What is the most top rated foundation?

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Selecting the perfect foundation can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack. What shade will match best, especially when ordering online? Is liquid foundation the right choice for me, instead of powder? What about SPF? Seriously, where do I begin?!

All of these questions are valid — believe me. As someone who loves trying new makeup brands (and someone who’s a sucker for pretty packaging), I’ve been wanting to dig into the makeup minefield of liquids to powders and drugstore to high-end for quite some time.

In this edition: the very best full-coverage foundations that are liquid, after two years of consistent testing.

Whether you’re seeking out top-rated foundations specially designed for mature skin or others to help hydrate your dry skin, this guide is for you.

Naturally, I tested dozens of foundations to put together a comprehensive list of the best ones worth your money. No more sifting through shades or spending big bucks, only to discover your new foundation only lasts for two hours and becomes cake-y.

“A full-coverage foundation has more pigment in it, therefore fully masking blemishes or marks on the skin, and evening out all discoloration, whether it’s due to the person’s veins, hyperpigmentation or rosacea and redness,” Natalie Dresher, bridal and special event makeup artist, told the New York Post, in explaining what makes a full-coverage foundation actually full coverage.

“I believe an ideal foundation should last on the skin for 12 hours perfectly for the typical, non professional consumer,” Dresher added. “This means that it will last for a full work day, for a night out or a typical day of being out and about.”

Our top picks, at a glance

Click to jump to the full-coverage foundations review:

How to properly apply full-coverage foundation, per a pro

“I personally use a brush using downward strokes to not disturb any vellus hairs on the face and then I personally like to blend in any rough ‘edges’ or ‘lines’ with a damp sponge,” Dresher explains. “Damp sponges do thin out the product so I wouldn’t use a sponge directly under the eyes or on any areas where coverage is desired.”

RELATED: Best skincare brands we reviewed

For specific options, check out our expert-backed guide to the best foundation brushes. We also included an easy-to-read table highlighting the top picks in this review at a glance.

How we tested

Some of the full-coverage foundations tested, from Anastasia Beverly Hills to YSL Beauty.

Victoria Giardina

My skin is sensitive and partially dry (though, can have its oily moments), so it took me exactly two years of testing (aka, ran-sacking Sephora and Ulta Beauty for the best ones on the market) — testing each one consistently. Here’s an overview of what I looked for while applying:

• Price: Regardless of budget, there’s no sense in splurging for a high-end foundation if it won’t last for hours. Though a good foundation is worth the investment, I kept price in mind for each product tested.
• Hourly check-ins: Every hour on the hour, I looked in the mirror and checked my face to ensure there were no signs of the liquid foundation wearing off my skin or looking caked on.
• Ease of application: If the makeup brand has a matching foundation brush, I tested it out with the product, too. Within each product review below, I took note of how easy it was to apply and blend.
• Shade selection: Though I have fair skin, it’s important to detail if each brand has a realistic, extensive selection for darker shades and peachy and olive undertones. This information is rated for each product below.
• Consistency: I tested each foundation with the same concealer, translucent loose powder, bronzer and blush each day — all of which I’ve been using for years. This ensures there wasn’t an outside variable impacting how each foundation looked.
• Noteworthy features: From iconic packaging to its creaminess and smooth feel, I jotted down anything that stood out to me.

For a closer look, I have some drier spots around my nose, on my chin and above my eyebrows. But, even if you have oily skin or acne-prone skin, our roundup of the best foundations can still be helpful.

That said, we have you covered — literally. If you’re looking for lighter coverage, check out our roundup of the best tinted moisturizers, along with the best makeup primers and best setting sprays we reviewed to prep and finish off your look.

1. Best Foundation Overall: HAUS LABS BY LADY GAGA Triclone Skin Tech Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Offers a balanced, naturally radiant finish that’s long-wearing and won’t crease
• Generous shade range
• Hypoallergenic, so especially fitting for sensitive skin types

Cons:

• None to speak of

Price: $$

Lady Gaga may be performing “Poker Face” on stage, but she sure knows how to dish out a foundation to help you achieve your most flawless face yet. And, because the formulation was “Born This Way,” it’s surely worth the “Applause.” OK, enough Gaga puns.

