Foundation
L to R: Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation, $73, Laura Mercier; Velvet Matte Skin Tint SPF 30/PA+++, $70, NARS; Beauty Balm BB Dis-A-Pore SPF30/PA++, $58, Dr. Jart+; Born This Way Foundation, $61, Too Faced; Diamond Dust Perfector, $90, IDS; UV Liquid Foundation SPF 50++/PA+++, $70, RMK

Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation, $73, Laura Mercier

Lightweight and super spreadable, this melts into skin for picture-perfect skin under any light, thanks to its blend of self-adjusting light-reflecting pigments. It also left my skin hydrated and plump, even after long hours in air-conditioning.

Velvet Matte Skin Tint SPF 30/PA+++, $70, NARS

Ever wished for shine-proof coverage that lasts? This lightweight texture is the answer to those with combination and oily skin. Infused with pore-masking and oil-absorbent ingredients, this hid skin imperfections and kept my skin fresh and velvety-smooth, even after a hot and sticky lunch break.

Beauty Balm BB Dis-A-Pore SPF 30/PA++, $58, Dr. Jart+

Formulated with those with enlarged pores (read: me, all my life), this has a rather rich texture but once blended into skin, the orange peel effect on my T-zone somehow almost vanishes. It also contains pore-refining ingredients to help minimise their appearance over time. I like to mix in a bit of moisturiser so it’s easier to apply.

Born This Way Foundation, $61, Too Faced

For those who prefer more substantial coverage, Too Faced’s creamy formula is buildable, offering full coverage without feeling heavy or icky. You also don’t have to worry about makeup sinking into lines as it contains coconut water and hyaluronic acid to keep skin dewy and hydrated.

Diamond Dust Perfector, $90, IDS

Perfect for blemish-prone complexions, I switch to this whenever my skin is plagued with breakouts. It’s non-comedogenic formula calms redness, smoothes bumpy skin while giving skin a matte finish.

UV Liquid Foundation SPF 50++/PA+++, $70, RMK

If I know I’m going to be out and about a lot during the day, or even when I’m headed for a beach vacation, this is my trusty go-to. It goes on sheer but this lightweight texture packs super high UV coverage (but I still reapply every two to three hours).

By Joyce Cheo