By popular request I have a roundup review of some natural glowy bases that look like skin but better. Even though the full coverage matte finish base has been very much on trend, fresh looking skin is still very much in! I’m rounding up some of the new ones I’ve tested alongside favorites from NARS, Sunday Riley, Sisley, Make Up For Ever and Erborian. I’ve included a few glow primers and bases in this post that go along with a few of the brands I’ve mentioned. At the end I’ll do my best to give you the bottom line of what I recommend depending on your skin type and what you’re looking for. Face swatches of a few of the bases and also side-by-side arm swatches at the bottom of this post.
Sunday Riley
Up first is the Sunday Riley The Influencer Clean Long Wear Foundation ($42 for 1.08 oz/32 ml). This is a very natural looking foundation that looks like fresh skin. On me it blurs out all my pores, smooths the skin, looks fresh and radiant. There is a noticeable glow so I absolutely recommend setting with a powder. It lasts all day on me but it’s not transfer resistant – if you touch your face some will come off a little. I personally love this one. My match right now is 190, but I ordered 3 shades sight unseen in 180, 190 and 200.
Why I love this one: It blends in seamlessly into the skin, even on bare skin. I find it works best if I apply with a beautyblender sponge but fingers work as well. I took a quick look at the customer reviews at Sephora and it appears to be hit or miss. I feel like those who find it a miss either couldn’t find a good color match, are most likely using a moisturizer/primer that is not compatible with this formula or do not like the ingredients. It has silicones and dimethicone very high on the list. After wearing this for around 4 days I find that I really love the wear and look.
Below bare skin vs. Sunday Riley The Influencer Foundation 190 on the face. I don’t have any added concealer or powder with any of the face swatches. I did do my eyes and lips with Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quads Nude Dip + Cocoa Mirage Eye Shadow Quad, Benefit BADgirl BANG Mascara, Diorshow Brow Styler in Universal Brown, MAC Lip Pencil in Boldly Bare and MAC Lustre Lipstick in Patisserie.
Coverage is sheer to medium. I personally need to add concealer and powder for sure, but below you can see the base worn on it’s own to get a sense of how much I was able to build. It covers redness and also evens out the skin in a natural looking way. Two pumps cover my entire face.
Erborian
I’ve been playing around with Erborian Korean Skin products for several months now. I discovered the CC Creme and BB Creme back in December while in Miami. Over the years so many of you have asked for CC Creme and BB Creme recommendations and I never have any to give because I actually don’t like those formulas. I find them often too thick, too pink in undertone and tacky-feeling on my combination skin. The ones from Erborian are the first ones I’ve ever truly liked.
The Erborian CC Creme is a white colored cream that adjusts to match your skintone once you blend. It can be used as a color-correcting primer but I find I can use it on it’s own. I use the Regular Shade (there are only 2 at the moment). It gives the skin a fresh dewy glow and evens out the skin and adds brightness. It is hydrating but not thick or heavy.
The Erborian BB Creme in Dore is something they call having a baby skin effect. To me it does give the softness of baby skin but with an added glow. There are three shades with this and even though it does seem to have medium coverage the color is quite forgiving when you blend it out. I absolutely feel application with a good sponge is essential with this one, otherwise it can look blotchy or streaky. It’s not a high maintenance application product, but with any base I feel less is more. You can get an even application with a sponge, use a little then layer if you need more.
The Glow Creme is something I’ve been using on and off as a primer or a highlighter on top of bases. I like it a lot but it’s not 100% love because it has a pinkish undertone which I don’t always want. I feel this is best for dry skin, if you have oily skin this may make you look too shiny. The blurring effect is minimal, I find the glow adds radiance and combats dull/sallow looking skin.
The Pink Perfect Creme completely blew me away. I resisted as I do not like anything pink for my face as I’m olive/yellow/golden. This is a great blurring primer that smooths the skin with a semi matte finish. The pink adds a very subtle glow to the skin. It helps minimize my pores, but as you can see from the bare skin photo my pores are on the small side. It is very lightweight in finish.
All the Erborian products are scented, but it’s not overpowering and it did not irritate my skin.
On the face wearing the CC Creme which is just a tiny bit too dark for me right now. The BB Creme in Dore is a perfect match once blended out even though when swatched it looks pink/peach. Wearing the same eye and lip makeup as listed above. Both photos I just have the base on, no powder or concealer.
YSL, NARS and Make Up For Ever
Next are some other natural glowy bases that look like skin from YSL, NARS and Make Up For Ever. The YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow is a great radiant base for normal to dry skin. Although I’m more combination, this winter/spring we’ve had incredibly dry weather here so this has been perfect for me. I use Shade B40, you can see the full review + what it looks like on the face in this post here.
The NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint is the best natural base with a soft velvety matte tint. It doesn’t look overly matte, it’s what I want in a tinted moisturizer look but without the glow or dewy feel. I am often in between shades Groenland and St. Moritz, right now I’m St. Moritz exactly. Coverage is very natural looking like skin and easy to build. This is probably my favorite natural looking base for everyday.
