Which is No 1 foundation?

Ready to uncover the other five winners? Keep reading for the best liquid foundations, according to InStyle editors.

After rigorously testing 27 top-rated liquid foundations — taking into account the formula's coverage, finish, active ingredients, and overall wear — we uncovered the top six liquid foundations. In the end, the NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation came out on top ,thanks to its extensive shade range and high scores in all of the aforementioned categories.

Let's be honest: Sometimes powder foundations and tinted moisturizers just don't cut it. When the goal is smooth, even, radiant-looking skin, liquid foundations are often the recommendation. However, with so many formulas on the market, it can be hard to know which product is actually worth weaving into your makeup routine. With that in mind, we set out to find the best liquid foundations. To do so, we enlisted several InStyle editors to give the most popular formulas a whirl to find the formulas that actually live up to the hype.

"I love the finish of this foundation and how my skin looks so healthy, dewy, and even," our reviewer says. "I feel that I could wear this everyday or for special occasions. There is not much I do not like about this product, other than the high price tag."

Given the high praise, you'll be glad to know this luxury liquid foundation looks as expensive as the results it delivers. While the 20 shades span from light to dark, we do wish they had more skin tone offerings.

It doesn't just make skin look smooth and hydrated during wear, though. Since it's formulated with Chanel's signature red camellia oil , it actually works to impart anti-aging benefits long after wear.

Speaking of a lot of makeup, this liquid foundation is buildable, so you can wear a single coat or layer it on for the tailored coverage you desire. "It is easy to layer this foundation," our reviewers assure us. "It has a medium coverage, evens out skin tone, and leaves the skin looking super smooth and hydrated. It is not too heavy on the skin but still covers up imperfections."

"After applying the N°1 DE CHANEL Red Camellia Revitalizing Foundation, my skin looks so healthy and glowy in all the right places," our reviewer marvels. "It does not look cakey or oily, just extremely fresh and healthy. I love the finish of this foundation. It doesn't look too unnatural or like I'm wearing a lot of makeup and it doesn't settle into fine lines."

Spending $70 for a bottle of liquid foundation may seem like overkill but our reviewers found that this medium-coverage makeup product is well worth the splurge.

Although the HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation is comfortable to wear, since its a notably thicker formula, our reviewer does note that she thinks it's best for shorter wear. "It would be amazing for special events when I want to cover redness, acne, or other imperfections," she says. "My skin still looks healthy and dewy without being overly heavy."

Like the Lancôme foundation, this Hourglass formula comes in a luxurious frosted glass bottle that feels heavy and expensive. "It also has a soft closure, which I love," our reviewer says. "The foundation comes out in a pump and leaves no mess at all. I love the packaging."

"I love how full coverage this product is while still looking natural on the skin," our reviewer says. "It claims to have a natural finish, which I agree with. The finish does not appear too matte and still has a bit of a glow. I do not feel that my skin looks heavy or cakey after applying. Overall, it looks very healthy and even on the skin."

The HOURGLASS Vanish Seamless Finish Liquid Foundation is another liquid foundation that claims to offer full coverage, that our reviewers found to be closer to medium-to-full coverage in reality. Despite not fully living up to its claims, though, our reviewers concluded that this thick formula is truly something to behold.

Although the finish is matte, it has a touch of dew to keep skin looking natural and healthy.

Even though the coverage this foundation delivers doesn't quite match up with its claims, we found that, overall, there's nothing we don't like about the product.

Logistically speaking, the foundation, which is housed in a tall, frosted glass bottle, is sold in 43 shades ranging from light to dark. "It claims to have a natural-matte finish, which I agree with," said another. "It is matte but still has a bit of a glow and does not look drying or cakey on the skin. It does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles. It has a very nice finish."

Part of why it's so comfortable is because it's specifically formulated to be. "It contains eternal-soft polymers to provide an increased level of comfort for ultra-long wear," says our InStyle editor.

The Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation claims to be a full coverage foundation but when we wore it from morning to night, we found that it's actually a great option for medium coverage. That said, we admit that it is buildable, so it is possible to achieve fuller coverage if that's your goal. And, even if you do opt for extra layers, we found that it remains lightweight and comfortable throughout wear — it never feels heavy on the skin.

