Tried & Tested: 5 great foundations and one with a terrible application method

Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint €38

Don’t be fooled by the confusing ‘tint’ in the name and think this is a tinted moisturiser. Far from it. This is a good medium coverage foundation. On my dry skin it worked well and blended with all the various skincare I had on already. I found the coverage quite matte and think it would be best for oil to combo skin.

Clinique Chubby in the Nude

This foundation Chubby has created mass excitement. Honestly how great is this? A foundation that you can scribble on in a chunky twist up is the dream for lots of us. The stick is creamy, delivers good coverage and is perfect for touch ups on the go. A no brainer; lots of you are going to adore this.

Isa Dora Cushion Foundation €23.25

One of the worst Korean ideas, cushion foundation, has filtered down to the budget foundation realm. I am not a fan. A sponge soaked in foundation resides inside the compact. It looks manky, as though it houses a million types of bacteria. Skip the cushion and use the top up straight from the bottle as this is a decent base. It’s just the application method I have a problem with.

Stila Aqua Glow Serum Foundation €46.50

A nice light to medium coverage foundation that does impart a glowy sheen with its light reflecting particles. Importantly it wears very well and actually seems to look better as the day goes on. Just a couple of pointers: you will need to use a concealer with it. Also avoid silicone heavy moisturiser underneath as the combination causes the foundation to ball up. I found this out to my peril.

Giorgio Armani Maestro Glow Nourishing Fusion Makeup €46

A light fluid which covers beautifully and makes your skin look smooth and even. It seems to ‘lift’ your skin and definitely brightens with light to medium coverage. If you hate the feeling of foundation on your skin this is for you. The acid test for me; can I put it on in two minutes without patchiness, preferably in the back of a taxi? (I am always running late). The answer is a definite yes. This is a class act.

Aisling Loves . . . Diorskin Forever €50

Have I finally found my holy grail foundation? I think I might have. This foundation is a reformulation of the original and it was love at first pump. It lightens, brightens, and really does minimise the look of pores while appearing completely natural. It doesn’t drag or clump upon application and importantly for me goes on perfectly in two minutes flat. The finish is medium to full. Love it.