The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer was one of my favorites when I lived in San Diego. There the climate is mild year round and this gives the skin beautiful coverage and hydration without looking shiny, heavy or sliding off. In South Florida this is too dewy for most of the year as we have humid climate. I still use this on and off. I’m in the same shades as the other lines and alternate between Groenland and St. Moritz.
I wanted to briefly mention that the Radiance Primer is excellent for NARS bases. I often think you should use the same brand of primer and foundation – they’re designed to work with the products they formulate within the line. The color of this one is soft and peachy which I love. It blends out to a clear finish but having that subtle radiance makes a difference on me.
Make Up For Ever has some great bases. Their Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation and Stick Foundation are holy grails in my book. I was really excited to try the new Ultra HD Perfector and found my best match was Shade 7. I like but don’t love this. It’s great for a fresh dewy look if you don’t need a lot of coverage or color. It definitely looks like my skin but better. I don’t love it because it’s a little too sheer and a little too hydrating for my taste. It does last on me without sliding off. I set with a powder to tone down the dew. I think it can work great as a first layer of base and then add a fuller coverage base on areas.
Sisley-Paris
Last but not least are some loves from Sisley. I’ve been so impressed with everything I’ve tried from the line. I wanted to mention three things. The Instant Eclat Instant Glow Primer is my favorite glow base out of all the ones I’ve ever tried. It comes with a hefty price tag but I bought this and find it’s 100% worth the splurge. I love that the color isn’t too pink or iridescent. It adds a very soft glow to the skin. I do find that the Charlotte Tilbury Brightening Youth Glow or Wonder Glow can do similar things, just with a different color or level of shimmer at a cheaper price. But the Sisley is the best.
The Double Tenseur is another popular primer. It smooths out the skin and helps foundation apply and adhere better to the face without feeling silicone-like, thick or heavy. I love that it’s clear so I don’t have to worry about my face changing color or looking too white. It looks like second skin and smooths the surface of your skin.
The Sisley Tinted Sunscreen Cream is one of the best tinted creams I’ve ever tried. It cost a small fortune but I was really happy with the purchase. The only downside is the shade selection is extremely limited. In the swatch you’ll see below Golden 2 looks light, but once I apply it, it will adjust to my skin tone without oxidizing. I know this sounds like a contradiction, but it warms up without darkening.
Swatches
Swatches of the bases I mentioned alongside a few others:
Swatches of the glow primers alongside some other options. Note that once you blend these most of the colors sheer out a lot on the skin. The Bobbi Brown Golden Glow Extra Balm reviewed here.
Final thoughts
That rounds up my Natural Bases That Look Like Skin But Better post! I hope this helped you in case you were wondering about some of the new launches. Finding one that works for you is going to depend on your skin tone, skin type and coverage needs.
- My favorite for a soft velvet matte finish: NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint
- My favorite new launch: tie between Sunday Riley The Influencer and YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow
- Sheerest and most dewy: Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Perfector
- Most hydrating fresh-faced feel: Erborian BB Creme
If you need more coverage products, you can read some of my other base reviews by clicking the Base Makeup tag. A few full coverage formulas I love include the Laura Mercier Flawless Fusion, Tom Ford Waterproof, NARS Natural Radiant (many reviewed here). My favorite setting powders in this post here.
You can find the products listed at retailers below:
- Erborian, Make Up For Ever, Sunday Riley The Influencer can be found at Sephora
- NARS is carried at NARS Cosmetics, Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta Beauty
- Sisley-Paris available at Sisley, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys New York
- YSL available at Sephora, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus
If you are shopping at Sephora, don’t forget to use your promo code:
- Rouge Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYROUGE
- VIB Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYVIB
- BI Members: receive 10% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYINSIDER
I’m doing one last giveaway this month. One person will receive one $100 eGift card to their choice of Nordstrom or Sephora. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older. To enter for a chance to win use the widget below.
Runs through Monday April 23, 2018 (edit, extending to 3:00 PM EST). I contact the winner via e-mail same day. Not sponsored or affiliated! Good luck!
Press samples featured include the Sisley Double Tenseur, Erborian BB Creme and CC Creme. All others purchased by me.
My primers favorite is the Porefessional Benefit because it minimized my pores of wonder.
The powders that I use the most are Primed & Porless from Too Faced.
My favorite places are Sephora and El Corte Inglés
– Fav bases are Laura Mercier’s Original Tinted Moisturizer and Urban Decay Naked HD Liquid Foundation. And I love the Hourglass Veil primer whether I am wearing either – love the extra SPF!
– Fav setting powder is also Laura Mercier’s translucent setting powder, and also their candlelight setting powder (which I started using after you did a review!!)
– Almost 100% shop for beauty at Sephora given their generous return policy. Helps for color matching especially since I have found that sales reps in store dont do much better at color matching me than I do by myself and store lighting doesnt always look right when you get into natural lighting.
1) top 3 favorite makeup bases: ren perfect canvas serum (silicone free and best primer ever to control oil!!!), dr jart tinted moisturizer, and dior airflash foundation
2) the new viseart setting powder is super finely milled and translucent i absolutely love it!
