No matter your skin type or skin concern, Sephora has plenty of foundation options you’ll love in a range of colour and coverage. The search for the perfect foundation can be tedious and time consuming. With all the endless options out there - from sheer to full coverage foundation, liquid foundation to powder - it's no wonder finding the perfect foundation doesn't come easy. There is so much to try. Unsure of what type of foundation to get? Browse our Sephora Buying Guide for the best foundations for your needs. Unsure of what shade of foundation to get? Use our foundation shade finder to find your perfect foundation colour match online (a match made in shade heaven!) with these makeup favourites in different finishes and coverages. To make things a whole lot simpler, here is quick guide to get you started on the right track to your most flawless complexion yet.

Foundation for Sensitive Skin

If you struggle with sensitive skin, stay away from foundations with harsh chemicals or fragrances. In your case, simpler is better. Look for the simplest and most natural formulas that are free of synthetic oils, parabens or fillers to prevent triggering a reaction. Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to find foundations full of nourishing ingredients, like coconut oil, vitamins and antioxidants, that still offer great coverage.

Foundation for Acne-Prone Skin

Finding foundation for blemish-prone skin that doesn’t do more harm than good can be frustrating. Look for an oil-free foundation that isn’t too dry and is formulated without potential irritants like fragrances and mineral oils that could cause a breakout. Try textures that are buildable, allowing your skin to breathe, instead of suffocating under full coverage. Foundations that contain salicylic acid (or any type of exfoliating ingredients) can be a good option to help reduce redness, treating blemishes as it disguises them so your skin is on the road to recovery and not another flare up.

Foundation for Dry Skin

For skin types that are typically parched, finding a foundation that doesn't strip away hydration is a must. Many foundations for dry skin today contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring compound that helps skin maintain a healthy moisture balance. Hydrating and illuminating foundations do wonders for dry skin, leaving you with a fresh, dewy finish. Use a liquid or cream foundation packed with nutrient-rich oils, rather than powder foundation, which could irritate dry areas and absorb essential moisture away. If you’ve got dry skin but want to try a matte foundation, always exfoliate beforehand, moisturise well and use a hydrating primer to keep the foundation from looking dry or cakey.

Foundation for Oily Skin

A common misconception people have: ”I don’t need to moisturise if I have oily skin.” Excessive oil production shouldn’t be confused with hydration. In fact, if your skin’s lacking hydration, it’ll compensate by producing more oil, resulting in oily skin! Get out of this vicious cycle by using a moisturiser with the correct ingredients for your skin type, like hyaluronic acid, which’ll help your skin retain moisture better. If you have shiny skin, the best foundation for oily skin is typically oil-free and mattifying. Look for either pressed powder or a cream foundation, which can help minimize the appearance of pores and absorb excess oil to keep it from surfacing. Mattifying foundations will keep you looking fresh for longer and are the most long-wearing option. If you aren’t a fan of a matte finish, you can still rock natural-finish or dewy foundations with the help of a mattifying primer and setting powder.

Foundation for Combination Skin

If you’ve got an oily T-zone but experience dryness in other areas, then you’ve got combination skin. Foundations with a more natural or semi-matte finish will work for you. For best results, balance out your complexion before you apply your foundation by applying a mattifying primer in your T-zone and a hydrating one where you get dry.

Foundation Brush

Once you've found your perfect foundation, make sure you get the best wear out of it by keeping your foundation brush clean. It's OK to apply some foundations with your fingers in a pinch, but you'll get the best, most seamless coverage with a foundation brush. Wash it regularly to prevent the transfer of bacteria from brush to skin.