10 best foundations I've tested, of the 50 that've landed on my desk
Shopping for the best foundation is a real test of patience. From frantically trying to shade-match yourself online to figuring out which foundation brush or primer will best pair with it, the sheer pressure of knowing that your choice of formula can make or break your entire look is overwhelming. More annoying still? There's actually no such thing as the best foundation. Sure, there are plenty of formulas that could be considered “the best” in their own respective categories (full coverage foundation, serum foundation, cushion foundation etc.) – but there's only a handful of those that would then be your ideal match.
We all have different skin types, skin tones, undertones and skin concerns. To match your own complexion perfectly, you need get the shade right, but also consider your preference against finish, level of coverage and form (I'm thinking stick foundation, liquid, powder – the list goes on). In short, what may work well for one person may not necessarily work out for you.
My favourite foundations of all time, at a glance:
That's exactly why I didn't just work in silo to create this guide. I've been a Shopping Editor for more than six years now – and I've tested hundreds of foundations in that time. I could write an entire guide on my own favourites, but that wouldn't be very useful. Instead, I conjured up the help of fellow Glamour editors and expert product testers to assess foundations across a multitude of skin types, colours and ages.
Whether you're still loving the effortless “clean girl” aesthetic and rarely stray away from your trusty tinted moisturiser, or you're after a new, full-coverage foundation for nights out, we hope we've got the perfect match for you.
- How I tested foundations
- Why you can trust me
- What to consider when shopping for foundation
- How can you find the best foundation for your skin type?
- How can you shade match yourself at home?
- Which undertone am I: cool, neutral or warm?
- Which is the best tool to apply foundation?
- How to make foundation last longer
- What is the best foundation for brides?
- What is the most natural looking foundation?
- Which brand is the best for full coverage foundation?
Meet the experts:
- Jamie Coombes, International Pro Artist at Dior Beauty.
- Sarah Lyth, Makeup Artist and National Education Manager at NARS.
- Sasha Keene, Celebrity Makeup Artist.
How I tested foundations:
As a beauty journalist who's been testing makeup for over six years (both for work and, let's be honest, for fun), I've tried more than 50 foundations – from lightweight skin tints to full-coverage gems. Every product in this edit has been worn, blended, and tested in real life. All be myself, and then all by at least one other member of the Glamour team too. That's why you can see lots of lovely faces in the videos in this guide.
When a new foundation formula lands on my desk, I test it for at least two weeks in a multitude of settings. On long office days, during heatwaves, for the gym (I'm a stickler for rushing to a class after work and not having time to remove my makeup). If I love it, I get more editors involved in testing. Those who can vouch for foundations for dark skin, or how to apply foundation to mature skin.
Together, we look at how each one sits on the skin, how long it lasts, how it plays with other products, and how it makes us feel. Does it pile or glide on effortlessly? Does it enhance a glow or cling onto dry patches? Does it actually hold like it claims to do?
There are a few personal favourites of mine that didn’t quite fit this round-up. Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Filter, for example, is one I use constantly – especially during summertime when I want something a bit lighter that won’t block my pores in the heat. Technically, it’s not really a foundation (it leans more toward a glowy primer or highlighter), but it’s definitely worth a mention if you love that natural, no-makeup makeup look. The foundations we did include are the ones that truly impressed everyone – for their coverage, finish, wear time, shade range and ability to make skin look like skin, only better. Over time? We're aiming to re-rest forever favourites, add in new additions, and shoot photographs which show how foundations look after one hour, three hours and seven. Keep this page bookmarked for more exciting updates.
Why you can trust me:
I don't claim to know everything there is to know about makeup, but I am an experienced shopping journalist and product tester who has written for magazines including Glamour, Hitched, Cosmopolitan, Stylist, GQ and Dazed over the course of the past ten years. During that time, I've been literally paid to attend new product launches, live makeup tutorials and panel talks as part of my day job, and I've interviewed countless experts and makeup artists to learn from those who know the most. When it comes to foundation specifically, I've tested over 50 products, and written guides on the very best for Hitched as well as Glamour.