3) sephora is definitely my favorite place to shop for makeup.
thanks for the erborian cc and bb cream comparison! i think i’ll pickup the bb cream this weekend 🙂
Favorite makeup based:
1. Jouer luminosity moisture tint
2. Bate minerals complexion rescue
3. Eve lom powder foundation
Favorite setting powder:
Laura Mercier
Favorite shops
Sephora, Nordstrom
My 3 favourite bases are Chantecaille future skin, Chanel Les Beiges, and Laura Mercier Smooth Finish fluide which has been discontinued. My favourite setting powder is Chantecaille HD perfect powder. My favourite places to shop for makeup are Nordstrom or Sephora
1. Laura Mercier Radiant Primer
2. Dr. Jart Every Sun Day UV Sun Fluid
2. MAC Prep & Prime
1. Koh Gen Do Manifashi Natural Lighting Powder (only one I’ve really ever used)
1. Ulta…especially since they’ve been expanding to stock higher end brands
2. Nordstrom
3. Sephora
1) What are your top 3 favorite makeup bases? NARS sheer glow foundation. Dr Jart Cicapair ™ tigergrass color correcting cream. Laura Mercier primer.
2) Favorite setting powder? Laura Mercier.
3) What’s your favorite place to shop for makeup? Sephora!
Great roundup! I’ve never tried any of the bases you reviewed, but having been eyeing the Sisley Tinted Sunscreen Tint for awhile. It’s so expensive, but looks like it may be worth the splurge.
Really detailed and great post as usual! I love the Armani Power Fabric Foundation, Sisley Phyto Teint Eclat Foundation, and the YSL Encre de Peau Foundation depending on how much coverage I want and the season for skin shade
The Sunday Riley Influencer sounds perfect for everyday so I would love to try it! My favorite makeup bases are theBalm TimeBalm Primer, IT Cosmetics CC cream and Giorgio ArmaniLuminous Silk Foundation! My favorite setting powder is bareMineralsMineral Veil Setting Powder! I love to shop for makeup at Sephora!
I love the nars tinted moisturizer- but I do agree it is too dewy for humid climates! I read this post looking for other recommendations.
I think I’m going to try The Influencer now. I was hesitant because of the mixed reviews but I have liked a lot of the foundations you’ve reviewed positively!
Have you tried the viseart powder? It is amazing!
I’ve never been a fan of foundation but lately I’ve been checking some natural options out, so this blog came at the right time!
I have tried Nars Velvet Matte Skin tint and it is great for every day makeup! Works great for my combination skin and I love using it for summer 😊
I want so much to try Sunday Riley as well!!!
Thanks for this round up! I personally love the NARS Velvet Matte skin tint and find it a great tinted moisturizer for my oily, acne-prone skin. I also love the shades that NARS offers.
I haven’t tried any of the bases in this post but I’m really interested in trying the Sunday Riley one because I really like lighter, more natural looking foundations. I’m currently using the The Ordinary serum foundation but I think it might be time to switch it up!
I’m still torn on Sunday Riley. Did you think it helped with oil in the heat?
I love shopping at Sephora. I want to buy the whole store when I go in.😂 I’d really like to try the Sunday Riley and MUFE ones. They look right up my alley.
The light Sisley is pure love for the Savannah humidity & sun that feels like it wants to murder me!
So, 3? Sisley, Shiseido Powdery, and Colorescience
Finishing: La Mer
Shop: Bergdorf’s in person
Love the NARS, looking forward to trying the SR!
Great review! It’s getting to be time for me to pull out my sheer bases. I have the NARS Charlotte Gainsbourg one from last summer, and I like Lancome’s Cushion (not the Teint Idole one) for hot-weather wear. My third is Edward Bess’s Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector, which is perfect when I want a little more coverage. I usually use LM’s translucent powder, but am going to try the new Becca one you’re preparing to review. And I find that I’m shopping more at places like B-glowing and Bella Cuore (not affiliated), which have great products and great specials. I’ve been on a Kjaer Weis kick lately. What great cosmetics.
Favorite base: erborian cc, Givenchy photoperfection, dior cushion, Armani luminous, Tom Ford waterproof, by terry deangelis densillis.
Favorite powder: charlotte tilbury
Really really enjoy your thorough reviews and swatches. Still iffy about the Sunday riley since I’ve seen mixed reviews
Any chance you can do an olive foundation recommendation post?
3 base makeup faves – Paul & Joe Silky Smooth foundation (for a matte finish), RMK liquid foundation (for a light natural finish), and Jouer Essential High Coverage foundation (for a flawless finish). I just purchased the Givency Photo Perfexion online and hope this one works for me!
Favorite finishing powder – Chacott finishing powder in 763 & 764, Rouge Bunny Rouge Highlighting Powder in Goddess
Favorite shops – Nordstrom, Ulta, and Target (online purchases)
Thanks for another fab giveaway!
