How to Find the Right Type of Foundation for You

When it comes to foundation, we often spend so much time trying to find the perfect shade to match our skin tones and undertones that we neglect to consider what the best type of foundation is for our individual wants and needs. We’re talking things like finish, formula, and coverage. And since foundation is, well, the foundation of any great makeup look, this is no small feat. While it can take some trial and error to find the perfect foundation for you, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to break down your options. Keep reading to find the right type of foundation for you.

How to Find the Right Type of Foundation for You

Let’s get down to business. From light to full, powder to liquid, and matte to dewy—there are so many options to choose from when it comes to foundation. Lucky for you, we’ve narrowed down your perfect match.

How to Choose Your Foundation Type

The first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing a foundation is the type. This relates to your skin type, rather than your skin tone.

If you have dry skin…try a liquid foundation, which won’t stick to and emphasize your dry skin. With the right application, a liquid foundation can actually help to disguise any unwanted dry patches.

If you have oily skin…try a powder foundation. A powder foundation will help keep excess oil at bay. Try the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Super-Blendable Compact Makeup, which will give your skin flawless, natural coverage that’s never cakey.

If you have combination skin…try cream foundation, which often comes in a convenient stick form like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Longwear Foundation Shaping Sticks. A cream formula won’t stick to areas of your skin that are dry but also won’t add excess shine to areas that are oily.

If you have sensitive skin…use a non-comedogenic foundation. We recommend the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Super Blendable Makeup. The oil-free, fragrance-free liquid formula won’t clog your pores.

How to Choose Your Foundation Finish

The next step for finding the right type of foundation for you is determining your finish preference.

If you have dry skin…use a foundation with a dewy finish. This will help add a radiant glow to dry, dull skin. For those that want a dewy, liquid foundation, we recommend the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Glow Foundation, which has a lightweight, creamy, and hydrating formula that will give your skin medium coverage and a glowing finish that lasts.

If you have oily skin…opt for a foundation with a matte finish. This will counteract any shine on your oily skin.

If you have combination skin…try a foundation with a demi-matte finish. This will give your complexion a more natural finish. Use the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation, which has a demi-matte finish and a creamy, lightweight formula.

How to Choose Your Foundation Coverage

Last but not least, you’ll want to find the right foundation coverage! This can also be determined based on your skin type.

If you have dry skin…try a foundation with light coverage. Foundation can easily stick to and emphasize dry patches and peeling skin (no, thank you!) but this can be avoided by opting for a light coverage foundation.

If you have oily skin…choose a full coverage foundation. Your oily skin can lead to unwanted breakouts that you may want extra coverage to conceal. Oily skin can also cause your foundation to fade prematurely! No worries, grab a long-lasting, full coverage foundation, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation, Lightweight. This foundation has a sweat resistant, water resistant, and transfer resistant medium to full coverage formula.

If you have combination skin…a medium coverage foundation is the way to go. You’ll have a smooth, flawless complexion without dealing with foundation that's clinging to dry patches or sliding off oily areas.

Now, you know how to find the right type of foundation for you, so it’s about time to determine your next makeup match! Discover your perfect mascara by reading our article, Mascara 101: Your Guide to Different Mascara Formulas.