While the tide has turned against full coverage foundation in favour of lightweight tinted moisturisers, there is still a healthy market for all-concealing base makeup. Trends will never change that hardened desire to remove any trace of facial imperfections, especially if you happen to have found that rare needle in a haystack that can deliver near-perfection. Which brings me to the question: Is Makeup Revolution’s Conceal and Define still the best budget choice?
I’ve travelled that long and winding path to the possible alternatives. Along the way, I’ve stumbled upon some great contenders - some of which you can read about on this blog. But, at the end of the day, it’s not just about the formula or even the price. It’s about achieving ‘flawless’ at breakneck speed (because who isn’t busy these days?) and not having to faff around with faulty pumps, clogged tube nozzles or anything else that is likely to make a mess or fan the flames of frustration.
The humongous doe-foot applicator that comes with Conceal and Define makes foundation application not just easy but targeted. It is quick and faff-free to use and, with a no-oil formula that sets to a dreamy demi-matte finish, it’s not surprising that little else comes close in the ‘affordable’ bracket.
Conceal and Define plus points
Sometimes only full coverage will do. A first date. A job interview. Your wedding day…
So finding a true full coverage foundation that equates to an impeccable complexion without relieving you of too much cash is a ‘must’. Of course Conceal and Define delivers on those points, but what else does it offer that can be hard to source for under £10? Yes, under a tenner!
It delivers convenience and long-wear. When used with a primer and setting spray, you can expect to maintain a look all day. It’s not a surprise that this is a product of choice for so many makeup lovers.
Another thing… This full coverage foundation is available in no less than 50 shades. Conceal and Define is also paraben free and cruelty free.
Pore blurring with excellent camouflaging properties, it’s perfect for hiding everything from hyperpigmentation to acne scars. What's more, this is a holy grail product that's accessible - yes, it's available online but it's also on shop shelves in the high street.
When Revolution launched its IRL Filter Foundation, I got excited. Was this going to be an almost unimaginable improvement on Conceal and Define? Actually, no. I was disappointed with the dry finish. It certainly didn’t suit my mature skin - though, I can see, it probably appeals to younger consumers. It left me feeling like I was wearing a mask; something I never experience when I use Conceal and Define.
As the art deco era bob and short fringes swing back into vogue, maintaining the appearance of a healthy complexion is paramount. I can achieve close to flawless with this product and not feel like my skin is being suffocated under a layer of beige cement. It allows my skin to breathe.
How to apply a full coverage foundation
Layering is the key to a flawless finish. Apply too much product from the off and things can get cakey. Most budget full coverage foundations actually provide medium coverage but can be built to go the extra mile. While Conceal and Define’s finish is heavier than most alternatives, it still feels lightweight on the skin. I honestly can’t feel that I’m wearing it.
I prep my skin with SPF and a colour-correcting primer. The doe-foot applicator with this foundation allows me to apply dots of product that can be pressed into the skin with a beauty blender. A second application can target imperfections. I’ve got some moles that I’m not very keen on! I avoid using too much product under the eyes and finish this area with a dab of white finishing powder.
Once I’m happy with the coverage, which never takes long, I set the foundation with a matte finishing spray. When the spray is dry, I set my base again with a light dusting of translucent powder. Afterwards, I go in with the setting spray for a second time. I can then, if I want to, apply bronzer and a blush, again using the spray for a final ‘set’. I find this combination keeps a look in place until I wash it off, with no touch-ups required during the day. I use a fan to dry down the spray in a matter of seconds.
If you are looking for a second skin look and feel, and don’t want to spend too much, Conceal and Define really is the go-to. It’s an instant confidence booster in a bottle. And, yes, it is a good budget full coverage foundation. I alternate between this product and Collection Cosmetics' fantastic, and cheaper, Lasting Perfection foundation.
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