Dermablend Foundation:is it worth it?

If you’re hunting for a foundation that delivers flawless coverage without compromising your skin’s health, Dermablend is a game-changer. As someone who’s struggled with redness and uneven tone, I can’t recommend it enough. Its dermatologist-backed formula blends seamlessly, covering everything from acne scars to tattoos. In this article, I’ll share my honest experience with Dermablend Cover Creme, break down its pros and cons, compare it to other brands, and give you tips to make it work like magic. Trust me, your makeup routine deserves this!

What Is Dermablend Foundation?

Let’s start with the basics. Dermablend was born in 1981 when dermatologist Dr. Craig Roberts teamed up with his makeup artist wife, Flori Roberts, to create a foundation that could cover skin imperfections while being kind to sensitive skin. The result? A high-pigment, long-wear formula that’s become a cult favorite for tackling everything from vitiligo to hyperpigmentation. Dermablend’s Cover Creme, the star of their lineup, is a creamy, full-coverage foundation with SPF 30, designed to conceal serious skin concerns without clogging pores.

I was drawn to Dermablend because of its non-comedogenic promise and dermatologist endorsement. As someone with combination skin prone to redness, I needed something that could even out my tone without triggering breakouts. I chose the Cover Creme in a neutral shade and tested it for three months to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler: it’s not perfect, but it’s pretty darn close.

My Experience With Dermablend Cover Creme

When I first applied Dermablend Cover Creme, I was nervous. Full-coverage foundations often feel heavy or look like a mask, but this one surprised me. I warmed a small amount with my fingers, as recommended, and blended it with a damp sponge. The texture melted into my skin, covering my rosacea and old acne scars like they were never there. It felt breathable, not suffocating, and lasted through my 10-hour workday.

Over the weeks, I noticed consistent coverage, but it wasn’t without quirks. Humidity made it transfer slightly, and I had to tweak my application to avoid dryness around my nose. Here’s the full scoop on my experience:

Flawless Coverage: My redness and scars vanished with just a thin layer. It’s like Photoshop for your face, but in a natural way.

Buildable Formula: I could sheer it out for lighter days or layer it for full glam. Versatility is a big win for me.
Long-Lasting Wear: It stayed put for 12 hours with setting powder, surviving coffee spills and sweaty commutes.
SPF 30 Bonus: The built-in sun protection gave me peace of mind, especially during outdoor brunches.

Smooth Application: Warming it with my fingers made blending a breeze. A sponge gave me a polished finish every time.
No Breakouts: As someone with acne-prone skin, I was thrilled it didn’t clog my pores or cause irritation.
Shade Match Success: The 22-shade range nailed my neutral undertone. I felt confident in my color match.

Slight Transfer in Humidity: On muggy days, it rubbed off on my phone unless I set it well.
Dry Patch Emphasis: Without proper moisturizing, it clung to dry areas around my nose, needing extra prep.
Learning Curve: It took a few tries to perfect the amount and technique, but practice made perfect.

Pros Of Dermablend Cover Creme

Dermablend Cover Creme has earned its stripes as a dermatologist favorite, and I get why. Here’s what makes it a standout in my makeup bag:

Unmatched Coverage: It conceals everything—scars, tattoos, vitiligo—without looking heavy. My skin looked airbrushed.
Non-Comedogenic: It’s safe for acne-prone skin, and I had zero breakouts despite daily use.

SPF 30 Protection: The mineral-based SPF shields sensitive skin from UV damage, a must for me.
Long-Wear Formula: With setting powder, it lasts up to 16 hours, perfect for long days or events.
Sensitive Skin-Friendly: Free of fragrances and phthalates, it didn’t irritate my reactive skin.

Wide Shade Range: 22 shades cater to diverse skin tones, making it inclusive and reliable.
Buildable Texture: You control the coverage, from medium to full, depending on your needs.
Natural Finish: It blends seamlessly, avoiding the cakey look I dread with heavy foundations.

