Don't Like Wearing Foundation? Try These Alternatives Instead

Looking to forgo the usual heavy foundation base for a lighter alternative? 

A new wave of clever, high-tech tints, serums, and illuminators means that you can put down the full coverage foundation and replace it with something softer.

 

SunscreensMake-up
A photo of Andrea Patel
Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Read Andrea’s post
5 Minutes read

Tired of foundation? You're not alone! Many people are seeking lighter, more natural ways to enhance their complexion. Whether you want a break from heavy makeup, prefer a "no-makeup makeup" look, or just can't stand the feel of foundation, the beauty industry is always innovating with fantastic alternatives waiting to be discovered.

From liquid drops to add to your current routine to lightweight serums formulated with a gentle tint, brands have solutions for all skin types and interests. There are plenty of products to love your complexion without sacrificing comfort and find the perfect foundation alternative for your skin type.

What Alternatives to Foundation Are There?

CC Creams

CC creams, short for "Color Correcting" creams, are multi-tasking wonders in the beauty world. They offer a lighter alternative to foundation while addressing various skin concerns.  Perfect for a natural, "your-skin-but-better" look, CC creams are a great option for those who prefer a minimal makeup routine.

Why we love them:

  • Light coverage - Sheer to medium coverage, ideal for evening skin tone without feeling heavy

  • Colour Correction - Creams are targeted to specific skin imperfections like redness, sallowness, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation

  • Time Saving - Combining colour correction, sun protection, and hydration into one product

  • Natural Look - A more natural finish compared to traditional foundation

What we recommend:

CLINICCARE Dermo Corrective CC Cream SPF 50++ Medium 35 ml
US$55.00

- Lightens and evens out the skin tone and minimises the appearance of pigmentation, age spots, imperfections and discolourations

- Lifting, tightening effect, helps prevent visible signs of premature ageing

- SPF 50 sun protection

- Self-adjusting pigments give a natural glow

- Suitable for all skin types. Ideal even for the most sensitive skin

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This CC cream from Cliniccare features self-adjusting colour pigments which burst on application to the skin, colour-matching your skin tone and neutralizing any areas of redness or discolouration.

Apply all over for flawless skin, or just in targeted areas of dullness for natural coverage minimising imperfections, pores, fine lines and wrinkles.

The ultra-lightweight formula contains:

  • Antioxidants (Nicinamide) to keep your skin barrier healthy

  • Hyaluronic Acid for a deeply moisturising effect

  • L'Ascorabic Acid for a gentle lifting effect

 

Tinted Sunscreens & UV Protectors

These beautifully blend sun protection with a subtle hint of colour to achieve a freshly-tanned feel, showing off a natural look and simplified skincare routine.

Why we love them:

  • Protection - A broad-spectrum defence against harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing sun damage and premature aging

  • Light Coverage & Natural Finish - Unlike heavy foundations, tinted sunscreens provide a sheer-to-light coverage enhancing your natural skin tone without masking it

  • Simplified Routine - Combine sun protection, hydration, and coverage of light blemishes in a single step

We recommend:

ColoreScience-Total-Shield-Bronze
US$45.00

*Please note- due to hygiene reasons, returns cannot be accepted where the seal is removed or broken

- UVA/UVB Broad Spectrum SPF 50 / PA ++++

- Hydrating and antioxidant-rich formula

- Water-/sweat-resistant (up to 40 minutes)

- Lightweight, invisible coverage in a bronze shade



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Looking for a sun-kissed glow but prefer a tan you can wash off instead?  Bronzing makeup products are a fantastic, worry-free alternative!  Even in the winter, you can maintain a healthy, bronzed look.

For those with combination or oily skin, oil-free, mineral-based formulas are ideal.  Consider the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 Bronze.  This product offers:

  • A beautiful, bronzed, luminous coverage.

  • Broad-spectrum sun protection (SPF 50) to keep your skin safe.

  • An oil-free, all-mineral formula perfect for combination and oily skin types.

  • Approval from The Skin Cancer Foundation for daily use and during active activities.

  • This clever product gives you a radiant glow while protecting your skin – all in one easy step!

We hope you've discovered your perfect foundation alternative!  Need more help with makeup application, tips and tricks, or finding the right products for your skin? We're here to assist!

All the products mentioned above are available at Dermacare Direct, with free tracked delivery via Royal Mail. We offer expert advice and top tips to make your makeup shopping experience stress-free, so feel free to reach out to us at any time via:

Our team are always happy to answer your questions and provide personalized recommendations.

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