When it comes to makeup, a good foundation is essential. Foundation helps to even out skin tone and create a smooth base for the rest of your makeup. There are many types of foundations available, from liquids to powders, and each type works best for different skin types and needs.

Choosing the right foundation involves paying attention to factors such as skin type, coverage level, and finish. For example, those with oily skin may prefer a matte finish to control shine, while those with dry skin might seek out hydrating formulas. It’s also crucial to consider the ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.

We researched and tested several foundations to find the best ones for different skin types. Our goal was to identify the foundations that provide the best coverage, feel comfortable on the skin, and last throughout the day.   

Best Foundations for Your Skin Type

We’ve gathered the best foundations for different skin types. Find the perfect match for a flawless finish in our carefully curated list.

MISSHA Magic Cushion Foundation

This foundation is a great pick for those seeking a dewy, long-lasting finish and customizable coverage.

Pros

• Customizable coverage lets you build it up just how you like.
• Dewy finish that makes your skin look radiant and fresh.
• Long-lasting performance keeps your makeup intact all day.

Cons

• Can get cakey and crease after a few hours.
• Might not be the best option for very oily skin.
• Some users found the shade to be a bit dark.

The MISSHA Magic Cushion Foundation impressed us with its customizable coverage. You can easily add layers for more coverage, making it versatile for both daily wear and special occasions. Plus, the dewy finish ensures a fresh and radiant look that lasts for hours.

We really liked the magic sponge applicator. It’s quite innovative and makes it easy to apply the foundation evenly without much waste. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups throughout the day. Our skin felt moisturized, thanks to ingredients like bamboo water and baobab fruit.

The foundation’s long-lasting performance is worth mentioning. You won’t need to constantly reapply. Just be mindful of the cakey texture that some users experienced after a few hours. It’s essential to find the right balance in application to avoid that.

This foundation stands out for its combination of radiant finish and lasting wear. Its high quality and thoughtful ingredients make it a strong contender for anyone looking to try a new foundation.

COVERGIRL Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

This foundation is perfect for anyone looking to achieve a youthful, glowing complexion.

Pros

• Minimizes wrinkles
• Contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic complex and vitamin C
• Cruelty-free certification

Cons

• Bottle size may be smaller than expected
• Color might need adjusting with another shade
• Can be a bit pricey for the amount of product

We found that COVERGIRL Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation provides excellent coverage. Our skin felt plump and hydrated, thanks to its unique formula that includes a hyaluronic complex and vitamin C. The finish is dewy without being too shiny, which adds a healthy glow to our complexion.

This foundation blends well and does not settle into fine lines. The pump dispenser is convenient, and a small amount goes a long way. While some might find the bottle size smaller than anticipated, the quality and results justify the price.

Be sure to choose your shade carefully. Some of us had to use an additional darker or lighter shade to get a perfect match, but blending them resulted in a flawless look. All in all, this product is a great addition to our makeup routine for its anti-aging benefits and smooth application.

LAURA GELLER Baked Balance-n-Brighten Powder Foundation

This excellent powder foundation delivers a natural look and feels weightless on the skin.

Pros

• Lightweight texture
• Natural demi-matte finish
• Self-adjusts to match skin tone

Cons

• Limited shade range
• Can highlight fine lines
• Pricey for the amount

Having tested the LAURA GELLER Baked Balance-n-Brighten Powder Foundation, we found it to be a strong choice for those seeking even skin tone without the heavy feel of liquid foundation. The natural, demi-matte finish is perfect for daily wear, giving us that effortless look.

We appreciate the self-adjusting feature of this foundation. It aligns well with our skin tone and avoids that dreaded cakey appearance. This characteristic is very useful, especially when we don’t have time for touch-ups throughout the day.

The inclusion of antioxidants like Centella Asiatica and White Tea Extracts offers a soothing hydration that benefits our skin. This makes it an all-around winner for various skin types, including mature and uneven complexions.

Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick

A reliable choice for long-lasting, medium-to-full coverage with a satin finish.

Pros

• Smooth application
• Excellent coverage
• Buildable formula

Cons

• Can be pricey
• May settle into fine lines
• May transfer slightly

This foundation stick delivers a seamless and natural finish that lasts throughout the day. We found that it spreads effortlessly on the skin, offering buildable coverage from medium to full. The satin finish gives a subtle glow that’s perfect for a fresh, flawless look.

It’s also quite versatile, as it works well with both sponges and powders. We loved how our bronzer and other makeup products applied smoothly on top of the foundation. Even in humid weather, it held up nicely without caking, although some might find it transfers under sweaty conditions.

While the product is on the pricier side, the quality and performance justify the cost. You might notice the foundation settling into fine lines, especially during long wear. despite this, if you’re seeking an easy-to-apply foundation with excellent coverage, this stick is worth considering.

Clinique Even Better Makeup SPF 15

This foundation is ideal for those seeking a natural finish and even skin tone, especially for very dry to dry skin.

