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By Sophie Joaman • April 6, 2023 • 11 mins read
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When it comes to finding the perfect foundation for you, it can often be tricky. After all, there is an abundance of options available. No, actually, there are an overwhelming number of them out there! Obviously, when buying a foundation, you want to get it right at the very beginning. Otherwise, you run the risk of wasting good money on a product that does nothing for you.
Luckily, at Ntrl Look, we’ve tried and tested all types of foundations so you don’t have to. And for this article, we’re going all out for water-based foundations. So much so, we’ve got 15 of the best to make your life even easier. But what is a water-based foundation, and who, in particular, is it best for?
Water-based foundations are a type of foundation that contains water as its main ingredient. While this is usually in replacement of oils, many water-based foundations do still contain oil. Just not as the primary ingredient contains oil. Just not as the primary ingredient. If, however, you do have oily skin, there are plenty of water-based foundations that don’t contain any oils.
Due to their water-based formula, this particular type of foundation is usually lightweight on the skin, hydrating, and complements the skin with a satin finish or sheer to medium coverage. It’s quite easy to see exactly why they have become so popular in recent years, then. Particularly with people who want a flawless finish that leaves their skin looking and feeling lighter compared to high-coverage options like a matte foundation.
The good news is that water-based foundations are also good for nearly every skin type. For dry and dehydrated skin, water-based formulas leave the skin with a hydrated and replenished glow. For oily and combination skin types, on the other hand, the gentle, skin-friendly water formula helps to combat oiliness and shine from ruining your face makeup. Using a water-based primer before applying a water-based foundation can also enhance the overall look and longevity of your makeup.
This type of foundation is also a lot less likely to clog pores, which, if you’re acne-prone, is going to be much more caring for your skin than oil-based formulas and allow your skin to breathe. While you may have decided that a water-based foundation checks all of the boxes for you, there are still a lot of options out there. So with that in mind, which water-based foundations are actually worth investing in?
The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Foundation is a cult classic among beauty enthusiasts for good reason. The silicone-based water-based formula is completely oil-free and perfect if you need your foundation to control excess oil and shine. Water-based foundations are ideal for those looking to maintain a fresh and breathable feel throughout the day.
It also provides up to 24 hours of long-lasting wear, but still manages to provide that natural dewy finish. Great if you are looking for a product that isn’t heavy or cakey on the skin, but can be built upon for stronger coverage. The buildable coverage also makes it the picture-perfect choice for brides who want to look radiantly photogenic in front of the camera. If you love a satin finish foundation, this one is a must-try.
Consider your skin type when selecting this foundation, as it works exceptionally well for oily to combination skin types.
Yes, you can get a matte water-based foundation, and the Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation certainly meets the brief. It blurs pores, keeps the shine at bay, and all at a purse-friendly price!
If you have oily or combination skin, this drugstore favourite is a surefire winner. The formula contains micro-powders to help your skin look naturally flawless and keep your makeup in place for longer. So if you are someone who needs a matte finish but wants a lightweight feel from your makeup, then look no further than the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation.
Who doesn’t want their skin to look and feel like silk? If you are searching high and low for a liquid foundation that does just that, then trust us when we say that the Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is the one you are looking for. The oil-free liquid contains Micro-Fil technology, which helps to brighten the appearance of the skin and give you that air-brushed finish.
Glycerine is also used within the formula to keep the skin looking and feeling hydrated all day so that your skin looks and feels happier. The lightweight formula of this foundation also allows you to build up coverage, making it a fantastic full-coverage foundation when layered. It’s a great choice to take you from day to night, especially when paired with a primer or foundation for smooth and long-lasting makeup application.
MAC’s Studio Fix Fluid Foundation is another classic that is adored by professional makeup artists and enthusiasts alike. The water-based formula offers excellent medium to full coverage while keeping the skin looking flawless and healthy. Because it is oil-free and non-comedogenic, it is perfect for all skin types, including those with skin sensitivities. It also provides a matte finish for up to 24 hours and does not budge, slip, fade, streak, or cake. Pair it with your favourite concealer for a truly polished look.
Charlotte Tilbury always puts a lot of indulgence into their products, so their Airbrush Flawless Foundation is sure to make you feel red carpet ready. Infused with innovative Anti-Ageing Replexium to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, anti-pollution defence, hydrating Magic MossCellTec and Refreshing AirCool, your skin is always taken care of when you wear this foundation.
If you are someone who has skin problems, then you can rest assured that the Airbrush Flawless Foundation will be gentle on your skin and give you your most desired flawless look to date. This silicone-based formula offers excellent oil control while delivering a finish that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, making it a great option for everyday wear or special occasions.
L’Oreal Paris has mastered budget-friendly and innovative foundations. That’s why their True Match Foundation is a real favourite with makeup lovers everywhere. As the perfect day-to-day and night-to-night foundation, this formula is infused with hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated. Ideal if you suffer from dry or dehydrated skin.