The HAUS LABS BY LADY GAGA Triclone Skin Tech Foundation with Fermented Arnica isn’t only my most-used foundation as of late but it’s the one that has received the most compliments when worn (and that’s how you know a standout foundation from the pack, TBH). It never creases, is featured in a generous shade range and even helps to reduce redness — something I noticed immediately.

It’s also hypoallergenic, so not only is this long-wearing foundation one that’ll flatter any skin tone but it’s apt for sensitive skin. It’s easy to apply to your face and blend with a brush, and it’s simply too good not to try at least once. In short, add it to your cart and thank me later.

2. Best Foundation for Dry Skin: Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Liquid Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Has an elegant finish that never cakes or flakes
• Includes hyaluronic acid to help hydrate the skin, much like some of your skincare
• Offers a hint of a subtle glow — a nice touch after application

Cons:

• Its shade range could be more fleshed out
• Not as great of a value considering its tube size, compared to other foundations tested

Price: $$$

Ranked as the best foundation for dry skin overall in our review, the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Liquid Foundation is lightweight (yet still full-coverage, depending on how much you’d like to apply) and — the best part — never looks cake-y or flake-y. It has one of the most elegant finishes I’ve tried in a foundation, thanks to its inclusion of hyaluronic acid in its ingredient list (aka, the dermatologist-approved superstar that just keeps on giving).

When I want something that’s easy to blend but gives me a subtle glow, this is the usual suspect I reach for — especially during the daytime. This foundation also makes my skin appear smoother whenever worn, a bonus if you want to help reduce the appearance of pores.

For more to shop, check out our Charlotte Tilbury review — featuring an interview with Miss CT herself.

3. Best Foundation for Sensitive Skin: Anastasia Beverly Hills Luminous Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Long-lasting, gentle formulation that does a great job of helping the skin to appear more balanced
• Pretty generous shade range

Cons:

• It may not be the best for mature skin, as other foundations tested have done a better job at helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Price: $$

Truth be told, I could make a TED Talk advocating how much I love Anastasia Beverly Hills (well, actually, my full brand review is pretty much that). The brand continues to hit it out of the park — and not just with its top-rated Brow Wiz ($25). Though, that’s one I swear by, too.

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Luminous Foundation is fairly priced compared to other formulations tested and, while the appearance of fine lines isn’t completely mitigated as I may like, it’s one of the best for balancing the skin. Most importantly, it never irritates my skin and has been my go-to before consistently trying out brands for two years; this exact foundation was my go-to in high school, there for me through prom days and the cap-throwing graduation ceremony.

Better yet, its shade range is quite generous, the bottle looks spectacular on your makeup vanity and it lasts pretty much all day, though sometimes I have to use a pressed powder if I tend to get oily. Overall, it’s a gentle, trusty formulation worth adding to your shopping cart, along with the A30 Pro Domed Kabuki Brush ($24) — probably my favorite tool ever.

4. Best Foundation for Acne-Prone Skin: Tarte Face Tape Foundation

Ulta Beauty

Pros:

• Helps eliminate the appearance of acne, bumps and imperfections with its refining feel once applied
• Offered in a generous shade range
• Wonderful to use when in hot temperatures

Cons:

• Has more of a heavier and stickier feel than other foundations tested, though not a complete dealbreaker because of how smooth it leaves the skin

Price: $$

What’s great about the Tarte Face Tape Foundation is how natural and smooth your skin will look after, which is especially great for anyone with bumpy or acne-prone skin. If my skin happens to have an acne-flare up or blemish, I resort to this particular formulation.

Part of the reason why it performs beautifully on the skin is likely its patented Tape Technology that “helps smooth texture and blur the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles,” per the brand. I totally agree with its claim, and it also is great at wicking off sweat or moisture when worn in hot temperatures.

Though it has a heavier and stickier feel, it’ll do the job of helping to make your skin feel like it’s not bumpy, hiding the blemish you have with flying colors. With a wide shade range — oh, and its top-rated Shape Tape Concealer ($31) following suit — you’ll be reaching for this quite often.

5. Best Foundation for Mature Skin: Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Naturally silky finish, thanks to its inclusion of hyaluronic acid to help eliminate fine lines and wrinkles
• Includes SPF 27 for some skin protection (though you’ll still want to apply a facial SPF before your foundation)

Cons:

• Its shade range could be more fleshed out
• Its packaging isn’t as suited for travel as others tested; though other foundations come in glass bottles, this one is heavier

Price: $$$$

I can’t be the only one whose mom dragged them to the Macy’s counter when they were little (specifically, the Lancôme counter) for their usual stock-up. When I started wearing pressed powder and some eyeshadow, I eventually enjoyed my somewhat-regular mall trips, and then saw how its array of face products swayed more toward clients with mature skin.

