L’Oréal
Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation US $13; AED/SAR 48 www.lorealparisusa.com Coverage: High Finish: Matte Skin Types: Oily When I get around to washing my makeup off at night, this foundation is still as fresh as it was early morning. Upon application, the formula glides on perfectly for a matte finish that doesn’t move all day. This oil-free formula will save you frequent trips to the ladies room by acting like a blotting paper, and absorbing excess sweat and oil throughout the day. One of the main issues I face with finding a good foundation is that it’s almost impossible to find a product that is oil-free and matches my skin tone; this foundation comes in an array of different shades, so no matter your undertone, you should be able to find one that suits your skin.
Chanel
Vitalumière Aqua Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Makeup SPF 15 US $50; AED/SAR 186 www.nordstrom.com Coverage: Low Finish: Sheer Matte Skin Types: Oily, Combination This foundation played a pivotal role in clearing up my skin. After using dozens of creams, treatments, and other acne products, I saw no results. A friend suggested that I change my foundation (I was using an extreme coverage Kat Von D foundation at the time to cover my acne) and recommended this product. After only a month, the difference was substantial; my skin had cleared up significantly and my breakouts were less frequent. With this foundation, the finish is very natural and you’ll feel like you’re not wearing anything on your face. The coverage is quite low, so I recommend applying concealer to all blemishes and problem spots afterwards. Those with sensitive skin should avoid this product as it contains fragrances that can irritate the skin.
Gucci
Gucci Face Lustrous Glow Foundation US $65; AED/SAR 239 www.beauty.gucci.com Coverage: Buildable Finish: Radiant Skin Types: All This formula is ideal for those who want a dewy, radiant complexion instead of a matte finish. The packaging of the foundation is picturesque; it comes in a beautiful glass bottle with a pump dispenser and an embossed cap stamped with the signature double G logo in gold. Despite the gorgeous packaging, I was hesitant to try it at first since the ingredients include oil; however, the formula contains a blend of powders that kept my face from feeling greasy. I wore it with the Gucci Luminous Perfecting Concealer(US $65; AED/SAR 238) and the Gucci Luxe Finishing Powder (US $56; AED/SAR 205) for coverage with a flawless finish.
bareMinerals
bareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 20 US $29; AED/SAR 106 www.bareescentuals.com Coverage: Buildable Finish: Matte Skin Types: All As a girl who doesn’t like to cake my face, this 3-in-1 product works perfectly for me. A foundation, a brightening serum, and an SPF in one, this formula manages to stay lightweight, leaving me with a no-makeup feel. It is suitable for those with oily and sensitive skin since it is formulated without any oils, parabens, silicone, or fragrance. Its brightening properties are also a major plus point. Although my acne is long gone, I still have a few dark spots left and this foundation treats and conceals my discoloration simultaneously.
Caudalie
Vinoperfect Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 US $49; AED/SAR 180 www.caudalie.com Coverage: High Finish: Natural Matte Skin Types: All Although this product is not a foundation per se, it rivals some of the best foundations that I have tried (and I’ve tried a lot). Not only is this tinted moisturizer oil-free, but it also provides maximum coverage as well as treatment of dark spots, acne scars, redness, and other imperfections. A year ago, I would have never dared to leave my house with only a tinted moisturizer on my face, but this product has become a part of my everyday makeup routine. It is ideal for those with acne-prone skin who are looking for a moisturizer that doesn’t cause breakouts.
Anyone with oily skin can relate to the shiny glare that appears by midday on the face, immediate breakouts after using a product with the slightest hint of oil, and constantly running to the powder room for a makeup touch-up. “Matte” and “oil-free” are the key words to look for when choosing a foundation that won’t leave you looking like an oil slick this summer. Here are five feather-light formulas that will glide on without clogging your pores.
—Khaoula Ghanem