It's not quite full coverage—but it is buildable, so you can still achieve adequate coverage.

This liquid foundation has the perfect consistency—it's not too watery and not too thick—and it feels weightless on the skin.

Still, those two pitfalls weren't enough to deter her from this popular liquid foundation. "Overall, I loved this formula," she says. "Its coverage is definitely more sheer, but it imparts a dewy, natural-looking glow and blends incredibly easily. The added broad-spectrum SPF protection is also a bonus."

Two things to note: Despite the beautiful finish it delivers, from a physical feel stance, our reviewer found this serum foundation to be a bit tacky to the touch. Then, from an application standpoint, she says that the serum dropper is a bit more difficult to use than a classic one-handed pump. "It's easier to dispense too much or too little product," she admits.

"This formula claims to provide dewy, lightweight coverage; I would say this is 100% true—it leaves my face with that 'your skin but better' look and blends really easily," our reviewer notes. Part of what makes it so natural-looking, she adds, is the fact that it doesn't sink into creases or fine lines—even over extended wear.

In addition to creating natural-looking coverage, this serum-foundation hybrid revitalizes skin with a blend of hydrating squalane, smoothing niacinamide, and plumping hyaluronic acid. What's more, it's infused with zinc oxide to deliver SPF 40 protection, so it acts as a sun shield, too.

If your goal is radiant, natural-looking coverage, this lightweight liquid foundation is a must. The ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation is sold in 30 shades, all of which have skincare-meets-makeup benefits, and is Cindy Crawford-approved . This formula is lightweight and fairly thin—serum-like, as advertised.

In addition to evening out skin tone, the foundation, which is sold in 40 shades, also offers SPF 25 sun protection. (Though, considering dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30, don't let that fool you into thinking it replaces the sunscreen in your skincare routine.)

From a coverage stance, this drugstore foundation delivers buildable coverage with a natural, semi-matte finish. "I love the finish of this product and the packaging," our reviewer shares. "Upon first use, there is nothing I do not like about this product. It looks beautiful on the skin without being drying or cakey and it went on like a dream."

"This feels like the perfect combination of a thick and thin foundation," our reviewer says. "It is not runny but still light and not overly thick."

Newsflash: The way-too-thick, orange-tinged foundations of drugstores past are long gone. The L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation was one of the top performers of our tests thanks to its just-right consistency and its ability to dry down quickly while still being able to blend for seamless coverage. Plus, it doesn't crease or cake with wear.

Even with that one shortcoming, our reviewer remains head over heels for this product. "I loved the formula. It melted into my skin and it looks great. I really don't have any dislikes," she shares.

The one downfall is that, since the formula is so lightweight, it's a bit watery. As such, when you pump it out, it tends to drip a bit, which can potentially waste precious product.

The best part is that, thanks to its lightweight nature, it dries quickly and leaves skin looking radiant in a flash. "It is dewy and very natural looking," our reviewer notes. "It is glowy and doesn't set into my creases at all."

This liquid foundation formula doesn't only offer color coverage, though. It's made with biomimetic oat to reduce the appearance of redness, Japanese lilyturf to help reinforce the skin's moisture barrier, and cacao peptides and milk thistle to counteract the negative effects of environmental stressors like blue light. In that way, this foundation helps protect and nourish skin just as much as it perfects its color tones.

The NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation boasts a lightweight liquid formula that offers buildable medium coverage. "I would say [the coverage claims are] true—it has a great coverage that builds very easily," our reviewer reveals. The foundation is sold in 36 shades ranging from light to dark, with options for warm, cool, and neutral undertones alike.

Our Testing Process

To kick things off, we spent a week researching the top-rated liquid foundations on the market. We honed in on online ratings and spoke with professional makeup artists to get a better feel for which formulas are topping the charts. Then we spent 48 hours putting the 27 most popular liquid foundations on the market to the test. We had each of our InStyle editors wear the liquid foundations for a full 16-hour day so that they could analyze the formula from morning to night, and write down their insights in the process. In doing so, they rated each formula on a scale of 1 to 5 for four key categories: Texture and feel, finish, transfer test, and overall wear. Once all the data was collected, we were able to narrow down the original pool of products to the top six liquid foundations.

