High-coverage foundations can turn even the most uneven skin into smooth perfection. But heavy makeup often comes with a hefty price. Thick formulas can clog pores, and the mattifying ingredients common to many high-coverage foundations may irritate sensitive skin.
This doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to a foundation that doesn't get the job done. A number of high-coverage formulas work well for all combinations of skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone skin. The key is choosing a formula that's right for your complexion.
High-Coverage Foundation: Why Skin Type Matters
If you’ve had skin reactions to makeup in the past, we recommend investigating why your skin is sensitive, so you can try to prevent any future flare-ups.
Some skin reactions—including those that lead to acne—are due to allergies, so consider asking a doctor or dermatologist if you need to avoid specific ingredients. If you have allergies, allergen-free foundations might be all that's necessary for skin perfection.
If your skin is dry, that dryness is probably the primary source of your sensitivity. Your skin simply lacks sufficient moisture and oils to protect it from environmental irritants. Consistent moisturising and a foundation that doesn't sap your skin of moisture can help.
Combination skin occurs when different amounts of oils are being produced in different areas. The results are an oily or shiny appearance on the T-zone, visible pores, acne breakouts, and occasionally dry cheeks. To create a flawless base, you need to use a versatile base that hydrates and can fight the T-zone oil.
Lastly, we have our oily-skinned gals, who can get a shiny appearance all over their face. Oily skin might seem like a curse, but it's actually a sign that your skin is secreting healthy levels of protective sebum. Over time, excess sebum reduces your risk of sensitive skin, dry patches, and other skin issues. One recent study even suggests that oily skin might be less prone to wrinkles.
Choosing a High-Coverage Foundation for Your Skin Type
Use your skin type as your guide to choosing the perfect high-coverage foundation.
Another option is Pixi Beauty Balm. This skin-loving foundation is enriched with Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid to help skin retain moisture for longer and look and feel plumper and firmer. Adenosine and Chamomile Extract help soothe and nourish sensitive and acne-prone skin.
MAKE UP FOR EVER Matte Velvet Skin Liquid Foundation is the next generation of matte liquid foundation. The Flexi-Fit Technology adapts to facial movements to prevent masking and creates a breathable base with a velvet finish.
Mineral foundation is a great choice for oily skin, offering buildable coverage that you control. Mineral formulas contain fewer skin-irritating ingredients, and powders help control oil. Pressed powder is your best friend if you have oily skin. Simply apply a dusting during the course of your day to absorb oil and reduce shine.
Alternatives to High-Coverage Foundation
The hunt for the perfect full coverage foundation is tough enough. But when your skin breaks out with every new product, finding the right formula can feel downright impossible.
So, if you don't want to waste time and money testing out various brands, consider amplifying the effects of a lightweight foundation or low- or medium-coverage foundation with the following strategies:
You can also invest in a highly pigmented concealer. Layering foundation and concealer is a common approach to evening out skin tone. Your foundation works on your overall complexion, whereas concealer is concentrated to address particular areas of concern such as a breakout or discolouration under the eyes. For more info on how to apply your foundation check out this guide and get some tips by the experts from M.A.C on how to build coverage with your makeup.
You may also want to check out these guides for more great product recommendations and beauty tips:
The Best CC and BB Creams for Sensitive Acne Prone Skin
The Best Oil Free Primers for Your Face
The Best Products for Anti Ageing and Acne
The 9 Best Makeup Removers for Sensitive Skin in 2024
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty’s highly trained Customer Service team. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
