Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
Product Description
Product overview
A buildable, medium-to-full coverage liquid foundation with up to 16 hours of lightweight, fade-resistant wear and a natural radiant finish. Infused with raspberry, apple, and watermelon fruit extracts to smooth and improve the look of skin over time.
16-Hour Longwear
Fade-resistant formula stays color-true all day without oxidizing, transferring, or breaking down.
Texture & feel
SENSORY16-Hour Longwear
Fade-resistant formula stays color-true all day without oxidizing, transferring, or breaking down.
Lightweight Coverage
Buildable medium-to-full coverage that feels breathable on skin, never cakey or heavy.
Skin Optimizing Complex
Blend of raspberry, apple, and watermelon extracts supports skin elasticity and smooths texture over time.
Skin-Matching Technology
Mimics your natural skin tone and fuses with it for an undetectable, second-skin match across 34 shades.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, retinyl palmitate, and chemical sunscreens. Considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains sorbitan sesquiisostearate, behenic acid, and stearic acid — fatty acids and esters that may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free, silicone-based formula. Most ingredients score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Some users with sensitive or acne-prone skin report breakouts due to tocopherol (Vitamin E).
Formulated without alcohol, parabens, fragrance, talc, SLS/SLES, EDTA, phthalates, formaldehyde, coal tar, triclosan, and triclocarban.
Dimethicone is the first ingredient. Pair with silicone-based primers for best results. Water-based skincare underneath may cause pilling or separation.
NARS is owned by Shiseido and sells in markets where animal testing may be required by law. The brand lost its cruelty-free certification in 2017.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSDimethicone #1 IngredientProven
A silicone-based polymer that acts as the foundation's primary base. Creates a smooth, silky feel and forms a breathable barrier on the skin that helps the formula glide on evenly and resist transfer.
- Function: Skin protectant, emollient, and slip agent that fills in fine lines and pores for a blurred, even-looking finish.
- Benefit: Non-comedogenic (rating 0), hypoallergenic, and allows the foundation to wear for extended periods without breaking down.
Glycerin Top 5Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Prevents the foundation from looking dry or cakey throughout the day.
- Function: Attracts and locks in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated under makeup for comfortable all-day wear.
- Clinical Data: One of the most researched and effective humectants in dermatology, proven to strengthen the skin barrier.
Raspberry, Apple & Watermelon Extracts Active BlendPromising
NARS' proprietary Skin Optimizing Complex. This trio of fruit extracts provides antioxidant protection and helps support skin's elastic fibers to improve texture over time.
- Raspberry: Rich in polyphenols, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Watermelon: Contains vitamins A, B, C, E, amino acids citrulline and arginine, and antioxidant lycopene.
- Apple: Rich in Vitamin C, natural sugars (humectants), and malic acid for gentle exfoliation and brightening.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) TraceProven
A potent antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage and helps preserve the formula's stability and color integrity.
- Function: Neutralizes free radicals, prevents oxidation of pigments, and conditions the skin.
- Stability: Helps the foundation resist color-shifting throughout the wear period.
47 ingredients
Dimethicone, Water/Aqua/Eau, Phenyl Trimethicone, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Boron Nitride, Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3, Butylene Glycol, Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract, Tocopherol, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Behenic Acid, Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Barium Sulfate, Aluminum Dimyristate, Alumina, Tin Oxide, Polysilicone-2, Potassium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Dehydroacetate. May Contain: CI 77891/Titanium Dioxide, CI 77491/Iron Oxides, CI 77492/Iron Oxides, CI 77499/Iron Oxides, CI 77163/Bismuth Oxychloride, CI 75470/Carmine.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINENARS recommends applying to clean, moisturized skin without primer for best results. If using a primer, choose a silicone-based formula for compatibility.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
Cleanse and moisturize your skin. Allow moisturizer to fully absorb before applying foundation. Skip primer for the most natural finish, or use a silicone-based primer.
Dispense & Warm
Pump one pearl-size amount onto the back of your hand. Warm the product with your fingertips — this activates the skin-matching technology for the best color payoff.
Apply from Center Outward
Start at the center of your face where you need the most coverage and blend outward using fingertips, a damp sponge, or a brush. Focus on one area at a time.
Build Coverage Gradually
Add thin layers to build coverage. Avoid over-applying around the eyes and contours — too much product can accentuate fine lines. Less is more with this pigmented formula.
Set (Optional)
Allow the foundation to set for 2–3 minutes. If desired, lightly set with a translucent powder in oily areas. The formula is designed to look better over time without setting.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want medium-to-full coverage that looks like real skin
- You need a foundation that lasts all day (8–16 hours)
- You prefer a luminous, natural radiant finish
- You have normal, dry, or combination skin
- You need fragrance-free, paraben-free makeup
- You want an inclusive shade range with accurate undertones
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin — may appear too dewy or transfer easily
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — contains fatty acids/esters
- You prefer a true matte finish with zero shine
- You only purchase cruelty-free brands (NARS tests where required by law)
- You are sensitive to silicones or Vitamin E (tocopherol)
- You want a sheer, no-makeup look — this is highly pigmented
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Blends seamlessly, delivers a natural radiant finish that looks like real skin but better. No dryness or excess oil.
Hydrating glycerin prevents cakiness. The radiant finish flatters dry skin. Apply to well-moisturized skin and avoid powder setting for best results.
Works well on most areas. May need blotting or powder on the T-zone after 5–6 hours. Set oily areas lightly for best longevity.
The radiant finish can appear overly shiny on oily skin. May transfer more easily. Use a mattifying primer and setting powder to extend wear.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free of common irritants. Some sensitive individuals may react to silicones or tocopherol — patch test first.
