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Giorgio Armani's Iconic Foundation Gets First Major Update in 26 Years
In a significant move for the beauty industry, Giorgio Armani has completely reformulated its legendary Luminous Silk foundation for the very first time since its original launch more than a quarter century ago. The iconic face base, beloved by celebrities including Kim Kardashian and countless makeup artists worldwide, has undergone a comprehensive transformation to meet contemporary beauty standards.
The New Formula: Skincare Meets Makeup Perfection
Recognising that modern beauty enthusiasts demand more from their cosmetics, Armani has infused the new Luminous Silk with a sophisticated blend of skin-loving ingredients. The reformulated foundation now contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, and exfoliating acids – powerful actives typically found in premium skincare regimens.
The brand promises that these additions will improve skin tone, blur texture imperfections, and boost plumpness while maintaining the signature luminous finish that made the original formula so celebrated.
Expanded Shade Range and Application Experience
Armani has significantly expanded the shade selection, adding four new tones to create a comprehensive range of 44 options. This development addresses the growing industry demand for inclusive colour matching across diverse skin tones.
The application experience has been refined to create a texture that feels more like a luxurious serum than traditional foundation. Beauty writer Lucy Smith, who tested the new formula, describes it as having a "slippery, silky texture that diffuses into the skin effortlessly, with neither streaks nor graininess."
Testing Methodology and Performance Results
During rigorous testing conducted shortly after the foundation's 28 January launch, Smith applied the product to clean, moisturised skin using a fluffy kabuki brush. She evaluated multiple layers to assess buildable coverage and monitored performance over approximately six hours of wear.
Key findings included:
- Approximately five pumps over two layers created a flattering medium coverage
- The foundation provided significant luminosity and hydration to the skin
- Redness was noticeably reduced without creating a heavy or cakey appearance
- The formula remained stable without oxidising or separating on combination skin
- It demonstrated exceptional staying power, even resisting transfer from glasses
Comparative Analysis with Premium Alternatives
The new Luminous Silk foundation positions itself as a serious competitor to other premium complexion products currently dominating the market. Smith suggests that enthusiasts of the Augustinus Bader x Victoria Beckham foundation drops or Westman Atelier complexion drops might find Armani's offering particularly compelling.
The reformulation successfully bridges the gap between skincare and makeup, offering the buildable qualities of the original formula with enhanced skin benefits. This strategic move taps directly into the growing consumer preference for multi-functional beauty products that deliver both aesthetic and therapeutic results.
Value Considerations and Final Verdict
With a price point of £49, the new Luminous Silk foundation represents a significant investment. However, the premium packaging, sophisticated ingredient blend, and refined finish arguably justify the cost for those seeking luxury complexion solutions.
Smith concludes that Armani has absolutely improved upon the original formula. The brand has shrewdly responded to industry trends while preserving the qualities that made Luminous Silk an enduring favourite. The result is a face base that genuinely combines skincare benefits with lasting wear and a camera-ready finish – creating the appearance of skin drenched in nourishing serum rather than coated in traditional makeup.
The foundation is vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and suitable for all skin types except very sensitive complexions. For beauty enthusiasts seeking to streamline their routines without compromising results, Giorgio Armani's reimagined Luminous Silk foundation presents a compelling option that successfully bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetic perfection.
