Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes a surge in heat, humidity, and the universally dreaded feeling of putting anything heavy on your face. Naturally, it's not just time to mix up your wardrobe. You guessed it: It's also necessary to swap out heavy complexion perfecters for lightweight alternatives. After all, who wants to apply thick, hydrating foundation in the summer months?
Fortunately, you don't have to sacrifice an even complexion. It's time to shelve those rich foundations and invest in a lighter base that delivers a glowing finish — all without the feeling of foundation. Translation: Your skin will look great but won't feel suffocated.
Whatever your skin type, skin woe, or skin aspirations, you'll find a formula ahead that delivers without the weight. Here are our favorites...
Perfect For: Those who hate foundation
This little number calls itself a BB, a CC, and a tinted moisturizer. I deal for the indecisive, yes, but we love it because it gives skin a flawless, dewy finish without looking like you have any makeup on. Bonus? Six new shades are being added to the collection in July.
Coverage: Light
Finish: Dewy
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue, $29.50, available at Sephora.
Perfect For: The makeup minimalist
If you, like us, have fallen hook, line, and sinker for Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Foundation, Light Wonder is the summer alternative for you. This number ticks all the boxes — it illuminates, smoothes, hydrates, and helps to minimize pores. So, yes, it is indeed a wonder.
Coverage: Light to medium
Finish: Luminous
Charlotte Tilbury Youth-Boosting Perfecting Skin Foundation, $45, available at Nordstrom.
Perfect For: A natural-looking glow
Cited as a makeup-kit essential by iconic makeup artist Wendy Rowe (an artistic consultant for the brand), Fresh Glow is one product you need to get your hands on if you crave a slight glow in the summer. Wear over sunscreen for a radiant finish, or use it to dilute your foundation while adding a glow.
Coverage: None — just a bit of natural-looking shimmer
Finish: Luminous
Burberry Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base, $48, available at Sephora.
Perfect For: A "no makeup, makeup' look"
From dermatologist-created Perricone MD, this formula is incredibly sheer and melts into skin quickly. This cult product delivers a dewy, even look. Thanks to its translucent finish, it's perfect for mornings when you don't have time to be precise, but still want a skin pick-me-up. This one-shade-adapts-to-all formula is a serious summer winner.
Coverage: Translucent
Finish: Radiant
Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation, $60, available at Sephora.
Perfect For: A look-at-me, luminous finish
Becca is known for its beautiful natural finishes that make the skin all the more luminous, without looking caked with makeup. This Aqua Luminous Perfecting Foundation is available in eight colors and contains 32% water, blurring imperfections and giving you a natural, radiant finish.
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Luminous
Becca Aqua Luminous Perfecting Foundation, $44, available at Sephora.
Perfect for: Full coverage without a heavy feeling
Just because it's hot out, doesn't mean you must forgo a full-coverage foundation. Fortunately, Nars has this oil-free, weightless base that still offers very buildable coverage while giving a natural-looking finish. What's more, it lasts for 16 hours — ideal for humid weddings and nights out.
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, $45, available at Sephora.
Best for: Parched skin
With active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, this lightweight foundation is way more than just another base — it's skin care and makeup in one. It's good for sensitive skin (it's fragrance-free and hypoallergenic) and delivers a buildable finish that boosts hydration, too.
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Velvety
Kiko Liquid Skin Second Skin Foundation, $26, available at Kiko.
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