7 Fluid Foundations That'll Make You Ditch Tinted Moisturizer Forever

By Jessica Cruel
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If you're addicted to tinted moisturizer and BB cream, meet your new base friend: fluid foundation. Since you no longer have to deal with makeup melting in Summer's squelching temperatures, it's time to graduate to a more substantial complexion routine. That doesn't mean you have to submit to a cakey, mask-like product. These liquid foundations flow like water, but you'll be shocked by the amount of coverage. The fluid formulas provide light-to-medium pigment payoff, yet you won't feel a thing. Literally, you'll feel #iwokeuplikethis fresh. You get all the benefits of tinted moisturizer with double the color. The secret is to apply with a flat-top stippling brush ($30). Shake the bottle. Buff a few drops into your face. Then, observe how the product absorbs into the skin like water. Shop our favorite fluid foundations below, and you may even give up your tinted moisturizer obsession for good.

01
Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Fluid Foundation

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Fluid Foundation

Got oily skin? Try this Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Fluid Foundation ($65). As soon as this product comes out of the dropper applicator, it dissolves into a powder-like finish (bye-bye, shiny forehead). Ensure a flawless finish by applying a primer first.

02
Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluid Foundation

Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluid Foundation

The Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer is one of the most popular products in the foundation category, but now there is a new light-finish product in the Mercier range to add to your make-up routine: Smooth Finish Flawless Fluid Foundation ($48). This liquid-like foundation is actually separated in the bottle, but a vigorous shake combines the bi-phase elements (and we do mean vigorous). Upon application, you get a matte, medium-coverage finish.

03
BareMinerals Bareskin Brightening Serum Foundation

BareMinerals Bareskin Brightening Serum Foundation

BareMinerals Bareskin Brightening Serum Foundation ($29) takes barely-there to new levels. A couple drops of this liquid base is enough to buff the entire face into a flawless finish. You can also mix this thin foundation with your liquid bronzer for dewy coverage.

04
Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Foundation

Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Foundation

Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Foundation ($36) is for the woman who hates that heavy foundation feel. After stippling and smoothing this foundation into your skin, it's barely detectable. It's especially good at moisturizing extradry skin types.

05
Givenchy Photo Perfexion Fluid Foundation

Givenchy Photo Perfexion Fluid Foundation

Givenchy Photo Perfexion Fluid Foundation ($48) will soothe even the driest complexions and combination skin this Fall. The formula includes a mix of omega-3 and castor oil to give a dewy finish. While it does cover imperfections flawlessly, the final result is very natural. Everyone will wonder: "Is she wearing foundation?"

06
Estée Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup

Estée Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup

Estée Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup ($37) holds true to its sheer claims. The foundation is oil-free and water-based, making it a good pick for women with sensitive skin. Just remember to shake the bottle before each use for the most even coverage.

07
Chanel Vitalumière Aqua

Chanel Vitalumière Aqua

You wouldn't expect a watery foundation to provide full coverage, but the Chanel Vitalumière Aqua ($45) covers acne scars and current breakouts like a dream. Place a few dots on cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin, then watch all your facial flaws disappear. You'll apply half the amount of foundation you usually use, making this purchase worth every penny.