Dermatologist-Tested: Its medical-grade roots give me confidence in its safety and efficacy.
Versatile Use: I used it to cover a small bruise on my arm, and it worked like a charm.

Cons Of Dermablend Cover Creme

No foundation is flawless, and Dermablend has its drawbacks. Here’s what I found challenging:

Pricey Investment: At $39 for 1 oz., it’s not budget-friendly, especially if you use it daily.
Transfer Issues: Without setting powder, it can rub off on clothes or phones, especially in heat.
Dry Skin Prep Needed: It can cling to dry patches if you skip moisturizer, requiring extra skincare steps.

Thick Texture: The creme is dense, which can feel heavy if you overapply or don’t blend well.
Limited Dewy Finish: It leans matte, so if you love a radiant glow, you’ll need to add highlighter.
Setting Powder Dependency: For max longevity, you need Dermablend’s setting powder, adding to the cost.

Shade Selection Online: Picking a shade online is tricky without swatches, and returns can be a hassle.
Not Sweat-Proof: During a gym session, it slid off with sweat, so it’s not ideal for workouts.
Application Time: Blending takes effort compared to lighter foundations, not great for rushed mornings.

Stock Issues: Some shades sell out quickly, which frustrated me when I needed a restock.

Also read:My Final Thoughts Animal PaNARS Sheer Glow Vs. Light Reflecting Foundations: Which One Is Better?k Ultimate Foundation Review

Comparison with Other Foundation Brands

To see how Dermablend holds up, I compared it to three popular foundations: Estée Lauder Double Wear, L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte, and IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream. I’ve used Estée Lauder and researched the others thoroughly, so here’s the breakdown.

Dermablend Cover Creme Vs. Estée Lauder Double Wear

Coverage: Dermablend’s creme conceals severe concerns like vitiligo; Double Wear offers full coverage but struggles with tattoos.
Finish: Double Wear has a semi-matte finish, while Dermablend’s is more natural, less flat.

Longevity: Both last 12-16 hours, but Dermablend needs setting powder to match Double Wear’s transfer resistance.
Skin Type: Dermablend suits sensitive skin better; Double Wear can feel heavy on dry skin.
SPF: Dermablend’s SPF 30 trumps Double Wear’s lack of sun protection.

Price: Double Wear costs $46, pricier than Dermablend’s $39, but you get 1 fl. oz. liquid.
Shade Range: Double Wear’s 60 shades outshine Dermablend’s 22, offering more undertone options.
Application: Dermablend’s creme needs warming; Double Wear’s liquid applies faster with a brush.

Comfort: Dermablend feels breathable; Double Wear can feel mask-like by day’s end.
Overall: Dermablend wins for medical-grade coverage; Double Wear’s better for shade variety.

Dermablend Cover Creme Vs. L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte

Coverage: Dermablend covers scars and discoloration fully; L’Oréal’s medium-full coverage falls short for tattoos.
Finish: L’Oréal’s matte finish controls oil better; Dermablend’s natural finish suits dry skin.
Longevity: L’Oréal claims 24 hours, but Dermablend’s 16-hour wear with powder feels more reliable.

Skin Type: L’Oréal’s ideal for oily skin; Dermablend’s non-comedogenic for all types.
SPF: Dermablend’s SPF 30 beats L’Oréal’s no-SPF formula.
Price: L’Oréal’s $13 is budget-friendly compared to Dermablend’s $39, a huge gap.

Shade Range: L’Oréal’s 28 shades slightly top Dermablend’s 22, but both are inclusive.
Application: L’Oréal’s liquid is quicker to blend; Dermablend’s creme needs more effort.
Comfort: Dermablend feels hydrating; L’Oréal can dry out sensitive skin.

Overall: Dermablend’s better for serious coverage; L’Oréal’s great for affordability.

