting skin imperfections such as fine lines and dryness. This is why cleansing and moisturising your skin well is an imperative first step towards better foundation goals.  

Step 2 – Prime

As mentioned under dewy foundation, a primer helps to set your foundation and also gives your skin that smooth texture. This helps your makeup, foundation or others such as eye shadow, last longer and intensifies that velvety look to your skin.

Step 3 – Brush on

While it’s easy to use your fingers or a sponge to apply makeup, we highly recommend using a makeup brush for immaculate coverage. First, pump some foundation on your hand(or palette) and apply using circular motions on the brush. Don’t forget to move inside out – T-zone followed by the rest of your face and finally your neck and décolleté area. Slowly, build on coverage and layer in places that need more. This will help give it a smooth finish along with making your foundation last through the hours.

Tip: You can also consider finishing with a powder in order to set your foundation in place.