My top bases under makeup are: Eucerin with SPF 30. It does leave a white cast until rubbed in, but my makeup always looks good on top. I love Physicians Formula organic bb cream although I heard recently that it has a really bad ingredient in it. It smells like coconut and it is on the thicker side, but makes my skin look – oh so good. The white bottle with green lid one, because for some reason there are so many to pick from. Everything else I’ve tried makes me break out, gets weird under foundation or has an overwhelming scent. The older I get, the pickier I am on scents. They just get on my nerves throughout the day. I am still looking for my holy grail foundation. Makeup Forever loose powder doesnt add any additional color to my face like I feel the LM one does, but I rarely grab for it. I usually grab for Hourglass Luminous Light this time of the year. Last, but not least, I love shopping at Nordstrom, because the returns are effortless!
I enjoy shopping at Sephora or Ulta. They have the best choices for makeup in my town.
I wasn’t too crazy about the NARS skin tint and have heard mix reviews about Sunday Riley, so not sure if I’ll be picking that up. However, I’m really like IT Cosmetics cc cream at the moment!
https://covetedbeauty.blogspot.ca/
I really want to try the makeup forever ultra hd!
I’ve been really interested in Sunday Riley one and may pick up in the sale. I’ve been interested in the Erborian too, but the lack of shade selection scares me off. The IT cosmetic CC cream is my favorite. For a nice light coverage in the summer I also still really like the Jouer tinted moisturizer. Sephora and ULTA are my favorite places to shop for beauty.
As always an incredible assortment and display. You are amazing. The Sisley glow is most definitely on my list and I will most likely buy this one thanks to you. Worth the splurge I do hope! Love shopping at Nordstrom (like a second home) and Sephora of course! And I got the Sunday Riley. I love it. I know the reviews are very mixed but like you said you need to play with it a little. You have to remember its skin care and colour. So don’t load up beneath. As well, if you need a sunscreen make it a very thin one. But truly I have difficult skin. Pores…red marks here and there. But it get’s better the longer you wear it.
I tend to go for more full coverage bases. Right now, I’m back to the Estee Lauder one, but I also use Armani’s and YSL’s
I stopped by my local Sephora today and am trying the YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow. I love my Laura Mercier tinted spf moisturizer and am interested to see how this compares.
I typically need fuller coverage than these give. I’m still on the hunt for a perfect foundation. I love the longevity of Estee Lauder Double Wear but they don’t have a good color match for me. I also really like Lancome Renergie Lift if I want a glowy finish. My favorite BB cream is Dr. Jart in the gold tube. I’m not a big fan of setting powder but my favorite is Mac Mineralized Skin Finish. I think I prefer Ulta for makeup shopping although I have a big place in my heart for Sephora too.
Looking forward to trying the YSL! Thanks, as always, for such an amazing break down on these products!
Im’ also using Sisley Tinted Sunscreen Cream in Golden. If the weather is not too hot it is great but my combination skin it tends to be a bit oily. Nars Radiance Primer was way too dewy and I actually like Smooth and Protect primer better.
I’m glad you also like the Sunday Riley foundation! I was very surprised to see a lot of people hated it on Sephora. I guess I lucked out with my skincare products working well with the foundation. Even tho it has a lot of silicone in it I am not breaking out from it which is surprising on my sensitive skin. I tried the Erborian BB cream last month following the recommendation from the makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes. But I found the medium shade too orangy for me. The finish is really nice though. Maybe I’ll try the CC cream next time as a primer/daily sunscreen.
1) I am loving Estee Lauder’s Nude Fresh foundation, Tarte’s BB tinted treatment and Mecca’s range of primers!
2) At the moment, Tarte’s smooth operator Amazonian clay finishing powder has been great
3) My favourite place to shop for makeup is at Mecca (Aus)
I haven’t tried any of these, though the Nars Velvet Matte has been on my radar for some time now. My favourite bases are Guerlain Lingerie de Peau Natural Perfection, Nars All Day Luminous Weightless, and Laneige BB Cushion. My fave setting powder right now is Laura Mercier Candleglow Sheer Perfecting Powder. And I usually shop Sephora.
I have tried the Nars Velvet Matte – it is pretty good. I am really interested in Sunday Riley!
The NARS velvet matte didn’t work for me in terms of texture although coverage was good. I’m hoping there’s going to be something else I can try!
Thank you SO much for these thorough reviews — I’ve had the Sunday Riley + YSL bases on my list + glad to know you enjoyed them both!
YES! The YSL all in one glow (BD40) and Nars Pure radiant tinted moisturizer (St Moritz) are my absolute favorite right now. I’m currently testing the Lancôme skin feels good hydrating skin tint.
I just tried the Becca hydra-mist set &refresh powder and it’s sooo interesting. Really feels wet and refreshing on the skin. Perfect for hot days. I also just ordered the new loose setting powders from Marc Jacobs and Hourglass.
Hmm, I don’t have a top three foundations because I don’t have three great color matches that I also love. Most days I end up mixing. (That’s my main complaint still– I want brands to make paler colors, deeper colors, and have a better selection of undertones.) If I had a favorite brand for foundation though, it would be Armani. My favorite setting powder is Hourglass Ethereal Light and I shop for makeup at Sephora and Nordstrom.