Though I’m in my early 20s, I can see why the Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation is a favorite among those in their 40s to 60s. It’s versatile, serves as a wonderful base for the rest of your makeup and includes hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and cover lines and wrinkles. It also contains SPF 27, resulting in a silky natural glow that is especially suited toward those with duller or less plump skin.

6. Best Foundation for Oily Skin: Smashbox Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation

Ulta Beauty

Pros:

• Wonderful at helping to absorb oil (and excess oil) if worn throughout the day
• Impressively long-wearing and easy to apply and blend

Cons:

• Not the best for dry to extremely dry skin types, as some flaking was noticeable around the jawline
• Its shade range could be more fleshed out

Price: $$

When I used to watch makeup tutorials on YouTube (the “beauty guru era of 2012,” as I like to call it), Smashbox was always presented as a top brand for camera-flashing moments and long-day wear. That still holds true, but there’s something about its Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation that helps to absorb more oil than other foundations tested.

To set the record straight, I don’t have completely oily skin. I do, however, tend to get oily throughout the day at times, and this foundation didn’t budge. Insightfully, it flaked a bit on where my skin is ultra-dry, making me tangibly notice how much better it performed on the oilier parts of my face.

It’s another foundation infused with hyaluronic acid, but I found it to stay on for more than eight hours without smearing or sweating off. Its inclusion of antioxidants also help to protect the skin from environmental stressors. With a chic bottle and trusty formula, it’s worth a shot, especially if you have oily skin.

7. Best Lightweight Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Balances the skin upon first pass (bonus: it’s also buildable)
• Generous shade range
• One of the most acclaimed for wedding day makeup and recommended by professionals

Cons:

• Isn’t a thick formulation, so may not be best for those with acne-prone skin who want to cover up bumps or blemishes
• Pricier than other foundations tested

Price: $$$$

Chances are, the Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Foundation is one that would come out of the mouth of any makeup artist you talk to (I’d confidently bet money on this) when on the subject of wedding day foundations. It’s a standout for sure, though pricier than most. But, it’s worth every penny.

What impressed me the most? It’s not as thick as other full-coverage foundations tested, but it’s ability to balance out my skin tone upon first application gives it that wow-factor. Of course, it’s buildable, but that’s up to personal preference. It gives your skin the ideal no-makeup makeup look that you’ve been seeing all over social media, too.

What’s more, its shade range is pretty expansive, the foundation is oil-free and offers that your-skin-but-better look. You’ll be speechless during your first pass of this beauty gem, and wanting to continue repurchasing its one-of-a-kind formula.

8. Best Matte Foundation: Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Natural Matte Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Helps reverse the appearance of dull skin, even though it’s matte (and that’s a feat to beat)
• Includes both hyaluronic acid and SPF 30 in its formulation — the dermatologist-recommended count to use for sun protection
• Generous shade range

Cons:

• Its price point may deter some from purchasing this formulation
• It’s more lightweight than most, which may not be for those with acne-prone skin or who want to apply makeup quickly

Price: $$$$

I’m not going to lie, matte makeup isn’t really my jam. I don’t love shiny foundations either, but a formulation that offers a well-balanced, slightly radiant finish is more my speed. However, the Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Natural Matte Foundation didn’t make my fair skin look washed out. Instead, it felt like I was balancing my skin tone while treating my face to an array of benefits.

Because it contains both hyaluronic and SPF 30 in its formulation, this skincare buff was over-the-moon (in fact, SPF 30 is what dermatologists recommend using). It’s quite the spend — the most expensive on this list — but if you really want a wealth of benefits, it’s worth the buy.

Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, it has a near-weightless feel that made it stand out from the rest of foundations during the testing process. It’s more lightweight, so keep that in mind, but an alluring option nonetheless.

