Beauty: Flawless Finish

When it comes to foundation, it’s all about complexion connection before correction. Here, we take a look at our favourite formulas and finding the perfect match.

First things first: always start with a primer that is suited to your skin type and will enhance your desired effect, whether that be oil-control, more moisture or minimised pores. For a smooth base that oozes radiance, we love Charlotte Tilbury’s Wonderglow which creates a dewy, soft-focus base so effective that it can even be worn all on its own.

Next, it’s typical to follow up with foundation, but if you have dark spots or blemishes that are fairly visible, you might consider starting with concealer to even out pigmentation first. Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage Brighten and Correct Duo is packed with plant-derived squalane, a natural antioxidant that prevents moisture loss from the skin. Therefore, applying it first can increase the efficacy of its other skincare ingredients.

Then, it’s on to foundation, and not all are created equal. Besides picking the most suitable shade, it’s important to choose a formula that, like primer, is tailored to your skin type and the look you want.

Clé de Peau Beauté’s Radiant Cushion Foundation is designed to reflect light particles for an unparalleled glow.

Dior’s Forever Skin Glow provides pore-reducing coverage with a tightening effect that means skin ultimately appears more taut.

Giorgio Armani Beauty’s Designer Lift serves up great coverage with a velvet-matte finish.

YSL Beauty’s Le Teint Encre De Peau Fusion Ink Foundation feels super lightweight but is surprisingly longwearing.

Bobbi Brown’s Intensive Skin Serum Foundation Cushion Compact is perfect for those who like their makeup to be skincare-oriented.

And Tom Ford’s new Shade and Illuminate works with light and symmetry – it avoids washing out the complexion with a single flat hue.

Of course, how you apply your product is just as important as what goes on the face. One of the best approaches is to stipple cream formulas across your surface area with a dabbing motion in a way that fills the pores, rather than brushes the product on top. Remember: building up several light layers of product always works better than a thick coating.

For the final step, conceal any remaining areas and apply loose powder with a large, fluffy brush and a generous hand, letting it sit for a minute before brushing any excess away. Then, spritz liberally with a setting spray to meld all the layers together. Now, you’re ready to face the day.