Dermablend Cover Creme Vs. IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream

Coverage: Dermablend tackles severe concerns; IT’s medium-full coverage is lighter, more natural.

Finish: IT’s dewy, radiant finish contrasts Dermablend’s matte-leaning natural look.
Longevity: Dermablend lasts longer (16 hours) than IT’s 8-10 hours, especially with powder.
Skin Type: IT’s hydrating for dry skin; Dermablend’s versatile for all types, including sensitive.

SPF: IT’s SPF 50 edges out Dermablend’s SPF 30, offering stronger protection.
Price: IT’s $44 is pricier than Dermablend’s $39, but it’s a multitasking CC cream.
Shade Range: IT’s 22 shades match Dermablend’s, but IT’s undertones feel more forgiving.

Application: IT’s cream applies easily with fingers; Dermablend needs a sponge for best results.
Comfort: IT feels like skincare; Dermablend’s thicker but not heavy.
Overall: Dermablend’s for max coverage; IT’s for a radiant, skincare-like vibe.

How To Get The Most Out Of Dermablend Cover Creme

To make Dermablend work its magic, I learned some tricks through trial and error. Here’s how to maximize its performance:

Prep Your Skin: Moisturize and prime to prevent dryness. I use a hydrating primer to smooth my skin.
Warm the Product: Rub a pea-sized amount between your fingers to melt it. This makes blending effortless.

Use a Damp Sponge: A sponge gives a seamless finish. I found brushes left streaks, so stick to sponges.
Set with Powder: Dermablend’s setting powder locks it for 16 hours. I dust lightly to avoid caking.
Apply in Thin Layers: Start small and build coverage where needed. Less product prevents a heavy look.

Blend Edges Well: Focus on your jawline and hairline to avoid demarcation lines. I blend downward for a natural fade.
Avoid Overloading: Too much product can settle into lines. I use a mirror to check for excess.
Reapply SPF: For all-day sun protection, add SPF powder over Dermablend during outdoor activities.

Cleanse Thoroughly: Double-cleanse at night to remove it fully. I use an oil cleanser to prevent clogged pores.
Test Shades In-Store: If possible, swatch shades in person. Online guesses led me to a too-warm tone once.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why Is Dermablend Discontinued in the USA?

Dermablend hasn’t been fully discontinued in the USA, but certain products, like specific shades or formulas, may be harder to find due to stock issues or reformulations. Some retailers, like Ulta, have scaled back their Dermablend offerings, leading to rumors of discontinuation. I reached out to Dermablend’s customer service, and they confirmed the Cover Creme is still available through their website and select partners like Amazon. Supply chain challenges and shifts in consumer demand may limit availability, so check official channels for updates.

How Do You Keep Dermablend from Rubbing Off?

To prevent Dermablend from transferring, set it with Dermablend’s Loose Setting Powder after application. I dust a light layer and let it sit for a minute before brushing off excess. Use a primer to create a grippy base, and avoid touching your face throughout the day. On humid days, I carry blotting papers to manage oil, which helps reduce transfer. For body use, like covering tattoos, ensure the area is clean and dry before applying.

Is Dermablend Recommended by Dermatologists?

Yes, Dermablend is the #1 dermatologist-recommended coverage brand, thanks to its non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formulas. It’s designed for sensitive skin and conditions like rosacea or vitiligo, making it a go-to for medical-grade coverage. My dermatologist suggested it for my redness, citing its SPF 30 and safe ingredients. Reviews from sites like LovelySkin echo this, with users praising its compatibility with sensitive skin.

Does Dermablend Look Cakey?

Conclusion

After months of using Dermablend Cover Creme, I’m hooked on its ability to cover my imperfections while feeling light on my skin.

It’s not the cheapest or easiest to apply, but its dermatologist-approved formula and flawless finish make it worth the effort.

Whether you’re hiding scars or just want a polished look, Dermablend delivers. Grab a jar, follow my tips, and watch your confidence soar. Your skin deserves this kind of love!