Ahead, the very best foundations I've tried alongside my colleagues.
1. Best Overall: e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation
Why I loved it: "I was actually sworn off of foundation before I started testing the e.l.f. Soft Glam foundation a little over a month ago. And I had been for quite some time. While I do suffer with the occasional hormonal breakout, I'm quite lucky not to have particularly acne-prone skin – so I had got into a nice little routine of applying concealer to my under-eye area, a slightly darker shade of concealer to blemishes or areas of uneven skin tone, and then cracking on with contour and blusher. Skipping foundation altogether.
"Then, e.l.f. got in touch to let me know they'd launched their Soft Glow foundation: a medium, buildable coverage foundation with a satin finish. I read up a little on the formulation: the brand stated that it's a long-lasting and hydrating liquid formula, that doesn't look or feel cakey. I've become aware of the fact that lots of press releases do say the exact same thing, so I was somewhat skeptical. But we kept moving. The press release also stated that the formula is infused with 1% Hydrating Hibiscus Complex, plus pomegranate, blueberry and goji berry extracts, to leave the skin feeling nourished after wear. This felt a little more innovative and exciting.
"You can see in my photograph how battered my tube of e.l.f. foundation is – testament to how much I've been wearing it. That is: every day. I literally cannot believe this product is only £9. First up, the shade match is absolutely impeccable (it should be, as there's a whopping 36 shades to choose from) – and I love that if you're not happy with your purchase, el.f. will refund your order within 30 days so that you can choose another one. I swiped a small amount across my face when I first received the product, and you almost couldn't see where the foundation ended and my skin started.
“Second, it feels so lightweight. The foundation blended quickly and effortlessly into my skin, and left my complexion looking perfectly dewy and not plump – but not covered in product. I used my trusty Charlotte Tilbury setting spray over the top of my makeup, and the whole look stayed put for the entire day. No caking or heaviness at all – just smooth, satiny skin. While we've not yet tested this foundation on dry skin, we're working towards it, and I'm convinced the nourishing formula will work just as well for dry complexions. I'm obsessed. Order it, I beg you.”
More to know:
- Shade range: 36.
- Level of coverage: medium, buildable.
- Finish: glowy and radiant.
- Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior Commerce Editor.
2. Best For Glow: Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
Why I loved it: “I had been using the Armani Luminous Silk foundation long before I became a beauty journalist, and truth be told, it has never failed me. So, when Sophie mentioned that she was writing a guide to the best foundations, I knew I had to write a review for this through-and-through, retested favourite.
“Most of all, I love how no matter the coverage, I can easily make it look like my own skin – you can see in my video above how effortlessly the product blends in with my complexion rather than just sitting on top of it. I think part of that comes from how light and serum-like the consistency is. While it can be slightly tricky to work with – you can see the product running down my hand when I apply a couple of pumps – this thin-ness actually helps to ensure the product gives a ‘your-skin-but-better’ appearance.
“It's also worth mentioning that I always massively appreciate how – even on long days – this foundation can effortlessly last for 10+ hours without sliding off my face, patchiness or any setting into my fine lines. Armani Luminous Silk is available in 40 different shades to suit all skin tones, and the brand team are consistently reformulating it to ensure it's as good as it possibly can be. I endeavour to keep retesting every formulation, I promise.”
More to know:
- Shade range: 40.
- Level of coverage: medium.
- Finish: skin-like.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor and Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior Commerce Editor.
3. Best Shade Range: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation
Why I loved it: "We've had 36 shades; we've had 40 shades – but this foundation impressed us with a whopping 47 shades available to choose from. So, after rigorous testing, it's not difficult to see why we crowned this launch the very best for inclusivity and shade diversity.
"Before I started testing, I read that this foundation – by the Lady Gaga-owned beauty brand – is best for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. The brand states that it boasts medium coverage, despite being a serum foundation, and uses more than 20+ skincare ingredients including HAUS LABS' patent-pending Fermented Arnica to reduce redness, even out your skin tone and keep your complexion protected against environmental aggressors and pollution.