My favorite is the NARS velvet matte skin tint. I love the coverage on that one for everyday too! 🙂 @tahrerk56
Thank you Sabrina! This is great!
The Sunday Riley one looks great. I’ll have to check it put in-person.
My favorite primer is Laura Mercier (I usually use the radiant one), though I also like the Becca backlight one. I really want to try the new Tatcha primer (especially after reading your review!).
I guess I use Guerlain meteorites as a setting powder. I don’t use any other powder.
I love both Nordstrom and Sephora, but I would probably pick Nordstrom if forced to choose (but please don’t make me choose).
So excited to see Sunday Riley venture back into the makeup game!
I LOVE the Nars radiant tinted moisturizer – it gives me the most natural coverage. I wish there was a shade slightly lighter than alaska but I can work with it. You look great in the Sunday Riley one, btw! Might see if I can try out a sample…
I love the Nars pure radiant tinted moisturizer. I use it everyday!
I absolutely love the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer! Having lived in the Bay Area, Paris, Vancouver and now Portland (never go to Portland it sucks btw) it’s perfect for the climate. I do want to try the NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint simply because I just love NARS bases so much and it gives me a mildly more matte option if that’s the look I’m going for.
I use the NARS pure radiant tinted moisturizer almost every day. I am not so sure about trying the velvet matte skin tint because of the alcohol which is very drying for me.
1) Armani Luminous Silk, It Cosmetics CC Cream and Mac Fix +
2) Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder
3) Sephora
The more “NO” foundation it looks like, the better!
I haven’t tried many of these, but I’m loving the Tom Ford traceless foundation stick lately.
I haven’t tried any of these, but I used to use the Korean Skin79 pink B.B. It was a great look, just didn’t stay put all day. My fav bases right now are Chantecaille Future Skin, Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet, and Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick. I haven’t found a primer I like yet, am still looking. My favorite setting powder is By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra Powder, also Guerlain meteorites. Bare Mineral Veil is an oldie but goodie.
I have been hunting down the new Sunday Riley foundation, I need to get my hands on it asap! It looks beautiful on your skin! 🙂
Erin || MakeErinOver
Currently loving the Hourglass Mineral Veil primer, Dior Skin Forever foundation and the Mac x Patrick Starrr setting powder. I still love buting make up from Sephora 🙂
I’ve been eyeing that Sunday Riley foundation. NARS bases are some of my favorites — I also love the Velvet Matte Skin Tint but my all-time-fave NARS foundation is Sheer Glow. I’ve tried a few of the Erborian CC creams but none ever worked for me. My favorite Korean BB/CCs are Dr. Jart Black Label Detox BB cream and Thank You Farmer Be Beautiful Natural BB Cream.
Great post Sabrina, I’ve been waiting on this! I sampled the Sunday Riley yesterday in shade 170 and it wore lovely all day. The shade match was good but I did find it very sheer. It’s a good weekend base for me but for work I prefer something with a bit more coverage and polish. I haven’t used the NARS tinted moisturizer in a long time and I just may revisit after your glowing review.
Happy Weekend!
Lisa
@LittleMama71
I have not tried any of these products. The NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint and their Radiance Primer would be something I would be interested in trying out. I enjoyed your reviews on all these products.
I just bought the sunday riley and ysl bases. I need a darker color in sunday riley but am loving the ysl!! very interested in the erborian products
Love all of these recommendations!!
– Emily
lamaisonblanc.blog
I’m interested in the Sunday Riley, and liked it when I was swatching it in store, but I really don’t wear anything except light coverage foundations these days!
I picked up the YSL one during the Sephora sale, and I love it! My skin is on the drier side and it provides enough hydration and literally feels skin. Sometimes at the end of the day I forget to remove it like regular foundation because it feels like nothing. I’m going to pick up another shade for the summer.
I really want to try that Sunday Riley Influencer. My favorite setting powder is Koh Gen Doh’s Face Powder in a Jar. The finish is exquisite!
Just tried the Sunday Riley foundation and so far, it’s amazing!
Really like your reviews, would like to see if I can find an option that will work for me.
This post is fabulous and so detailed! The Nars matte skin tint interests me and I like that their foundations seem to be scent free. I really prefer buying my makeup at Sephora because of their return policy.
I love love LOVE the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer!
I have a sample of the MUFE Ultra HD perfecter and I’m hoping I like it and it’s a match. The YSL was too yellow, too glittery and too scented for my taste. The Sunday Riley went on very full coverage and emphasized all my lines and pores even though I used the tiniest bit. Of the two NARS, I like but don’t really love the Sheer Radiant tint. The matte is just too dry looking on my skin. The one I loved the most was the NARS Charlotte Gainsbourg hydrating glow tint. But it didn’t have any SPF in it and of course it was limited edition.
I’m bookmarking this post for when I’m looking for a new base! This is so informative – thank you!
My favorite base of all time is the Maestro Glow from Armani – sheer to medium coverage, very glowy. Sadly it was discontinued 🙁 I also like It cosmetics CC cream and Hourglass Vanish Stick foundation.