9. Best Buildable Foundation: MAKEUP BY MARIO SurrealSkin Liquid Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• One of the easiest to blend and is quite long-lasting
• Doesn’t make the skin feel heavy

Cons:

• Its shade range could be more fleshed out
• May not be the best for oily skin as it didn’t keep the skin completely oil free as the day progressed

Price: $$

True story: I met the one and only Mario Dedivanovic (the man, the myth and the legend behind the MAKEUP BY MARIO brand) to celebrate the launch of his SurrealSkin Liquid Foundation and, as soon as I tried it for the first time, I loved how plump and hydrated my skin looked.

Its quality and ability to blend exceptionally well makes me believe it should be on-par with those priced around $50 to $60 (though, I’m absolutely not complaining). It’s a staple for anyone seeking an effective full-coverage look without wanting to feel heavy. It also lasts for the entire work day.

With vegetal squalene, it helps moisturize the skin — making it a top option for combination or dry skin types, especially. Though it isn’t the best at keeping your skin oil-free as the day progresses, its formulation is worth the hype (and, the pump is one of the most ergonomic I’ve used).

10. Best Long-Wearing Foundation: PAT McGRATH LABS Sublime Perfection Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Generous shade range
• Ideal for all-day events, while still offering full-coverage
• Not as thick as other foundations tested so won’t feel heavy on the skin

Cons:

• Doesn’t have as long of a shelf life as others tested (tends to become watery after six months)
• Price point may be extreme to some

Price: $$$$

The PAT McGRATH LABS Sublime Perfection Foundation is just as riveting as the brand’s array of beyond-gorgeous eyeshadow palettes and is one of the best brands I’ve tested for full-glam looks. In short, you’ll want to do a major shopping spree before your next date night or formal occasion.

Not only is its packaging second to none — even the box it comes in! — but its ability to serve as the longest-lasting foundation I tested is exemplary. Specifically, it consistently upheld from 5:20 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., coming in clutch on my commute to work, the eight-hour work day and for events happening in the nighttime.

It’s the ultimate splurge, too. It’s closest in formulation to the Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Foundation, but a bit more lightweight and longer-lasting.

11. Best Shade Range: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Has the widest shade range among all foundations tested
• Effective for all skin types, as it doesn’t flake or make the skin oily

Cons:

• Can make the skin appear slightly dull throughout the day if not followed up with a powder, blush or additional makeup following application

Price: $$

Queen RiRi has more to show than her iconic Super Bowl halftime performance. Her brand, Fenty Beauty, has one of the most coveted foundations in the industry with its Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation.

TLDR: you won’t find a more generous shade range (and this goes for most of the brand’s products) that not only lasts for the entire day but also offers the most subtle of matte finishes. This is wonderful for my preferences, as I don’t love a full-matte look. It’s great for any skin type, too, as it never flaked on me but never seemed to make my skin feel oily as the day progressed.

It’s formulation doesn’t lean lightweight or heavy; it’s the perfect Goldilocks foundation. Perhaps this is why it has a grandeur appeal to the masses (and one I’ll continue to recommend indefinitely).

12. Best Foundation with SPF: Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15

Sephora

Pros:

• Includes SPF 15 for sun protection
• Has a silky smooth finish that’s versatile to apply and easy to blend
• Generous shade range

Cons:

• Not as long-lasting as other foundations tested

Price: $$$

Shop the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15 if you’re looking for a bit more skin protection than your typical run-of-the-mill foundation. Though the Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Natural Matte Foundation includes the dermatologist-recommended SPF count of 30, your makeup should never replace applying a facial sunscreen and this one, in particular, had a noticeably elegant finish following my skincare. It’s also much more affordable than YSL’s formulation.

While I didn’t find it to be completely long-lasting (or should I say, as long-lasting as I would have liked), it’s true-to-full-coverage, easy-to-blend design makes it one I continue to reach for. It also helps to correct your undertone, helping to make my skin appear less red.

13. Best Foundation for Humidity: Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• Lasts in extreme heat and stays put for the entire day
• Doesn’t make the skin appear oily, which is especially ideal for oily or combination skin types
• Generous shade range

Cons:

• Not as buildable as other foundations tested, though not a deal-breaker if you love full-glam looks

Price: $$

The Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation is one I find in every pro’s toolkit, simply because it has a unique ability to cover your skin’s imperfections on a “thicker” level, helping to produce more full-glam looks with ease, as opposed to more buildable formulas that take a few passes.

Listen, I used this foundation in all temperatures (including 90-degree days in Arizona) and it didn’t leave my skin. Generous shade range aside, its hyaluronic acid-infused, hydrating formulation is fairly priced compared to others tested, and also wonderful to travel with.

