Skip to Content

12 Derm-Approved, Makeup Artist-Tested Mineral Foundations to Try

"Like a spa treatment for the skin."

By ELLE.com
Cosmetics, Eye shadow, Brown, Beauty, Product, Eye liner, Eye, Material property, Liquid, Beige, pinterest
Courtesy

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Mineral makeup, known for its breathable, natural feel, is perfect for achieving the no makeup makeup look. We tapped dermatologist Melanie Palm, M.D., founder of Art of Skin and celebrity makeup artist Christopher Ardoff to weigh in on their favorite mineral foundations. Get your best skin ever, ahead.

Bare Minerals All-Over Face Color

Bare Minerals All-Over Face Color
$23 at Sephora$24 at John Lewis
Credit: Courtesy

For all skin types, Palm recommends this loose powder. "Acne prone types might select [bareMineral's] complexion correcting line that contains anti-inflammatories like aspen bark and tea tree oil, while those with drier skin may opt for their hydrating cream formulations."

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 Medium

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 Medium

"It is a great solution for sunscreen reapplication after makeup has been applied to the face," Palm says. The lightweight brush and easy twist top make for an easy application. 

Illuminare Moisturizing Mineral Foundation SPF 20

Illuminare Moisturizing Mineral Foundation SPF 20

"I use this one with Zooey Deschanel. She likes it because it has no perfumes, artificial dyes, animal derivatives, and mica," Ardoff says. "It does double duty as both a concealer and a foundation."

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

JANE IREDALE Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation

Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation

Ardoff uses this mineral foundation on Mena Suvari, a loyal fan of the product. "It has a pH system and anti-inflammatory ingredients in the formula, so it acts like a spa treatment for the skin," he says.

L'Oreal Paris True Match Loose Powder Mineral Foundation

L'Oreal Paris True Match Loose Powder Mineral Foundation
Now 13% Off

Palm prefers this for its "built-in brush that takes the mess and fuss out of makeup application." It also "provides adequate protection with SPF 19 coverage [with] titanium dioxide content, vitamin E, and aloe juice extract [which] provides antioxidants and soothing properties for the skin."

Youngblood Natural Mineral Loose Foundation

Youngblood Natural Mineral Loose Foundation

"It is a buildable product [that's] easy to layer without looking too heavy," says Ardoff. It "leaves the skin looking dewy, luminous, and shining."

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Lancome Miracle Cushion

Lancome Miracle Cushion
Credit: Courtesy

Although not a mineral foundation, Ardoff likes to layer Lancome Liquid Cushion with the brand's powder. The former "has light coverage" and "acts more like a tinted moisturizer."

AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

This Korean CC cream "provides broad spectrum coverage against both UVA and UVB and boasts SPF 50," says Palm. The "lightweight formulation [leaves a] luminescent finish, [and is] free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates." It also "contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in [high] percentages for great sun protection."

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation
Credit: Courtesy

Tarte's Amazonian Clay coverage foundation is a perfect for longwear, according to the professionals. The key ingredient of Amazonian clay controls oil so you don't have to worry about reapplying all day.  

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Pur 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 15

Pur 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 15

Pur makeup's mineral foundation works as an all-in-one foundation, concealer, powder and sunblock with SPF 15. It's ideal for those on the go. 

NYX Professional Makeup Mineral Stick Foundation

NYX Professional Makeup Mineral Stick Foundation
Credit: Courtesy

Stick foundation is a makeup artist's secret weapon. It's blendable, which allows it to be used as foundation or for highlighting and contouring.  

Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation

Clarins Skin Illusion Loose Powder Foundation
Credit: Courtesy

A matte option that works to reduce the appearance of lines and imperfections. Your skin will look natural and hydrated. 

Watch Next
 
preview for Elle Beauty
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Makeup & Skincare 2024

best nail drills

14 Nail Drills for At-Home Manis

a person holding a jar

10 Peptide Moisturizers Your Skin Will Drink Up

a person with the hand on the face

10 Concealers That Make Dark Circles Disappear

a group of women sitting on a bench

All About Fendi’s First Major Fragrance Collection

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below