Fashion

On Beauty: Five foundations put to the test

Which will give poor winter-ravaged skin the brightest glow?

Photograph: Thinkstock

Aisling McDermott
Wed Jan 28 2015 - 06:00

I was in research mode this week, testing out five foundations over five days to see which gave my poor winter-ravaged skin the brightest glow. Here’s how I got on:

DAY 1

Estée Lauder Perfectionist Youth Infusing Make-up (€46) 

My car was in the garage and I was running late, so my make-up went on in the taxi on the way to work. Even this hasty and slapdash application resulted in a finish that was flawless, looked lustrous and reflected light. It lasted well all day, felt as hydrating as a moisturiser and just needed a touch up around my nose later in the afternoon. The verdict: light to medium coverage that looks polished and expensive and disguises the look of lines, but it is not suitable for bad skin days.

DAY 2

Max Factor Skin Luminizer (€15.99)

The coverage of this base is heavier than I normally like, but it covered everything and I didn't need any concealer with it. There was a slightly tacky feel and it had settled into fine lines by the end of the day. To up the glow factor, mix it with a brightening CC cream. The verdict: If you like full coverage and have oily or combination skin, this might be the one for you.

DAY 3

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum (€12.99)

A lot of people find the serum version of the original Healthy Mix too greasy: for me it is perfect. Dry skin will soak up this gel base and you can just use powder over it if you feel shiny as the day wears on. The coverage is good and can be built up. The verdict: avoid if you have oily skin as it will slide off, but it works well for dry and mature skin.

READ MORE

DAY 4

Clarins Skin Illusion (€31)

The ultimate tell that a product is a winner is being asked by people in admiring tones, “What foundation/eyeliner/mascara are you wearing?” Clarins Skin Illusion (left) got complimented so much that I must declare it the clear winner of this test. It provides smooth, creamy coverage and plenty of radiance. The verdict: Clarins makes great foundations for dry and mature skin. This is my favourite.

DAY 5

Sisley Phyto Teint Expert (€95) 

The quality of this foundation is noticeable straight away; it blends evenly and stays fresh-looking for the entire day. The liquid to powder formula also manages to magically fill in pores and make my far-from-perfect skin look smooth and even. It provides medium to full coverage that does not feel heavy or dry, but it is quite matte. The verdict: come hail, rain or snow this will not budge, and, as it is oil-free, it is ideal for normal, combination and oily skin.

Twitter @aismcdermott

beauty@irishtimes.com

AISLING’S PICKS OF THE WEEK

Ké

rastase Chronologiste Essential Revitalising Balm

(€41): In radiator season, hair can become seriously dehydrated, so put some moisture back in with a luxury hair mask.

Dermalogica Redness Relief Primer (€48): Although it looks scarily green, this cream blends perfectly into skin and provides a calming base to neutralise redness.

YSL Blush Volupté (€40): Does anyone do colour quite like YSL? Joyful and juicy, these blushers will wake up any winter pallor.

Nivea Q10 Plus Anti-Wrinkle Serum Pearls (€14.99): Little bubbles filled with Nivea' s best-selling Q10 ingredient are suspended in a hyaluronic acid gel base. Just make sure to rub it in well, as undissolved bits of bubbles stuck to your face can be annoying.

AISLING’S LOVES . . .

Origins Plantscription Youth-renewing face oil (€48): Put manners on dry skin with this lightweight blend of oils. Suitable for use both morning and night.