I haven’t found a translucent powder that i love. I have very dry skin and it’s really tough to find one that doesn’t accentuate it. The one I like the most is from Chantecaille.
And my favorite place to shop is Sephora, Dermstore is a close second (for skincare).
My favorite bases right now are Josie Maran Daily Moisturizer (the tinted one with the white label), Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer and NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. So this post was interesting. I want to try the Sunday Riley and the YSL All-In-One. And maybe the Sisley, but only if it appeared in one of their monthly boxes first!
1) Burberry Fresh Glow Nude Radiance Base, Burberry BB Cream and Burberry Fresh Glow Gel Stick Foundation/Concealer
2) Burberry nude pressed powder
3) Nordstrom
I use and like the Nars Radiant. I would like to try the mat. I like that they have SPF.
I have not tried any of these bases but I have the YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow on my radar.
I have been eyeing the Erborian CC Cream on and off for some time now, though now I may have to try the Pink Perfect Creme!
I love the hourglass mineral veil primer, chanel les beiges cushion foundation but they don’t seem to sell them anymore, and GA luminous silk! I don’t have a favorite setting powder, I kinda just set it with whatever I have in front of me. However, I am looking to try ByTerry’s hyaluronic powder once I run out of my setting powders…I love to shop at Beautylish, SpaceNK and Sephora for makeup!
I haven’t heard of any of these bases, but I’m really excited to go out and purchase the Sunday Riley one. It looks to be exactly what I’m looking for.
i just started using the Erborian CC cream and am loving it. Those Sisley primers look gorgeous- def need to look into those 🤗
I like to use primer and then put on foundation. Right now I use Smashbox primer and Fenty Beauty foundation. I top that with a setting powder. I don’t wear full makeup everyday usually a bare face and lipstick.
This is my favorite category of base! So excited to see your round-up as I love trying all the new MSBB formulas. I always seem to return to my YSL Top Secrets All in One BB Creme though. I swear the product got less luminous when the tube went from white to black (although YSL swears it didn’t) but I still find it the easiest and most flattering product to use. I always get compliments on my “great skin” when I wear it.
Unfortunately I haven’t tried any of these bases 🙁 Would love to try Sunday Riley foundation.
My top 3 all time favorite makeup bases are Lancome Visionnaire, Bourjois Healthy Mix foundation and Huda beauty Faux Filter foundation. 🙂
My favourite setting powder is definitely Clinique Loose powder.
And the best place in the world for shopping makeup is Sephora (and Cult Beauty for online shopping) <3
i’ve been really interested in that sunday riley tinted moisturizer! Right now i’m trying the lancome skin feels good foundation. Not sure how i’m feeling about it just yet
I really want to try the new Sunday Riley influencer foundation – still debating, but I should get it while I have the 15% discount at Sephora. Reviews look pretty mediocre, but your review has renewed my desire. 🙂
Wow, the Sunday Riley look so natural. I’ve always loved the Sisley tinted sunscreen but I do wish that they have more color options
I am not a big foundation person but think I need more coverage so I bought the Sunday Riley one, the Makeup For Ever one and Fresh Freshface Instant Glow Luminizer in Sunset. I’m using up Diorskin Nude BB cream now. I bought the Tatcha Silk Canvas primer but for me I’m just meh about it.
I have and love both the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer and Velvet Matte Skin Tint. I also use the same shades as you – St. Moritz.
I really want to try the new SR foundation — will have to see if it’s available to swatch at my local Sephora!
I love the Erborian creams! I’ve been using the Maybelline FitMe powder to set my face, its really good!
The only one I have tried so far is the Nars Velvet Matte. I like it, but it is too matte for me most of the year – it works in the summer when it’s humid and I am a little more warm-toned. I have a sample of the Erborian Glow Skin and I can’t wait to try it now! I’m super interested in the Sunday Riley bases too.
I’ve never outgrown my oily skin so glowy bases never work for me. I just purchased the Erborian BB Cream in Dore and it will be my summer shade. I set it with Laura Mercier translucent powder.
From another blogger, I just discovered Shiseido WASO color-smart day moisturizer. I purchased the oil-free version and it is a lovely matte, color adjusting shade. It goes on white and within 12 minutes, a color develops. It does not need a powder to set. I’m tempted to purchase the original formula (not oil free) to see what the finish will be.
I personally have dry skin and live in a dry climate so I love the Koh Gen Do primers, luminizers and foundations for my needs.. Bergdorf Goodman just started carrying Korean makeup diva Jung Saem Mool’s signature line. I tried the matte powder and mascara. Wow-these are a galaxy away from anything in my experience high or low end. Ultra refined finishes, high performance. Hope they will carry the entire line soon although the JSM website now offers world-wide shipping. Has anyone else tried her line?
I have really dry skin and based on your review, I think the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is now on my must try list. I’m currently using Bobbi Brown’s intensive skin serum and find that it might be mildly irritating my skin. | http://www.leticiallesmin.com
My favorite setting powder is the Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder!
