Makeup was one of the many things that took a backseat when the pandemic rose, but I’m sure you’ve been missing painting your face, too. I sure have! Since we wear masks all the time, the prospect of a matte foundation no longer appeals to me. Give me a glowy foundation or give me nothing! That said, I haven’t found a go-to yet but I’m on the lookout. If you are too, these are promising options.
Drugstore picks
Ge the look without shelling out too much!
L’Oreal Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation
A fresh take (ha!) on the cult-favorite Infallible Longwear Foundation, the Infallible Fresh Wear promises the same coverage (medium to full) and longevity (up to 24 hours) but with a fresh instead of a matte finish.
Maybelline Fit Me Dewy & Smooth Foundation
Just like the L’Oreal foundation, this variant from Maybelline is a dewy version of their bestselling Fit Me foundation, which has a matte finish. Aside from the luminous finish, it also claims to give a smoothening effect on the skin.
Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Foundation
Remember Revlon’s iconic Colorstay foundation? I’m guessing they’re gunning for its notoriety with this glowy foundation. It promises a natural finish that makes you ready for any and every photo-taking opportunity. It has anti-pollution properties, too, according to the brand — something that’s not common in the drugstore arena.
High-end selections
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Color Correcting Full Coverage Cream
This is technically a CC cream, but it gives coverage like a glowy foundation and doesn’t just correct color. I’ve tried the matte version of this and didn’t like it; I think the original version is a holy grail pick for a reason. On top of covering unwanted imperfections, it also promises to deliver skin-nourishing benefits you’ll enjoy long-term.
Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation
This foundation claims to be the first one to have a self-refreshing formula, meaning you don’t need to touch it up. It also claims to have a technology that adapts to your skin so you get a glow that’s incredibly natural. All that while also being breathable and lightweight.
Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation
If there’s one thing Pat McGrath would do, it’s be extra. The name of this glowy foundation alone already makes you expect nothing but the best. Aside from giving the skin luminosity, it also claims to be moisturizing and — get this — helps fight wrinkle formation.
Have you tried any of these? What’s your go-to radiant foundation?
Cover photo by @shiseido