Courtesy

What to Keep in Mind

Coverage

Liquid foundations come in a variety of coverages, ranging from light to full. While many foundations fall in the medium to full category (with BB and CC creams offering lighter coverage), light coverage liquid foundations do exist. What type of coverage you choose, depends on your skin concerns as well as personal preferences.

Formula Finish

Think about how you want your skin to look post-application. If you want to look dewy and glowing, consider a hydrating satin foundation (like our Best Overall pick, the NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation); if you want a mattified end look, focus on matte foundations. Oilier skin types may prefer a matte finish to help combat that mid-morning sheen of grease, whereas as drier may want the extra hydration from a dewy product.

Wear

Do you want a long-lasting foundation that wears flawlessly all day? Or are you looking for something that you plan to only wear for shorter-duration special occasions (like a wedding or night out)? If you're leaning toward the former, you'll want to buy a foundation that's designed to last for up to at least 12 hours (the Lancôme Teint Idole Matte Foundation has a staying power of up to 24 hours), and that's specifically marketed not to cake or crease. When working with special occasion makeup goals, on the other hand, you can be a bit more flexible with the wear duration of your liquid foundation.

Your Questions, Answered

What's the best way to apply liquid foundation?

The best way to apply liquid foundation is largely subjective. Some people prefer to apply their foundation with their fingertips while others find better success with a foundation brush or makeup sponge. Generally speaking, most makeup artists recommend the latter, both because of the smooth, even results, and the simple fact that brushes and sponges tend to be more hygienic (so long as you wash your tools, that is). When using beauty sponges and brushes, the trick to scoring flawless coverage is to stipple your liquid foundation into place. "Bouncing or dabbing is preferred as it allows the product to melt into your skin, creating a seamless finish," Kelli J. Bartlett, a professional makeup artist and the Artistic Director of Glamsquad, told InStyle previously. Plus, when you do so, you'll be able to avoid the streaks that commonly accompany the alternative swiping movement.

How do I know what my undertone is?

The goal of liquid foundation (and any foundation for that matter) is to create an even, natural-looking complexion. As such, it's important to pick a foundation that matches your undertones. If you have a warm complexion, go with a shade that has yellow undertones, and if your complexion is on the cool side, a foundation with pink undertones is your best bet, InStyle reports.

To determine your undertones, simply look at the inside of your wrist. If your veins look green, you likely have warm undertones; if they look blue, your undertones are cool.

How can I prevent liquid foundation from caking?

One of the biggest complaints with liquid foundation is just how easy it is to accidentally create a cakey appearance. While our testers found that all six of our favorite liquid foundations applied smoothly, it's still worthwhile to learn how to prevent liquid foundation from caking. The trick? Priming and setting your skin accordingly. To do so, prep your skin with primer prior to application. A quality primer will smooth out the finish of your skin so that liquid foundation won't cake into your pores and creases. Once primed, apply your liquid foundation and set it with a translucent powder or facial spray to keep it from melting into fine lines during the day. These two simple steps are key for keeping your makeup from creasing.

What Is InStyle Picks?

Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it's really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive (or any!) coverage in exchange. Put simply: InStyle picks are products we love, and we've put them to the test to be sure you will too.

Want more product recommendations? From best-in-class concealer to the black pants you need for work, check out all of our InStyle Picks content.

With hundreds of options on the market, it can be hard to figure out which one is best for you. After all, everyone has different skin types, needs, and preferences. So, we’re sharing a comprehensive list of the best ones out there in order to help you find your perfect match. At Byrdie, we’ve put nearly 100 foundations to the test in The Lab and at home in the real world, evaluating each one based on its formula, application, wear, finish, shade range, and feel on the skin. From lightweight liquids to full-glam options and more, we’re sharing the foundations that have outperformed the competition.

A solid foundation is the foundation (pun intended) of any great makeup look. “The purpose of foundation is to even out your complexion, enhance your skin tone, and minimize any skin concerns ,” explains celebrity makeup artist Alexx Mayo . It's meant to enhance your natural beauty, he says, and there are many different types that can help you do just that—think full-coverage liquids, sheer powder formulas, creamy sticks, and more.

