A light summer foundation is all well and good, but when autumn calls, it can be exciting to get back into heavier textures and more forgiving levels of coverage. Irish women have always had a love affair with heavier foundations, and the coming season has some spectacular options that will leave skin looking flawless. Ultimately, concealer is for coverage, while foundation is designed to even skin tone, so don’t forget the many beautiful lighter coverage options also out there this autumn/winter.
Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation (€34): If you prefer full coverage without the heavy, oily texture, this is for you. It sets on skin almost like a stain, and will cover blemishes. It lasts all day and comes in a brilliantly inclusive 24 shades. Just ensure you use an oil-based cleanser to remove every trace.
Rimmel Fresher Skin Foundation (€9.95): Teens usually gravitate irresistibly to heavy coverage, but it flattens young, glowing skin. If you want to buy your teen a "first foundation", this is it. Adequate coverage which evens skin without masking it and feels light and comfortable to wear.
Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick (€50 from Space NK): Twenty-six shades including shades of utter wonder. This foundation has the coverage of a concealer with the fluidity and blendability of a liquid and it doesn't look or feel cakey-on. I adore it.
La Mer Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation (€100 from October): I had high expectations of La Mer's foundation, and it hasn't disappointed. Softly glowing and comfortable to wear, it offers excellent staying power and looks the same after several hours of wear as it does when applied.
Tom Ford Waterproof Foundation/Concealer (€77): This is going to be the stuff of legend, and is a relatively sound investment because it works as both foundation and concealer. A little of this sheered out creates perfect skin. A small amount dabbed on a blemish will make it invisible.
MAC Studio Waterweight Foundation (€36.50): Studio Waterweight is one of MAC's lesser-known foundations, but it shouldn't be. Pliable, buildable and light on the skin, it is ideal for day or evening. Oily and combination skin will love it.
Sisley Sisleÿa le Teint Foundation (€121): This light but luxuriant base is a kindness to mature skin. Neither shiny enough to look oily nor matte enough to sit in fine lines, it contains sumptuous skincare ingredients and looks like skin.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte and Poreless Liquid Foundation (€9.20): This is full-on without looking flat on normal to oily skin, and is excellent value for money. Unfortunately, only six shades are available, but if you can find a match and like full coverage, this is perfect.
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK – Chanel Sublimage Le Teint (€125): This is a product of such sublime beauty that I lose myself gazing at it. It is supremely luxurious, and worth saving for if foundation is something you have a passion for. Despite its creaminess, this seems to work for all ages and skin types (apart from very oily). Prepare for compliments.
