For some, Summer [1] is all about nixing the foundation [2] and going fresh-faced. However, if you don't want to let go of your base makeup [3] but can't stand the feeling of it melting down your cheeks, don't worry: you have options.
Lightweight foundations that give you exactly the coverage that you want — whether it be sheer or full — exist. Even better is the fact that some even re-introduce moisture into skin [4], protect it from the sun's harmful rays with SPF [5], and feel completely weightless. [6]
Ahead, see our picks for the most comfortable-wearing, barely there foundations for Summer.
Benefit Cosmetics Hello Happy Soft Blur Foundation
The Benefit Cosmetics Hello Happy Soft Blur Foundation [7] ($29) dries down to an airbrushed finish that feels so much like skin, you'll forget you have it on.
Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Foundation
Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Foundation [8] ($9) completely covers up blemishes (with zero concealer necessary) but still somehow has a skin-like finish. It's also formulated with antioxidants to ward off environmental aggressors.
NARS Cosmetics Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
NARS Cosmetics Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation [9] ($49) can build to full-coverage but feels weightless on skin — even after wearing it for hours.
Make Up For Ever Water Blend Face and Body Foundation
The Make Up For Ever Water Blend Face and Body Foundation [10] ($43) is made up of mostly water, keeping skin looking dewy with a natural finish.
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation [11] ($64) is a liquid foundation that has impressive pigment payoff and can build from sheer to medium coverage.
Laura Geller Cover Lock Cream Foundation
Laura Geller Cover Lock Cream Foundation [12] ($38) is a vitamin-enriched, breathable formula that will give you total coverage.
Tarte Cosmetics Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation SPF 15
Those with dry skin will love the Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation SPF 15 [13] ($39) because of how it hydrates skin without ever feeling too heavy. Its full-coverage formula will blur your complexion and leave you looking like you don't have any base makeup on at all.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Ultra Definition Liquid Foundation
If you're in the market for an oil-free liquid foundation that offers buildable coverage, you'll love the Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Ultra Definition Liquid Foundation [14] ($40). This one is loaded with antioxidants like green tea.
Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup Broad Spectrum [15] ($42) is a lightweight liquid foundation that has an SPF of 30, creating a shield against the sun's harmful rays.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation
The Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation [16] ($43) is buildable so you can get the coverage you prefer. With just a light layer, you won't feel it on your face and it will stay on from morning till night.
Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation
Perfect for oily skin and hot Summer days, the Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation [17] ($40) has a matte-finish, waterproof, and sweat-resistant formula.