14. Best Foundation for Photoshoots: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Sephora

Pros:

• True to its full-coverage name; you won’t need more than one pass of this formulation when applied
• Generous shade range
• Long-lasting and feels weightless on the skin

Cons:

• May not be the best for mature skin, as it doesn’t do a great job of concealing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Price: $$$

Charlotte Tilbury strikes again with her Airbrush Flawless Foundation. To be totally candid, it’s the heaviest foundation I tested, so it may not be for everyone, but it’s the one I reach to if I’m taking plenty of photos that day — whether it’s a headshot, a family party or any other paparazzi-filled event (and by paparazzi, we mean the BFF who knows how to get all the angles in record time).

Not only does it last for an impressively long amount (more than eight hours!) but it feels weightless on the skin, even though it has a heavier consistency. I don’t know what magic Queen Charlotte put in this formulation, but it’s a surefire standout — and one worth the try.

Our top picks compared, at a glance

BrandRankingPriceWhy to BuyHAUS LABS BY LADY GAGABest foundation overall$$Offers a balanced, naturally radiant finish that’s long-wearing and won’t crease;
Generous shade range; Hypoallergenic, so especially fitting for sensitive skin typesCharlotte Tilbury (Beautiful Skin)Best foundation for dry skin$$$Has an elegant finish that never cakes or flakes; Includes hyaluronic acid to help hydrate the skin, much like some of your skincare; Offers a hint of a subtle glow — a nice touch after applicationAnastasia Beverly HillsBest foundation for sensitive skin$$Long-lasting, gentle formulation that does a great job of helping the skin to appear more balanced; Pretty generous shade rangeTarteBest foundation for acne-prone skin$$Helps eliminate the appearance of acne, bumps and imperfections with its refining feel once applied; Offered in a generous shade range; Wonderful to use when in hot temperaturesLancômeBest foundation for mature skin$$$$Naturally silky finish, thanks to its inclusion of hyaluronic acid to help eliminate fine lines and wrinkles; Includes SPF 27 for some skin protection (though you’ll still want to apply a facial SPF before your foundation)SmashboxBest foundation for oily skin$$Wonderful at helping to absorb oil (and excess oil) if worn throughout the day; Impressively long-wearing and easy to apply and blendArmani BeautyBest lightweight foundation$$$$Balances the skin upon first pass (bonus: it’s also buildable); Generous shade range; One of the most acclaimed for wedding day makeup and recommended by professionalsYves Saint LaurentBest matte foundation$$$$Helps reverse the appearance of dull skin, even though it’s matte (and that’s a feat to beat); Includes both hyaluronic acid and SPF 30 in its formulation — the dermatologist-recommended count to use for sun protection; Generous shade rangeMAKEUP BY MARIOBest buildable foundation$$One of the easiest to blend and is quite long-lasting; Doesn’t make the skin feel heavyPAT McGRATH LABSBest long-wearing foundation$$$$Generous shade range; Ideal for all-day events, while still offering full-coverage; Not as thick as other foundations tested so won’t feel heavy on the skinFenty Beauty by RihannaBest shade range$$Has the widest shade range among all foundations tested; Effective for all skin types, as it doesn’t flake or make the skin oilyBobbi BrownBest foundation with SPF$$$Includes SPF 15 for sun protection; Has a silky smooth finish that’s versatile to apply and easy to blend; Generous shade rangeDiorBest foundation for humidity$$Lasts in extreme heat and stays put for the entire day; Doesn’t make the skin appear oily, which is especially ideal for oily or combination skin types; Generous shade rangeCharlotte Tilbury (Airbrush Flawless)Best foundation for photoshoots$$$True to its full-coverage name; you won’t need more than one pass of this formulation when applied; Generous shade range; Long-lasting and feels weightless on the skin

Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.

But unlike sheer options, which are typically more forgiving if the color, finish, or texture isn’t a spot-on match, finding your perfect full-coverage foundation can be more challenging. Put simply, these formulas show up more on the skin meaning it’s extra important to ensure you find one that suits your complexion and skin type best. So, we put dozens of full-coverage foundations to the test in our lab in NYC . We evaluated them based on coverage, texture, wear, finish, and transfer resistance —and ahead, we're sharing which ones outperformed their competition.

