In my early days of trying makeup, there were always some products that I was more open to than others. I loved brow gel, eyeshadow palettes, and all things contour and highlight. But if there’s one thing I consistently stood away from, it was full-coverage foundation. I was always open to using concealers or tinted moisturizers, but the idea of a heavy formula that would clog my pores, cause acne, or just look straight up cakey, was the last thing I wanted.

Since then, I’ve spent my years as a beauty journalist learning what makes a quality product, and in the process, I learned that not all full-coverage foundations are made equal. “A full-coverage foundation contains enough pigment to conceal most visible discoloration, including blemishes, redness, and hyperpigmentation, creating a more even-looking complexion,” says celebrity makeup artist and educator, Thynna Wagenblast. “Although full coverage is often associated with thicker formulas, newer technology has made it possible to achieve that level of coverage with lightweight, breathable textures”