Caroline Tompkins / Refinery29 for Getty Images

Sensitive skin poses a continuous struggle. Constant flareups, irritation, flakes, and red, sensitive patches may be a sensory battle, but they also make it difficult to find solutions for masking the agitated skin. Trying new products feels like navigating a minefield, with breakouts and irritation so often looming. But, we find strength in knowing when to ask for help. So, we reached out to the experts for their top recommendations. On our journey to finding the least agitating formulas, we consulted dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman, on what to look for in a sensitive-skin foundation. "Opt for mineral or powder foundations," she said, "unless the formula specifies that it is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and designed for sensitive skin."

Meet the Experts

• Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City. She is a member of the Byrdie Beauty & Wellness Review Board.

• Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist based out of MDCS: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.

• Derek Selby is a professional makeup artist and global ambassador for Cover FX.

While avoiding harsh ingredients that clog pores and cause unnecessary redness is important, Cover FX global ambassador Derek Selby says that it's equally necessary to look for a formula that contains anti-inflammatory properties that "reduce redness and inflammation in the skin." And anyone that's been around the skincare space long enough knows a flawless makeup application starts long before you pick up a brush. "Applying products that preserve the integrity of the skin barrier prior to application of foundation may help prevent irritation," explains dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. "Moisturizers that contain ceramides fortify the epidermis and improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture. If your foundation does not contain SPF, apply a daily SPF moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin prior to applying makeup."

Keep reading for the top recommendations of gentle foundations for sensitive skin.

01 of 14

Cover FX Total Cover Cream Foundation

CoverFX

According to Selby, Cover FX foundations, which come in numerous shades, are "developed in a dermatology clinic in a hospital for the most sensitive skin." Additionally, their products are "mineral oil free, fragrance free, paraben free, gluten free, and talc free," so skin irritation is likely not an issue. And, while a non-agitating formula is a must, it is just as important that the foundation works to cover redness, blemishes, and even out skin tone, which Selby says this cream foundation does thanks to its buildable consistency that can be "very sheer in areas where the skin is clear, and buildable in areas where you need more coverage."

02 of 14

Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation SPF 25

Sephora

If you're looking for a product that delivers both coverage and sun protection, opt for those that contain mineral sunscreens as they're less likely to cause irritation. Camp recommends this Kosas favorite for its particular blend of ingredients. "Mineral sunscreens, such as the kind used in this medium coverage SPF 25 foundation, are thought to be better tolerated by those with sensitive skin," he explains. "This product also contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and squalane to soothe and hydrate skin."

Our Top 14 Foundations For Sensitive Skin, Approved by Experts

03 of 14

BareMinerals Original Loose Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15

BareMinerals

This mineral foundation is a makeup artist favorite—not just for its complexion-blurring and smoothing effects, but also for its clean and non-comedogenic (meaning it won't clog pores) formula. One of our testers with sensitive, acne-prone skin loves it for how it left her skin looking naturally luminous.

04 of 14

Tarte Amazonian Clay 16-Hour Full-Coverage Foundation

Tarte Cosmetics

Free of mineral oil, this hypoallergenic foundation provides a full-coverage matte finish that easily smoothes over blemishes and redness for a clear-looking complexion. The formula is made with Amazonian clay and works to prevent oil buildup. One editor with very fair, irritation-prone skin was surprised to find the product didn't clog their pores—something they'd almost given up on entirely.

05 of 14

Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20

Elizabeth Arden

"Mineral and powder formulas sit on the surface of the skin and are less likely to get into the pores and cause irritation," says Engelman. She specifically recommends using this loose powder foundation from Elizabeth Arden, as it "contains sea water minerals that help support the skin's own natural mineral equilibrium," thus reducing the likelihood of skin irritation.

06 of 14

Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation

Jane Iredale

When a product is sold at many dermatologist offices, you know it's likely good for your skin. This powder foundation is a great option for those of us who don't like the heaviness of a cream formula but still want a decent amount of coverage. Even if you tend to avoid pressed-powder foundations, you might just be surprised by this formula, which glides on easily for a non-cakey, buildable, light-to-full-coverage finish.

