Foundation sticks: The must-have product for a shortcut beauty routine

A true beauty hero for today’s girl on-the-go

Sarah Jones
Friday 05 January 2018 13:24 GMT
Comments
(Getty/iStock)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Finding a foundation that ticks all the right boxes can seem like an impossible task, especially with so many formulas flooding the market.

Thankfully though, there is one type that for busy folks on the go, proves a no-brainer.

Portable, fuss-free and a whole lot less messy – enter foundation sticks.

A throwback formula, so-called “pan stick” foundations had their moment way-back-when but a reputation for increasingly drying, crease-happy consistencies soon saw their downfall.

However, after years of development, the beauty industry is beginning to launch a new generation of stick foundation that is working harder and performing better than ever before.

Taking on coverage and on-the-go practicality all at once, they say the best things come in small packages, and in this case it really is true.

New and improved, many of these formulas boast hydrating blends of emollients that help to lock in moisture and give your skin a healthy glow, with a range of consistencies to choose from depending on your complexion’s needs.

Hourglass, Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick, £42, Space NK
Hourglass, Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick, £42, Space NK

Typically, they’re designed with a creamy, super-lightweight texture fixed to an applicator that, once applied to your T-zone, under your eyes and your chin, can be blended out with your tool of choice.

That being said though, plenty of brands like Nars and Estee Lauder are beginning to extend beyond tradition with new foundations that come made with blenders built into their packaging.

Velvet Matte Foundation Stick, £30, Nars
Velvet Matte Foundation Stick, £30, Nars

A seriously fuss-free beauty hero for today’s girl on-the-go, these new products come with the smooth, silky consistency one would expect from a standard foundation – be it a cream, liquid or even mousse – but with none of the foreseeable spillages, dirty brushes or mucky fingertips.

Simply throw them in your bag for last-minute touch ups, use them in lieu of concealer or reach for them on those days when you’d prefer an extra five minutes in bed.

Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup, £20, Estee Lauder
Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup, £20, Estee Lauder
Anastasia Beverly Hills, Stick Foundation, £25, Feel Unique
Anastasia Beverly Hills, Stick Foundation, £25, Feel Unique
Surratt, Surreal Skin Foundation Wand, £62, Cult Beauty
Surratt, Surreal Skin Foundation Wand, £62, Cult Beauty

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in