Why Serum-Like Foundations Are the Next Big Thing
If you think creating a new foundation isn’t exactly rocket science, you’re right: It’s actually advanced chemical engineering. When a bunch of cosmetic chemists began tinkering with formulas to find one that evened out the skin entirely and felt truly weightless, they steered clear of the usual mixture of powder pigments and water-based emulsions, going instead with oil- and silicone-based emulsions. Their eureka moment was figuring out how to make the oils evaporate so only an ultrafine layer of color remains on the skin. The new formulas are as thin as skim milk and loaded with pigment, and they “leave the velvetiest, most even finish on your skin,” says makeup artist Troy Surratt. But you’ll have to forget everything you know about liquid foundation—these feats of beauty engineering come with their own set of rules.
By Jenna Rosenstein
LUMINIZING
Dior Diorskin Nude Air Serum
This formula strikes the perfect balance between matte and dewy, with light reflectors that add a gentle glow.
MATTE
Maybelline New York Dream Wonder Fluid-Touch Foundation
Whisper-light and supersheer, it dries to a powdery finish but doesn’t leave skin tight—all for under 11 bucks.
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SEMIMATTE
Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup
This is the foundation that started the trend. The coverage is buildable, and the semimatte finish allows just a hint of skin to peek through.
HYDRATING
Chanel Perfection Lumière Velvet
More like cream than milk, the emollients in this formula leave skin feeling soft and mute all signs of redness.
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OIL-FREE
Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluide
The pigments are suspended in water instead of oil (it still has silicones, though). Once it dries, the finish is matte, but you’ll need to add powder for long wear.
MINERAL
BareMinerals BareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation
Mineral pigments are suspended in a substance called coconut alkane instead of oils, alcohol, silicones, or water, so it’s easy on sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Photos: Courtesy of brands
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