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We all know different skin types behave differently and have different needs. If you’re shopping for foundation it is important to understand your skin type. Get to know the basic skin types: dry, oily, combination, and normal as well as some suggestions for the best foundations to suit your beauty needs.
Combination Skin
In Stephanie L. Toures book “Pure Skin Care: Nourishing Recipes for Vibrant Skin & Natural Beauty”, she identifies combination skin as “seasonally aggravated. In winter the oily areas tend to normalize while the dry areas are parched. “ Toures points out that as humidity rises, dry areas typically normalize.
Here’s how you can determine if you have combination skin:
- Dry in some areas
- Oily in other areas, mainly the T-Zone (chin, forehead, and nose)
- Pores look larger than normal
- Prone to blackheads
Recommended Foundations:

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Total Cover Foundation

NYX Total Control Drop Foundation
Dry Skin
Dry skin tends to lack natural moisture and oils and may appear flaky and feel rough or tight throughout the day. It also tends to develop lines and wrinkles more rapidly than other skin types. As per Toures, warm temperature and humidity are usually loved by dry skin, however colder temperatures in the winter can strip the skin of its natural moisture which can leave you prone to irritation, sensitivity, and chafing.
Here’s how you can determine if you have combination skin:
- Almost invisible pores
- Dull complexion
- Red patches
- Less elasticity in the skin
- More visible lines
Recommended Foundations:

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation

MAC Face and Body Foundation
Oily Skin
Oily skin tends to not develop fine lines and wrinkles as easily as the other skin types, however this skin type is mostly associated with other problems such as blackheads, pimples, and whiteheads. These issues can clog pores, therefore it is important to keep oily skin free from excessive oil.
Here’s how you can determine if you have combination skin:
- Enlarged pores
- Prone to blackheads and blemishes
- Excess oil on the face
- Tends to be greasy typically in T-Zone (chin, forehead, and nose)
Recommended Foundations:

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup
Normal Skin
Normal Skin tends to be well balanced and is less likely to have other skin conditions such as blackheads, whiteheads, and flaking. This skin type is mostly typical for those that are younger in age.
Here’s how you can determine if you have combination skin:
- Not too dry or oily
- Very few imperfections
- Little to no serious sensitivity,
- Barely visible pores
- Radiant complexion
Recommended Foundations:

Rimmel Lasting Finish Breathable Foundation