I’ve tried the Sunday Riley foundation and in all honesty, it doesn’t blow me away because for a matte foundation, a lot of my oil still peeks through by the end of the day. However, I’m a sucker for packaging and a sucker for Sunday Riley so I’ll be keeping it!
I have been wanting to try the Sunday Riley foundation since I heard about it. Now I really have to get it!
I just ordered the Erborian BB & CC cremes! I can’t wait to try them 😃
Love the Sunday Riley one!
I am interested in the Sunday Riley foundation. Though the lack of shades and reviews are putting me off. Your review has piqued my interest. I might get it with my 15% Sephora discount. Still contemplating!!
That Sunday Riley foundation is on my radar. I’ve been leaning more towards natural products. I just hope they have my shade.
I tried the BB cream from Erborian. I found it good, but I simply do not like the feel of any base products, I think (also, I think it has octinoxate, which is something I generally try to avoid) .
I feel like my bare skin looks better with no foundation on, I just wish I found something to make even out my skin tone. I recently bought a tinted sunscreen and moisturiser that I think is promising, though. 🙂
I have been looking for a base and have sampled the new YSL one, the make up forever one you reviewed and now I am itching to try the Sunday Riley. But I may just end up getting the Armani power fabric as a foundation since I just ordered a waso tinted moisturizer after watching the you tube channel of Caroline (forgot her last name). She is a make up artist from the UK
I was reading about the new Sunday Riley foundation elsewhere and would definitely love to try it based on your swatches. I’m good with my $7 maybelline fit-me for now though lol
I just got the Sunday Riley and I’m trying it out right now!
My personal favorite has always been the Laura Mercier oil free tinted moisturizer. I received a sample of the makeup forever but it was too dark. Your skin looks great in all of them.
I love Chanel Glowing foundation, its very light and from the post I’ve only tried NARS Pure Radiant.
I have the NARS tinted moisturizer, and I like it, but don’t love it. I tried a sample of the YSL All in one glow, but it felt very watery and virtually disappeared on my skin (almost zero coverage). Now I want to try the Sunday Riley. It looked so beautiful and natural on you!
I have tried Erborian CC Cream, Bars tinted moisturizer and Ysl All in one Glow and I am loving this last one! On my radar is the Nars velvet skin because I want something a little more matte for everyday use, I will also would like to try the Laura Mercier flawless fusion 😉
I’m a big fan of the Nars. I love the way it feels and the protection it gives.
I am so curious to try the Influencer! I tested it on my hand at Sephora and the texture was so nice! I’ve tested the NARS Tinted Moisturizer in the past also and it’s great stuff!
Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
I am loving the Erborian B.B cream!!! I have never heard of this brand before but I must admit, amongst all the products swatched today, that cream looks flawless..
my fav setting powder is Guerlain meteriotes or the urban decay mattifying powder. Favorite makeup destination has got to be Sephora and Nordstrom.
Right now I’m loving GA luminous skin foundation, another favorite is Chanel Les Beige and looove Chantacaille tinted moisturizer. For setting powder my go to is Laura Mercuer, but right now I’m tempted to try Charlotte Tilbury setting powder as well as Too Faced peach setting powder. My favorite place to shop for makeup is Nordstrom, service is more personalized.
I have the erborian cc which I love I had the ysl on my radar which I purchased … after receiving your help. 🙂 I tried it today and absolutely loved it!! As always…. you nailed it! Thank you!
I haven’t tried any of these bases but just received a sample of the new Chanel tinted moisturizers which I am eager to try. My favorite store to purchase beauty products is Nordstrom even though the closest one just closed.
Tanja
I use the NARS pure radiant tinted moisturizer, but I just moved to Austin TX and need something matte. Definitely will be looking into the velvet matte skin tint!
I love the Erborian CC Creme. This post is super timely – thanks for posting such an extensive roundup!
Edited because I misread the amount of product in the tube!
I’m interested in trying out the NARS velvet matte tint. Sometimes I don’t want a lot of coverage, but BB and CC creams always seem to look greasy on me.
I need to try that B.B. cream. I usually use the It Cosmetics CC or full on foundation but I’m hoping my skin improves enough to not wear more than concealer under my eyes.
I do not usually wear shear type bases because of all the red in my skin but I really like the look of the Nars velvet matte skin tint. I just may have to give this one a try.
I tried the Sisley Tinted Sunscreen and YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One but both are not transfer proof.
I am really interested in trying the MUFE Ultra HD Perfector! Also:
1) What are your top 3 favorite makeup bases? Can be foundation, tinted moisturizer, primers etc.
RMS Beauty Un-Cover Up, Missha Signature Essence Cushion, and looking for a higher coverage option.
2) Favorite setting powder?
I don’t use one.
3) What’s your favorite place to shop for makeup?
