13 best powder foundations for weightless coverage on-the-go
Truth be told, I wasn’t always into powder foundations. As someone who has dry skin, I usually steer clear of anything that could be too drying and cakey, and I’m definitely more accustomed to setting powders as opposed to full-coverage compacts. That being said, when it comes to makeup, getting out of my comfort zone is one of the many ways I adopt my new beauty habits, and (spoiler alert), that’s exactly what happened when I got my hands on one of the most recently-launched powder foundations – the Maybelline Super Stay 24H Hybrid Powder Foundation.
I’ve been using this compact foundation for a good month now and I haven’t been able to put it down ever since. It’s great for everyday wear and provides just the right amount of coverage to even out my skin tone without resulting in a cakey finish (and thanks to the buildable coverage, I can easily switch it up to the full glam mode in an instant). Instead, I’m left with what I can only describe as the closest you can get to that blurred “cloud skin” look (which is, by the way, one of the biggest beauty trends of 2023). The best part is that it feels incredibly weightless and comfortable on the skin and doesn’t crease throughout the day.
After more makeup goodness? Check out our guides on best drugstore foundations, best setting powder, best foundation brushes, best concealers, best highlighters and the best setting sprays. And don't forget to prep your skin with one of the best moisturisers, best hyaluronic acid serums and the best sunscreens for face.
Best powder foundations at a glance:
- Best overall: Maybelline SuperStay 24H Hybrid Powder Foundation, £11.95, Beauty Bay
- Best for full coverage: L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation Powder, £11.69, LookFantastic
- Best for medium coverage: MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation, £32, LookFantastic
- Best for long-lasting wear: Fenty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Powder Foundation, £32, Sephora
Long story short, it’s safe to say that this product definitely changed how I feel about powder foundations for the better. Their compact size makes them super portable and easy to carry around, making it that much more convenient for on-the-go touch ups and speedy applications – perfect for when you’re rushing out the door to get to the office. Seriously, my everyday makeup routine has never been simpler – all I need to do is just dab it around using my go-to Trigwell Cosmetics powder puff. Pro tip for my fellow dry-skinned makeup lovers: make sure to apply your favourite moisturiser for dry skin followed by a face SPF to make sure that your skin is nice and hydrated before applying your powder foundation.
Powder compacts also make great alternatives to traditional liquid foundations for oily skin and acne-prone skin types, largely thanks to their oil-controlling and shine-reducing properties and non-comedogenic formulations. But if you’re team dry or combination skin, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t dabble in powder foundations. Rest assured, there’s plenty of options on the market that aren’t too drying; and if you’re not a fan of the matte look, you can simply use them strategically and place the product on areas that could benefit from some mattifying (think your T-zone and your under-eye area).
To help you narrow down your pick, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the very best foundations that the beauty industry has to offer, from premium and affordable buys to trending products and newest launches, all courtesy of reputable brands like e.l.f. Cosmetics, Shiseido, Maybelline, L’Oreal, Estee Lauder and, of course, MAC. The GLAMOUR team also regularly tests some of the latest beauty innovations on a daily basis, having trialled hundreds of different types of loose powder and press powder foundations over the years, so we also made sure to include options that come with a GLAMOUR stamp of approval. So read up and enjoy.
For more makeup, skincare and haircare content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Instagram @deniseprimbet.
Ahead, our tried-and-tested edit of the best powder foundations to add to your makeup arsenal…
Maybelline SuperStay 24H Hybrid Powder Foundation
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a lightweight powder foundation, look no further than the Maybelline Super Stay. Having launched just earlier this year, this product is truly one of a kind. Not only does it blur the pores and texture but it also controls excess oil and shine like an absolute dream, without feeling too drying or cakey on the skin. It also features a long-lasting formula with medium-to-buildable coverage, making it great for any occasion. A solid 10/10.
Save big when shopping for powder foundations using these Amazon discount codes.
MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation
Why we love it: Let’s be real, would it really be a roundup of the best powder foundations without MAC? Didn’t think so. This Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation is an absolute cult-favourite, and for a good reason too. Delivering medium coverage, this product is perfect for those of us that are after a blurred, airbrushed look for up to 8 hours – perfect for everyday wear. It leaves a beautiful velvety finish that doesn’t settle in offline lines or results in caking. Did we mention that it’s also suitable for all skin types?
