Why Serum Foundation Is a Must-Have Hybrid Product

From powder to liquid foundation, you’re probably familiar with most of the common foundation formulas on the market. You may even be well-versed on foundation alternatives like BB and CC cream. But what about serum foundation? Yup, there’s one type you may have missed in your foundation 101 briefing, and we’re here to tell you all about it. Below, we’re covering everything from what a serum foundation is to who should consider adding one to their routine.

WHAT IS SERUM FOUNDATION?

As you can probably guess, a serum foundation is exactly what it sounds like—a foundation that includes a serum in its list of ingredients. The liquid formula is a hybrid between makeup and skin care, offering the coverage of a foundation and the skin benefits of a serum. Just as different face serums can benefit your complexion in different ways, the benefits of a serum foundation are dependent on the product you’re using, though most tend to provide lasting hydration.

OUR BEST SERUM FOUNDATION

Interested in adding a serum foundation to your routine? Consider picking up our best serum foundation, the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Radiant Serum Foundation with SPF 50. Specially designed for mature skin, this serum foundation is carefully formulated with vitamin B3 and a hydrating serum. The lightweight formula provides coverage to even tone and deliver a natural, radiant finish without settling into lines. The hydrating serum makes this serum foundation particularly suited for those with dry, mature skin, as it offers all-day hydration. It’s also suitable for those with sensitive skin. Essentially, it provides all the benefits of a foundation with the added advantage of all-day hydration—and SPF 50. Pretty great, right?

Editor’s note: Think you want to give our best serum foundation a try? Find your shade match with the help of our L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Serum Foundation Swatches.

WHO SHOULD TRY SERUM FOUNDATION?

We touched on this earlier, but you may be wondering who should try a serum foundation and if it’s worth parting ways with your current go-to formula. Find a few reasons you may want to give serum foundation a try, below.

Give a serum foundation a try if…you have mature skin. As you get older, your skin produces fewer natural oils, leading to a drier complexion. Since serum foundations are more hydrating than other foundation formulas, those with mature skin can benefit from using one.

Give a serum foundation a try if…you have dry skin. Like we mentioned, serum foundations have hydrating formulas, meaning they’re a great option for those with a dry skin type.

Give a serum foundation a try if…it’s winter. As you probably already know, the cold weather and lack of humidity in the winter can cause your skin to become dry, even if you don’t typically have dry skin. A serum foundation will be kind to your complexion when the cold temperatures aren't.

Give a serum foundation a try if…you have sensitive skin. With their skin benefits and lightweight formulas, serum foundations tend to be a match for those with sensitive skin.

Give a serum foundation a try if…you love multitasking products. Are you a skin care junkie but still want a flawless complexion? Serum foundations are a great option for those who want to care for their skin while perfecting it.

HOW TO APPLY SERUM FOUNDATION

So, how does one go about using a serum foundation in their makeup routine? It’s actually quite simple, just follow the steps below.

Step #1. Smooth on a primer. As with any foundation, you’ll want to begin by applying a makeup primer. Look for one with a radiant finish and hydrating formula that will coordinate with your serum foundation, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Glow Lock Makeup Primer. Smooth it over your complexion to prep your skin.

Step #2. Dot your foundation. Reach for your serum foundation and squeeze a small amount onto your fingertip. Dot the formula onto your cheek, then repeat the process, so you have a few dots of foundation on each cheek, as well as your forehead, nose, and chin.

Step #3. Blend it out. Using a makeup blender, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender, buff and blend out your serum foundation for a seamless finish. Add more product as needed to build up to your desired level of coverage.

Next: How to Wear Foundation with Light or Sheer Coverage