The Best Foundations

As far as makeup products go, foundation is arguably one of the trickiest ones to get right. You want something that makes you look glowy but not shiny. It has to be long-lasting and have decent coverage without looking cakey. Not to mention, color matching can be quite a tricky process. Fortunately, we've researched the best foundations for your beauty needs. Read on to discover the foundations that will help you achieve skin perfection.

Maybelline Fit Me Liquid Foundation

Find your fit

This medium coverage foundation works well for normal to oily skin.
Best Overall

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With an impressive range of forty shades, you’re sure to find your match with this versatile product by Maybelline. This foundation makes it easy to have one shade for the colder months, and another for the warmer months when you’re tanner. The company provides detailed swatches online to help you find your shade. This foundation’s medium-level coverage is great for those days where you want something that feels light. Not to mention, the Fit Me foundation works well for photos. It contains a low SPF, so it won’t give you that white cast during flash photography.

Pros:

  • Also comes in an easy-to-dispense pouch option
  • Formula contains clay to help keep your skin fresh
  • Easy to remove with cleanser or micellar water

Cons:

  • Designed for normal to oily skin, so if you have dry skin, you may want to look for another option

Covergirl and Olay Simply Ageless Instant Wrinkle-Defying Foundation

Swirled to perfection

This anti-aging formula contains skincare ingredients to deliver a youthful glow.
Best Cream Foundation

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This foundation combines the makeup expertise of Covergirl with the skincare ingredients of Olay. We call it the best of both worlds. The hydrating formula contains a hyaluronic complex for moisture and vitamin C for brightness. It’ll smooth over any fine lines and wrinkles and give you a soft and diffused look. It feels light as a moisturizer and holds up well even on muggy, hot-weather days. We recommend using the included sponge or a makeup brush to stipple on your face.

Pros:

  • Creamy texture blends easily into the skin
  • Contains SPF 28 to protect your skin from sun damage and spots
  • Leaping Bunny Certified by Cruelty-Free International, so it’s not tested on animals

Cons:

  • Since this product comes in a compact instead of a pump bottle, you’ll have to take extra precautions to make sure it stays hygienic
  • Comes in 12 light to medium shades, so it may not work as well for those with a darker skin tone

Covergirl and Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

Hydration station

This pick by Covergirl packs a punch with an intensely moisturizing product.
Most Hydrating

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Covergirl knocks it out of the park with this hydrating liquid foundation. It glides effortlessly onto the skin, diminishing the appearance of fine lines. This option provides a light to medium coverage, meaning that it’ll even out any spots and dark circles with a natural finish. For even longer-lasting coverage, you can apply it over the Simply Ageless Makeup Primer. The primer provides a soft and even surface so that the foundation will smooth on evenly.

Pros:

  • Fragrance-free, so it’s safe for those with sensitive skin
  • Feels silky and hydrating on the skin
  • Quick and easy to apply

Cons:

  • For some, it wears more like a tinted moisturizer than a foundation due to the lighter coverage

Pur 4-in-1 Pressed Powder Mineral Foundation

A mineral miracle

This mineral makeup is an all-in-one wonder.
Best Powder Foundation

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This powerhouse by Pur acts as foundation, concealer, finishing powder, and sunscreen all in one. It only takes 60 seconds to apply, so it’s great for those with limited time in the mornings. Made of natural ingredients that allow your skin to breathe, mineral makeup is great for all skin types, but it’s especially well-suited for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.  We recommend applying this foundation in circular motions using a dense chisel brush. You can also go in with a concealer brush for covering up any spots or redness.

Pros:

  • Can build up from a medium to full coverage while looking natural
  • Non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores
  • Pressed formula isn’t as messy as traditional loose mineral makeup

Cons:

  • Powder foundation may settle into lines over time if you have dry skin

Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation Makeup

Hello, flawless

Achieve a truly airbrushed look with this liquid foundation.
Best Full-Coverage Foundation

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For the times when you want to look like you’ve stepped off the cover of a magazine, Dermablend has your back. This liquid foundation contains only 10 ingredients. It’ll feel light on your skin while still delivering concentrated pigments for ultra-high matte coverage. Dermablend also scores points with the extensive range of shades on offer. The shades come in cool, neutral, and warm undertones, so you’ll look naturally flawless.

Pros:

  • Silky texture delivers coverage without getting caked
  • Comes in a hygienic dropper bottle that will also prevent you from wasting any product

Cons:

  • This foundation is definitely on the pricier side, but the formula is so concentrated that it’ll last you for months

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of foundation is best for my skin type?

Generally, those with dry skin should stick to hydrating cream foundations. Liquid foundations are versatile for most skin types, and powder foundations will help keep your oily skin looking matte. If you have acne-prone skin, look for formulas that are non-comedogenic, and free of perfumes and parabens. Mineral makeup is also a safe bet for both acne-prone and sensitive skin types.

How regularly should I replace my foundation? 

Cream or liquid formulas can last 1–1.5 years, while powder formulas can last up to two years. Make sure to store your foundations in a cool, dry place. Once the texture of the foundation changes or it starts to smell off, it’s probably time to replace it.

Why Trust Us

Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.