Best Overall

Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$48

View On Nordstrom

$48

View On Bloomingdales

$64

What We Like

• Natural-looking radiant finish

• Medium buildable coverage

• Smooth finish

• Lightweight consistency 

• Wears well all-day 

What We Don't Like

• Can get a bit oily in the T-zone after several hours of wear

We’ve tested this iconic foundation formula many times in our lab, and it’s thoroughly impressed us each and every time. Plus, it’s a tried and true editor favorite. It has an incredibly lightweight liquid consistency that glides on and blends into the skin seamlessly. It offers medium coverage that beautifully camouflages redness and blemishes while still letting a bit of your skin peek through to create a natural look. The formula is pretty buildable if you add a second layer, though you’re not going to be able to build it up for super full coverage. 

What really makes it stand out from others we’ve tested is the finish. It replicates what your natural skin would look like on a really great skin day—even with a hint of radiance. We also appreciate that it looks seamless underneath cream, powder, or liquid makeup that you apply on top. 

Who It’s For

This luxurious foundation is great for all skin types, though it can get just a bit greasy-looking in the T-zone after several hours of wear—especially if you have oily skin. However, it doesn’t crease or fade, and a light layer of translucent powder helps temper any shine. If you’re looking for a smooth, semi-radiant foundation that offers medium coverage, you simply can’t go wrong with this one. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural/radiant | Shades: 40 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Ashley Rebecca

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Drugstore

L'Oreal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation

L'Oreal Paris

View On Amazon

$13

View On Ulta

$17

View On Target

$14

What We Like

• Buildable coverage 

• Comes in 40 shades

• Long-wearing 

• Natural finish 

• Suitable for all skin types 

• Contains SPF

What We Don't Like

• Has a bit of a perfumey smell

This drugstore formula’s performance rivals high-end options. Available in 40 shades—which is a huge range compared to most drugstore options—that evenly disperse across skin tones and undertones, there’s an option for pretty much everyone. We loved that the liquid consistency felt lightweight on the skin and was buildable and budge-proof. 

One light layer offers smooth, medium coverage, while an additional layer can be applied to achieve a more full-coverage look with a natural finish. We appreciated how easily we were able to build it up without it looking cakey. The formula is resistant to sweat, water, and transfer, and it also contains SPF 25 which is an added bonus. During testing, we did a transfer test where we gently patted an oil-blotting sheet on the face to see if any oil or foundation came off, and we were quite impressed that nothing transferred onto the paper. 

• Byrdie / Claire Holden 

• Byrdie / Claire Holden

Who It’s For

This foundation is great for all skin types thanks to the lightweight formula that doesn’t look or feel dry or oily—it’s perfectly in the middle. However, it does contain synthetic fragrance which has a bit of a perfumey smell, so if you have sensitive skin, keep this in mind. 

Coverage: Medium to full | Finish: Natural | Shades: 40 | Cruelty-Free: No

Best Splurge

N°1 De Chanel Revitalizing Foundation

Chanel

View On Chanel

View On Ulta

$78

View On Harrods.com

$61

What We Like

• Natural-looking finish on the skin

• Lightweight, creamy consistency 

• Buildable coverage

• Wears well throughout the day

• Feels comfortable and hydrating on the skin

What We Don't Like

• Has a perfumey botanical fragrance

There’s no denying that this liquid foundation comes with a pretty steep price tag, but if it aligns with your preferences and it’s within your budget, we highly recommend it. The first thing we loved about this one during testing was the consistency. It’s just right—not too thick or runny—making it very easy to blend out with a damp makeup sponge or a foundation brush. One layer offers light to medium coverage, while a second layer yields fuller medium coverage that blurs redness and imperfections. Once blended out, it feels lightweight and a bit moisturizing, and it sets to a natural radiant finish. We were also impressed that it wore all day with minimal creasing or fading. 