“You can see in my testing video above that this foundation blends seamlessly with your skin, leaving it looking healthy, glowy and smooth. The serum-like foundation consistency might be a little difficult to get used to if you've previously worked with thicker, cakey foundations or powders (it was for me), but, the pay-off is immense. I'm loving using this foundation during the spring and summer, when I want my skin to look plump and dewy. Plus, I love that it doesn't cause unwanted breakouts. On my skin type, many foundations do.”
More to know:
- Shade range: 47.
- Level of coverage: medium, serum foundation.
- Finish: skin-like.
- Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Glamour's Commerce Writer.
4. Best Blurring: NARS Light Reflecting Foundation
Why I loved it: "NARS' Light Reflecting foundation has been a Glamour editor favourite for years – powered by skincare ingredients that help defend against environmental aggressors during wear. Great for city girls, then, this foundation also helps to seamlessly blur imperfections such as dark spots, blemishes or redness.
"The science-y bit? The formula used Photochromic Technology – a powder that adjusts complexion tone in response to the intensity of light so that skin never appears washed out – and Light Active Micro-Prisms combined with Algae Extract and Polynesian Seawater to improve the skin’s ability to capture light and optimize light reflection by addressing skin’s luminosity at the surface.
“I find that it glides onto your skin like a dream – you can see how flawless my complexion looks after application in the video above – despite the sheer level of coverage. And it definitely delivers on the light-reflecting claims. My skin feels luminous and glowy. I found that it's best applied using a foundation brush, as the formula is quite runny, but it doesn't require the same level of buffing as some of the thicker foundations in this edit do, which feels like a bonus. It feels light as air on the skin, and lasted well throughout my day in the office, at press lunches and hopping on and off the tube. I'll definitely be repurchasing.”
More to know:
- Shade range: 36.
- Level of coverage: medium.
- Finish: skin-like.
- Tester: Robyn Eugene, Glamour's Social Media Manager, and ex-Glamour staffer Samantha Reynolds.
5. Best For Nights Out: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
Why we love it: “I usually lean towards lighter tinted moisturisers over full-coverage foundations, but when it’s that time of the month and my skin’s feeling a bit meh (thanks, hormones), this is the foundation I reach for. I've also been using it on nights out, when I need my makeup to last and want a more flawless finish.
"The consistency is a little thick, but don't be alarmed. A small amount goes a long way. Plus, once it's applied and buffed into the skin (I'd recommend spending longer than usual really working it into your complexion with a foundation buffing brush), I love that it doesn’t budge an inch and the product really melts into your skin with ease. The finish is totally flawless and makes my skin look away, smooth and plump. This stuff is water, heat, sweat and humidity-resistant, too, which is a lifesaver if, like me, you’re on the tube every day. The built-in SPF10 is a nice bonus, also. Just remember to still use face sunscreen underneath.
"My only gripe is the packaging. Without a pump, it’s tricky to control and pouring straight from the bottle can get messy – more than once my hand has ended up with better coverage than my face.”
More to know:
- Shades: 49.
- Finish: Matte.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tester: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Save when you shop for the best full coverage foundations with these Sephora discount codes at checkout.
6. Most Lightweight: Makeup By Mario SurrealSkin Foundation
Why we love it: "Breathable and weightless, this liquid foundation from Makeup By Mario is unmatched when it comes to long-lasting hydration. It feels incredibly lightweight on your skin, though its squalane and grapeseed oil-infused formula is also easily buildable, just in case you're in the mood for something a bit more chic in the evening.
“I get to play with a lot of foundation formulas for my job, so it takes a lot to blow me away, but phewf, Mario obviously knows what he's doing. This foundation takes all the best bits of matte, dewy, lightweight and long-wearing foundations and blends them all into one superhero formula. It feels fairly weightless – perhaps could be a little bit more so – but it stays put like a champion. It offers coverage, without compromising on glow. It buffs beautifully into skin."
More to know:
- Shade range: 30.
