15 of the Best Foundations

Not all foundations are created equal, but where do you even start when it comes to finding what’s right for you? Powders, liquid, mousses are everywhere now. The stores are full of so many options of foundation, it can be overwhelming. I wanted to choose brands and products that aren’t necessarily new on the scene but do have a cult following and rave reviews.

These picks aren’t necessarily the new kids on the block in the makeup aisle, but they’re the foundations that keep winning awards and accolades. I for one don’t wear foundation on an everyday basis. I reserve it for evenings or weekends when I have more time in the morning. It gives us a nice smooth base and helps hide those blemishes that pop up. Hello hormones! I do also like a good BB cream for the day and a nice foundation for my evenings outs.

“I don’t normally wear foundation,” is how a lot of us start off when selecting a foundation, as though the skin-perfecting staple comes with a health warning. Blame the trend of no-makeup makeup on the fashion runways, but there’s a recent reluctance to come out as daily foundation wearers.

I’ve included drugstore brands to luxury brands in this list. Something for every budget and comfort level. Most can be layered, so you can start off with a little and move onto more coverage.

15 of the Best Foundations

1. Make Up For Ever’s cult-favorite foundation is a winner because of its natural-looking finish.

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation, $43, available at Sephora.

2. Revlon’s shade range is incredibly realistic and inclusive, which can sometimes can be difficult to find in the makeup aisle.

Revlon Nearly Naked Foundation, $8, available at Walmart.
3. Laura Mercier’s foundation has one of the easiest applications on the market. It evens skin tone, helping you achieve an overall glow.

Laura Mercier Silk Crème Oil Free Photo Edition Foundation, $48, available at Sephora.
4. This moisture-rich formula targets dry patches to give you an all-over, even base.

Chanel Vitalumière Fluid Makeup, $60, available at Nordstrom.
5. The real winner here is the range of colors that FitMe provides. It’s light-coverage, so it doesn’t look caked on, making it a top-notch foundation 365 days a year.

Maybelline Fit Me Dewey + Smooth Foundation, $8, available at Ulta.
6. Hourglass’ formula strikes a balance between matte and dewy, which is no easy feat.

Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation, $55, available at Sephora.
7. This cult classic not only lasts all day, but it also evens out skin tone.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Wear & Comfort Foundation, $47, available at Macy’s.
8. ByTerry’s bottle smooths on without feeling heavy, leaving you with a magically radiant complexion.

By Terry TerryBly Densiliss Wrinkle Control Serum Foundation, $115, available at Beauty.com.
9. Since this is a loose powder, it goes on super light and even, making it perfect for foundation newbies. Plus, it’s got an SPF.

BareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15, $28, available at Ulta.
10. This miracle bottle somehow offers full coverage while still being incredibly light. It also infuses your skin with a dewy glow — without looking greasy.

Philosophy Hope In A Jar Foundation, $40, available at Ulta.
11. Another winner when it comes to color choices. Plus, Marc Jacobs’ formula is buildable, so you can wear it all year.

Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Super-Charged Oil-Free Foundation, $48, available at Sephora.
12. It goes on smoothly, is never thick or cakey, and gives skin an even appearance.

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup Foundation, $24, available at Macy’s.
13. NARS’ foundation offers full coverage without feeling like a full-coverage foundation.

NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, $45, available at NARS.
14. This light formula stays in place all day — no melting and slipping.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Light Stay-in-Place Makeup, $38, available at Nordstrom.
15. The coverage is buildable, and the finish isn’t too dewy or too matte. With 24 versatile shades, there’s no settling for anything less than a perfect match.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk, $62, available at Sephora.

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