"Full coverage foundation offers a heavier finish and is often used to conceal blemishes or discoloration in the skin," says Misha Shahzada , celebrity makeup artist. "Some people just like the way a heavier foundation looks regardless of their skin underneath."

There’s no denying that skin tints and sheer foundations have captured the hearts of makeup lovers over the last few years. But while such complexion formulas dominate the trends, let’s not forget how valuable a solid full-coverage foundation can be. Whether you have acne, redness, or hyperpigmentation that you like to conceal, or a full-glam look is more aligned with your aesthetic, a foundation that offers more coverage can be more favorable.

Best Overall

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$49

View On Nordstrom

$49

View On Bloomingdales

$49

What We Like

• Great blendability

• Comfortable, balanced feel on skin

• Strong transfer resistance

What We Don't Like

• Can emphasize dry patches slightly 

This is, without a doubt, one of the most popular full-coverage foundations on the market, and for good reason. Despite having a pretty thick texture which often makes for a cakey finish, it blends out beautifully on the face and can create a natural-looking base—if used properly. It can cling to dry patches, which is pretty common with full-coverage foundations—but if you properly exfoliate and moisturize before using it, you’ll be able to yield a smooth, full-coverage result that appears skin-like and most importantly, lasts. 

In addition to revering its long-wearing ability, we appreciated that it passed the transfer test with perfect scores—this is especially important if you have oily skin and struggle with your foundation migrating or breaking apart. It also comes in a pretty extensive shade range that's well dispersed across the skin tones, which is especially important for foundations that offer lots of coverage and won't be forgiving if your shade doesn't match your skin color.

Who It's For

If you’re looking for a matte, full-coverage foundation that will last all day and night without creasing or fading, we can’t recommend this one enough. Though we think it's ideal for those with oily or balanced skin, it's also a good choice for those with dry or combination skin, so long as you properly exfoliate and moisturize prior to application. Essentially, it's for people who want coverage, longevity, and perhaps a little slice of luxury—we can't ignore how gorgeous the bottle is.

Finish: Matte | Number of shades: 40 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Luxe

Chantecaille Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation

Bluemercury

View On Dermstore

$139

View On Walmart

$115

View On Nordstrom

$139

What We Like

• Lightweight texture

• Buildable coverage 

• Natural, glowing finish

• Comfortable feel on skin

What We Don't Like

• Transfers just slightly

• Shade range needs work

It’s not often that cushion foundations provide significant coverage, but this one can be layered and built up to go from fairly light coverage to offering enough coverage to completely even out your complexion. Aside from experiencing a bit of transfer, our experience with this foundation was overwhelmingly positive. We loved the natural, glowy finish, how easily it blended into the skin, and how weightless and comfortable it felt when applied. It completely covered redness while maintaining a skin-like appearance and didn’t settle into pores or fine lines.

One thing we're not impressed by is the shade range—it's very limited. While the colors are fairly flexible because it doesn't offer full-on coverage right off the bat, we would still like to see the brand expand the range significantly.

Who It's For

If you’re sensitive to the feeling of makeup sitting on your skin but you still want to wear a product that you can build up for total coverage, this is a fantastic option for you. It's great for people who crave versatility out of their makeup—it can be used on days when you don't want or need complete coverage, but it can also be layered up to offer you the covering capabilities when you want it.

Finish: Natural | Number of shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Drugstore

Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1

Ulta

View On Amazon

$11

View On Ulta

$12

View On Target

$11

What We Like

• Buildable coverage

• Mousse-like consistency 

• Easy to blend

• Extensive shade range

• Oil-free

What We Don't Like

• Can look heavy on dry patches

• Gets a bit greasy on oily skin throughout the day 

With a unique mousse-like consistency and incredible buildability, this budget-friendly foundation quickly became a favorite during testing. With one pump, we were able to blend out the formula seamlessly with a brush and a sponge to yield medium coverage that nicely canceled out redness in the skin. A second layer allowed us to achieve completely full coverage that totally blurred the appearance of dark spots and blemishes. We love that it sets down to a natural matte finish that doesn’t look dry or radiant—it’s truly somewhere in the middle. The mousse-y texture is easy to blend, though it is slightly thick and can look heavy if you have obvious dry patches on your skin. To avoid this, we recommend gently exfoliating and moisturizing prior to application. It’s also worth noting that it can start to look a bit greasy on oily skin throughout the day, so we recommend setting it in place with powder if you tend to get oily in your T-zone. 

