AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
When it comes to makeup, foundation is one of the most essential products and should always be part of your makeup routine if it’s not already included. “Foundation can be a great way to even out skin tone, whether that be redness, discoloration, acne scarring, melasma, etc.,” says Caitlyn Dominic, Charlotte-based professional makeup artist and owner of Makeup by Caitlyn Michelle. “Investing in the right foundation can help someone feel more confident if there’s something they don't love about their skin.”
That said, foundation shopping may feel overwhelming. Not all foundations are created equally, as some contain different ingredients or are better suited for certain skin types and conditions than others. That’s why I set out to create this list of the best foundations, so you can spend more time doing your makeup and less time looking for high-quality products.
To find the best foundations, I consulted with Dominic as well as Natalie Dresher, a Miami-based celebrity and bridal makeup artist, about their foundation recommendations and what people should keep in mind regarding coverage, finish and shades when shopping.
What to consider when buying a foundation
Coverage
Every foundation differs when it comes to the level of coverage it provides. With this in mind, you must know your skincare goals and the type of look you’re hoping to achieve with your new foundation, to ensure you purchase one that meets your expectations. Dresher recommends asking yourself how often you plan on using the foundation, when and for what type of events you plan on wearing it, and how transparent you’d like it to be to determine whether light, medium or full coverage is best for you.
“Foundation, just like all makeup, hair, skin and fragrance products, is very much a personal preference product,” explains Dominic. “If someone has amazing skin, they may just want something lightweight, whereas if someone has skin they’re a bit more self-conscious of, due to acne or scarring, for example, they might want a more medium- to full coverage foundation.”
Finish
It’s also important to take note of your preferred finish when foundation shopping, as different finishes are typically compatible with different skin types. "The most common foundation finishes are natural, satin, radiant and matte,” explains Dominic. She adds that if you have dry skin, you might want to consider a radiant finish. However, if you have oily skin, a matte finish may be more suitable.
Shades
It’s best to know your shade before purchasing a foundation, as the last thing you want is to buy a foundation that looks extremely off from the color of the rest of your body. Fair, light, medium and deep are the common foundation shade categories. However, foundation shades are more nuanced when it comes to their undertones. “Knowing your undertone and skin tone will help you pick your general shade,” Dresher says.
Our top picks for the best foundations
Best long-wear foundation: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation with Fermented Arnica
Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation with Fermented Arnica
Since I moved to Florida, this Haus Labs foundation has been my go-to. It lasts all day without fading, even outside in the sun. Available in 51 shades, it offers a long-lasting formula designed to match the skin tones of most people. In addition to its ability to last a while, this foundation is made with fermented arnica to help ease skin redness and sensitivities.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medium.
- Finish: Natural.
- Shades: 51.
- Lasting power: Not listed (but long-lasting).
- Price on publish: $45.
What we like:
- Contains fermented arnica.
- Easy to pump.
- Suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Chic bottle design.
What we don’t like:
- Small bottle.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This long-lasting natural-finish foundation from Haus Labs contains fermented arnica, which helps prevent skin sensitivities and redness.
Get it here: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation with Fermented Arnica
Best luxury foundation: Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Foundation
PAT McGRATH LABS Skin Fetish: Sublime Perfection Foundation in Medium 21 at Nordstrom
For a luxury foundation experience, add the Sublime Perfection Foundation from Pat McGrath Labs to your cart. You can customize this foundation to offer as much light-to-medium coverage as you’d like. It sets by itself to a satin finish, so you don’t need to have setting powder on hand, which is beneficial if you’re looking to take it with you on the go. Because this foundation is made with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, it keeps your skin feeling hydrated and smooth.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medium (buildable).
- Finish: Satin.
- Shades: 36.
- Lasting power: 12 hours.
- Price on publish: $69.
What we like:
- Coverage is buildable.
- Contains ceramides.
- Sets without powder.
What we don’t like:
- Shorter lasting power.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Pat McGrath’s Sublime Perfection Foundation is worth the investment for its buildable coverage feature and ability to set itself.
Get it here: Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Foundation
Best transfer-proof foundation: Urban Decay Face Bond Self Setting Waterproof Foundation
Urban Decay | Face Bond Self-Setting Waterproof Foundation | Shade: 01 Fair Cool | SHADE 1
For a transfer-proof foundation that won’t disappoint, consider Urban Decay’s Face Bond Self Setting Waterproof Foundation. “This Urban Decay foundation is self-setting, waterproof, sweatproof and basically bulletproof,” says Dresher. “It also won’t transfer once it dries down, which is very important if you’re a face toucher, coming into contact with light-colored clothing or planning on hugging a lot of people throughout your day!” With 40 shades (including those for olive tones), you should be able to find one to provide you with medium coverage and a natural matte look for up to 24 hours alongside your concealer, makeup primer, cream blush or any other makeup products you use on top.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medium.