Byrdie Tip

If you experience facial redness, look for foundations that have a slightly green tint that counteracts the redness in rashes, blemishes, and any pink patches on the skin. If not, we suggest a green primer or color corrector underneath your foundation.

07 of 14

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Powder Foundation

Fenty Beauty

As the name says, this buildable powder diffuses across skin for a filtered, airbrushed finish, without irritating easily reactive skin. Best part: Its vast range of 50 shades. If you have sensitive skin that's on the oily side, this will help—it has a medium matte finish that looks like a filter IRL.

08 of 14

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40.

ILIA

This Ilia clean foundation is great for those with sensitive skin, as it's infused with anti-inflammatory niacinamide, along with moisture-retaining hyaluronic acid, and skin barrier-supporting squalane. To apply, you can use your fingers to gently melt it into your skin for a your-skin-but-better finish.

09 of 14

Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation

Ilia

Looking for a little more coverage to balance a recent flareup? Camp recomends this second Ilia pick. "Included in this lightweight, medium-coverage foundation are niacinamide and allantoin, which is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties and ability to act as a buffer to potential skin irritation, making it a smart choice for those with sensitive skin," he adds.

10 of 14

Cover FX Pressed Mineral Foundation

CoverFX

When in doubt, look to Cover FX for a sensitive-skin foundation. Engelman suggests this oil-absorbing pressed powder as an alternative to loose-powder formulas, as it provides buildable coverage without irritation thanks to its mineral-oil–free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free formula. Even better—there are 40 different shades to choose from, so it'll be easy to find your perfect match.

11 of 14

Tower 28 SunnyDays™ Tinted SPF 30

Tower 28

If you struggle with skin sensitivities, you're probably already familiar with Tower 28's lineup. The brand's ethos is to create products that safely suit all skin types, especially those that are acne, irritation, or eczema-prone. "Formulated for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this mineral sunscreen foundation offers SPF 30 protection with light-medium buildable coverage and comes in an array of shades," explains Camp.

Tower 28’s Sunscreen Foundation: Our Honest Review

12 of 14

Colorescience Natural Finish Pressed Foundation SPF 20

Colorscience

This non-comedogenic mineral powder sweeps onto skin with a lightweight, silky feel. Build it up for a complexion that looks more even in tone, and lit from within. Best part: It helps protect the skin with SPF 20.

13 of 14

Pur Cosmetics 4-In-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15

Pur Cosmetics

This medium-coverage mineral foundation melts onto skin to help conceal redness, fine lines, and areas of hyperpigmentation—all without triggering sensitive skin.

14 of 14

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SPF 50+

Macy's

Wave bye-bye to redness while covering up any pesky spots at the same time with a multi-use CC cream. This lightweight base is a 6-in-1 product: It's a sunscreen, foundation, color corrector, moisturizer, hydrating serum, and concealer. Yes, it really does it all. For best results, apply on clean skin with the brand's Heavenly Skin™ CC+™ Skin-Perfecting Brush #702.

Byrdie Tip

To minimize the risk of irritation, Camp advises making sure makeup tools are clean prior to application to avoid exposure to contaminants. 

FAQ

• What is the best foundation type for sensitive skin?

  According to Camp, "Foundations with limited ingredients, or those that contain ingredients that calm or hydrate skin, such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and squalane, may be appropriate for those with sensitive skin."

• What kind of foundation do dermatologists recommend?

  Engelman suggests reaching for mineral and powder formulas that sit on the surface of the skin and are less likely to get into the pores and cause irritation.

• What is the best foundation for allergies?

  Camp advises those with sensitivities or allergies to avoid ingredients like "fragrances and preservatives like formaldehyde, paraben, or other ingredients like phthalates and botanicals" as they may cause irritation.