The best foundations 2021, as tested by us

Tested by Sasha - Actress****Skin type: Normal"I struggle to find a foundation pale enough for my skin without making me look like a ghost, but this was perfect – the best colour match I've found. The finish was heavy but still fresh and at £15, what more could you want?"Stand-out benefits: A long-lasting foundation that delivers a fresh and natural finish. Contains blend of exotic oils helps hydrate and nourish the skin without being heavy.

Tested by Jazzria - heat, Assistant Style Editor Skin type: Oily T-zone "I'm not usually a fan of matte foundation so this surprised me. When they say long-wear they mean it. I usually have to powder throughout the day but with this there was no need. I did mix in a few drops of liquid highlighter to make it a little glowier but overall I'm converted." Stand-out benefits: a blendable and luminous formula which gives that 'second skin' feel. It also helps to instantly minimise pores and control oil, making it perfect for oily/combination skin types.

Tested by Cigdem - Stylist****Skin type: Normal/Dry "The coverage from this is incredible. The first time I tried it I used one pump which it turns out is WAY too much, half a pump is plenty. It lasted all day and people commented how good my skin was. The price tag is a little upsetting but as you use so little it'll last for ages." Stand-out benefits: the foundation contains light-refracting microspheres to help blur and create a soft-focus dewy complexion.

Tested by Rachael - heat, Style Writer Skin type: Oily/Blemish Prone "I really like a full coverage, matte base so knew I'd be impressed with Fenty. A little goes a long way as it's seriously pigmented, so just a few drops was more than enough to cover my whole face. I applied it with a beauty blender and the finish was flawless. Definitely a new fave." Stand-out benefits: A really great coverage and perfect for when you need your base to go the extra mile. It's available in an impressive 50 shades, too.

Tested by Chané - Dancer****Skin type: Oily/Combination"This was so long-lasting I had to use multiple makeup removers to take it off at the end of the day. It covered my blemishes easily and gave me a fresh-faced look. Oh, and it smells delicious, which is an added bonus!"Stand-out benefits: the finish promises to be matte and dewy, whilst being waterproof, sweat-proof, humidity-proof, party-proof... you get the picture.

Tested by Laura - heat, Style Editor****Skin type: Combination"I'm a huge NARS fan and this provided excellent coverage. It left my skin flawless and wasn't cakey. The shade was perfect for my skin as it had a pinkish hue – ideal for my complexion."Stand-out benefits: a formula which is buildable, long-lasting and not one bit cakey. It's enriched with fruit extracts to smooth improve skin's texture over time for optimal radiance.

Tested by Amy- Journalist****Skin type: Combination "As someone who doesn't normally wear foundation day-to-day, I love how natural this was – it felt like I had nothing on! It was one of the best colour matches I've ever found giving an olive shade with yellow undertones. Basically my skin, but better." Stand-out benefits: formulated with light diffusers to unify skin tone and effortlessly hide blemishes for a smooth finish.