My Honest Review of Ilia's Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation

As someone who struggles with super sensitive and chronically dry skin, I tend to be ultra picky when it comes to face makeup. This is because many formulas tend to highlight my dry, flaky areas (like around my nose and mouth), and that, my friends, is never a cute look. On top of that, some foundations and tinted moisturizers contain ingredients that are simply too harsh for my highly reactive complexion. For this reason, I’m extremely conscious about what’s in the formulas I use. If it’s packed with drying ingredients and artificial fragrance, I’m not about it. When it comes to the face, makeup formulas I’m actually a fan of, well, they’re typically hydrating, dewy, skin-loving, and contain some level of sun protection. Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation, for instance, is hands-down one of my new favorite finds. And it meets all of the aforementioned criteria of what I look for in a foundation-type product.

Ilia

Super Serum Skin Tint

Put simply, Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation is exactly what it sounds like: a featherlight, serum-like foundation that features a solid amount of sun protection. It’s made with non-nano zinc oxide, which means it offers mineral protection that shields against UVA, UVB, UVC, and blue light—all of which contribute to premature signs of aging. Ingredient-wise, it contains nourishing squalane, texture-smoothing niacinamide, and two forms of hyaluronic acid to help improve moisture levels in the skin. Additionally, it’s formulated without fragrance, silicones, oil, and was clinically tested to be non-comedogenic and safe for sensitive skin (it’s also on Sephora’s clean list, for those who prioritize that). Another bonus about this foundation is that it comes in 30 shades and includes options for dark and deep skin tones, as well as those who are incredibly fair.

Now let’s get into my personal experience with the product, shall we?

My Review

What I love most about this foundation is the fact that it feels virtually weightless on the skin yet still offers a super decent level of coverage. You can definitely get a sheer finish with this if you just use a dot or two, but I typically use three or four dots because I prefer a medium level of coverage. Speaking of which, it disguises my redness beautifully, and since it’s so hydrating, it doesn’t exacerbate my dry spots or look cakey at all, which is major. The finish is definitely on the dewy side, so if you’re oily, you’ll likely want to set this with powder, but for all my dry-skinned babes out there, trust me—you will adore the radiance it gives the skin.

As you can see in my before-and-after photos, it looks nearly undetectable on the skin, which is why I love it so much. Also, once it dries down, it feels like I’m wearing nothing. That’s right, folks—nothing. My only small qualm with this product is the price: It’s $48 for 1 oz, and well, if you’re using it every single day, realistically, it won’t last very long.

In the left photo, I’m wearing nothing on my skin, and in the second photo, I’m wearing three dots of Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation blended out with a beauty sponge. Credit: Kaleigh Fassanella

How to Apply

Everyone has their own preference when it comes to face makeup application, but in my experience, using a slightly damp beauty sponge has given me the best results. It ensures you don’t overdo it with coverage, and it helps melt the formula into the skin really beautifully. Plus, it takes approximately 30 seconds to blend out with a beauty sponge, whereas when I tried using a brush, it took longer and left some streaks behind (though, to be fair, that could’ve been the brush I used and not the foundation’s fault). At the end of the day, you can apply this foundation in whatever way feels best for you. Some may choose to use a sponge, like yours truly, while others may favor using their fingers or a brush for more control. No matter what tool you use, I’d recommend starting with just one or two dots to see how you like the coverage before going in with more.

Remember, you can always build this formula up if you need to.

Wondering what it looks like on other skin tones? Check out the brand’s tutorials on Instagram to see how it shows up on a range of skin tones, including dark and deep complexions.

Credit: @iliabeauty

Credit: @iliabeauty

Credit: @iliabeauty

Overall Verdict

So, is Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation worth the hype? I have to say yes, yes it is. Not only is it lightweight and good for your skin, but it also protects your complexion from future damage and looks stunning on all skin tones. Sure, it’s a bit on the pricey side, but a little does go a long way. If you think about it, you’re basically getting a foundation, serum, and sunscreen all in one product. That being said, if you have super oily skin, this may not be your favorite. As for my folks with normal and dry skin, I’d highly recommend giving it a go.

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