All-in-all, we were extremely impressed by this foundation. It provides excellent coverage, has a beautiful, natural-looking finish, and comes in 45 shades that range from fair to dark in a variety of undertones.  

Byrdie / Joy Kim

Who It’s For

This foundation is a great choice for anyone who wants a full-coverage formula at an affordable price tag. Although it can get a bit greasy throughout the day, it’s oil-free, making it a great option for those with oily or acne-prone skin types who want to avoid pore-clogging oils. We think all skin types can wear this pick so long as you prep and set it accordingly.

Finish: Natural matte | Number of shades: 45 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Milani's Conceal and Perfect Foundation Is Great for All-Day Glam

Best Long-Wearing

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation

Sephora

View On Amazon

$57

View On Sephora

$57

View On Ulta

$57

What We Like

• Budge-proof once applied

• Sets down quickly 

• Looks pretty natural on the skin 

• Lightweight

What We Don't Like

• Transfers just slightly 

Another incredibly popular full-coverage foundation, this one stands out for its long-wearing capabilities. Once applied to the skin, it’s not going anywhere. So, it’s no surprise that it performed beautifully in our transfer test and resisted creasing and fading as we wore it.

As for coverage and finish, the coverage is full and can be built up or sheered out depending on your preferences, and the finish is matte but not flat. Though it can cover pretty much anything, it manages to maintain a true skin-like appearance. We also love that it layers nicely with the makeup you apply on top of it. And if you've tried this foundation in the past and found it to be a bit heavy, we recommend giving it another go—it was recently reformulated and now offers the same coverage and longevity with a much more lightweight and breathable texture.

Who It's For

If you’re in need of a foundation to last you through a long day or a special event, we think you’ll really enjoy this one. Though it has a matte finish and is great for oily and balanced skin, it also works beautifully on dry skin. Plus, it's sweat-proof and water-proof, so if you live in a hot or humid climate, it has your name written all over it.

Finish: Matte | Number of shades: 50 | Cruelty-Free: No

Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

These Are the 9 Best Foundations With SPF—And We've Tried So Many

Best Shade Range

Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$69

View On Ulta

$69

View On Nordstrom

$69

What We Like

• Lightweight texture

• Easy to blend

• Smooth, skin-like finish

What We Don't Like

• Creases a bit 

Pat McGrath Labs nailed the shade selection of this foundation. In addition to creating shades that vary in depth, there's also a vast range of undertones to cater to a large spectrum of skin tones. Even better? The formula looks stunning on the skin and performs beautifully. While it’s not marketed as a full-coverage foundation, it’s extremely buildable and can be layered on to create a pretty full-coverage look. After applying just one coat, it worked beautifully to even out the complexion while maintaining a natural appearance that didn’t lean overly matte or dewy. 

While we did notice a bit of creasing in the smile lines, it wasn’t significant and could likely be avoided by setting the area with powder. Considering the inclusive shade range, airbrushed finish on the skin, and long-wearing nature of this formula, we highly recommend checking it out. 

Who It's For

If you struggle to find foundations that match your skin tone, give this pick with a great range a try. It's also an excellent choice for people who can't stand the feeling of heavy makeup on their skin. Though many full-coverage options can feel a bit heavy on the skin, this one is an exception—it feels weightless without sacrificing coverage.

Finish: Natural | Number of shades: 36 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Lightweight

Estée Lauder Double Wear Powder Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$49

View On Ulta

$52

View On Dermstore

$49

What We Like

• Feels lightweight on the skin

• Can be layered up for additional coverage

• Creates a natural matte finish

What We Don't Like

• Transfers quite a bit

• Could provide more coverage

One layer of this full-coverage powder foundation will provide light coverage, while additional layers will build up the pigmentation to offer much more covering ability. We loved the buildability and how well it evened out the complexion, but we would have liked to see just a bit more coverage on top of the discoloration. If you want to opt for powder foundation but need additional coverage, you can always conceal blemishes first and then apply the powder.

In terms of the finish on the skin, it looks completely matte without appearing dry or cakey. It layered nicely on top of moisturizer and didn’t crease or fade as we wore it. Keep in mind that it did rub off quite a bit onto the blotting paper during the transfer test, so we recommend setting it in place with a setting spray.

