Light, Medium, or Full Coverage Foundation: How to Choose the Right Level for Your Skin
Foundation is, well, the foundation of any makeup look it can turn your complexion into a smooth, even canvas so you can put your best face forward with confidence. Makeup shelves are brimming with seemingly endless options, so choosing the best foundation for you and your skin type can feel daunting. We all have different needs when it comes to foundation; not only is it crucial to find your perfect foundation shade, but your unique skin type and skin tone can dictate which foundation is your best match. Plus, the final look you want to achieve (fresh, “clean girl” vibes, versus full glam) will be a big deciding factor in your selection. It’s e.l.f.ing important to understand the different levels of foundation coverage, but don’t sweat it, we’re here to help you choose the best makeup product to meet your needs.
What are the Different Types of Foundation Coverage?
There are three main types of foundation coverage: Each foundation coverage level has its own purpose and allows you to create different makeup looks, as well as come in a variety of formulas, including liquid, powder, and cream foundation, and more! Many foundations offer buildable formulas (especially the light and medium coverage foundations), which allow you to layer during application and create your desired makeup look.
If You're Looking for a Buildable Makeup Finish, Try a Light Coverage Foundation
Want to create the minimal “no makeup” makeup look? Reach for a light coverage foundation; they are breathable, lightweight, and deliver a sheer tint of color to your skin for a more natural, glowing finish. Light coverage foundations are the most skin-like, and they’re usually buildable, making them perfect for blurring minor blemishes and redness while still letting your natural complexion shine through (we see those freckles!). e.l.f. Cosmetics’ light coverage foundations:
If You're Looking for a Natural Makeup Finish, Try a Medium Coverage Foundation
For the days you want a little more than sheer coverage, but aren’t going full-beat, medium-coverage foundation is just right. It delivers more pigment with a slightly thicker formula than light-coverage foundation but without feeling heavy or looking cakey. Medium coverage foundation gives you “just right”, buildable coverage that evens out the look of your complexion and is perfect for everyday wear. e.l.f. Cosmetics medium coverage foundation:
If You're Looking for a Full-Glam Makeup Look, Try a Full Coverage Foundation
Full-coverage foundations are packed with pigment, making them your best choice if you’re going for a full-glam, long-lasting look. Thanks to their thick formulas and more opaque finishes that have literally got you covered, full-coverage foundations are also great for concealing blemishes, redness, discoloration, and even sometimes tattoos. e.l.f. Cosmetics’ full-coverage foundation:
How Do I Know Which Foundation Coverage is Best for Me?
When it comes to choosing a foundation and a level of coverage, there isn’t a right or wrong answer. The best foundation for you really depends on what type of skin you have, how you want the foundation to feel on your skin, and your desired final makeup look. Also, don’t feel like you need to pigeonhole yourself into just one of these coverage options; different occasions can call for different formulas! For example, you may want to use lighter coverage foundation as your everyday go-to, and opt for a full-coverage formula when you’re getting glammed up at night. If you’re not sure where to begin, consider starting with a lighter coverage, buildable foundation like our Halo Glow Liquid Filter, which will allow you to create a more sheer look from the get-go, then build up more coverage if you want to. The more product you apply, the more full-coverage your look will be. Pro tip: The tools you use to apply your foundation may impact how thick the formula applies on your skin, as well as the coverage level. Try switching between a foundation brush and makeup sponge to see which application method gives you the desired look and feel you’re after.
