Although it’s important to wear SPF every day, having SPF in foundation formulas might not be the best. For one, SPF-infused foundations do not provide sufficient UV protection. It’s always ideal to apply a thick layer of sunscreen before foundation. Moreover, there are several reasons why you should or should not opt for a foundation without SPF.
So before you choose, let’s go through the pros and cons of having SPF in foundation formulas:
Pros and cons of SPF in foundation
Pros:
- Adds an extra layer of sun protection
- Easy way to reapply SPF throughout the day
Cons:
- The chemical sunscreen ingredients might cause acne and clogged pores
- Can create a white cast or flashback in flash photography
- Requires a large amount of product to provide enough sun protection (which is unfavourable for the skin)
If you find yourself breaking out after using SPF-infused foundations, it might be time to make the switch to SPF-free formulas. Here we have curated a list of foundations formulated without SPF for different skin types and needs.
If you still haven’t got your hands on the cult-status Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick, what are you waiting for? The highly raved foundation stick provides a high coverage finish that is long-wearing and waterproof. With a wide shade range, it can also be used as a spot concealer, cream contour or highlight.
Prefer having a natural foundation finish? Look no further than 3CE’s Glossing Waterful Foundation. The ultra-lightweight and breathable liquid foundation provides sheer to medium buildable coverage. It leaves your skin with a dewy finish for that healthy, lit-from-within glow.
Protect and cover your skin at the same time with Stila’s Hide & Chic Fluid Foundation. Formulated with plant collagen extract, Irish sea moss and baobab seed extract, this nourishing and hydrating foundation offers buildable coverage that is lightweight yet long-lasting.
With Dear Dahlia’s Skin Paradise Pure Moisture Cushion Foundation, one cushion compact is all you need to perfect the skin. Formulated with dahlia flower extract, the antioxidant-packed cushion foundation can deliver moisturizing and anti-aging benefits to your skin. It has a lightweight and buildable coverage with a dewy finish.
Full coverage, long-lasting and affordable, these words are what comes to mind when describing Maybelline’s Superstay Full Coverage Foundation. The drugstore foundation is highly concentrated in pigment, giving your skin a flawless finish that remains lightweight and breathable.
If you have dry skin, steer clear of matte foundations. Instead, opt for more hydrating formulas, like the Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation. It’s infused with vitamin C, B5 and E to deliver your skin with the antioxidants and moisture it needs. It also has a natural second-skin finish, making it perfect for everyday wear.
Cover up your flaws and dark secrets easily with the Re(marc)able Full Cover Foundation Concentrate. It’s formulated with the highest amount of pigments possible to deliver ultra-high coverage. A few drops of this oil-free, concentrated foundation is all you need to conceal imperfections.
Living in a hot and humid climate with oily skin can be a total nightmare, especially for makeup wearers. Luckily, Queen RiRi created the full coverage Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation to save oily-skinned folks. The oil-free, sweat- and humidity-resistant formula is what you need to have a flawless makeup day.
For that flawless matte skin finish, what you need is MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation. One compact is all you need for your base makeup. The long-lasting powder foundation gives buildable full coverage that will not cake, crease or fade. For a more natural finish, apply the powder with a brush instead.
Be it weddings, dinner events or night outs, the Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation is what you need to slay the night. Formulated with 3D polymer gel, lysine powder, hyaluronic acid and soft-focus pigments, this skin-blurring foundation offers a naturally flawless finish for all skin types.
If you spend a lot of time in an air-conditioned room, it’s likely your skin often feels dry and dehydrated. Keep your skin healthy and hydrated with Laneige’s Water Glow Gel Foundation. The gel formula contains 70% moisturizing properties and amino acids to give your skin a smooth and radiant finish.
Can’t seem to get your foundation to stay put? It’s time to switch over to Laura Mercier’s Flawless Fusion Ultra Longwear Foundation. The oil-free formula provides up to 15 hours of wear time that will not fade, smudge or crack. Despite having a matte finish, the formula is still moisturizing and comfortable to wear.