Mineral foundation is lightweight and easy on skin, and new advances allow it to come in more varieties and styles.
The foundation you use in the winter may not fare so well in the summer heat.
To avoid sweating off all your makeup the moment you leave the house, switch to a more lightweight formula for the warmer months. Our current favorites are the natural skin tints found in mineral foundations.
Free of talc, mineral oil, alcohol, preservatives and fragrances, mineral foundations are also a great option for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin. And thanks to new technology, mineral foundations now come in a variety of formulas (powder, liquid and cushion), all of which provide natural-looking coverage. Here are some of our favorites.
BareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($29 at bareminerals.com). Neither drying nor oily, this foundation offers buildable coverage with a radiant (not cakey) finish. And it’s comprised of just five ingredients.
Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20 ($40). Containing sea-water minerals, this loose powder supports the skin’s natural equilibrium, reducing the likelihood of irritation and breakouts.
Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation ($52 at janeiredale.com). Containing liquid minerals, aloe vera, lavender flower water and vegetable glycerin, this foundation is hydrating and surprisingly lightweight. It provides light to medium coverage and is not as buildable as other foundations on this list.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen SPF 30 ($57 at colorescience.com). What this powder lacks in coverage it makes up for in sun protection. It has a very sheer tint, so it’s a great option for those who want a light look with SPF.
Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation ($22 at lilylolo.us). This powder is so fine you’ll forget you’re wearing foundation — until you look in the mirror and see an even skin tone and a slightly dewy finish.
Cover FX Total Cover Cream Foundation ($42 at coverfx.com). This creamy foundation is extremely gentle on all skin types thanks to its mineral-oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gluten-free and talc-free formula. Apply a little for light coverage, or layer it on for full coverage. Either way, you will be left with a luminous (but not shiny) finish.