Columnist Haadiza Ogwude discusses 10 of the best foundations for women of color.
As an African-American woman, I know firsthand the struggle of trying to find a foundation that matches my complexion. Many makeup brands have a wide range of foundations for people with paler skin tones, but people with darker skin tones are left with just a few options. For a good portion of my teen years, I was using a foundation that was a shade too dark because I thought getting something too dark would be better than too light. It was not until I turned 16 years old that I realized there are makeup brands that do cater to dark skin tones, and I no longer had to continue to wear foundation that was not my shade.
I must warn you, however, that the few brands that do cater to black and brown women are not always cheap. Many of these foundations can range from $9 to $43 dollars. However, it is worth it to have makeup that matches your complexion and brings out your natural glow.
1. Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing Treatment Foundation, $35
I have heard nothing but good things about Bobbi Brown cosmetics in the past, so I was not surprised to see this rated as one of the best foundations for women with darker skin tones. This foundation revitalizes the radiance that radiators have taken out. It contains crystal-like light reflecting technology to create a look that is rich in glow and is very healthy.
2. Becca Ever-Matte Shine Proof Foundation, $34
This product has four different shades for darker tones, making it easy to find your match. This foundation is perfect for people with very oily skin.
3. Lancôme Teint Visionnaire Foundation, $40
This product has an amazing shade range. It’s also the perfect choice for anyone who is looking for deeper coverage for a flawless finish. It also comes with a spot corrector, perfect to combat dark spots.
4. Black Up Cosmetics Cream to Powder Foundation, $41
Black Up is one of the first beauty lines for women of color. Its cream to powder foundations applies with a creamy texture and transforms to a silky powder with a matte finish. It comes in a range of 16 shades.
5. Lack Opal True Color Stick Foundation SPF 15, $9
This is a hypoallergenic foundation stick that includes a broad-spectrum SPF 15. It delivers maximum coverage for a perfect, even skin tone. It is also portable and great to use on the go!
6. IMAN Second to None Luminous Foundation, $12
This brand was created by Iman, a supermodel, for African-American, Asian, Latina and multi-cultural women with skin tones in a myriad of shades. The brand’s luminous foundation has a wet/dry formula that evens out skin tone and texture.
7. NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation, $34
This brand is great for radiant all-day coverage. It leaves skin dewy and even-toned. It is oil free, long lasting and natural in its finish. It also neutralizes dullness and discoloration.
8. Cover Girl Queen Collection All Day Flawless Foundation, $14
This in an all-in-one product that includes primer, concealer and foundation. The 3-in-1 formula provides a flawless look that lasts all day. It also includes a broad spectrum SPF 20.
9. Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Powder Foundation, $43
This formula provides weightless, buildable coverage that can be applied both wet and dry. This product is available in three darker shades. The hues work along with your skin’s undertone so you can find your perfect match.
10. MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15, $32
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This durable and skin-perfecting foundation has an impressive shade range of 35 shades. You are bound to find one to match your complexion perfectly. This brand keeps oiliness at bay and makes for the best cover-up.
Haadiza Ogwude is a sophomore studying journalism. What's your favorite foundation? Tweet Haadiza @AdoreHaadiza or email her at ho299413@ohio.edu.