Who It's For

Powder foundations are excellent for people with oily skin or those who dislike the feeling of liquid products on their face—and if you’re looking for a powder formula with great coverage, this one is Byrdie-approved. It's also ideal for anyone who wants additional coverage on top of their liquid foundation.

Finish: Matte | Number of shades: 31 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best for Oily Skin

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$18

View On Ulta

$40

View On Walmart

$40

What We Like

• Feels lightweight on the skin 

• Blends into the skin effortlessly 

• Stays in place once applied

What We Don't Like

• Could have more coverage 

We’d be surprised if you're not already familiar with this iconic foundation from Fenty Beauty. Aside from helping to set the industry standard for shade range inclusivity, this one also has a loyal fan base who praise it for its formula. We can see why it’s so well-loved, thanks to how blendable it is, how comfortable it is on the skin, and how it's almost completely transfer-proof (it's a great example of a transfer-resistant foundation). It didn’t crease or fade and we loved how skin-like it looked.

If we could change one thing about it, it would be the level of coverage. Despite being marketed as a full-coverage foundation, one tester struggled to get it to fully cover her melasma. The good news is it builds well and can be layered with concealer, so this isn’t a dealbreaker for us. 

Who It's For

This is a great option for a wide range of foundation-wearers. It comes in a very extensive shade range, feels comfortable on the skin, builds up nicely, and offers a matte finish. It's suitable for everyday wear and for achieving a more perfect look, making it a versatile option to have in your makeup stash.

Finish: Matte | Number of shades: 59 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• BYRDIE / BIANCA LAMBERT

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

It's Official: These Are the Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin

Best for Dry Skin

KVD Beauty Good Apple Skin-Perfecting Hydrating Foundation Balm

Sephora

View On Sephora

$43

View On Ulta

$41

View On Target

$43

What We Like

• A little bit goes a long way

• Can be applied mess-free with fingertips

• Excellent coverage

What We Don't Like

• Some people might find the texture to be a bit heavy on the skin 

After going viral on TikTok a while back, we were curious to see if this foundation balm lives up to the hype—and it does. It provides complete coverage in just one layer, a little bit of product goes a very long way, and it can be applied using your fingertips, a brush, or a sponge, without the mess that liquid and powder formulas can create. Despite having a matte finish, we found that our skin looked and felt more hydrated after applying it, and we appreciated that it set in place and didn’t crease as we wore it. 

While we didn't dislike texture, some online reviewers claim that it feels a bit thick and heavy on the skin. If you’re sensitive to that, we recommend applying it in light layers using a damp sponge. 

Who It's For

Liquid and powder foundations can be messy—raise your hand if you've ever been victimized by a major spill in your makeup bag. We have! This option is great for those who crave mess-free products because the balm can't spill and it can be applied using whatever your desired application method is. It's also a good choice for anyone seeking a formula that provides ultra-full coverage that doesn't crease or fade.

Finish: Matte | Number of shades: 40 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

The Best Cream Foundations That Blend Seamlessly Into Skin

Best with SPF

Kosas Revealer Foundation SPF 25

Sephora

View On Sephora

$42

View On Nordstrom

$42

View On Kosas.com

What We Like

• Gorgeous, natural finish on the skin

• Easy to blend

• Doesn’t settle into lines or pores

What We Don't Like

• Transfers a bit

Finding a great full-coverage foundation that includes SPF can be tricky, but this one is fantastic. It’s formulated with zinc oxide as well as niacinamide and squalane for hydration benefits. The texture is lightweight, creamy, and easy to blend, and the finish on the skin is absolutely stunning. It’s the perfect midpoint between matte and dewy, and it creates a gorgeous veil of coverage on the face. During testing, we were impressed by how well it covered minor redness and discoloration, though we noticed that we would need additional concealer to fully cover under-eye circles. We also appreciated that it didn't settle into fine lines or emphasize texture. Though it did transfer a bit, we think this would be mitigated by lightly setting it with powder.

Who It's For

If you're someone who likes a no-fuss beauty routine with products that help you combine steps, this is the full-coverage option for you. It's great for a wide range of skin tones and skin types, and it's formulated with niacinamide and SPF so you can get skin benefits in addition to the coverage you crave.

Finish: Natural | Number of shades: 36 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

We Found 10 Rosacea-Friendly Foundations That Correct Color and Aren't Irritating