Enjoy savings when shopping for powder foundations using these LookFantastic discount codes.
L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation Powder
Why we love it: After a full-coverage powder foundation? Say no more. I’m sure we can all agree that the L’Oreal Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation needs no introduction. Featuring a long-lasting formula, this compact foundation is a great fit for anyone who is looking for an ultra-lightweight feel and full coverage that won’t budge or slide off your face throughout the day. Weirdly, this foundation feels almost creamy upon application and blends into a beautiful soft-matte finish (which is also waterproof). A win.
Make sure to bookmark these LookFantastic discount codes to save.
Dior Forever Natural Velvet Compact Foundation
Why we love it: When it comes to makeup, there are very few things that Dior can’t do, and that definitely applies to their Diorskin Forever Compact Foundation, which is, without a doubt, the best premium powder foundation on the market. Formulated with 90% natural-origin ingredients, this product is the one to shop for, especially if you’re after more of a skin-like matte finish. It sits incredibly comfortable on the skin and doesn’t result in dry patches, which is definitely a plus in my book. The best part is that this buildable-coverage foundation offers long-lasting wear of up to 24 hours, making it great to wear on special occasions (weddings, anyone?).
Save big when shopping for powder foundations using these Boots discount codes.
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Matte Powder Foundation
Why we love it: Available in 30 different shades, this full coverage foundation provides a flawless finish that lasts all throughout the day and requires little-to-no touch-ups. Seriously, don't sleep on this longwear powder – you won't find many others that come so highly recommended by makeup artists.
Enjoy savings when shopping for powder foundations using these LookFantastic discount codes.
bareMinerals BAREPRO Pressed 16 Hour Foundation
Why we love it: Looking to even out your skin tone with an oil-free, shine-free and sweat-proof finish that lasts for up to 16 hours? We've got just the thing. This pressed powder foundation from bareMinerals is dermatologist-tested, talc-free, hypoallergenic and perfectly suitable for those of us with sensitive skin to boot.
Make sure to bookmark these Amazon discount codes to save.
Fenty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Powder Foundation
Why we love it: As always, you won't find a product with a wider shade range than Fenty Beauty. Now, the inclusive brand has perfected its mattifying powder formula that's suitable for all skin types and tones without leaving your skin look and feel cakey. Definitely one for the makeup bag.
Save big when shopping for powder foundations using these Sephora discount codes.
Chanel Ultra Le Teint Compact Foundation
Why we love it: This premium mineral foundation from Chanel provides a soft blurring effect that helps reduce the appearance of blemishes and other imperfections without sinking into fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for dry and combination skin.
Enjoy savings when shopping for powder foundations using these Boots discount codes.
L'Oréal Paris True Match Powder Foundation
Why we love it: You know us – we're always on the lookout for super-soft and lightweight face powders with a buildable formula. Especially at this affordable price. It glides on easily and uses natural-looking pigments that enhance the look of your skin.
Make sure to bookmark these LookFantastic discount codes to save.
benefit Hello Happy Velvet Powder Foundation
Why we love it: Lightweight? Yes. Breathable? Sure. Velvety-smooth finish? Absolutely. This creamy powder is infused with hydrating shea butter extract, which helps it glide onto your skin with ease for light coverage. Plus, it comes with its own brush and sponge applicators.
Save big when shopping for powder foundations using these Sephora discount codes.
NYX Professional Makeup Can't Stop Won't Stop Full Coverage Powder Foundation
Why we love it: Perfect for oily skin, this affordable full coverage powder foundation is so compact, that you can easily take it with you everywhere you go. It can be worn on its own or even doubled up over the top of your favourite liquid foundation. Aaand it has a vegan formula too.
Enjoy savings when shopping for powder foundations using these Amazon discount codes.
Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Powder Foundation
Why we love it: Available in a wide range of warm, cool and neutral tints, this powder foundation mimics your natural complexion and enhances it. It's perfect for mature skin too, since it doesn't sink into fine lines.
Make sure to bookmark these Cult Beauty discount codes to save.
KIKO Milano Weightless Perfection Wet And Dry Powder Foundation
Why we love it: This weightless pressed powder foundation is enriched with pomegranate extracts, creating a buildable matte finish. It's modern and compact and can be used both wet and dry. The best part? It doesn't sink into your pores, preventing potential breakouts and irritation.
Save big when shopping for powder foundations using these Sephora discount codes.
