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13 Foundations That Double as Skin Care Saviors

They're packed with skin-loving ingredients

There's a lot to like about this vegan multitasker (which is available in 18 shades). It single-handedly a) offers broad-spectrum UV protection like a stand-alone sunscreen b) blurs the look of large pores like a primer c) brightens the under eyes and spot-corrects like a concealer and d) provides buildable overall coverage like a foundation.

A little goes a long way to cover imperfections, but no matter how much we apply, it doesn't settle into fine lines or feel heavy. Maybe it's because of the choice of skin care ingredients packed inside, like vitamin C, vitamin E, glycerin and flax seed extract? Either way, it's become our one-and-done summer staple.

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What makes a makeup-skin care hybrid worth more than a $100 price tag? Start with a formula boasting vitamin C and clinically-tested proprietary ingredients shown to treat hyperpigmentation while preventing new melanocytes in the skin from forming. Add mineral SPF 50 protection that doesn't leave a cast on skin, then top it off with an elegant whipped texture that covers acne scars and redness and leaves a natural-looking demi-matte finish... and you have your answer.

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Code8 Radiate Beauty Balm, $50

A sheer application of this velvety balm leaves your skin looking just like it does bare — minus the redness and acne scars, of course. The formula evens skin tone but leaves such a natural finish — you know, not too matte or shiny and poreless like a Barbie doll — all while hydrating skin, thanks to the pectin and argan seed oil in the formula.

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Products with a "dewy" or "glassy" finish are nice in concept... but in practice, they often result in a greasy-looking shine. This vegan, oil-free formula, deleted out shine around our chin, nose and forehead and left a lit-from-within glow (that we certainly didn't wake up with).

We found the whipped, cream-to-powder makeup to be equally effective at camouflaging redness and acne scars as at treating the skin: Among its ingredients are antioxidant-rich and skin-calming pea extract, vitamin E, along with ingredients to encourage moisture retention.

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Kosas Tinted Face Oil, $42

Sure, the likes of Natalia Dyer, Kaitlyn Dever and The Jonas Brothers have all worn this skin care-makeup hybrid on the red carpet. But the oil foundation (available in 16 shades) is so easy to apply, those of us without makeup artists can glean the same camera-ready complexions in seconds.

The lightweight oil absorbs quickly and covers evenly when pressed into the skin — no blending tools required. What's more, with moisturizing avocado and meadowfoam; soothing red raspberry and jojoba; and brightening camellia and rosehip oils inside, it's a great pick for those with dry skin.

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BY ERIKA STALDER | AUG 20, 2020 | SHARES
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