The Best Foundations

Finding the right foundation that does its job without looking like you're wearing makeup is not easy.

And, I don't know about you, but suddenly I became annoyed with my favorite liquid foundations—they seemed like too much work to apply and get right.

So, for a while, I didn't wear anything—not a good decision.

Then, it hit me, compact foundations—that's the answer. Why did I ever stray? Here are three I really like.

After reading rave reviews about La Mer's Treatment Powder Foundation with an SPF 15, I had to get this makeup. It has it all—the convenience of a compact (carry it with you for quick touch-ups), it comes with a sponge for a nice, medium coverage and it has the ever-so important SPF.

I'm telling you, my skin looks improved. I don't know what it did, but recent photos of me wearing the foundation are quite pleasing. My skin looks clearer, brighter and younger. I'm hooked. The only downfall? The price. It's $95. But, the foundation should last at least six months (my liquid foundations have lasted me over a year!), and I wear it nearly every day. So for approximately 180 days, that comes down to .52 cents per usage. Not bad.

Next, I love drugstore brands. And thanks to Ellen Degeneres, who was raving about Covergirl's Simply Ageless Foundation on her show, I had to try this product—plus, it's only $13.99. Then, I got my makeup done during Fashion Week at CVS' Reinventing Beauty Suite where they were using Covergirl products. The verdict? It wears and looks great. It's lightweight with an SPF 22, hypoallergenic, fragrance and oil-free, and anti-aging—the Web site description says it contains Olay Regenerist Serum. Whatever that means, my skin looked very good and I got compliments from a friend right afterward.

I'm a self-professed makeup junkie. So when I'm on the search for a new, say, purple eye shadow, I don't stop at one, I try three.

So here's my third favorite new foundation: Clinique's Superbalanced Powder Makeup SPF 15. I have oily skin, so was impressed that this makeup controls shine while keeping dry areas stable. The coverage is natural-looking but not shiny. The only thing I don't like is the brush applicator, but you can substitute a sponge if you'd like. Cost? $34.50.

Tell me, do you have a favorite foundation?

Email Kristin at kristinlarson@live.com.

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