Oil-free and low comedogenic rating. However, some acne-prone users report breakouts — possibly from tocopherol or heavy silicone content. Not fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
1–2 WEEKSInstant Radiance & Coverage
Smooths skin texture, covers redness, discoloration, and imperfections with a natural, luminous finish. Skin looks healthy and glowing immediately upon application.
95% noticed instant improvementFoundation Melts Into Skin
The formula continues to warm and fuse with your natural skin tone. Coverage becomes even more seamless and undetectable. The "second skin" effect peaks during this window.
88% reported improved appearance over timeLongevear Performance
Foundation remains largely intact with minimal fading on normal and dry skin. T-zone may need light blotting on combination skin. Coverage stays true without oxidizing.
78% experienced lasting wear without touch-upsSkin Texture Improvement
With regular use, the Skin Optimizing Complex (raspberry, apple, watermelon extracts) helps smooth skin texture and support elastic fibers for a healthier-looking complexion.
72% noticed improved skin quality (NARS clinical study)Ratings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Beautiful natural radiant finish that looks like real skin
- Excellent shade range (34 shades) with accurate undertone matching
- Buildable coverage from medium to full without looking heavy
- Fragrance-free and free of parabens, talc, and major irritants
- Impressive longevity (8–16 hours on normal/dry skin)
- Elegant glass bottle packaging with precision pump dispenser
- Highly pigmented — a little product goes a long way
- Doesn't oxidize or change color throughout the day
Criticized
- Transfers easily, especially on oily skin or in humid conditions
- Can separate and look patchy around nose and forehead after 4–5 hours
- Not cruelty-free (NARS tests where legally required since 2017)
- $49 for 30ml feels expensive compared to drugstore alternatives
- Radiant finish may look too shiny on oily skin types
- Some users with acne-prone skin report clogged pores or breakouts
- Can settle into fine lines and nasolabial folds without proper prep
- Requires careful application technique — excess product looks cakey
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESClosest drugstore dupe. Shares key ingredients like dimethicone and glycerin for a similar silky texture. Also alcohol-free and oil-free. Provides hydrating, radiant coverage with hyaluronic acid and collagen. Slightly less pigmented and fewer shade options.
Very similar creamy texture and buildable medium-to-full coverage. Acts as both foundation and concealer. Comparable radiant finish, though slightly heavier on the skin. Good shade range with 45 options. Less longwearing than the NARS original.
Similar radiant finish and medium buildable coverage at a fraction of the price. Lighter, more luminous formula. Less coverage and longevity than NARS. Available in 30 shades. Good everyday alternative for those who want a natural glow.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEEstée Lauder Double Wear
MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening
Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Do not freeze.
Heavyweight frosted glass bottle with precision pump dispenser and matte black NARS cap
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Glass bottle — pack securely to avoid breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This foundation is free of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, retinyl palmitate, and chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is considered safe for use by expecting and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about any ingredient.
No, this foundation is not fungal acne safe. It contains sorbitan sesquiisostearate (an ester), behenic acid, and stearic acid (fatty acids) — all of which are known to potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider the NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation or NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, which have been flagged as acne-safe alternatives.
Yes, you can use this foundation over active skincare ingredients. Since this is a silicone-based formula, allow your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA serums to fully absorb (wait at least 5–10 minutes) before applying. If using strong retinol or chemical exfoliants, your skin may be more sensitive — the foundation's fragrance-free, gentle formula is unlikely to cause additional irritation. For best results, pair with a silicone-based moisturizer or primer.
This foundation works best on normal, dry, and combination skin types. The radiant finish beautifully hydrates and illuminates dry and normal skin. Combination skin may need light powdering in the T-zone. It is less ideal for very oily skin, as the luminous finish can appear overly shiny and may transfer or separate in humid conditions. For oily skin, consider the NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation instead.
You will see instant coverage and radiance upon first application. The foundation actually looks better 15–30 minutes after application as it warms and fuses with your skin. For the skin-improving benefits of the Skin Optimizing Complex (raspberry, apple, watermelon extracts), NARS clinical studies show visible improvement in skin texture within 1–2 weeks of regular use.
Apply after your skincare routine (cleanser, serum, moisturizer) and after any primer. NARS actually recommends applying to clean, moisturized skin without primer for the most natural-looking result. Apply foundation before concealer, powder, bronzer, blush, and setting spray. If using a primer, choose a silicone-based formula for compatibility.
This foundation has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It is oil-free and its silicone-based formula is generally well-tolerated. However, individual experiences vary — some acne-prone users have reported breakouts, potentially from tocopherol (Vitamin E) or the heavy silicone content. If you are acne-prone, patch test on a small area before full-face use and ensure thorough cleansing at the end of the day.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 24 months (2 years). This is standard for NARS liquid foundations. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass bottle and pump dispenser help maintain product integrity and prevent contamination. If the formula changes in color, smell, or consistency, discard and replace.
Verdict: NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation remains one of the best-selling prestige foundations for a reason. Its buildable medium-to-full coverage delivers an incredibly natural, luminous "your skin but better" finish that few competitors can match. The fragrance-free, oil-free formula packed with fruit extracts works beautifully on normal, dry, and combination skin types, with genuine 8–12 hour staying power on most wearers. The 34-shade range with thoughtful undertone matching sets it apart. Where it falls short: oily skin types may experience transfer and separation, the $49 price tag is steep for 30ml, and the loss of cruelty-free status is a dealbreaker for ethical consumers. If you want radiant, second-skin coverage that lasts all day and can skip the dewy look on oily days — this is a makeup bag essential worth every pump.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Phenyl Trimethicone
Antifoaming Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Opacifying
|
|



