STEEP VS. CHEAP – THE FOUNDATION CHALLENGE
Foundations: they can be your best friend. Not only do they make your skin look flawless in the light of day, but many also give you added anti-aging benefits—a double whammy. But choosing the right foundation can be tricky – you’ll want to find just the right shade, coverage and finish. Plus prices vary with drugstore brands offering less expensive vrsions  than department stores, but without the option to test before you buy.
To help with the foundation selection process, BITB presents its latest Steep vs. Cheap comparison. Here, we test Tarte Maracuja Miracle Foundation 12 Hour Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($42) vs. L’Oréal True Match LUMI Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 20 ($12.99).
Photo Credit: Sephora.com
Tarte’s Maracuja oil is definitely a precious ingredient in and of itself. Maracuja oil has been associated with reducing redness and irritation, and also inflammation. Because of these properties, the oil-infused foundation is a great option for those experiencing dehydrated or highly sensitive skin. Tarte Maracuja Miracle Foundation also has a healthy dose of SPF (with an SPF rating of 15, you’ll be advised to wear a stronger sunscreen if you’re headed out to the beach). The Maracuja Miracle Foundation is excellent if you want a clean, matte finish, and the texture and coverage are both excellent. This is formulated without parabens or sulfates for a very healthy matte complexion: two thumbs up! Also, a little goes a long way, and I personally can use it as an under eye concealer. This foundation contains vitamins A and E as well.
Photo Credit: Ulta.com
L’Oréal’s new True Match LUMI Foundation also offers broad spectrum sun protection, and provides a healthy SPF 20. Coverage-wise, it’s much more luminous (as the name implies) than a matte finish, and gives the skin a dewy, almost glistening look. This is good if you’re going for that kind of look (“your skin is so healthy that it not only glows, it’s luminous” kind of look). Personally, I don’t think this foundation makes your skin too luminous that it looks like you’re dripping, and it stays in place despite the summer heat. Would it qualify for a “melt-proof” makeup look? Yes, but it will leave your skin looking like it glistens somewhat. What I do like about this foundation is that it’s really hydrating: it contains 40% moisture, and also antioxidants and vitamins C and E.
Our verdict? For a less expensive foundation option, L’Oréal LUMI provides a really healthy dose of SPF and excellent luminous coverage. Tarte Maracuja Miracle Foundation does something different: matte coverage and anti-aging benefits to boot. If you want a dewy, full coverage look, opt for the LUMI; otherwise, spend the extra dollars on the sweet-smelling full coverage Tarte Miracle Foundation and rest easy.
They both come in an impressive range of shades, so all complexions can benefit.
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