Pros

• Provides natural finish
• Evens out skin tone
• Ideal for dry skin

Cons

• Opaque bottle makes it hard to see product level
• May be too thick for some users
• Higher price point

We found that the Clinique Even Better Makeup SPF 15 provides impressive coverage while maintaining a natural look. The formula isn’t heavy, so it feels comfortable on our skin all day. We appreciate how it balances our complexion and camouflages imperfections without looking cakey.

One of the standout features is its compatibility with dry skin. Many foundations make dry patches more noticeable, but this one blends smoothly and leaves our skin looking fresh and hydrated. It’s a reliable choice for anyone with very dry to dry skin.

On the downside, it’s frustrating not knowing how much product is left due to the opaque bottle. Additionally, some of us found it a bit thick, affecting its blendability. The higher price may also be a consideration for budget-minded shoppers. Even so, the product’s performance justifies the cost for many users.

Mineral Fusion Foundation

This foundation is a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, natural-looking finish that hydrates and cares for the skin.

Pros

• Hydrating formula lasts up to 12 hours.
• Lightweight and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.
• Enriched with antioxidants for a youthful appearance.

Cons

• Needs to be shaken well to avoid separation.
• May not provide full coverage for those with significant skin concerns.
• Screw top can be inconvenient compared to a pump.

We find Mineral Fusion Foundation to be gentle and pleasant to wear. Its lightweight feel makes it perfect for daily use without any discomfort or heaviness. The hydration it provides is noticeable, keeping the skin feeling fresh and looking radiant throughout the day.

The inclusion of antioxidants such as Green Tea and Pomegranate is a nice touch. These ingredients aim to provide a youthful boost, which is a definite plus for our skincare routine. The foundation also promotes smoothness and hydration, helping to maintain a natural glow without looking too made-up.

Although we appreciate the natural and safe ingredients, the foundation’s delivery method could be improved. We’ve encountered some issues with separation, which requires thorough shaking before use. Despite this minor setback, the overall performance and benefits make it a worthwhile addition to our makeup collection.

Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation

This foundation provides excellent coverage and includes built-in sun protection, making it ideal for daily use.

Pros

• Smooth, even coverage
• Includes SPF 25
• Long-lasting wear

Cons

• Can be tricky to dispense
• Some shades may run darker
• Not ideal for very dry skin

Clinique’s Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation not only evens out skin tone but also leaves a beautiful matte finish. We found it provides a medium coverage, perfect for covering redness and uneven spots without feeling heavy on the skin.

One of the highlights of this product is the added SPF 25, offering daily sun protection. It’s a great bonus for those who want to keep their skincare routine simple while still getting good coverage and benefits from a foundation.

We did notice some issues with the dispenser, which could be frustrating if you’re in a rush. Additionally, the “Cream Whip” shade felt a bit dark for lighter complexions, so it might be better suited for the summer months. It’s also worth noting that while it feels light and non-sticky, it might not be the best choice for those with very dry skin.

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

A solid choice for those who want a natural finish with buildable coverage.

Pros

• Impressive sheer coverage
• Blends smoothly and easily
• Lightweight feel on the skin

Cons

• Small bottle size
• Some shades may appear slightly orange
• Can be expensive for the amount provided

This foundation by Too Faced offers a natural finish and does not settle into wrinkles or fine lines, making it perfect for those who want a smooth look. We can confidently say it provides a lightweight feel, which makes it comfortable for long wear.

The product is also well-suited for various skin types including oily and dry, as it offers buildable coverage without becoming cakey. We’ve noticed that the foundation blends seamlessly, making it a great choice for both everyday wear and special occasions.

One thing to keep in mind is the quest for the right shade might take a couple of tries. Also, the bottle is on the smaller side, which might not seem like a good value given its price. Despite these points, the overall quality and finish make it worth the investment for many users.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best foundation for your skin type, we need to consider a few key factors:

1. Skin Type

Dry Skin:

• Look for hydrating foundations.
• Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are beneficial.
• Avoid matte finishes.

Oily Skin:

• Opt for oil-free and matte formulas.
• Ingredients like salicylic acid can help control oil.
• Powder foundations may work well.

Combination Skin:

• Choose balancing foundations.
• A mix of hydrating and oil-controlling ingredients is ideal.
• A satin finish can be a good compromise.

2. Coverage Level

• Light Coverage: Good for a natural look.
• Medium Coverage: Balances looking natural and covering imperfections.
• Full Coverage: Best for a flawless finish.

3. Shade Matching

• Test foundation on your jawline for the best match.
• Consider your undertone: warm, cool, or neutral.
• Check in natural light.

4. Ingredients

• Sensitive Skin: Avoid fragrances and harsh chemicals.
• Acne-Prone Skin: Look for non-comedogenic products.
• Anti-Aging: Ingredients like vitamins and peptides are beneficial.

5. Formulation

• Liquid: Versatile; can be sheer to full coverage.
• Powder: Good for oily skin; provides a matte finish.
• Cream: Often more hydrating; good for dry skin.

6. Finish

• Dewy: Adds glow, good for dry or mature skin.
• Matte: Reduces shine, ideal for oily skin.
• Satin: Balanced; works for most skin types.

Make sure to test different foundations to find the best one for us.