Likewise, it’s true-to-skin light-to-medium coverage can also be built up for your preferred results, but always feels lightweight and breathable, so you can go about your life without that irritating feeling that your skin feels heavy on the skin. Whether you prefer water-based or silicone-based options, this base makeup works wonderfully for creating a flawless and natural finish, especially for mature skin or those seeking a versatile sheer foundation.
Serum foundations are the best in-between skincare and makeup products and are perfect if you are looking for something ultra-natural. The Ilia Super Skin Serum Tint does just that. It gives you that light, natural finish and keeps your skin protected from free radicals, UV rays and pollution, while simultaneously helping to reduce the appearance of dry and uneven skin.
This lightweight skin option is a fantastic choice of foundation for anyone who likes to wear makeup daily while still prioritising skincare benefits. If you’re seeking a product that offers the perfect blend of makeup and care, this skin tint is a must-try.
Combining makeup and skincare is one of the best things to happen in makeup in a long time, and comes from people wanting good for their skin at all times, as we all should. The It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare is another water-based foundation that is enriched with goodness such as hyaluronic acid, Vitamins E & B5 and Aloe Vera extract to care and help improve the skin.
So not only are you getting a flawless finish complete with blurred pores when wearing the foundation, but it is also working to create longer-term care, such as evening the skin tone and refining skin texture. Absolutely perfect for those with dry skin.
The Iconic London Radiance Complexion Booster Foundation is designed to give the most radiant, dreamy finish. Infused with light-reflecting pigments, imperfections and pores are blurred and the natural beauty of the skin is enhanced. The formula is also enriched with nourishing vitamin C, E , as well as Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extracts to soothe the skin and keep it looking healthy.
The Cover FNARS Sheer Glow Foundation is perfect if you’re looking for a foundation that creates beautifully luminous coverage with that coveted healthy, radiant finish. This cult-favorite formula features light-reflecting particles and buildable pigments that effortlessly provide sheer to medium coverage, giving you that perfect natural glow without looking shiny or overdone. The lightweight, buildable texture delivers unparalleled skin-like results that enhance your natural radiance while evening out your complexion.
What makes this foundation exceptional is how it delivers that perfect “your skin but better” effect within your day-to-day makeup routine – creating natural luminosity that looks effortlessly healthy. Perfect for anyone wanting glowing, fresh-faced coverage, this long-wearing formula adapts to your skin’s needs while providing beautiful, even coverage. The radiant finish enhances those areas that need it most while maintaining a natural, dewy look that appears naturally perfected. Great for achieving that lit-from-within glow that makes your skin look healthy, youthful, and naturally radiant all day long.
Can’t stop. Won’t stop. Don’t ever want to stop with this NYX foundation. This water-based makeup is full coverage. So yes, you can get a full-coverage foundation that also feels lightweight on the skin and stays firmly in place for up to 24 hours. It also doesn’t transfer, smudge, or budge from your face. or budge from your face. It stays colour-true so that your complexion always looks perfect, with little need for touch-ups.
If you have oily or combination skin but want a dewiness to your foundation, then the Makeup Forever HD foundation offers a semi-matte finish that controls shine but leaves a radiant glow. The Micro-skin system works with your skin to correct any imperfections and give you a smooth base for the rest of your makeup. Life is better in HD, and you’re bound to feel your best with this foundation.
Enriched with coconut water to hydrate the skin, alpine rose to brighten and hyaluronic acid, the Too Faced Born This Way Foundation looks and feels like luxury on the skin. Your skin will look smooth and just like skin. Excellent, if you are looking for natural results. Want a bolder style? You can easily build and blend coverage for those special occasions.
Surratt Dew Drop Foundation is perfect if you’re looking for a foundation that creates beautifully dewy coverage with that luxurious, fresh-faced glow. This innovative formula features hydrating ingredients and light-reflecting technology that effortlessly provides buildable coverage, giving you that perfect luminous finish without looking greasy or overdone. The lightweight, skin-loving texture delivers unparalleled radiance that mimics natural, healthy skin while providing seamless coverage.
YSL always deliver with their beauty products, and their Touche Eclat Foundation is a testament to that. This water-based formula offers up to 24-hour breathable wear, so if you are someone who is prone to breakouts, you can rest assured that your skin will stay looking and feeling healthy. The foundation also contains SPF 22, so you’ll always be protected against harmful UV rays.
Water-based foundations are amazing for all skin types and have a plethora of benefits that will not only make you look your best but will make you feel your best too.
Whether you’re looking for a matte, semi-matte or dewy finish, water-based foundations have something for everyone. There is also the perfect water-based foundation for each and every person. Perhaps yours is on this list. Whichever one you choose, you are on your way to dreamy skin.
