We Put The New Hourglass Foundation To The Test To See If It Lives Up To The Hype

Words by Nasreen Osman

When Hourglass drops a new product promising a luminous finish, I know it’s going to be good. After all, the 2013 launch of its iconic Ambient Lighting Powders redefined radiant skin – and they’re still a staple today, especially in their evolved blush and multitasking palette forms. Now, the brand is back with another product to make your skin sing: the Hourglass Illusion Glow Foundation SPF 30. But does it live up to Hourglass’ glowing reputation? Let’s find out.

The Formula: Skincare-Infused with SPF 30

This hybrid foundation blends the protective qualities of broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection with medium coverage for a radiant complexion. The texture? Featherlight. The finish? Hydrated and glowy. It also boasts Advanced Hydra-Smoothing Technology to help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

As a stickler for proper sun protection, I always layer a dedicated sunscreen under my make-up (a non-negotiable!), so I see the SPF 30 here as a welcome bonus rather than my skin’s first line of defence. Still, it’s a thoughtful addition that complements the foundation’s skincare-forward formula.

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Does it really give a luminous finish?

Yes, although it leans more subtle than blinding. Think ‘your skin but better’, like you’ve nailed your skincare routine and clocked a full eight hours of sleep. I found that a sheer layer gives a barely-there, muted glow, but as you build coverage, your skin catches the light in all the right places. I layered concealer, powder and blush over it, too, but that didn’t disturb its glowing effect.

How does it wear throughout the day?

I applied the foundation around 7 am, and by the time I got home? Still going strong. Some of the initial luminosity softened, but it didn’t cake, flake or crease. My t-zone tends to get oily throughout the day, which meant a bit of texture and spots started to peek through, so I could do with an extra dusting of powder in those areas. But overall? It held up.

What’s the best way to apply the foundation?

Application comes down to preference. You can’t beat Hourglass’ make-up brush collection, and I personally love the Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush — it lays down a thin, even layer effortlessly. You could use a damp beauty blender for a natural, diffused look, but seeing as the foundation aims to give you a second-skin finish from the get-go, you may end up using more product than needed. Either way, the foundation’s silky texture makes it a dream to apply.

Hourglass

Vegan Brush Travel Set

£340.00

Dolce & Gabbana

Retractable Kabuki Beauty Brush

£46.00

Guerlain

Fluid & Powder Foundation Brush N°11

£48.00

Is the Hourglass Illusion Glow Foundation SPF 30 worth it?

I’ve already used it numerous times, so my answer is yes! Overall, it’s a gorgeous complexion product that seamlessly combines sun care with make-up. For someone like me who takes a minimal approach to make-up, this foundation is destined to be a staple, especially if you’re in the northern hemisphere and need to supplement the sun. In short, Hourglass has done it again.