Sephora, Nordstrom, Detox Market, Integrity Botanicals
Still dying to try out the Tom Ford foundation… I’m definitely more into full coverage foundation and MUFE Mat Velvet didn’t have a good shade match for me (though I loved the formula, and I’m not crazy about Estee Lauder double wear for some reason. The search continues!
oh! I neeeeed Sisley Double Tenseur! It is my dream primer! I have never tried it before, but all bloggers raving about it 😉 Hope it will worth the price
I’m very interested in the new Sunday Riley-I have her breathable primer which is fantastic
Im very interested in the NARS Matte Skin Tint since I’m currently using the regular version but could use a little more mattiffying formula. 🙂
1. I haven’t tried any of these bases – for years now I’ve stuck with Double Wear (I mix it with moisturizer to keep it from being too matte). The no slip coverage is a God send.
2. I really like the Glossier Wowder
3. Nordstrom is my favorite hunting ground for new products. The reps at the makeup counters are always knowledgeable and I’ve never felt like there was high pressure to make a sale – if a product is good, it will sell itself and I think the beauty department there is aware of this. Plus, they’re always super generous with the samples. The last time I was at the Chanel counter, the rep could not have been more pleasant. I not only left with the items I purchased, but with a bag of samples as well (sample eye makeup brushes, makeup remover, moisturizer, and other trial skincare packets). Always blown away by their customer service.
Thank you! These are all incredible recommendations. I am always very wary of buying foundations and bases sight unseen due to the color matching issue. I really like your recommendations on some of the above noted products that adjust to your skintone.
Hurriya
http://www.hurryupmakeup.com
My favorite is the nars one. It has been a staple in my connection for a long time! Of course the Laura Mercier translucent seeing powder is HG!
I’d love it if you could review the Lancome Skin Feels Good foundation please.
I love Charlotte Tilbury light wonder foundation for everyday and Dior Star foundation for a night out. MAC’s face & body is another I still grab…probably more out of habit, so many great foundation formulas on the market right now!
Love the Sunday Riley foundations!
(1)My favorite makeup bases are (1)Kryolan TV Paint Stick,(2)Kryolan HD Micro Primer and (3)Tinted Moisturizer of Kryolan.
(2)My Favorite setting powder is MAC Set Powder.
(3)My favorite place to shop for makeup is Sephora.
Currently loving the MUFE HD perfector you mentioned! It feels so light, but has a medium/natural coverage to it! I did get a sample of the Erborian BB cream but I think the color was just a little bit off for my skin tone.
My favorite setting powder is the charlotte tilbury one! Super finely milled!
I think the Sunday Riley one looks best on you! Really want to try the NARS Velvet Matte as skin tints or light BB creams are usually what I gravitate towards.
I’d love to try the new Sunday Riley, it looks so fresh and natural!
I’ve tried the Nars, but I just didn’t love it. It looks nice on the skin, but it’s not compatible with my skincare, I think, and since I don’t use primers, it’s trickier for me to find a good foundation that works with all my skincare. I’ve also swatched Erborian in stores, and the colours did not match at all! Waaaay too work for me!
NARS Radiant tinted moisturizer in Alaska matches pretty well, but breaks me out. I interested in the Eborian CC and B.B. creams, but would need to swatch in person as I won’t wear something that doesn’t match.
That Sunday Riley finish looks gorgeous! I’ve been stuck on the Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder foundation myself.
Thank you Sabrina! My top 3 are Koh Gen Do Aqua (although I haven’t tried the recently reformulated version), Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint, and Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder – all light/medium with a glow!
I love Laura Mercier illuminating tinted moisturizer, Erborian products, YSL TE all in one glow, Sunday Riley Influencer..I honestly wear these with nothing else. My favorite powders are GA Luminous silk, La Mer and Charlotte Tilbury airbrush flawless finish. I enjoy shopping at Sephora and Nordstrom. I’m loving that skin is in!
I haven’t tried any yet, but I’m very curious about the Sunday Riley foundation.
I really like Too Faced’s Hangover Rx Primer and Becca Backlight Priming Filter for some glow. Hourglass Vanish Stick has been working well for me and I prefer to travel with sticks v liquid foundations! A close drugstore, non-travel favorite second for foundation is Maybelline Dream Cushion!
I have recently fallen in love with NARS tinted moisturizer. Most days I prefer something light and easy for foundation and the NARS has been perfect. I love Armani Luminous Silk when I am feeling the need for more coverage.
Sabrina!!! Why does Sephora only have 3 shades for the NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint?! Is it being discontinued??
Hey there,
I love your blog!
Finding a good, well organised and entertaining blog is very difficult these days.
Keep up an amazing job and have a great week <3
-Daria
https://dariaed.com/in-collaboration-with-eline-rosina/
https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/daria-edu-19010657
1) Hourglass foundation stick, marc jacobs dew drops, and Peach Perfect foundation
2) Peach Perfect setting powder
3. Sephora!
Love some and got some good recs to try! Thank you… as always 🙂
thank you for this thorough review! I have been intrigued by the Sunday Riley products but, like you, haven’t found them in store yet. Of the ones you review here, you may have pushed me to try the Sisley tinted sunscreen as an all-in-one, just to see what it’s like, but given the price point I may stick with the Nars Velvet Matte.
I love the Velvet Matte Skin Tint by NARS as well. It’s such a great every day product with a very natural finish. Just fantastic! <3
E || OH LA LATKES