Coverage, finish, skincare…we break down the key features to help you find the best NARS foundations in their stellar lineup!
Choosing the best NARS foundation was, well, a delightful struggle! NARS offers some of the most coveted foundations out there, adored by makeup artists, celebrities, and our entire beauty team. They cater to every finish imaginable, from radiant glow to weightless coverage or a sleek matte look. Let’s just say, picking a favorite was a luxurious challenge.
Why They’re Loved & How to Choose Yours
National makeup artist Cherelle Lazarus spills the tea on NARS’ foundation fame: “Their wide shade range and focus on skincare-infused formulas are unbeatable. They aim for a ‘second-skin’ finish; makeup that looks and feels natural.”
My experience confirms this – NARS foundations work beautifully for both makeup novices and pros. But with so many options, including some of the top-rated foundations around, choosing the perfect one can be tricky. Fear not! Let’s break down each formula to make your decision a breeze.
NARS Foundation All-Stars: Find Your Perfect Match for Any Look
- Coverage: Medium
- Finish: Matte
- Formulation: Pressed Powder
- The long-wear lip color you love to wear
- It stays and never fades
- Improves the lips condition with regular use
- Country of origin is Canada
- Full coverage without the weight; Patent pending technology delivers a uniquely weightless and breathable texture with superior blendability for an imperceptible effect that doesn’t look or feel cakey, heavy, drying, or masking
- Mimics skin’s tone with a unique combination of a translucent base with micronized amino-acid coated pigments and mineral tone balancing powders, fusing with skin for the closest match
- Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
- Product Name: LONGWEAR
- English (Publication Language)
- This innovative blend of makeup and skincare instantly blurs imperfections, smooths the look of textured skin, and helps conceal blemishes, dark spots, and redness. Visibly improves skin’s clarity after six weeks of daily use, even after makeup is removed.* Powered by advanced skincare ingredients that help defend against environmental aggressors and blue light, it immediately strengthens skin’s barrier to help maintain its moisture. Suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Medium, buildable coverage with a natural finish. Breathable, all-day wear.
- Advanced sun protection
- Hydrates and helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots for a brighter natural glow
- Oil-free; Dermatologist tested; Non-comedogenic; Synthetic fragrance free
WHAT IS THE BEST NARS FOUNDATIONs?
Light Reflect has been my favorite for months, and initially, I thought it would be the clear winner for this list. However…
Despite my ongoing love for Light Reflect, the Natural Radiant Longwear seriously impressed me. It snagged the well-deserved title of “runner-up” NARS foundation. The finish is beautifully radiant and flattering, while the coverage is impressive with surprising longevity. Honestly, every single foundation on this list deserves praise for its unique strengths. No matter your skin type, desired coverage, or preferred finish, NARS truly offers something for everyone.
BEST NARS FOUNDATION FOR MATURE DRY SKIN
For those with mature or dry skin (or both!), NARS Light Reflect Advanced Skincare Foundation shines as the perfect choice. This foundation goes beyond makeup, boasting a “cocktail” of skincare ingredients to pamper your skin while providing coverage. The lightweight texture ensures it won’t settle into wrinkles or accentuate dry patches.
NARS National Senior Makeup Artist Rebecca Moore echoes this sentiment, calling it “the perfect foundation for mature, dry skin.” The hybrid formula offers both flawless coverage and skincare benefits, creating a natural, second-skin finish. To achieve this look, Rebecca recommends warming a small amount of product in your palms before applying it to the center of your face and blending outwards.
Finding Your Flawless Fit: How We Tested NARS Foundations
To identify the top NARS foundations, we put every single offering from the brand to the test. Their current lineup includes four foundations, a tinted moisturizer, and a setting powder. Each product was used multiple times to gain a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.
For a fair comparison, all foundations were applied under identical conditions. This included using the same primer and exploring various application methods. The photos showcase the true differences in coverage and finish by featuring the same primer, concealer, blush, and bronzer for each foundation.
If you share a similar skin tone with me, you might find it helpful to know that most of these foundations were tested in the shade “Deauville,” which perfectly matches my complexion. This can serve as a starting point for your own shade selection journey.
Choosing Between NARS Radiant and Sheer Glow?
It all boils down to coverage and wear time! NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation is your go-to for high coverage. It boasts up to 16 hours of wear, making it ideal for long days or special occasions.
On the other hand, NARS Sheer Glow offers a much lighter, more natural look. While it might not last quite as long as Radiant due to its moisturizing properties, it’s perfect for everyday wear or those who prefer a more natural finish.