- Level of coverage: medium.
- Finish: skin-like.
- Tester: Elle Turner, Glamour's Senior Beauty Editor.
7. Best Matte Foundation: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
Why we love it: “I've been testing and retesting the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation for a really long time. I first used and loved the original formulation (it was around for ten whole years – and remained one of the brand's bestsellers), then sometime last summer, I was invited to a makeover event with the Charlotte Tilbury team (dream, non?) to celebrate the launch of their Airbrush Flawless Foundation reformulation. Since then, I've tested the new product against a couple of different shades – one for when I am tanned and one for when I'm a little paler.
"The USP of this foundation is that it hydrates like skincare, but serves long-lasting and full, matte coverage – and as with lots of Charlotte Tilbury complexion products, the foundation serves a blurred and poreless finish that appears almost airbrushed.
“Before I get into performance, it's worth nodding to a few elements of the formula that have changed. Originally, this foundation was a very matte foundation – so I'd reserve it for nights out, full beat or winter. While long-lasting and flawless, the finish felt a little flat. Now, the foundation has a ”3D matte finish" which means, it's less “flat matte” and more, well, 3D matte. Though I do reach for my “glowy finish” foundations more in the summer, the reformulation has definitely led me to enjoying this foundation more. And if you're a lover of a matte finish, I think you'll adore it.
“Other changes include the fact that there are 44 more shades, more active skincare ingredients included in the formula, and it feels noticeably lighter. Against the claims, I definitely agree that it has a breathable, second-skin feel – and it easily covered any dark spots or blemishes, lasting well throughout the day. Overall, if I'm after a matte finish, this is the only foundation I'll turn to.”
More to know:
- Shades: 44.
- Finish: Matte.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tester: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior Commerce Editor, and Neamh Randall, Glamour's Commerce Photo Editor.
8. Best Foundation For Mature Skin: Dior Forever Skin Glow Foundation
Why I loved it: "If you want that fresh, glowy, slept-for-10-hours kind of skin, Dior Forever Skin Glow delivers every time. It's the best foundation for mature skin I've tried. It’s the one I reach for when I want to look put-together but not overly ‘done’ – and I adore that it never settles into fine lines or wrinkles. Rather, dusting over them. For me, the coverage is that sweet spot: enough to smooth everything out, but still sheer enough to let your real skin texture through.
“It wears like a dream, even in the gross London humidity, and the glow it gives is more soft-lit selfie than shiny T-zone. Plus, it’s infused with actual skincare – wild pansy, iris, hibiscus – so it does the hard work that goes into keeping skin nourished and hydrated behind the scenes, too. Hydrating, smoothing, even protective against UV and blue light, the only downside for me is the price point. £52 feels like a lot to spend on a foundation, no matter how little you need and how good the results are."
More to know:
- Shade range: 42
- Level of coverage: Medium
- Finish: Radiant
- Tester: Shani Cohen, GLAMOUR’s Beauty Commerce Writer
9. Best Serum Foundation: Givenchy Prisme Libre Glow Serum Foundation
Why we love it: "This is not your average glow-giver. Givenchy’s Prisme Libre Glow Serum Foundation feels like skincare in foundation form – and that’s because it kind of is. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and yuzu extract, it hydrates for up to 48 hours while giving your complexion that lit-from-within luminosity we all chase.
“The coverage is that sweet spot between sheer and full - enough to even out your skin tone without caking your face. It’s packed with four colour-correcting powders and Givenchy’s clever Prismatic Light™ Technology, which basically works like a soft-focus filter IRL. Plus, it’s transfer-resistant, water-resistant, and lasts all day without clinging to dry patches or creasing in fine lines. I loved it."
More to know:
- Shade range: 30.
- Level of coverage: Medium.
