So Nykaa has recently launched a new foundation called the SkinShield Anti-Pollution Foundation, and the best thing about this launch is that this foundation is available in 15 shades that cover a wide range of Indian skin tones. This is a fantastic step in the right direction for an Indian cosmetics brand to be so inclusive of all skin tones, and to launch 15 shades in one go. Not only does this foundation cover cool, warm, and neutral undertones, it also claims to provide hydration, protect the skin against pollution, and minimize pores, while providing a satin matte finish to the skin. I have been testing this foundation for a number of days now, and here are my thoughts on this product.
The Nykaa SkinShield Foundation comes in a travel-friendly black squeezy tube with a flip lid. The tube seems to be a little big for the volume of the product inside because you need to squeeze at it a bit to get the product out, but other than that the packaging is pretty fine.
Coming to the texture of the foundation, it is creamy but not too thick and spreads on the skin with ease. It blends like a dream and leaves a skinlike matte finish on the face. It does not look cakey or heavy on the face and it almost seems like you are not wearing a foundation. It does provide a satin matte finish, as claimed, and does not turn oily on my combination skin even without powder (even after wearing it all day long). However, if you have some dry patches on your skin then the product will cling to those and exaggerate them a little, so make sure to use a hydrating primer underneath this product if you have dry skin.
The foundation provides medium coverage and can cover small blemishes and slight pigmentation with ease but you will need a concealer for bigger blemishes and dark circles. If I have to compare the formulation to some of the drugstore foundations that I own, it is quite similar to Maybelline Fit Me, but feels more comfortable and hydrating on the skin. What I love about this formula is that even after wearing the foundation for 8-10 hours, I do not feel any heaviness on my skin and do not get the urge to take it off.
Coming to the shade, I picked up the shade 05 Nude Delight based on the shade card provided by the brand, but unfortunately it is a little cool toned for me. While this shade matched my complexion, it takes away the warmth from my face, so I have to use a yellow corrector to make the product work for me. I will definitely try out the shades 06 and 07 next to find my perfect match, because I do love the formula of this foundation.
Overall, the formula of this foundation lives up to the brand’s claims and the shade range is quite impressive. The price point of INR 799 is a bit much for 30ml of product, but I am sure that Nykaa will have some great deals on this product during their frequent sales. I highly recommend this foundation to those with normal to oily skin, especially those who have been struggling to find their perfect shade in other foundations. Kudos to Nykaa for releasing 15 diverse shades and hoping that they further expand the shade range soon!
Click here to buy the Nykaa SkinShield Foundation!