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.
Choosing a High-Coverage Foundation for Your Skin Type
Use your skin type as your guide to choosing the perfect high-coverage foundation.
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Dry Skin Types
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Dry Skin Types
Dry skin often thrives on
thick, moisturising foundations, offering fuller coverage and better concealing.
locks in place for all-day wear without the drying, patchy look of many full-coverage foundations that came before. The long-lasting, soft-matte finish wears comfortably on all skin types.
Another option is
Pixi Beauty Balm. This skin-loving
foundation is enriched with
Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid to help skin retain moisture for longer and look and feel plumper and firmer. Adenosine and Chamomile Extract help soothe and nourish sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Combination Skin Types
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Combination Skin Types
Combination skin types require a foundation that isn't too dewy or matte, that controls oil and still hydrates.
covers imperfections while retaining your own fresh, bright glow. This rich, high-coverage BB cream is packed with skin-saving ingredients. Grapefruit Extract is rich in vitamins and antioxidants to minimise hormonal breakouts. Apple Fruit Extract soothes and hydrates. And Tamarind Extract features naturally occurring Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) to help eliminate dead skin cells and improve overall skin texture.
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Oily Skin Types
Full Coverage Foundations for Sensitive Acne Prone, Oily Skin Types
delivers sheer, flawless coverage with SPF 15 protection and a beautiful, luminous finish. Sweep across your T-zone and any other shiny areas during the day. The Hyaluronic Acid Microspheres prevent this light powder from appearing chalky or visibly powdery on the skin, attracting and holding moisture to provide an even, nourished finish. Additionally, Zinc and Titanium Dioxide provide UVA/UVB protection as they calm the skin, boosting skin’s barrier function and minimising irritation and inflammation.
Mineral foundation is a great choice for oily skin, offering buildable coverage that you control. Mineral formulas contain fewer skin-irritating ingredients, and
powders help control oil.
Pressed powder is your best friend if you have
oily skin. Simply apply a dusting during the course of your day to absorb oil and reduce shine.
Full Coverage Foundations for Skin Allergies
Full Coverage Foundations for Skin Allergies
If you have skin allergies, you need to know the specific products and ingredients that trigger allergic reactions. Foundations with fewer ingredients can reduce the risk of a reaction. Try a
hypoallergenic organic foundation, such as
. This true foundation–moisturiser hybrid is packed full of protective antioxidants, skin-brightening vitamins, minerals, and moisture-boosting Hyaluronic Acid.
Alternatives to High-Coverage Foundation
The hunt for the perfect full coverage foundation is tough enough. But when your skin breaks out with every new product, finding the right formula can feel downright impossible.
So, if you don't want to waste time and money testing out various brands, consider amplifying the effects of a
lightweight foundation or low- or medium-coverage foundation with the following strategies:
Achieve an Even Complexion with a Great Makeup Primer
Achieve an Even Complexion with a Great Makeup Primer
Applying a
great makeup primer before you apply your foundation is great way to even out your complexion. Green hues
counteract the redness of acne and rashes.
corrects discolouration with a soothing formula that protects the skin's barrier layer.
is another great, multi-purpose option. This complexion perfecting treatment works as a perfect base for applying makeup or wear it on it own for gorgeous finish.
You can also invest in a highly pigmented
concealer. Layering foundation and concealer is a common approach to evening out skin tone. Your
foundation works on your overall complexion, whereas
concealer is concentrated to address particular areas of concern such as a breakout or discolouration under the eyes. For more info on how to apply your foundation check out this guide and get some tips by the experts from M.A.C on
how to build coverage with your makeup.
You may also want to check out these guides for more great product recommendations and beauty tips:
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