- Finish: Radiant, soft-focus.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour's contributor, and Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
10. Best Cushion Foundation: Tirtir Red Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation
Why I loved it: "From one of the first Korean brands to pioneer an inclusive shade range in a foundation formula, Tirtir’s foundation is nothing short of impressive. Available in 40 shades in total, this formula is a dream for those of us after a full-coverage result and a blurring finish. Packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hibiscus and red propolis extracts, this foundation will help keep your skin nice and nourished throughout the day—which is all the more important given that it’s formulated to last for up to 72 hours (although we definitely wouldn’t advise wearing it for longer than a full day).
“Having gone viral all over TikTok for its satin yet blurring finish, this clever formula helps your skin stay dewy and matte in all the right places, simultaneously. “I always reserve this foundation for special occasions. Not only can it easily last me well over 10 hours at a time, but it also requires less touch-up. I never have to worry about it sliding off my face or becoming patchy.”
READ MORE: The best Korean makeup for mature skin, according to K-beauty experts.
More to know:
- Shades: 40.
- Level of coverage: Medium to full.
- Finish: Blurring yet skin-like.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Glamour's contributor.
More foundations I'm currently testing:
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What to consider when shopping for foundation:
To make things a little less overwhelming, we asked International Pro Artist at Dior Beauty, Jamie Coombes, what to look out for when picking a foundation online and he recommends familiarising yourself with your undertone.
“If your skin has pink, red, or blue hues and your veins appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. And if your skin tans easily and has golden, yellow, or peachy hues, and your veins appear greenish olive, you have warm undertones,” he shares. Those with neutral undertones will spot that their “veins might appear a muted blue-green," Jamie adds.
Last but by no means least, let's also consider the shade range factor. In the world where the likes of Fenty and Haus Labs offer 50+ shades, why would we settle for anything less?
How can you find the best foundation for your skin type?
While there are various aspects at play, most MUAs agree that your skin type is one of the most important factors to keep in mind when choosing a foundation. Having consulted with experts, we've broken down each recommendation for various skin types below:
- Foundation for dry skin: “Personally, I recommend thinner textures or something that's got more humectants. Ingredients-wise, you want to be looking for hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to make sure that the formula will help maintain that hydration,” says Sarah Lyth, makeup artist and national education manager at NARS. Meanwhile, Jamie Coombes, international pro artist at Dior Beauty advises to “avoid mattifying or powdery formulas for dry skin, as these can accentuate flakiness and fine lines.”
- Foundation for oily skin/acne-prone skin: “Look for oil-free, mattifying and non-comedogenic formulas for acne-prone or oily skin. Water-based liquid foundations with a satin matte or natural-matte finish will help control shine while still allowing the skin to breathe,” shares Jamie. That said, Sarah also believes that those with oily or acne-prone skin can also rock dewy and radiant formulas: “I don't think that just because you're oily, you can't have a radiant complexion. It all comes down to how you prep the skin to receive those products,” she adds.
- Foundation for sensitive skin: “For sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free, plant-based and hypoallergenic foundations. Lightweight, mineral-based or skincare-infused formulas with ingredients like aloe vera, wild pansy extract or chamomile that can help soothe and protect the skin barrier,” suggests Jamie. “Avoid heavy, alcohol-based or overly matte formulas, which can cause irritation and dryness. A natural-finish, light-to-medium coverage foundation is ideal for a comfortable, breathable feel,” he shares.
How can you shade match yourself at home?
If you have the opportunity to test a foundation in-store, Jamie recommends using a “stripe testing” technique, which involves applying foundation “along the jawline and neck, blending them slightly to assess how well they match. The ideal shade should blend seamlessly into the skin without any visible contrast,” he shares.
Sarah also points out that ideally, you should have at least two shades of foundation throughout the year. “Nobody is the same shade all year round. And our complexion actually tends to change month to month as well. And if you're someone who regularly uses fake tan, be sure to keep that in mind when choosing your foundation.” Sarah recommends considering both your “tan” shade and you "natural" shade.
Which undertone am I: cool, neutral or warm?
If you're trying to pick a foundation online, Jamie recommends familiarising yourself with your undertone. “If your skin has pink, red, or blue hues and your veins appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. And if your skin tans easily and has golden, yellow, or peachy hues, and your veins appear greenish olive, you have warm undertones,” he shares. Those with neutral undertones will spot that their “veins might appear a muted blue-green," Jamie adds.
