Is it just me, or is finding the perfect foundation really tricky? Even as a beauty editor, I have always struggled to find a foundation that ticks all the boxes. Some are too heavy, some are too light, some cling to dry patches and some look a little too glowy for my liking. I was about to give up on my search, until one day I came across a serum foundation, and now I’ve never looked back.
If you’re yet to try a serum foundation, let me introduce you to the base product that made me fall in love with makeup all over again. As the name suggests, these products work just like a normal foundation while providing many of the skincare benefits that a serum can give. If your complexion is in need of a little boost this summer, then I highly recommend giving one a go.
Below, I’ve rounded up my favourite serum foundations for you to try. I’ve even enlisted the help of an expert to answer all of your pressing questions on serum foundations so that you know exactly what to expect from this clever hybrid product. Keep on scrolling to discover your best skin yet…
What Is A Serum Foundation?
First things first, what actually is a serum foundation? As described by Emma Tillman, global pro makeup artist at Estee Lauder, “a serum foundation combines the coverage of a foundation with the benefits of a serum.”
Tillman tells me that not only will you get the coverage you desire, but these foundations can also help to improve the skin’s appearance and give a smoother, more hydrated finish. “Serum foundations often offer sheer to medium coverage, so they look natural on the skin, as opposed to a heavier full coverage foundation,” she explains. “Most liquid foundations give great coverage, but do not care for the skin like a serum foundation would.”
Are Serum Foundations Suitable For All Skin Types?
As someone with dry skin, I knew that a serum foundation would be a great choice thanks to the hydrating formula. However, I was keen to know whether these foundations would work for all skin types. “Serum foundations can be used on all skin types,” Tillman tells me. “However, skin that is dryer or skin that lacks radiance or hydration will love these foundations as they will sit much smoother on the skin.”
How To Apply A Serum Foundation
So, how can you apply a serum foundation in order to get the best results? “The great thing with a serum foundation is that they are super easy to apply, as the skincare ingredients help them to melt into the skin,” explains Tillman.
“I often like to use my fingers to smooth them into the skin (just make sure that your hands are freshly washed!) Alternatively, I find a foundation brush works well and can offer a little more coverage. I like to avoid a sponge with these foundations as they can absorb some of the serum and we don’t want to lose the goodness!”
Now that you know everything there is to know about a serum foundation, check out my edit of some of the best formulas on the market.
The Best Serum Foundations To Shop Now
A small selection of foundations that junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, tested for this roundup.
1. Estee Lauder Futurist SkinTint Serum Foundation
Estee Lauder
Futurist SkinTint Serum Foundation SPF 20
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 29
Finish: Naturally radiant
SPF: 20
First up is Estee Lauder’s Futurist SkinTint serum foundation. The skincare-infused formula contains a botanical oil infusion to help nourish the complexion. It says on the website that it offers light coverage, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much it managed to even out my skin tone. It blended like a dream (top tip: a little goes a long way) and I definitely noticed that my skin had a naturally radiant finish that remained throughout the day. All in all, this is a great introduction into the world of serum foundations.
2. L’Oréal Paris True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum
L’Oréal Paris
True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 10
Finish: Dewy
SPF: N/A
If you’re looking for an affordable option, you can’t go wrong with L’Oréal’s Nude Plumping Tinted Serum. This sheer formula contains hyaluronic acid, a hero skincare ingredient for those of you with dry skin. Not only that, but thanks to the hydrating formula it will leave you with a “lit-from-within” glow.
3. Rose Inc Skin Enhance Luminous Tinted Serum
Rose Inc
Skin Enhance Luminous Tinted Serum
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 14
Finish: Glowy
SPF: N/A
The first serum foundation that I ever fell in love with. Say hello to the Rose Inc Skin Enhance Luminous Tinted Serum. More of a tinted moisturiser than a foundation, this product doesn’t offer a lot of coverage, but when paired with concealer, it leaves you with the most incredible glow. My skin always feels amazing whenever I wear this, and it’s one of my most-complimented beauty products to date.
4. Ilia Beauty Super Serum Skin Tint
Ilia Beauty
Super Serum Skin Tint Spf 30
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 30
Finish: Dewy
SPF: 30
If you like a really glowy finish, I highly recommend trying Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint. With squalene, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, this serum has a whole host of skincare benefits and will give your complexion a serious boost.
5. Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation
Clinique
Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation SPF20
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 42
Finish: Satin matte
SPF: 20
If you prefer a satin matte finish, then Clinique’s Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation might be the one for you. Offering 24-hours of full coverage, the formula contains vitamin C, salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid. Impressive, right?
6. M.A.C Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation
MAC
Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 56
Finish: Radiant
SPF: N/A
With hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, jojoba oil and olive oil, Mac’s serum foundation is perfect for those of you who suffer with dry skin. This is an especially great option as the coverage is completely buildable, meaning you can tailor it to suit you.
7. By Terry Brightening CC Foundation
By Terry
Brightening CC Foundation
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 24
Finish: Glowy
SPF: N/A
New from By Terry (a brand known for its skincare-infused makeup), this serum foundation is just as good as you would expect. The lightweight formula delivers a glowy finish that looks like your skin, but better. Enriched with niacinamide, aloe vera, Japanese rose extract and more, your complexion will thank you.
8. Bobbi Brown Intensive Serum Foundation
Bobbi Brown
Intensive Serum Foundation SPF40
Formula: Serum
Number of shades: 23
Finish: Luminous
SPF: 40
Bobbi Brown knows how to do base products, and this serum foundation is infused with 25 skincare ingredients (yes, really), including hyaluronic acid, to add a luminous finish to the skin.