Who It’s For

This luxury foundation is a great choice for anyone who wants a medium-coverage formula with a natural-looking radiant finish. It’s nice for all skin types since it’s not extremely matte or dewy, though people with sensitive skin should know that it contains synthetic fragrance. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural/radiant | Shades: 29 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

Editor's Favorite

Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Serum Foundation

Danessa Myricks Beauty

View On Sephora

$24

View On Danessamyricksbeauty.com

What We Like

• Contains hydrating ingredients 

• Smooth, dewy finish

• Buildable coverage

• Has a refill option 

What We Don't Like

• Can be too greasy for those with oily skin

"While I often test different foundations, none of them have dethroned Danessa Myricks' Yummy Skin Serum Foundation from being my number one," notes Byrdie editor, Olivia Hancock. "As someone with dry skin, this formula is a dream because it's loaded with moisturizing ingredients (think: hyaluronic acid, squalane, and jojoba oil). I also appreciate this foundation because it delivers such a radiant, natural-looking finish. My skin looks incredibly even, dewy, and glowy whenever I wear it."

Not only do we love that it’s packed with hydrating ingredients and gives the skin a healthy-looking luminosity, but we also appreciate that it offers buildable coverage and comes in refillable packaging. 

Who It’s For

We recommend this formula for those with dry or balanced skin because it’s a dewy and emollient formula containing nourishing oils. If you have oily skin, we think it could get too shiny on you throughout the day. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Radiant | Shades: 26 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Full-Coverage

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$49

View On Nordstrom

$49

View On Bloomingdales

$49

What We Like

• Easy to blend

• Comfortable on the skin

• Transfer-resistant 

• Extensive shade range 

• Wears well throughout the day

What We Don't Like

This formula from Charlotte Tilbury is one of the most popular full-coverage foundations on the market, and we totally get why. Despite having a pretty thick texture which can sometimes make for a cakey finish, it blends out easily on the skin and can create a natural-looking base if you use it properly. It does cling to dry patches, which isn’t uncommon for full-coverage foundations—but if you exfoliate and moisturize before using it, you’ll be able to achieve a smooth, full-coverage result that appears skin-like and most importantly, lasts. It does an excellent job of covering redness, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes. 

During testing, we were pleased 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. We also love that it comes in an extensive shade range that's well dispersed across skin tones—this is vital for foundations that offer full coverage and won't be forgiving if your shade doesn't match your skin color.

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Who It’s For

This pick is great for you if you’re looking for a matte, full-coverage foundation that will last all day without creasing or fading. It’s fantastic for full-glam makeup looks. Though we think it's best for those with oily or balanced skin, it's also suitable for people with dry or combination skin, as long as you properly exfoliate and moisturize prior to application. 

Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte | Shades: 40 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Light-Coverage

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint

Amazon

View On Amazon

$48

View On Sephora

$48

View On Nordstrom

$48

What We Like

• Lightweight, liquid consistency 

• Contains SPF

• Contains hydrating ingredients

• Doesn’t settle into lines 

• Inclusive shade range 

• Fragrance-free

What We Don't Like

• Dropper bottle is a bit messy

• Can have a funny chemical smell 

Ilia's super-popular Super Serum truly does have a lightweight, serum-like consistency. The slightly runny liquid blends into the skin effortlessly with your fingertips, a damp sponge, or a brush, delivering semi-sheer coverage with a healthy-looking dewy finish. We loved that it didn't settle into creases or fine lines when we tested it ourselves, rather it gave the skin a smooth finish. In addition to how beautiful it looks on the skin, we like that it contains SPF 40 and is formulated with hydrating ingredients like squalane and hyaluronic acid. 

Although we love this formula, it’s not perfect. The dropper bottle isn't our favorite because it's hard to dispense the exact amount of product you want and it can get messy. The formula can also have a funny chemical scent which isn’t pleasant during application. Still, we love the built-in SPF 40 protection, the hydrating formula, and the radiant results.

Who It’s For

This serum foundation is perfect for people who want to achieve a no-makeup makeup look that puts dewy skin at the forefront. It’s best for those with dry and balanced skin, though people with oily skin types who love a radiant look might enjoy it with a light layer of setting powder on top. 

Coverage: Light | Finish: Radiant | Shades: 30 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Tanya Akim

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

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

• Wears all day without creasing or fading 

• Extensive shade range

• Buildable coverage

• Natural matte finish 

• Lightweight consistency 

What We Don't Like

• Transfers just a bit

Lancôme has been creating beautiful complexion products for decades, and this formula is one of their best. Despite offering full coverage which often comes along with thick or heavy formulas, this one provides impressive coverage with a very lightweight, liquidy texture. Although it can cover up pretty much anything, it manages to maintain a true skin-like appearance, which really impressed us. We also love that it has a matte-but-not-flat finish and that it layers beautifully with whatever makeup you apply on top of it.

