Choosing the Right Foundation: Your Path to Flawless Skin

Finding your perfect foundation match can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Whether you're shopping for your first foundation or switching things up, this guide will help you navigate the choices and land on a formula that works for your unique skin. Explore all of 8thereal's vegan foundation options to find your match.

Step 1: Know Your Skin Type

Your skin type is the most important factor in choosing a foundation. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, identifying whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin should be the first step in any skincare or makeup purchase decision.

• Dry skin: Look for hydrating, dewy-finish formulas. Our All-Day Wear Foundation with SPF delivers moisture and coverage in one step.
• Oily skin: Opt for matte or oil-controlling formulas. Our Dual Blend Powder Foundation can be used wet or dry and controls shine all day.
• Combination skin: A balanced, buildable formula works best. Try our Full Coverage Foundation for flexible, skin-first coverage.
• Mature skin: Lighter formulas that don't settle into fine lines are ideal. Our Everyday Glow BB Cream is a popular choice for mature skin seeking natural, lightweight coverage.

Step 2: Choose Your Coverage Level

Coverage ranges from sheer to full, and the right level depends on your skin concerns and the occasion:

• Sheer/light coverage — great for even skin with minor imperfections. The BB Cream is perfect here.
• Medium coverage — ideal for everyday wear to conceal redness and uneven tone.
• Full coverage — best for events or skin with blemishes and discoloration. See our full guide on whether full-coverage foundation is right for you.

Step 3: Match Your Shade

Shade matching is crucial. Test foundation on your jawline in natural light, not on your wrist. The right shade should disappear into your skin. The beauty experts at Byrdie recommend testing at least three shades side by side to find your true match.

Step 4: Consider Your Finish

• Matte — minimizes shine, ideal for oily skin
• Satin/natural — a healthy, skin-like finish that works for most skin types
• Dewy/radiant — glowy and luminous, ideal for dry or mature skin

Pro Tip: Prep First

No foundation performs well on unprepared skin. Always start with moisturizer and, for mature skin, a smoothing primer to fill in fine lines. Then follow with your 8thereal foundation of choice. For more complexion tips, read our post on the marvels of 8thereal BB Cream as a lightweight alternative.