The beauty report: Lighter bases for spring

The lengthening evenings and gentler chill in the air are starting to suggest spring is on the way. The heavier foundations and deep hues that we associate with winter make-up are a lot of fun in November, but become rather tedious by February, when the yearning for lighter, fresher make-up sets in. Skin that has been battered by cold weather and hidden under a veil of foundation for months benefits from a lighter base which looks more like skin.

Luckily, the selection of lighter bases available at the moment is extensive, so your skin can breathe without losing the coverage you prefer.

IsaDora Nude Sensation Fluid Foundation

(€23.25), taking after bases like

, is light and feels breathable on the skin, though it does offer medium buildable coverage and works well on dry skin as well as oily for a matte finish.

Great skin with a matte finish is everywhere this season and a light base is often the best option for achieving it.

Conceal blemishes with a good concealer rather than using foundation for coverage. This covers areas that you would rather not display while allowing the best of your skin to show through.

Nars

All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation

(€44) is another base that plays into the matte skin trend. Rather than a flat matte finish, it leaves a very pleasantly radiant finish and offers oil absorption without heaviness.

There is a large shade range so there are options for all ethnicities and skin tones, which can be sadly lacking from many brands. It lasts well, though those with oilier skin will get on best with this.

With buildable coverage, this foundation will work hard for you without ever looking like a mask.

If your budget is not restricted, then

Chanel CC Cream

(€60.50, available from March 20th) is an excellent option. Though the double letter monikers are becoming tired, the formulation is what’s important. This light, corrective base is reassuringly thick in texture and surprisingly buildable.

It will conceal any minor flaws admirably, leave skin looking glowing and uniform, and protected by an SPF50.

Though the price doesn’t make this an option for everyone, this is the perfect everyday base for all skin types.

For those who prefer one multitasking product,

Nuxe

Crème Prodigieuse DD cream

(€21) has all the benefits of the Crème Prodigieuse skincare range with a tint for coverage. DD apparently means daily defence.

Again, I tend to ignore the tokenistic titles and look at the product itself. This is strongly scented, but if you don’t count that against it, it contains everything that oilier skin will need, though drier skins will need the extra help of a moisturiser or serum underneath.

The coverage is impressive for a light base, though the shade range is limited to just three colours. If you can find a shade match, a light base like this will reveal the best of your skin while saving you minutes in the morning.

lkennedy@irishtimes.com