Many women are often looking for the foundation perfect, capable of guaranteeing flawless coverage and a natural look, but it is important to remember that the choice should not focus only on aesthetic factors. When we talk about cosmetics (and not only) it is always good to pay attention to the ingredients with which they are formulated, which can have an impact on skin health and general well-being.
A recent one test, conducted in France by the magazine’s experts But Santé, compared 12 foundations, some of which are also found in Italy. The results showed that only one stood out for its overall quality, offering uniform coverage and being allergen-free.
On the contrary, many other foundations, even those from the most well-known or expensive brands, have not lived up to expectations.
Let’s find out all the details right away.
The best foundation in the test
The foundation that obtained the best score was The Best Skin Ever by SephoraThat it satisfied the testers from all points of view: from the appearance of the skin to the sensation during application, up to the durability of the product. Furthermore, it was found to be free of substances that could trigger allergies.
In contrast, many other foundations left unsightly marks or contained harmful allergens and were deemed “unsatisfactory.”
The worst foundations in the test
In the following infographics, you can see the complete ranking of the foundations tested. You will easily notice that many well-known brands, such as Clinique, L’Oréal, Manhattan and H&M, have been “failed” and are reported in red.
How the test was conducted
The Wirts und Partner laboratory in Hannover (Germany), in charge of the analyses, put the 12 fluid foundations to the test, paying particular attention to the presence of harmful substances such as:
Then there was a practical test: Five experts performed an evaluation of the foundations. The visual effect of the product was evaluated immediately after application, and then at intervals of 4 and 8 hours but the sensation of the foundation on the skin was also analysed, checking whether the product was annoying, if it pulled or left a sensation of stickiness. Furthermore, the comfort and ease of dosing and application, as well as the convenience of opening and closing the containers, were also taken into consideration.
The results
Foundation aims to give brightness and a uniform appearance to the skin, but reality often does not reflect expectations. During the test, products from H&M, Lavera and Sante disappointed, leaving visible stains or streaks immediately after application, as reported by testers. Four hours later, foundations from Annemarie Börlind and Dr. Hauschka also showed unsatisfactory results. After eight hours, only Sephora’s foundation continued to collect positive ratings, demonstrating superior performance compared to L’Oréal’s Infaillible foundation, which, according to marketing promises, should guarantee a “natural finish” and resistance during wear. day.
The test also highlighted that a high price does not always correspond to superior quality. Clinique’s Superbalanced Makeup, the most expensive foundation in the test, showed problems even before application: the packaging, with an opening that was too large, and the liquid consistency of the product, which tended to drip, made it difficult to apply. use. The foundation scored the lowest for ease of use and felt unpleasant on the skin, worse than many cheaper products. It should be underlined, however, that the Clinique foundation was one of the few that did not contain problematic substances.
In fact, some foundations, as already announced, presented allergenic fragrances or polycyclic musks, which can cause problems. In particular, one of the cheapest products, the Fresh & Fit Foundation by Essence, despite having obtained the highest score regarding satisfaction after application, was penalized for the presence of galaxolide. This floral-smelling substance enters the bloodstream through the skin or respiratory tract and can accumulate in fatty tissues.
As the Swiss magazine recalls:
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is currently examining the harms of galaxolide due to its possible effects on the hormone system.
Another 8 foundations contained allergenic fragrances which, when in contact with the skin, can cause skin reactions and, as experts write, even non-allergic people should avoid them:
The products of the brands Manhattan, Annemarie Börlind and Dr. Hauschka concentrate no less than seven to eight substances of this type. Chemical compounds that would be best avoided, even if you have never suffered from allergic reactions to perfumes. In fact, the more these substances come into contact with the skin, the more likely they are to trigger an irreversible allergy.