Once applied to the skin, it’s not going anywhere: it performed really nicely during our transfer test and resisted creasing and fading as we wore it. We noticed just a bit of the foundation come off on the blotting paper, but it was pretty insignificant and could likely be prevented by setting it with translucent powder. 

Who It’s For

This foundation is excellent for anyone who prefers a matte, full-coverage option and needs longevity out of it. Because it’s not a flat matte nor is it too drying, we think it’s great for all skin types—even those with dry skin.

Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte | Shades: 50 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best Shade Range

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$18

View On Ulta

$40

View On Walmart

$39

What We Like

• Lightweight 

• Easy to blend

• Wears well without creasing or fading 

• Soft matte finish

What We Don't Like

• Can cling to texture

Chances are, you’re already familiar with this game-changing foundation from Fenty Beauty. Aside from helping to set the industry standard for shade range inclusivity, it also has a loyal fan base who adore the formula. We get why it’s so well-loved, thanks to how blendable it is, how lightweight and comfortable it feels on the skin, and how transfer-resistant it is. Throughout testing, it didn’t crease or fade, and it held up beautifully when we patted a blotting sheet against the skin to see if the color or oil transferred. We also enjoy the soft matte finish—it’s not so matte that it looks flat or chalky on the skin. We did notice that it can cling to texture and dry patches, so we recommend gently exfoliating and moisturizing your skin prior to applying it.

When it comes to the shade range, it’s not just the amount of shades offered that impressed us, but it’s how evenly distributed the shades are across skin tones and undertones. There are colors for very fair skin, very dark skin, and pretty much everything in between.

Who It’s For

If you struggle to find a shade match for your complexion, we highly recommend taking a look at the shades offered in this formula. Although matte foundations like this one are great for balancing oily skin, it’s also a great choice for anyone—regardless of skin type—who’s looking for something with a soft matte finish and buildable coverage. 

Coverage: Medium to full | Finish: Soft matte | Shades: 58 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• BYRDIE / BIANCA LAMBERT

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Bianca Lambert

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best With SPF

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

Sephora

View On Amazon

$47

View On Sephora

$21

View On Ulta

$47

What We Like

• Buildable coverage 

• Natural finish

• Contains hydrating ingredients 

• Comfortable feel on the skin

What We Don't Like

• Shade range could be more extensive

While applying a separate SPF before foundation is important in order to get adequate sun protection, opting for a foundation formula that contains SPF is great for additional protection. This CC cream offers full-coverage with a natural finish that blurs imperfections and helps even out your skin tone while also boasting impressive SPF 50+ sun protection. It’s buildable, easy to layer, and doesn’t clog pores or emphasize their appearance. We also love that it contains hydrating and smoothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin E. And although it has a creamy, relatively rich texture, it settles beautifully into the skin without creating a cakey appearance. During testing, we were impressed by how well it wore throughout the day, and although it transfers a bit when using blotting paper or a tissue, it resets nicely if you apply a light layer of powder on top. 

Our one negative is that while the shade range offers options for people with all different skin tones, there aren’t many shades, meaning that it can be tricky to find an exact match.  

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Leticia Almeida

• Byrdie / Tembe Denton-Hurst

Who It’s For

This full-coverage CC cream performs like a foundation with the additional of great skin benefits, making it a fitting option for people with all skin types who want a product that provides significant coverage as well as hydration and sun protection. 

Coverage: Full | Finish: Natural | Shades: 22 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Best Powder Formula

bareMinerals Loose Powder

bareMinerals

View On Amazon

$39

View On Sephora

$39

View On Ulta

$39

What We Like

• Weightless texture

• Natural finish 

• Inclusive shade range

• Can be used on its own or on top of liquid foundation

What We Don't Like

• Packaging is tricky to open

This loose powder foundation has been beloved by customers for decades, it’s no secret why. The weightless formula contains SPF 15 and sheer-to-medium coverage depending on how much you build it up. It has a natural finish with the most subtle hint of luminosity, yet the powder formula helps to mattify shine on the skin. With just a few swipes, it helps blur the appearance of pores and imperfections, creating an even-looking complexion with no cakiness in sight. We also appreciate that it can be applied on bare skin or layered on top of a liquid or cream foundation for additional coverage and smoothing. 

