Difference Between over the Counter Foundation and Brand Names Ones?

I love Estee Lauder foundation! It is $33 but I only buy it when there is a bonus gift so I think it is an excellent value. Typically the gift includes misscarra, lipstick, makeup remover etc. Stuff I would buy anyway.

I've never had much luck with drugstore foundations. I can never pick out a color that matches my skin tone and they feel very thick and cakey on my face or causes my face to breakout (I have very oily skin). As far as department store brands goes, I think that in order to get the color right, you really need the help of a sales person or friend -- both of whom should have a good eye for color -- help you pick out the right one. You also either have good lighting available or go outside to look at the foundation on your face to determine the correct color to match your coloring and skin tone.

For me, I've always had good luck with Aveda's tinted sunscreen and loose powder. When I put it on, people think I have good skin and when I tell them it's the makeup, they actually argue with me about it. This has happened with a number of different people so I would imagine that they are not just being nice; they are convinced that I have nice skin without makeup (I don't).

Hope this helps. I know the frustration with makeup shopping so hang in there and good luck.

The difference? That's simple--$20-30!
Seriously, I used Estee Lauder or Origins for years and in a pinch picked up some Neutrogena tinted moisturizer (Sheer Glows I think) and have bought it ever since!

I definately believe there is a difference. I have tried every brand. My skin, especially my face is very sensitive to makeup.

If you go for a more expensive one, the color will match perfectly to your skin, and it will be better for you too.

I personally love Philosophy powder foundation. It blends so nicely and is good for your skin. It is made out of minerals and no oil etc. I actually love all Philosophy's makeup and skin care products. And it's not ridiculously over priced either. And they have such a wide variety. And it lasts forever. I wear makeup quite often and it lasts me just about a year. You dont need much.

I also like Estee Lauder's Photogenic liquid foundation, it also blends well too.

I have tried Cover Girls makeup but it makes me break out like crazy! I think I am allergic to it.

If you ask me, I would rather pay more money for a great product that is good for your skin, doesnt make you break out, and lasts a long time.
So worth it. And you know that it matches you dont have to guess.

there really is not much difference except for price, I have tried them all and am sticking to Cover Girl, there are 3 types, such as , oil control, sensitive skin and normal, it gives the best coverage and is like $6.oo a bottle...

This past Thursday, I was feeling down in the mouth. I'm not really the type to shop-therapy, but eating sushi off a conveyor belt, getting fast food style "espresso" from Starbucks, and trying on too expensive clothes seemed like a ticket to relief. So, me and a girlfriend headed to the mall.

I found myself at the Sephora makeup counter. The woman behind the counter, hustled me to her chair. Brushes in hand, she took my face and made ART from it. Truly, a magical moment. Sephora. It made my face feel like angel tears. No joke. I'm not sure what they do differently, but I liked it.

I've done May Kay (and liked it until I started itching every time I used it) and now I use over the counter. I used Physician's Formula's tinted moisturizer until they changed it a little bit. Can't find it locally now. I've just started using Almay's Smart Shade makeup (it has the SPF 15). I really like it. I just had to pick the tone (light, light-medium, or medium). It automatically adjusts to my skin and looks really good.

Go to cosmeticscop.com and beautypedia.com. Paula Begoun gives excellent explanations. You definitely don't need to get a department store foundation. I like Loreal True Match SPF 17, and most drugstores have a return policy now for cosmetics.

I'm no expert, but I've been make up shopping for over 20 years and I do believe there is a difference. While I do like Almay, I have found the quality to vary quite a bit. It's hit or miss for some reason, even when buying the same exact product in the same color. Most drugstore brands (with the exception of Almay) still do animal testing and that has factored into my purchasing as well. Clinique is my new favorite. I have sensitive eyes and it's great for that. The quality has been much more consistent. There are so many choices and I LOVE that there are reviews on their website to help you choose. For foundation, they are very specific about coverage options etc. I would suggest trying the samples at Sephora because there are SO many shades, it's hard to pick without seeing it on you. Good Luck & Happy Shopping!

i think they are all the same all lie about anti this or that you just have to keep trying them till you find 1 you really like most stores like cvs will take it back for another kind or brand save receipt

Be in ____@____.com and I'll explain it all to you. Whatever you do....do not put products containing mineral oil on your skin. I'll explain that, too.

Best, I.

The best I've found is Mary Kay! I love it so much, I am now a consultant!
Check out my website. If you like what you see, I can always mail you one.
www.marykay.com/sharonherman
Good luck.

If you go with a brand name, you're going to get the foundation match that's perfect for you. You may want to consider trying Mary Kay out. They just came out with 2 brand new formulas and now have over 60 shades to choose from...including a tinted moisturizer that gives you a touch of color, but also SPF 20.

I do believe there is a difference. I have used Clinique for years.

You get what you pay for.... I don't use much foundation but I love the City Base which is more of a paste form (use less) than liquid. It has the SPF which is important as well.

It just depends on you and what you are happy with. I have used Clinique for many years and I will not change out of the Clinique brand. I do change occasionally if there is a need within the brand but overall, I've used Clinique since i was about 11 and I am in my late 40s... pass for early 30's so in my mind, no need to reinvent the wheel!