These past few days it has been sweltering hot over here and of course, my air conditioner is broken. What better time to test out the Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation ($44 USD / $50 CAD), shown here in shade Buff N, than now?  The latest complexion perfecting foundation from Lancôme claims to deliver flawless yet comfortable wear for 24 hours, with no touch-ups needed.

Sounds heavenly, right? Well, of course, it does cost a pretty penny. If you’re like me though, finding a perfect foundation for your coverage needs and skin type is the ultimate goal in my beauty routine, so I’m willing to shell out the cash if I find my perfect formula.  Not only is it suitable for all skin tones, but it is also offered in 20 shades so everyone can find their perfect match.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation

Pump-top applicator

The bottle is slim and sleek and the pump-top applicator dispenses a good amount of product.  The formula contains SPF15, which is always nice to see.  Although I don’t think this foundation is as magical as it seems, it is pretty darn good.  It gives me medium coverage (enough to even my skin tone out, but I need a little extra or some concealer for blemishes).

It looks super natural with a semi-matte finish and it feels light and breathable (once it has set- it’s a little dewy if you don’t powder it).  The formula is quite thick, and it grabs onto skin easily… so I recommend working in small areas instead of all over at one (I do my cheeks, then my nose and chin and then my forehead).

I apply the foundation with the Lancôme #2 Foundation Brush ($35.50 USD / $41 CAD), and I use a combination of small, short strokes as well as a pattingmotion to really press the makeup into my skin.  Now I’m not about to go 24 hours with this foundation on to test its durability, but I can say the coverage did hold up for over 14 hours perfectly- the only thing that I did have to do was touch up the shine with a bit of powder. Although it claims to deliver shine-free skin… in this heat, I just don’t think that’s possible… but the coverage stayed gorgeous throughout the day.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation & #2 Foundation Brush

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation in Buff N

Before (left) and After (right)… ONLY wearing the Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation, nothing else.

Summary

• Price: $44 USD / $50 CAD for 1oz / 30mL
• Availability: Sephora and other Lancôme retailers
• Overall: A really nice foundation; although it doesn’t live up to all its claims, it did hold up well from morning until night in terms of appearance and coverage (it didn’t melt away). I did get a little breakthrough shine, but that’s easy to touch up.  It sets fast, so work in small areas. This foundation gives medium coverage with a semi-matte finish. I would recommend it for all skin types, but especially for normal/combination skin.
• Rating: A