The beauty world moves fast, but some products still earn a cult-like following for one simple reason: they just work. Foundation sticks have been trending for years, but too many still veer into heavy, cakey, or worse—spackle. What we’re really after (especially for everyday wear) is coverage that feels like skin, not makeup. That’s where a great stick formula truly shines. And one that Bethenny has recently become obsessed with is the Essence Foundation Stick.

This unpretentious little stick is just $7 and delivers just enough coverage without feeling like a mask on your face. Its creamy, easily blended formula gives a soft, natural finish that doesn’t settle into texture, so it’s ideal for when you want to look polished without a full beat. The result is skin that looks like skin, not makeup sitting on top of it. 

“If you want to know the most natural stick foundation that goes on like a skin tint without being thick and seemingly not trapping the pores, I got you,” Bethenny says. “I’m wearing it for a casual dinner where I just don’t want like a full face. This is really excellent and so easy.” That ease isn’t just in the finish—it’s in the application. Stick foundations are a swipe-and-blend dream, and this one truly lives up to that promise. 

If you’re someone who loves a natural makeup look that still evens tone and blurs imperfections, a stick like this deserves a spot in your routine. It’s simple and proves you don’t need a full pump of heavy foundation (or a high price tag) to fake perfect skin.