During testing, not only were we impressed by how it wore, but we also appreciated that the packaging has a handy locking mechanism that prevents the powder from spilling everywhere. The only downside is that we found the plastic wrap with a pull tab in the jar tricky to open upon arrival. 

Who It’s For

Not everyone likes the feeling of liquid foundation on their skin. If that’s you, this lightweight powder formula is absolutely worth checking out. It’s suitable for all skin types and is excellent for people who want light to medium coverage with a natural finish. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural | Shades: 30 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Read Full Review: This Mineral Foundation Makes it Look Like I'm in Portrait Mode 24/7

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Natural Finish

Nars Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$52

View On Ulta

$52

View On Walmart

$52

What We Like

• Skin-like radiant finish 

• Buildable coverage

• Lightweight consistency 

• Easy to blend

• Inclusive shade range

What We Don't Like

• Not the most long-wearing on people with oily skin

Nars makes some of our favorite complexion products on the market—their foundations and concealers have been MUA and editor favorites for years. This one quickly became a favorite when we tested it thanks to the lightweight formula, buildable coverage, and natural finish that offers just a hint of healthy-looking radiance. Available in 36 shades that range from fair to dark with varying undertones, this formula looks smooth and beautiful on the skin. 

It has medium coverage that can be built up to fully cover redness, and we love that it doesn’t emphasize texture or settle into lines. The consistency is creamy, super blendable, and very light-feeling on the skin. Once it sets, it looks like skin that’s been properly moisturized: i.e.natural and glowing without being greasy. It wears well throughout the day, though it can break slightly in the T-zone if you have very oily skin. If you have oily skin, we recommend setting it with a light layer of translucent powder. 

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• InStyle / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Who It’s For

We’d argue that most people would love this foundation. As we mentioned, those with oily skin will get the most longevity out of it if set with a powder, but the lightweight texture and natural finish will pair well with all skin types. If you’re looking for a product that will help you look like you’re having your best skin day ever and not just layering on foundation, we highly recommend this pick. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural/radiant | Shades: 36 | Cruelty-Free: No

Read Full Review: The Nars Light Reflecting Foundation Gives My Skin a Hydrated, Healthy Glow 

Best Stick

Tom Ford Traceless Foundation Stick

Sephora

View On Sephora

$45

View On Walmart

$75

View On Tomford.com

What We Like

• Natural, skin-like finish

• Doesn’t crease or settle into lines

• Inclusive shade range

• Easy to blend

• Convenient packaging

What We Don't Like

• Can get shiny after a few hours of wear 

Yes, the price of this foundation is steep, but considering that it has 15 grams of product (most sticks have around eight) and its performance is hard to beat, we recommend trying it if it’s within your budget. Unlike some foundation sticks that are stiff and difficult to blend, this one from Tom Ford is creamy and almost as easy to blend as liquid formulations. You can apply it straight to your skin from the stick and blend it out with your fingers, a damp sponge, or a brush—each method works beautifully with this formula. One layer offers medium coverage with a stunning natural finish, while an additional layer makes for nearly full coverage. As for the wear, we’re impressed that it doesn’t settle into lines, crease, or fade, though those with oily skin will want to set it with powder as it can get a bit shiny after a few hours of wear. 

In addition to the creamy formula and beautiful natural finish with just a hint of radiance, we adore the packaging and convenience. The packaging feels luxurious—it should, considering the price tag—and it’s easy to swipe on your skin on the go or use for touch-ups throughout the day. 

Who It’s For

This easy-to-blend foundation stick is great for all skin types and offers medium to full coverage, making it a product worth the investment if you like the convenience of a stick format and buildable coverage. 

