The bases we loved Our criteria? Coverage

that lasts, and skin that looks like skin – not make-up

Best lightweight tint

Chanel Les Beiges Water-fresh Tint, £48 We’ve never seen a texture like it: deliciously cooling, with glowing pigments that burst on to the skin when buffed in with a brush, for a flattering luminous-matte finish.

Best highlighter

L’oréal Paris Glow Chérie Natural Glow Enhancer, £9.99 Wear this glow booster on high points or all over the skin, under make-up or without. The subtle pearl means you’ll never look shiny or robotic.

Best primer

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer, £34 A dewy cream that keeps foundation feeling comfortable all day, or wears well on its own, to blur and brighten bare skin.

Best skincare hybrid

Kosas Tinted Face Oil, £40 This silky fluid contains all of the oils (including avocado, rosehip and jojoba) to hydrate and condition as it evens and conceals. Suits all skins, gives great glow.

Best fluid foundation

Surratt Dew Drop Foundation, £70 The barest amount (two dots max) covers anything you’re trying to hide and creates an even, satiny sheen.

Best concealer

Givenchy Teint Couture Everwear Concealer, £26.50 Works everywhere: blemishes, redness around the nose, under-eye shadows, even on thread veins and bruises. Creamy, builds well and a little goes a long way.

Best stick foundation

Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Hydrating Foundation Stick SPF25, £29 Melts into skin like sun-warmed butter. Scribble on, build up and blend with fingertips for a fresh-looking, clean-feeling glow.