Best Satin Foundations For Every Budget
There are so many different choices when it comes to foundation finish. One of the most popular, however, is satin, which sits between a dewy and a matte (more on finishes here). The best of both worlds, a satin base gives a flawless result that looks very much like real skin.
One great thing about a satin finish base is that it suits everyone. No matter your skin type or age, a demi-matte (another term for satin) effect will enhance all complexions, particularly those with more mature skin because it won’t accentuate fine lines or wrinkles; instead, it’ll smooth over them. But, if you have skin that leans toward the oilier end of the spectrum, you might find pairing a satin foundation with a powder will help to increase wear time.
So, you’re ready to try a satin foundation but not sure which one is best for you? No problem. Over the last few weeks, I’ve made it my mission to find the best foundations with that sought-after satiny finish, for every budget. So, whether you’re looking to save or splurge, these are my top satin foundation recommendations…
Best Mid-Range Satin Foundation
Coverage: Medium, buildable
Finish: Fresh, natural
Texture: Liquid-balm
Longevity: Up to 24 hours – I didn’t need to touch up at all!
Shades: 30
Values: Waterproof, smudge-proof, humidity-resistant, transfer-resistant, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, oil-free, SPF30.
Best For: All skin types, busy schedules and those who feel the need to regularly top-up their foundation.
I’ll let you into a little secret, it was love at first application with this innovative Shiseido foundation. It’s my favourite in this edit, and since completing the trial, it’s become my regular everyday foundation – it’s that good!
Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation is made for those who want a reliable foundation and don’t have time to keep touching up throughout the day. Its skin adapting formula looks fresh and skin-like and promises a waterproof, long-lasting finish that won’t transfer or slide off your face. I’m pleased to say after putting it to the test it delivers on all its promises! I apply my foundation at 7.30 am every morning and my skin still looks fresh and healthy when I’m leaving work at 5.30 pm. I put this down to Shiseido’s unique ActiveForce technology, which refreshes the finish of the foundation as you wear it.
Synchro Skin sits in the mid-price range for a foundation, but a little goes a long way, so I think it’s worth every penny. The Escentual team have different skin types and concerns, and this is a foundation that works for us all.
Best Premium Satin Foundation
Coverage: Full
Finish: Luminous Satin
Texture: Thick cream
Longevity: Not specified by DIOR but this held up pretty well for me all day without powdering.
Shades: 8
Values: SPF 25 PA+++
Best For: Ageing skin, Fine lines/wrinkles, Dry Skin, Asian skin
The burning question on everyone’s lips when they see the £88.10 price tag of this foundation is: “is it worth the money?”. And, in short, yes, absolutely.
It’s a bold statement to make, but I’d go as far as saying that it’s nothing short of magical. Why? I had my 40th birthday last September, so fine lines and dryness are an issue for me, and this glowy satin finish base (that comes with its own kabuki brush) makes achieving an airbrush finish quick and easy. It smoothes and revitalises skin in an instant, giving a healthy, youthful appearance that I haven’t experienced from any other foundation. We’ve tested it on all of our team members, and it looks just as gorgeous on 24-year-old, Keavy. Dior Prestige Le Micro-Fluide Teint De Rose isn’t just for older skin, it suits everyone.
As for the texture, it’s thick and creamy, but melts into the skin to give a flawless, smooth and youthful finish – so much so that it looks almost like Botox! A combination of intensely hydrating ingredients, rose extract and gold-infused micro-pearls are responsible for this, and give skin that radiant satiny glow, that dare I say, is addictive! If you’re looking for a luxury foundation, this should be top of your list.
