High-coverage foundations can turn even the most uneven skin into smooth perfection. But heavy makeup often comes with a hefty price. Thick formulas can clog pores, and the mattifying ingredients common to many high-coverage foundations may irritate sensitive skin.
This doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to a foundation that doesn't get the job done. A number of high-coverage formulas work well for all combinations of skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone skin. The key is choosing a formula that's right for your complexion.
High-Coverage Foundation: Why Skin Type Matters
If you’ve had skin reactions to makeup in the past, we recommend investigating why your skin is sensitive, so you can try to prevent any future flare-ups.
Some skin reactions—including those that lead to acne—are due to allergies, so consider asking a doctor or dermatologist if you need to avoid specific ingredients. If you have allergies, allergen-free foundations might be all that's necessary for skin perfection.
If your skin is dry, that dryness is probably the primary source of your sensitivity. Your skin simply lacks sufficient moisture and oils to protect it from environmental irritants. Consistent moisturising and a foundation that doesn't sap your skin of moisture can help.
Combination skin occurs when different amounts of oils are being produced in different areas. The results are an oily or shiny appearance on the T-zone, visible pores, acne breakouts, and occasionally dry cheeks. To create a flawless base, you need to use a versatile base that hydrates and can fight the T-zone oil.
Lastly, we have our oily-skinned gals, who can get a shiny appearance all over their face. Oily skin might seem like a curse, but it's actually a sign that your skin is secreting healthy levels of protective sebum. Over time, excess sebum reduces your risk of sensitive skin, dry patches, and other skin issues. One recent study even suggests that oily skin might be less prone to wrinkles.