Coverage: Medium to full | Finish: Natural | Shades: 39 | Cruelty-Free: No

Best for Mature Skin

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

Sephora

View On Amazon

$60

View On Sephora

$43

View On Dior.com

What We Like

• Blurs the appearance of texture and fine lines

• Lightweight 

• Easy to blend

• Skin-like finish

• Buildable  

• Extensive shade range

What We Don't Like

• Can get a bit greasy on oily skin

When we tested foundations for mature skin, this is the one that impressed us the most. It offers a super-lightweight, liquid consistency, seamless blendability, and a beautiful, natural-looking finish. We found that it blended into the skin easily and without creating streaks with both a sponge and a brush, and while it only has medium coverage, it covered redness and dark spots quite well. The formula is slightly buildable, so you can layer it up to achieve a bit more coverage, and it also does a nice job of blurring the appearance of fine lines and skin texture. Once applied, it appears fresh and natural—not dry and cakey or greasy-looking. 

We also appreciate that it’s formulated with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane, which is nice for people with mature skin who might be experiencing moisture loss. It’s a fantastic choice for everyday wear since it has a weightless liquid texture and a natural finish that lets your skin peek through just a bit. For more affordable options, these drugstore foundations are also great for mature skin.

Who It’s For

Although we love this pick for people with mature skin, it’s actually suitable for all skin types thanks to the well-blanced formula. Those with oily skin will want to set it with powder since it can get a bit shiny throughout the day, but it’s not too greasy so this isn’t a dealbreaker for us. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural | Shades: 43 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Tamara Staples

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation

Dermstore

View On Amazon

$66

View On Dermstore

$76

View On Oxygenetix.com

What We Like

• Contains salicylic acid 

• Suitable for sensitive skin 

• Feels lightweight and hydrating on the skin

• Covers redness fully 

• Doesn’t emphasize texture or fine lines 

What We Don't Like

• Shade range is limited

Those with acne-prone skin know that finding a foundation that both covers breakouts while not exacerbating them or clogging pores can be tricky. Off the bat, we love that this formula contains salicylic acid, an acne-fighting ingredient that also exfoliates and removes excess oil. But in addition to the thoughtful formula that was created specifically for those dealing with acne, we were impressed by how well it performed during our test. It has a creamy, lightweight texture that blends out well with a brush and a sponge, and it provides full coverage in just one layer. One layer completely camouflages redness and dark spots without looking heavy or makeup-y on the skin. It didn’t emphasize texture or settle into fine lines, and it did a nice job of smoothing the appearance of blemishes. 

We loved everything about this foundation except for the shade range which lacks options for deep and dark and could use more options generally across the spectrum of skin tones.  

Who It’s For

Of course, this liquid foundation is excellent for people with acne prone skin, though it’s also great for people with hyperpigmentation or an uneven skin tone thanks to the excellent coverage. We also appreciate that it’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. 

Coverage: Full | Finish: Natural/radiant | Shades: 13 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

• Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Foundation

Sephora

View On Sephora

$69

View On Ulta

$69

View On Nordstrom

$69

What We Like

• Easy to blend

• Lightweight, liquid consistency 

• Crease-resistant 

• Natural-looking finish 

• Inclusive shade range

What We Don't Like

• Can emphasize pores 

• Not transfer-resistant

Today’s foundations are generally much more lightweight and comfortable to wear than those of the past, but some still do feel like heavy makeup. This one from Pat McGrath Labs takes lightweight to the next level—the consistency is just a bit thicker than water, almost like a serum. The weightless texture blends out fast and evenly with a sponge and a brush, and it provides medium coverage with a natural satin finish. It’s not as buildable as other options we’ve tested, but you can add an additional layer for a bit more coverage without it looking or feeling heavy. 

It didn’t settle into creases, though we did notice in testing that it settled a bit into enlarged pores. But, this can be helped by applying a smoothing primer before the foundation and then setting it with a light layer of powder. We also recommend setting it with powder because it did transfer during our blotting test. Despite these small cons, this formula truly impressed us. 

Who It’s For

If you’re super sensitive to the feeling of product on your skin, this option from Pat McGrath Labs is a great option for you. It comes in a large shade range so you’ll likely be able to find a great match for your complexion, and the natural finish is fitting for all skin types. 

Coverage: Medium | Finish: Natural | Shades: 36 | Cruelty-Free: No

• Byrdie / Joy Kim

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao

• Byrdie / Jessica Juliao