Glossier's New Stretch Fluid Foundation Deserves the Hype

It's hard to credit one brand for bringing the no-makeup makeup look to the masses, but if we were to give out that superlative, it would be Glossier. That's why it's so compelling that the company is launching its first-ever foundation, the Stretch Fluid Foundation. Prior to this, its complexion range only included a barely there skin tint and equally lightweight concealer, but this new release is a bona-fide foundation. Needless to say, I had to try it out.

I had a feeling that the Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation ($34) and I would be a match made in heaven. This hunch was based solely on the fact that I'm not a fan of heavy, full-coverage complexion products, and seeing as Glossier is known for the barely there look, I was hopeful the brand's version of a foundation would align with mine. I wanted something breathable and undetectable on the skin with the ability to blur imperfections (but not my freckles). It's a tall order, but I felt Glossier was up for the challenge.

Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation

From

$34

$34 at Glossier

Ahead, read my full review of the Stretch Fluid Foundation and find out if it really fits the bill.

As a fan of no-makeup looks, my favorite thing about the Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation is how un-foundation-like it is. Though it claims to provide light-to-medium coverage, I found one layer to be the sweet spot for me, making the coverage rather light and natural looking. It adds a subtle evenness to my skin, camouflaging any dark spots and breakouts, without completely hiding my freckles. The liquid formula blends like a dream, almost like a tinted moisturizer rather than a foundation. It feels hydrating, but the finish isn't super shiny — it's more just like a comfortable, plump second skin.

With 32 shades in the range, I love that the brand took into account five different undertones — not just your standard warm, cool, and neutral — making it easier to find your exact match. I used the shade Light 1 and found it to be a great fit for my fair complexion with a neutral undertone.

After wearing it for a nine-hour workday, I can attest to its transfer- and crease-proof claims. Though I did set my makeup (more on that ahead), the foundation stayed put all day long. That's no easy feat considering I live in New York City, where the temperature outside right now is high and the humidity is even higher. Not to mention I walk a lot.

I'm constantly switching up how I apply my foundation. With the Glossier Stretch Fluid, I put two pumps on the back of my hand, then put some of the product on my forehead, chin, and cheeks using my fingertip. To blend, I took a fluffy brush and buffed it in using dabbing motions. This helped me get a really smooth, even finish. While I sometimes have issues with brush strokes appearing in my base, the Glossier formula didn't get streaky.

Because the coverage is light and I didn't want to apply another layer on my entire face, I used my concealer to spot-conceal under my eyes and on any blemishes I wanted to hide. I blended that together with a damp makeup sponge before using my favorite setting powder to reduce shine and lock in my T-zone area.

I did the rest of my makeup routine as usual and was blown away by how nicely the products layered. At the very end, I used a setting spray to really ensure nothing moved.

Before you hit that add-to-cart button on Glossier's newest foundation launch, it's worth noting that the product won't give you a flawless matte base. Though it's buildable, it's still very sheer. So if you want something with more robust coverage, you may want to search elsewhere.

The Stretch Fluid Foundation is available at Glossier stores and on the brand's website on Aug. 22 and at Sephora.com on Sept. 1.

Rating: ★★★★★