According to Sarah, you can also determine your undertone by carefully assessing your jewellery choices. “More often than not, if you look better in silver jewellery, you'll be a cool undertone. Do you look better in gold? You'll be a warm undertone. Can you get away with both? Then you're most likely to be a neutral.”
“Testing in natural daylight is advised for the best colour match, as department stores often have too many conflicting light sources,” says Jamie.
Which is the best tool to apply foundation?
While it all comes down to your personal preference, you should know that your choice of tool will affect the final result, so to help you decide, Jamie and Sarah have broken down their favourite methods:
- Foundation brush: “Make sure to use the right brush, as it may leave streaks if not blended well. Make sure it is freshly clean, high-quality, with a light, buildable application for best results. It's easier to add a little at a time than too much and wipe it off,” shares Jamie. “Avoid applying too much pressure, as you will be using the side of the brush bristles, which could reduce the buffed-in effect,” he adds. Sarah also points out that “the brush is only as good as the wrist that's using it,” so it may not be the best option for novices.
- Makeup sponge: “ Sponges such as the Dior Backstage Blender are great for that airbrushed effect by pressing your foundation into the skin,” says Jamie. He also recommends using a damp sponge for a more natural, dewy finish. “I think. that a beauty blender is the most beginner-friendly option if you're not too keen on using your hands,” says Sarah.
- Hands: “Hands and fingers are great for warming up and melting the foundation into the skin for a natural finish. They are also best for lightweight products. However, they can be messy and not suitable for full coverage,” shares Jamie. Meanwhile, Sarah describes hands as her go-to method for applying foundation: “There's nothing like your hands to really give that true pro approach for secure coverage,” she adds.
How to make foundation last longer
First and foremost, Jamie reiterates that skin prep is key: don't forget to use a nice hydrating serum and a quality moisturiser before even thinking about putting on makeup. “A well-hydrated skin prevents the foundation from clinging to dry patches and enhancing fine lines,” he says.
Another equally important step is to use the right primer. “A gripping primer for longevity or a mattifying primer for oily skin can help the foundation adhere to your skin.”
An interesting tip that Jamie suggests implementing is to lightly powder your complexion before applying foundation. “I like setting the complexion with hydrating powder before applying foundation. It's an old trick, but it effectively seals in the skincare and primer, creating a perfect texture for the foundation pigment to adhere to. Applying thin layers of product blends better and lasts longer than thick applications. Then, a light dusting of powder in key areas,” he adds.
Finally, don't sleep your setting spray. Jamie shares that “a long-wear setting spray helps lock in the foundation and prevent separation,” making it an essential step if you want your foundation to last.
What is the best foundation for brides?
When chatting to Sasha Keene, celebrity and bridal makeup artist who's known for her signature glowy looks, she said: “My go to foundation I use for my brides that creates a gorgeous glow and also has the long lasting affect is Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Foundation. It is a must have in any makeup artists kit. It’s buildable for the brides who want a more natural finish but also can become a medium coverage for the brides who want a slightly heavier finish.”
What is the most natural looking foundation?
“The most natural foundation in my kit that I love to use is the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation. It gives the most ‘skin like’ finish in my opinion and really helps to blur the skin naturally. It’s extremely hydrating and helps the skin to look brighter and smoother. Key ingredients include Hyaluronic Acid and Rose Complex.” - says Sasha Keene.
Which brand is the best for full coverage foundation?
Sasha Keene says: “I don’t always opt for a Full Coverage Foundation but when I do I the best brand is by far Anastasia Beverley Hills. Their new Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Matte Foundation is the newest addition to my kit and it’s perfect for my clients who are attending events that require their skin to become completely flawless with absolutely zero imperfections on show. It gives off a ‘filter like’ finish as it blurs pores, fine lines and wrinkles as well as blemishes! Even though it has a matte finish it includes Hyaluronic Acid to still keep the skin hydrated throughout the day.”
