ootdfashion
Here’s a wonderful new foundation for those who love lightweight makeup: the Clarins Skin Illusion Natural Hydrating Foundation. This is a fresh release that replaces Clarins’ original Skin Illusion, which came in a standard pump-action glass bottle. The new version, inspired by serum, is even better—lighter, more hydrating, and slightly more radiant in finish, though that’s subtle.
This new foundation gives a “bare skin” look. It’s incredibly sheer and natural, evening out your skin tone subtly without fully covering imperfections. The one downside is its packaging; it comes in a glass-dropper bottle that isn’t very convenient. Although not my favorite, it’s manageable by putting a bit of the foundation on the back of your hand and applying it with a brush, sponge, or fingertips.
The Skin Illusion applies beautifully. It’s runny and lightweight, so it blends seamlessly into a luminous but natural finish. I recently had a great skin week and noticed an improvement in tone and texture after using it.
For coverage, it minimizes redness and subtly reduces the appearance of moles or freckles, but might not fully cover dark circles under the eyes. While my skin was looking good when I tested it, it still made a noticeable difference.
This foundation is perfect for anyone who dislikes heavy makeup and prefers a quick, easy application with a natural glow. Compared to similar products like Clinique’s Even Better Glow or Armani’s Maestro Glow, Clarins Skin Illusion excels in hydration. It also comes in a wide range of 22 shades, although the dropper bottle can be a bit annoying.
The advantage of the Clarins foundation, compared to other options, is that just a few drops can even out your face quickly without creating visible lines or product build-up. It’s ideal for those who want a fresh look effortlessly.
I’ve spent quite some time comparing these foundations, and while many new options out there provide lightweight, radiant finishes, the Clarins stands out for its natural feel. Available for £30, and they offer a handy “try before you buy” option, which is useful for finding the perfect shade without having to visit a store in person.
