Beauty real talk: no-makeup makeup is probably the best and most practical look to rock during #peaksummer. But ironically, the no-makeup look is one of the hardest looks to pull-off, especially during the warmest months of the year. It’s a universal truth that not everyone wakes up with supermodel-worthy skin, and for some of us, the thought of wearing full-coverage foundation in the scorching heat is just as uncomfortable as not wearing any foundation at all. So we’ve rounded up the best lightweight foundations with sheer to full coverage to help you perfect the no-makeup look not just for the summer, but all year-round.
NARS founder and creative director Frané§ois Nars is famous for his rule-breaking approach to makeup application. Although this tinted moisturizer sits on the pricey side, we say use your fingertips to apply for the most natural finish. Trust us, the serum-like feel and consistency of the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer ($55) calls for effortless blending.
This hydrating tinted moisturizer from celeb makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury is dubbed “summer-in-a-bottle” for good reason: encapsulated natural tan pigments magically morph to your skin tone to deliver the most natural, sun-kissed complexion. It’s your skin, but better, darlings. Unisex Healthy Glow Hydrating Tint, $50
We totally get it: sheer coverage doesn’t work for everyone. That’s why we love NYX Total Control Drop Foundation ($16), a liquid foundation that lets you customize your coverage level (from sheer to full) depending on how many fluid drops you use. Blend the foundation with a damp makeup sponge for a velvety, smooth finish.
The key to nailing the no-makeup look is hydrated skin. This super lightweight foundation is formulated with hyaluronic acid, an ingredient best known for moisturizing, to cover imperfections and deliver a smooth and youthful-looking canvas. The lightweight yet creamy formula offers medium buildable coverage. Beauty Counter Tint Skin Hydrating Foundation ($51)
The bareMinerals complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream ($37) comes in 16 unique shades”(a bit of a rarity for tinted moisturizers)”so you’re sure to find your perfect shade. The formula is packed with skin-loving minerals, marine botanicals and antioxidants to help improve and hydrate the skin. Along with radiant, sheer-to-medium coverage, it provides the benefits of a BB cream, CC cream, SPF and primer in one product. One and done.
