Though I’m not an advocate of wearing a heavy base every day – I prefer a light foundation with what you might call a “loadbearing concealer” (some days it’s the only thing holding up your entire head – see new mothers, mornings after and general bad patches in skin and life). Occasionally, though, for fun, a change or what feels like necessity, I’ll switch it up and opt for the heavy stuff.
There are the Double Wears and the Dermablends of the world to turn to, and both are excellent. But if you’re in the market for something with a finish that looks more authentically like skin when applied generously, look no further.
Mac Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterpoof Foundation (€36.50)
This is mannequin skin in a tube. Rather than the drying feel of traditional long-wear bases, this has a dewy, smoothing finish that doesn’t settle into skin. I find it is best applied with a damp sponge.
Tom Ford Waterproof Foundation (€77)
If you can get over the price, you will have yourself a sumptuous foundation for flawless skin. It lasts beautifully, doesn’t move, but also doesn’t sit awkwardly or look like you’ve applied a lot. A little goes a long way – I like this best buffed in furiously with a fluffy brush.
Kat Von D Lock-It Liquid Foundation (€34.50)
Oilier skins will love this foundation, which sets in a veil over the skin. I’ve known it to settle a little in dryer patches, so moisturise thoroughly. However, the coverage is perfection and the shade range vast and inclusive.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation (€40)
It seems impossible to wear this foundation without someone complimenting your skin. The coverage is high and the texture lovely. Again, moisturise well as it can sit in dry patches. I like this best when applied with a buffing brush.
Chanel Le Teint Ultra Tenue Ultrawear Flawless Foundation (€50)
I have used this foundation on more than one bride, and it is incomparable. A soft, semi-matte finish without a hint of dullness, it just looks like perfect skin and photographs dreamily.
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation and Concealer (€34)
Not for the faint of heart, this is basically a very large bottle of excellent concealer. Tap it in with fingers for a total coverage, or buff it for a high coverage foundation effect.
Max Factor Face Finity All Day Flawless 3 in 1 Foundation (€16.99)
Best for younger skin, this has a lasting matte finish and serious coverage. It has convenient oil-absorbing properties, and makes for an ideal evening foundation.
The Ordinary The Coverage Foundation SPF15 (£5.90 from theordinary.com)
This foundation, being so affordable and absolutely excellent, has taken the beauty industry by storm. It can be difficult to get hold of due to high demand, but you can keep up to date on The Ordinary’s website. It is highly pigmented and applies beautifully.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Stick Foundation (€39)
The big guns. Or rather the big stick. This squat little foundation provides flawless coverage and a satin finish. Perfect for all but very oily skins.