- Finish: Natural matte.
- Shades: 40.
- Lasting power: Up to 24 hours.
- Price on publish: $40.
What we like:
- Made with self-setting powder.
- Waterproof.
- Noncomedogenic.
- Comes with a dropper for precise application.
What we don’t like:
- Can feel it on skin.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Face Bond Self Setting Waterproof Foundation from Urban Decay is suitable for active people or those who come into contact with many people throughout the day, since it’s waterproof and transfer-resistant.
Get it here: Urban Decay Face Bond Self Setting Waterproof Foundation
Best lightweight foundation: Hourglass Cosmetics Veil Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation
Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint- Shade 8
Dominic deems this foundation from Hourglass to be the best one on the market. “If you're looking for something lightweight on your skin that still provides some coverage and evens out redness and age spots, check out the Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint as it’s light coverage, long-wearing, hydrating and looks very natural on the skin,” she says. After applying this foundation, you’ll have a radiant finish all day — and you’ll barely feel it on your skin.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Lightweight.
- Finish: Radiant.
- Shades: 18.
- Lasting power: All day.
- Price on publish: $49.
What we like:
- Don’t feel it much while wearing.
- Hydrates skin.
- Doesn’t contain parabens or phthalates.
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t work as well on oily skin.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Because Hourglass Cosmetics Veil Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation is lightweight, it’s the perfect fit for those seeking an option with a “no feel” feel.
Get it here: Hourglass Cosmetics Veil Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation
Best stick foundation: Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Stick Blur + Smooth Tint Stick
Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Stick Blur + Smooth Tint Stick
For a foundation that’s easy to apply, it doesn't get much simpler than the Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Stick Blur + Smooth Tint. All you have to do is uncap and rub the foundation onto your skin. You can control how much coverage you’ll receive by adjusting the amount of pressure you apply to the stick. It contains murumuru butter that hydrates skin and once you’ve gone through the entire stick, you can recycle the packaging.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Light.
- Finish: Natural.
- Shades: 25.
- Lasting power: Not listed (long wear).
- Price on publish: $36.
What we like:
- Smooth.
- Can blend with fingers or a brush.
- Made with murumuru butter.
- Recyclable packaging.
What we don’t like:
- May cling to acne.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Eaze Drop Stick Blur + Smooth Tint is a foundation stick from Fenty Beauty that makes it easy to apply foundation as you see fit, without carrying any extra tools.
Get it here: Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Stick Blur + Smooth Tint Stick
Best full coverage foundation: Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
When it comes to full coverage foundations, Dominic recommends the Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation. “For all the full coverage foundation lovers, this has a beautiful formula that covers imperfections while still leaving the skin with a natural-looking finish,” says Dominic. This is also my go-to foundation whenever I’m looking for a full coverage foundation to cover blemishes and acne scars all day.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Full.
- Finish: Natural matte.
- Shades: 40.
- Lasting power: 24 hours.
- Price on publish: $47.
What we like:
- Waterproof.
- Lightweight.
- Many shade options.
What we don’t like:
- May clog pores.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Those looking for a full coverage foundation will appreciate Make Up For Ever’s lightweight and waterproof HD Skin formula that provides all-day coverage.
Get it here: Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
Best matte foundation: Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay 16-Hour Full Coverage Foundation
Amazonian clay 16-hour full coverage foundation
According to Dresher, the best matte foundation is the Amazonian Clay 16-Hour Full Coverage Foundation from Tarte Cosmetics. Whether you have dry or oily skin, this matte mousse will cover your face for 16 hours, plus, it’s available in 46 shades. “This foundation is as matte as it gets,” adds Dresher.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Full.
- Finish: Matte.
- Shades: 46.
- Lasting power: 16 hours.
- Price on publish: $42.
What we like:
- Whipped mousse formula.
- Tested by dermatologists.
- Only need a dime-sized amount to see results.
What we don’t like:
- Some may have difficulty blending.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Made with a whipped matte mousse formula, Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay Foundation is a good choice for all skin types, but most especially for those with oily skin.
