Walking into Sephora with the intention of finding the “perfect” foundation feels like a journey into the makeup Hunger Games. There are rows upon rows of shiny bottles, sleek compacts, and fancy droppers all promising to make your skin look like porcelain perfection.
But, the real question here is, how often do we get it right on the first try?
Armed with determination (and a questionable budget), I decided to put eight popular Sephora foundations to the test. Some were promising miracles, others were cult favourites, and a few… well, let’s just say they’re now exiled to my “maybe on a bad skin day” drawer.
NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
The Claim: Radiance that lasts all day.
The Reality: I’ll give it to NARS. This one delivers on glow without crossing into oil-slick territory. It’s like the perfect Instagram filter in a bottle. But beware: if you’re team dry skin, you’ll need a good moisturiser underneath or risk a flaky surprise around noon.
Rating: 8/10. It’s gorgeous but a bit high-maintenance, like that friend who insists on brunch at places with $17 avocado toast.
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation
The Claim: Soft matte, buildable coverage.
The Reality: Rihanna, girl, you did it again. This one’s a crowd-pleaser for a reason—it’s matte without being flat, and it doesn’t budge even during my midday sweat session (hello, office AC drama). However, if your skin leans Sahara Desert, it might cling to dry patches. Hydrate first, and you’ll be golden.
Rating: 9/10. She’s reliable, but don’t forget to prep your canvas.
ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation
The Claim: Skincare and makeup in one.
The Reality: ILIA really leaned into the whole "clean beauty" vibe with this one. It’s lightweight, dewy, and makes you feel like a glowy goddess, perfect for days when you want your skin to shine (but in a good way). The added skincare ingredients are a nice touch, though it’s not the most long-lasting option if you’re planning on a full day out.
Rating: 8/10. Glowy and good for your skin, but keep a setting spray handy.
Too Faced Born This Way Foundation
The Claim: Undetectable, natural finish.
The Reality: If “no-makeup makeup” were a foundation, this would be it. It blends seamlessly, even on my “I forgot to exfoliate” days. Bonus points for the hydrating formula that didn’t betray me even in cold weather.
Rating: 9/10. It’s giving “I woke up like this” vibes, but in a believable way.
Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
The Claim: Silk-like radiance.
The Reality: Silk? Yes. Affordable? No. This is the rich-aunt foundation you break out when you want to feel extra fancy. The finish is undeniably gorgeous, but the price tag stings every time.
Rating: 8/10. Luxurious, but my wallet cried a little.
Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Luminous Matte Foundation
The Claim: Full coverage with a natural finish.
The Reality: Full coverage? Check. But natural? Let’s not kid ourselves. This is the “I need my skin to look flawless for 12+ hours” foundation. It’s a lifesaver for special events, but for daily wear, it’s like showing up to a picnic in a ballgown.
Rating: 7/10. Powerful but not for the faint of heart (or light makeup days).
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
The Claim: Flawless, poreless skin
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The Reality: This foundation came for my pores, and let’s just say it won. It’s full coverage but doesn’t feel heavy, which is basically the dream. However, it does oxidise slightly, so watch your shade match unless you’re into surprise oompa-loompa vibes.
Rating: 8/10. Great coverage, but maybe keep a lighter powder handy.
Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation
The Claim: Lightweight and breathable.
The Reality: Selena Gomez wasn’t playing when she named it weightless. It feels like you’re wearing nothing but offers solid medium coverage. My only gripe? The doe-foot applicator can feel a little unsanitary if you’re not careful.
Rating: 8.5/10. Perfect for those “no-makeup makeup” days.
Final Thoughts
Testing eight foundations in one week taught me a few things: (1) My skin is more high-maintenance than I thought, (2) hydrating primers are the secret weapon everyone needs, and (3) Sephora employees deserve a medal for helping me navigate the endless world of shade matching.
If I had to crown a winner, Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r takes the cake for versatility and staying power. But for those special occasions, Armani Luminous Silk makes you feel like a million bucks (and costs about that much too).
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to let my skin breathe and return to its regularly scheduled programming of tinted moisturisers. What about you, do you have a go-to foundation that survived your own Sephora trials?
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