There’s something about a brutally hot day that makes me completely rethink my makeup routine — and foundation is usually the first to go. When the temps creep into the 90s and the humidity is giving “steam room,” the last thing I want is to feel my makeup sliding off my face before I even leave the apartment.
It’s either bare skin or bust unless I find something that can actually withstand the heat. Normally, I’d skip foundation altogether to avoid the dreaded midday melt, but a few weeks ago, I decided to put Clinique’s Even Better Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Foundation to the test, and honestly? Game-changer.
I put this foundation to the test in the summer heat, and it didn’t disappoint.
I applied the foundation around 9 a.m. with just my fingers (because I was running late, naturally). It went on smooth, felt weightless and gave me this radiant, healthy finish — the kind that says “I drink water” even when I don’t. I have dark spots from past breakouts, and this foundation blurred them instantly without looking heavy or mask-like. It gave me just enough coverage to feel confident but still let my skin breathe. I didn’t even need to set it with powder.
By lunchtime, I’d been out in the sun walking around SoHo and grabbing an iced matcha. Normally I’d be melting — especially with SPF involved — but nope. Still intact. Still glowy. Still zero white cast.
By the time I got home around 9 p.m., I did a quick mirror check and audibly said, “Wait… how?” It didn’t fade. It didn’t cling to dry patches. It didn’t separate or settle into lines. And my skin still felt soft and hydrated, not sticky or oily.
What I love most is that it’s skincare-meets-makeup without making you choose between the two.
This foundation is now my go-to for everyday makeup. The formula is designed to visibly improve skin tone with consistent use, thanks to vitamin C. I have a few spots from past breakouts, and after a couple weeks of use, I noticed those marks looked a little less angry. It also has SPF 15, which is nice to have for everyday protection (though I still layer a sunscreen underneath for full coverage, especially in the summer).
It’s oil-free, non-acnegenic, and dermatologist-tested — perfect for sensitive or breakout-prone skin like mine. It comes in 50 shades, and unlike some foundations that oxidize or slide off the minute you sweat, this one stays color-true and smooth without needing constant touch-ups.
And the best part? It’s only $39 at Target. So you’re not just getting a solid foundation — you’re getting one that actually earns its spot in your routine, even when the heat is trying to sabotage your face.
See what reviewers of have to say about this beloved Clinique foundation:
“This foundation is a perfect color - not too orange or too yellow. It feels great going on the skin - very light and natural feel. Coverage is perfect too! 100% a Goldilocks foundation.” — Anna
“I used this years ago and didn’t care for it too much. Decided to try again since my 67 year old skin has changed a lot: drier, more sensitive etc. I really like it a lot. Has good coverage, looks radiant over my moisturizer and lasts pretty well throughout the day/evening. Also it seems like there are a few color choices for fair, cool toned skin.” — Rebecca
“I’ve been using this product for about 15 years. The only thing I changed over time was the shade. It does an excellent job evening out my skin tone and covering any redness. It’s truly a reliable foundation that never lets me down!” — Amanda
“I cannot express how much I love this!! I finally found the perfect foundation that will make my skin look so good. It’s not sticky or anything. My wrinkles don’t look bad at all. Definitely recommend using it.” — Claudia
“I cannot say enough good things about this foundation! It was a blind purchase during a skin event sale and honestly, it has now become my absolute favorite foundation! The application was so easy. It goes on extremely smooth and last all day long. It makes my skin look bright, and the coverage is flawless. I will never go without this again.” — Angel