Get it here: Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay 16-Hour Full Coverage Foundation
Best foundation for natural finish: MAC Cosmetics Studio Radiance Face & Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
MAC - Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
Shopping for a foundation with a natural finish? Look no further than this one from MAC. Applying this foundation will give you sheer coverage and a naturally radiant glow for up to eight hours. Regardless of the skin type you have, this foundation was designed to work with it. Since the bottle is transparent, you can see how much product is left and will know when it’s time to start ordering another one.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Light.
- Finish: Natural radiant.
- Shades: 30.
- Lasting power: Up to eight hours.
- Price on publish: $42.
What we like:
- Can be used on all skin types.
- Transparent bottle.
- Sheer coverage.
What we don’t like:
- May not be able to successfully build products for added coverage.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This foundation from MAC’s Studio Radiance is a suitable choice for those looking to achieve naturally luminous skin that will last up to eight hours.
Get it here: MAC Cosmetics Studio Radiance Face & Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
Best foundation for mature skin: Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
If you’re shopping for a foundation for mature skin, the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation should not be overlooked. Regardless of the kind of look you’re hoping to achieve with this foundation, it can be built up in any of its 43 shades. However, what makes this ultra-light foundation stand out is its ability to seamlessly blend into the skin. After all, who wants to wear a foundation that weighs down their face?
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medium.
- Finish: Natural.
- Shades: 43.
- Lasting power: Not listed.
- Price on publish: $43.
What we like:
- 94% natural origin ingredients.
- Fine texture.
- Can build coverage.
What we don’t like:
- Shades may appear different when dried.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Dior’s Backstage Face & Body Foundation is a solid choice for mature skin. It’s ultra-light and seamlessly blends into the skin.
Get it here: Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
Best foundation for oily skin: Smashbox Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation
Smashbox Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation
If you’re looking for a foundation that works well on oily skin, Smashbox’s Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation is a solid pick. Whether you’re headed to work or a party, this foundation offers medium-to-full coverage (depending on how much is applied) for 16 hours without looking cakey. This foundation is made with adaptogens that work to balance out oil levels when needed, so you can say goodbye to unwanted shine.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Medium-to-full coverage.
- Finish: Natural.
- Shades: 28.
- Lasting power: 16 hours.
- Price on publish: $45.
What we like:
- Balances oil levels with adaptogens.
- Made with hyaluronic acid.
- Cruelty-free.
What we don’t like:
- May transfer if skin comes into contact with clothing, etc.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Smaskbox’s Always On foundation includes adaptogens to balance oil levels for up to 16 hours.
Get it here: Smashbox Always On Skin-Balancing Foundation
How we selected the best foundations
Expert advice and online research
I selected the best foundations after interviewing makeup artists Caitlyn Dominic and Natalie Dresher. I added some of their recommendations to this list, and used their insights regarding coverage, finish and shades to help inform my online research when selecting additional picks, as well as reading reviews from real customers.
Personal recommendations
As someone who wears makeup and foundation more days of the week than not, I’ve had my fair share of experience trying different foundations from various brands. That said, I’ve discovered some of the best through daily use. Most of the personal foundation recommendations I included on this list are those I’ve been wearing for years.
What ingredients should you watch out for in foundation?
The ingredients you should watch out for in foundation may depend on your skin type. However, “if you have sensitive skin, look out for mica, silica, talc and fragrance,” says Dominic.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can foundation be applied over sunscreen?
Yes, foundation can be applied over sunscreen. That said, Dresher notes that you want to ensure your sunscreen won’t pill under your foundation. “I wear Naturium Dew Glow SPF 50 under my foundation when I wear makeup and when I don’t,” says Dresher. Furthermore, Dominic advises wearing sunscreens without tint if you plan on using a foundation afterwards, unless the two products offer the same or similar tint.
What is the best foundation for full coverage?
According to Dominic (and myself), the best foundation for full coverage is the Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation.
How do you know which shade of foundation to get?
There are a couple of methods you can use to know which shade of foundation to get. If you’re someone who prefers to physically test a new makeup product before wearing it, many brick-and-mortar makeup stores have testers and professional makeup artists or associates available to help you swatch and test out the product. If you’d prefer to shop online as I do, online retailers have services available that help you find your perfect match by way of uploading a photo of yourself, so you can see how different products would look on you. It’s also important to be familiar with your skin tone, or the skin tone of the person you’re shopping for, to know which shade family is the best fit.
Which is the best foundation to hide pigmentation?
According to Dresher, the best foundation to hide pigmentation is the Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation Stick.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.