Best Cruelty Free Foundation 2018

Finding the perfect foundation can feel like a never-ending quest, especially when you’re also committed to cruelty-free beauty. In 2018, the options were growing rapidly, making it both exciting and overwhelming. As a beauty blogger dedicated to ethical and effective makeup, I spent countless hours testing and reviewing foundations to bring you the best cruelty-free choices from that year. Let’s dive into some of the standouts!

Why Cruelty-Free Foundation Matters

Before we get to the recommendations, let’s quickly talk about why choosing cruelty-free is so important. “Cruelty-free” means that the product and its ingredients haven’t been tested on animals. Many brands still conduct or pay for animal testing, often in countries where it’s required by law. By choosing cruelty-free, you’re supporting brands that value ethical practices and are committed to finding alternative ways to ensure product safety. It’s a vote with your wallet for a more compassionate beauty industry!

Top Cruelty-Free Foundation Picks of 2018

These foundations were chosen based on their performance, shade range, ingredient quality, and overall user reviews from 2018.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Foundation

Tarte’s Amazonian Clay Foundation was a long-time favorite for many, and for good reason. It offered medium to full coverage with a natural matte finish that helped to control oil throughout the day. The key ingredient, Amazonian clay, is known for its ability to balance the skin and absorb excess oil without being overly drying. This made it a great option for those with oily or combination skin. It was available in a decent range of shades, catering to various skin tones.

One important note about the Amazonian Clay Foundation: While Tarte is a cruelty-free brand, always double-check ingredient lists and brand policies as formulations can sometimes change.

Cover FX Custom Cover Drops

While not technically a foundation on its own, Cover FX Custom Cover Drops were a game-changer. These concentrated pigment drops could be mixed with any moisturizer, serum, or oil to create a custom foundation. This allowed for complete control over the coverage, from sheer to full. They were fantastic for adapting your base to different seasons or skin needs. The formula was also vegan and free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. The versatility and extensive shade range made this a winner for 2018.

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

Too Faced’s Born This Way Foundation continued to be a popular pick. This foundation was designed to give the skin a natural, flawless look, as if you were “born this way.” It offered medium, buildable coverage with a radiant finish. Infused with coconut water to replenish moisture levels, hyaluronic acid for a smoother appearance, and alpine rose to brighten the skin, this foundation was a great option for those with normal to dry skin. The shade range was continually expanding to include more diverse skin tones.

Pacifica Alight Clean Foundation

For those seeking a more natural and lightweight option, the Pacifica Alight Clean Foundation was a standout. This foundation provided light to medium coverage with a dewy finish. It was formulated with skin-loving ingredients like coconut water and floral extracts. Pacifica is a completely vegan and cruelty-free brand, making this a guilt-free choice. It was perfect for everyday wear and gave the skin a healthy, radiant glow. While the shade range was more limited compared to some other brands, the formula was excellent for those wanting a “no-makeup makeup” look.

Urban Decay Naked Skin Weightless Ultra Definition Liquid Foundation

Urban Decay’s Naked Skin Foundation was renowned for its weightless feel and natural-looking finish. It provided buildable coverage that evened out skin tone without feeling heavy or cakey. This foundation was formulated to blur imperfections and create a soft-focus effect. The shade range was impressive, catering to a wide variety of skin tones. Although Urban Decay was later acquired by a parent company that isn’t entirely cruelty-free (they allow testing when required by law), Urban Decay themselves maintained their cruelty-free stance. Many still considered this a viable option if they were comfortable with the parent company’s broader policies.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Cruelty-Free Foundation

Choosing the right foundation involves more than just finding a cruelty-free brand. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Skin Type: Oily skin benefits from matte, oil-free formulas. Dry skin needs hydrating, dewy foundations. Combination skin might prefer a balanced, satin finish.
• Coverage: Decide whether you want light, medium, or full coverage. Lighter coverage is great for everyday wear, while fuller coverage is better for special occasions or covering imperfections.
• Shade Matching: Find a shade that matches your skin tone exactly. Test the foundation on your jawline in natural light to ensure a perfect match.
• Ingredients: Look for foundations with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and vitamins. Avoid foundations with harsh chemicals or potential irritants if you have sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I be sure a brand is truly cruelty-free?

Look for the Leaping Bunny or PETA certification logos. These organizations have strict standards for cruelty-free brands. You can also check websites like Cruelty-Free Kitty or Ethical Elephant for comprehensive lists of cruelty-free brands.

What does “vegan” mean in makeup?

Vegan makeup means that the product doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients, such as beeswax, honey, or lanolin.

Can I find cruelty-free foundations at the drugstore?

Yes! Many drugstore brands offer cruelty-free options. Brands like e.l.f., Milani, and Wet n Wild are all cruelty-free and widely available at drugstores.

Are cruelty-free foundations more expensive?

Not necessarily. There are cruelty-free options available at all price points, from budget-friendly to high-end.

Finding the perfect cruelty-free foundation in 2018 (and beyond!) was definitely achievable with a little research. These highlighted foundations offered excellent performance and aligned with ethical values. Remember to always check for updated information on brand policies and ingredient lists, as these can change over time. Embrace the beauty of cruelty-free makeup and enjoy finding your perfect match!

Related Posts