Breaking Down the Different Types of Foundation

Maybe you woke up this morning and thought, ‘Today’s the day I’m going to try a new type of foundation!’ This sounds like a simple enough task, but then you log onto Adore Beauty and stop short. There are so many foundations to choose from, with variables including finish, coverage, and colour, and much more.

While there might be a lot to choose from, all types of foundation serve individual needs.

We’re going to break down the different types of foundations for you right here today!

We’ll cover all the different types of foundations and their uses to make finding your new HG super-simple.

Liquid Foundation

What it is: When people think of foundation, their first thought is probably of liquid foundation.

This type of foundation tends to offer the most variety across skin type, finish preference, and coverage.

Liquid foundations consist of pigments suspended in a base of water, silicone, or oil.

This formulation allows the pigments to glide effortlessly over the skin.

Who it’s for: Because liquid foundations are some of the most versatile of all types of foundation, they’re great for everyone!

Just make sure you double-check that the formula you pick is suitable for your skin type.

Current fave: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Makeup is a cult-favourite liquid foundation for a reason!

Available in 60 shades, this full-coverage, matte formula suits all skin types.

Stay-in-Place boasts an impressive wear time and won’t crack, fade, or settle into lines throughout the day.

BB & CC Creams

What it is: When it comes to different types of foundations and their uses, BB and CC creams sit in a unique position.

They offer the coverage of liquid foundations *plus* skincare benefits and often SPF.

These multifunctional formulas can replace multiple steps in your morning beauty routine, making them ideal for someone who has a busier lifestyle.

Who it’s for: The inclusion of hydrating and anti-ageing ingredients makes BB and CC creams generally suited to drier skin.

Current fave: IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream SPF50 is an award-winning CC cream.

With peptides, collagen, and vitamin B3 (all hard-hitting anti-ageing actives), SPF 50+, and a natural, full-coverage finish, this formula is the ultimate all-in-one makeup.

Powder Foundation

What it is: Powder foundation is a mixture of crushed pigments and minerals that are then pressed into a pan.

The weightless formula can be swept over or buffed into the skin to leave a velvet finish.

Powder foundations are the unsung heroes of the different types of foundation; they offer completely weightless coverage that feels comfortable on the skin all day.

Who it’s for: Because powder foundations lack the emollients and oils of other types of foundations, they’re perfect for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types.

Current fave: M.A.C Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation is a top choice for oily skin.

The long-wearing formula lets you build coverage from sheer to full while never looking cakey.

This powder foundation gives the ultimate airbrushed appearance while keeping your skin matte all day long.

Mineral Foundation

What it is: If you prefer a natural type of foundation, mineral foundation is your answer.

The most common minerals in mineral makeup are mica, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides. These minerals are finely milled into the formulas that end up on your vanity.

Mineral foundations, compared with different types of foundations, generally have few ingredients and need to be buffed into the skin using a dense brush.

Who it’s for: While many different types of foundation makeup work for sensitive skin, mineral foundations are generally the most recommended by dermatologists and dermal therapists.

Due to the short ingredients lists and gentle formulas, mineral makeup won’t further inflame redness and rosacea.

Current fave: Inika Loose Mineral Foundation evens out even the most sensitive of complexions and feels feather-light on the skin as well.

Antioxidants are included to help soothe sensitive skin.

Cream Foundation

What it is: Cream foundation is a type of foundation that consists of pigments in an emollient (read: moisturising) base.

The resulting formula glides onto the skin and leaves behind a flawless, dewy finish.

Due to the way it’s formulated, cream makeup tends to pack a punch in terms of coverage but can be applied sparsely to give a sheerer finish.

Who it’s for: Highly moisturising cream foundations are recommended for dry skin types that crave extra emollience from oils.

Current fave: Napoleon Perdis Foundation Stick is a nourishing, hypoallergenic formula that offers incredibly versatile coverage.

The base of beeswax and soybean oil is one even the driest of skins will appreciate!

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of foundations, watch Meagan break them down even further in her highly helpful video on How to Pick the Right Foundation!

Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.



Looking for more guides on foundation? Check these out.....

• A Makeup Artist Showed Me Exactly How to Stop Foundation Looking Patchy, Cakey & Dry

• Foundation for Oily Skin: Exactly How I Get a Flawless, Dewy Finish That Lasts All Night

• The 10 Best Foundations for a Dewy Glow

• We've Picked Out Our 6 Best Liquid Mineral Foundation Formulas That Won't Disappoint