Do you have sensitive skin and are struggling to find the best foundation for it? We get it! It can be a tricky task to undertake as many foundation products need to go through several strict tests to determine whether it is suitable for sensitive skin.
Whether it’s brands such as BareMinerals or NARS makeup, we’ve put together this blog that includes formulas that have been deemed useful by dermatologists, doctors, and their patients, for those who have sensitive skin.
While finding the best foundation for skin imperfections, such as acne, can be tricky, there are a few things that need to be taken into account when finding the right one:
- Shades
- Price point
- Finish
If you don’t do your research and you start using a foundation willingly, then you run the risk of triggering a reaction in your skin.
For those of you who are reading this and have ever had a reaction to a skincare product, you’ll know how much this can undermine your confidence in wearing makeup ongoing.
So if this situation applies to you, please don’t be disheartened. We’ve got your back.
Regardless if you suffer from eczema, acne or rosacea, we’ve not only chosen three foundations that combat these imperfections but also every texture preference and budget.
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
The best NARS foundation for those who have eczema
In terms of finish and texture, the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation is one of the best non-comedogenic foundations available.
It’s lightweight, fluid, hydrating, and really is ideal for those of you who suffer from eczema.
Its best feature is its lightweight formula as alternatives such as matte foundations are heavy and can amplify the problem.
Lastly, as it has such a wide range of shades & colours, we’re recommending this as a foundation product that will allow you to find your perfect colour match.
Pros
- Hydrating and light-reflective
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Wide range of shades & colours
Cons
- Can make skin look shiny at times
- Coverage may be too light for some
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
The best foundation for dry skin
Did you ever want a foundation that was an all-in-one makeup, skincare, and suncare product?
This is exactly what you get with the BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream.
With a hydrating and lightweight base, it is our top recommendation for those of you who have sensitive skin that’s dry. Buildable and easy to remove, you can easily apply this BareMinerals foundation that will give you a fresh, dewy finish that’s ideal for that highly sought-after everyday glow.
Also, unlike a powder foundation, it won’t ever soak up any moisture that you might have or cling to any flak skin. In short, it’s a hydrating and lightweight tinted moisturiser that will give your skin a radiant, natural-looking glow.
To get the best out of this gel cream, we’d recommend that you prep your skin by cleansing it and following up with a gentle exfoliator & a primer to create an even, smooth base for your skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Radiant, dewy finish
- Lightweight gel-cream texture
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Doesn’t completely cover blemishes; we’d recommend pairing it with a concealer
Dior Forever Foundation Matte
The best matte sensitive-skin foundation
If you do have sensitive skin and have a shine-prone T-zone, then the Dior Forever Foundation Matte is the one for you; it really is a great all-rounder.
It’s very much a light wear makeup that is oil-free, non-comedogenic and has various other ingredients that hydrate the skin.
But best of all it has a matte finish that ensures it isn’t looking mask-like for your face. Furthermore, it has a wide range of shades making it a highly appealing choice for a variety of skin tones.
You won’t need to apply much to get your money’s worth out of it as it provides great coverage for any areas of concern.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Wide range of shades & colours
Cons
- One of the more expensive foundations
Choosing the best foundation for sensitive skin
If you do have sensitive skin, there are a number of things we would recommend considering when choosing the best foundation for you.
Choose the Best Coverage
To begin with, we think a good starting point is to choose formulas that are buildable and lightweight in comparison to foundations that are long-wear and thick.
Essentially, the reason behind this is two-fold:
- They’ll give you greater control when it comes to full coverage
- It’ll be easier to remove
Alternative foundations that are significantly heavier & thicker tend to clog pores and can be far more difficult to remove than lightweight foundation products.
Whether it be coverage levels from medium-deep to deep, choosing the best coverage for your skin is an important consideration.
If you have dry skin, look for moisturising boosting formulas
Perhaps you have dry skin? Keep an eye out for foundations that have ingredients that specifically boost moisture levels in your skin.
These hydrating ingredients include glycerin, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid.
Test, test, test!
We’d always recommend testing any new foundation for that added peace of mind as everyone’s skin sensitivities and tolerances differ.
With this in mind, apply a small amount of the foundation product onto a clear area of your skin such as the back of your hand.
If there’s no inflammation, burning, or itching after 24 hours, then you’ve got a good one on your hands.
There are a number of foundation brands that offer testers in-store allowing customers to try before they buy there and then, or in an online store.
