Foundation is, well, the foundation of any makeup look—it can turn your complexion into a smooth, even canvas so you can put your best face forward with confidence. Makeup shelves are brimming with seemingly endless options, so choosing the best foundation for you and your skin type can feel daunting. We all have different needs when it comes to foundation—not only is it crucial to find your perfect foundation shade, but your unique skin type and skin tone can dictate which foundation is your best match. Plus, the final look you want to achieve (fresh, “clean girl” vibes, versus full glam) will be a big deciding factor in your selection.
It’s e.l.f.ing important to understand the different levels of foundation coverage, but don’t sweat it, we’re here to help you choose the best makeup product to meet your needs.
What are the Different Types of Foundation Coverage?
There are three main types of foundation coverage:
Each foundation coverage level has its own purpose and allows you to create different makeup looks, as well as can come in a variety of formulas—including liquid foundation, powder foundation, cream foundation, and more! Many foundations offer buildable formulas (especially the light and medium coverage foundations), which allow you to layer during application and create your desired makeup look.
If You're Looking for a Buildable Makeup Finish, Try a Light Coverage Foundation
Want to create the minimal “no makeup” makeup look? Reach for a light coverage foundation—they are breathable, lightweight, and deliver a sheer tint of color to your skin for a more natural, glowy finish. Light coverage foundations are the most skin-like and they’re usually buildable, making them perfect for blurring minor blemishes and redness while still letting your natural complexion shine through (we see those freckles!).
e.l.f. Cosmetic’s light coverage foundations:
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If you’re looking for a hydrating skin tint then our Halo Glow Skin Tint SPF 50 is your new go-to foundation! This lightweight skin tint not only delivers buildable coverage with a dewy finish, but also contains mineral SPF to help keep your skin protected.
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Our Halo Glow Powder Filter is a light, buildable pressed powder that helps to blur the look of pores and reduce excess oil for a soft-focus glow. Use this powder as a foundation on it’s own, or pair with our Halo Glow Liquid Filter for the ultimate airbrushed makeup look.
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Your skin but better: our Halo Glow Liquid Filter enhances the overall look of your skin and delivers a soft-focus, effortless radiance. This multi-purpose liquid glow booster can be used four different ways : wear it alone as a sheer coverage foundation; over or under makeup; mix it with your favorite foundation; or use it as highlighter.
If You're Looking for a Natural Makeup Finish, Try a Medium Coverage Foundation
For the days you want a little more than a sheer coverage, but aren’t going full-beat, medium coverage foundation is just right. It delivers more pigment with a slightly thicker formula than light coverage foundation but without feeling heavy or looking cakey. Medium coverage foundation gives you “just right”, buildable coverage that evens out the look of your complexion and is perfect for everyday wear.
e.l.f. Cosmetic’s medium coverage foundation:
- Our Soft Glam Satin Foundation is a hydrating liquid foundation that delivers that perfect medium, buildable coverage with a long-lasting, satin finish. No cakiness here—the breathable formula feels as good as it looks!
If You're Looking for a Full-Glam Makeup Look, Try a Full Coverage Foundation
Full coverage foundations are packed with the most pigment, making them your best choice if you’re going for a full-glam, long-lasting look. Thanks to their thick formulas and more opaque finishes that have literally got you covered, full coverage foundations are also great for concealing blemishes, readiness, discoloration and even sometimes tattoos.
e.l.f. Cosmetic’s full coverage foundation:
How Do I Know Which Foundation Coverage is Best for Me?
When it comes to choosing a foundation and a level of coverage, there isn’t a right or wrong answer. The best foundation for you really depends on what type of skin you have, how you want the foundation to feel on your skin, and your desired final makeup look.
Also, don’t feel like you need to pigeon hole yourself into just one of these coverage options—different occasions can call for different formulas! For example, you may want to use lighter coverage foundation as your everyday go-to, and opt for a full-coverage formula when you’re getting glammed up at night.
If you’re not sure where to begin, consider starting with a lighter coverage, buildable foundation like our Halo Glow Liquid Filter , which will allow you to create a more sheer look from the get-go, then build-up more coverage if you want to. The more product you apply, the more full-coverage your look will be.
Pro tip: The tools you use to apply your foundation may impact how thick the formula applies on your skin, as well as the coverage level. Try switching between a foundation brush and makeup sponge to see which application method gives you the desired look and feel you’re after.