8 Foundations that Help You Nail the No-Makeup Makeup Look

By Erin Lukas
Feb 11, 2017 @ 12:00 pm
Antonello Trio/Getty

We hate to break it to you but the no-makeup makeup look is one of beauty’s biggest myths. Although the trick is look like you’re totally barefaced, in reality most of the time it takes a little bit of makeup so that you look like well, you’re actually going makeup-free.

Since a clear, radiant complexion is vital for tricking everyone into believing you have nothing on your face, using the right foundation is key. Whether you already are light-handed when it comes to applying products, or you crave full-coverage, we’ve rounded up the best foundations with finishes that look like actual skin.

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IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream With SPF 50+ 

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$38 It Cosmetics SHOP IT Opens a new window

On top of offering color-correcting coverage and anti-aging skincare in one, this tinted cream also packs protect from harmful UVA/UVB rays.

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Laura Mercier Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation

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$48 Laura Mercier SHOP IT Opens a new window

What's even, bright, and glowing? Your complexion after applying Laura Mercier's sheer-to-medium coverage foundation. 

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Giorgio Armani Beauty Power Fabric Longwear High Cover Foundation SPF 25 

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$64 Giorgio Armani SHOP IT Opens a new window

Matte foundation often gets a bad rep for looking cakey but if you crave a shine-free finish, consider picking up a bottle of Giorgio Armani's new foundation. Packed with ultra-fine pigments the formula hosts high coverage, but with a light, velvet texture. To sum it up: It won't settle into fine lines and wrinkles. 

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Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer 

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$48 Kevyn Aucoin SHOP IT Opens a new window

There's a reason this foundation has acheieved cult-favorite status. Along with offering up a veil of waterproof coverage, it also does double-duty as a moisturizer. 

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Urban Decay Naked Skin One & Done Hybrid Complexion Perfector 

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$34 Urban Decay SHOP IT Opens a new window

This sheer cream offers just enough pigment to cut redness and blur imperfections while letting your actual skin show through. 

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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint 

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$15 Neutrogena SHOP IT Opens a new window

When your complexion is red, flaky, and patchy from seasonal dryness, going foundation-free can be a touch sell. If you can check off all of the above to describe your current skin situation, reach for a bottle of Neutrogena's skin-quenching tint. Its hyaluronic acid base makes it an effective moisturizer in addition to creating a flawless base. 

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BareMinerals Prime Time BB Primer-Cream Daily Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 30 

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$27 bareMinerals SHOP IT Opens a new window

If you’re one to streamline your routine, look no further than this multitasking primer and BB cream. Along with evening skin tone and erasing imperfections, it also preps skin for whatever makeup comes next, guaranteeing that your blush, concealer, and highlighter stays in place all day.

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