15 Must-Have Foundations to Elevate Your Makeup Collection in 2023

When it comes to makeup, a good foundation is an essential component to create a flawless base for your overall look. But with so many different types and brands of foundations available in the market, it can be overwhelming to find the right one that suits your skin type, coverage needs, and budget. To make your job easier, we have compiled a list of the 15 best foundations you must add to your makeup arsenal in 2023.

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15 Best Foundations You Must Add To Your Makeup Arsenal – 2023

1. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup is a long-wear foundation that is designed to stay on the skin for up to 24 hours. It has a matte finish and provides a medium to full coverage.

This foundation is suitable for oily to combination skin types, as it helps control oil production and keeps shine at bay throughout the day.

Pros:

• Long-lasting formula that stays on the skin for up to 24 hours
• Matte finish that helps control oil and shine
• Medium to full coverage that can cover blemishes, redness, and uneven skin tone
• Contains SPF 10, providing a layer of sun protection
• Transfer-resistant and water-resistant, making it ideal for humid climates or long days
• It have a wide range of 55 shades. This makes it easier for people with different skin tones to find a good match.

Cons:

• Can be heavy and mask-like on the skin if applied too heavily
• Can accentuate dry patches and fine lines, making it unsuitable for dry or mature skin types

2. Huda Beauty Faux Filter Foundation

Huda Beauty Faux Filter Foundation is a full coverage foundation that claims to provide a flawless, airbrushed finish.

This foundation is suitable for all skin types, including dry and oily skin. It comes in 40 shades, making it easy to find a match for a variety of skin tones.

Pros:

• Provides a full coverage that can cover blemishes, dark spots, and uneven skin tone
• Gives a flawless, airbrushed finish that looks natural
• Suitable for all skin types, including dry and oily skin
• Comes in a wide range of shades, making it easier to find a perfect match
• Long-lasting formula that stays on the skin for up to 12 hours
• Contains nourishing ingredients like argan oil and centella asiatica extract that help hydrate and soothe the skin

Cons:

• Can be heavy on the skin if applied too heavily
• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for mature skin types

3. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a luxurious, lightweight foundation that provides a natural, radiant finish. It is suitable for all skin types, including dry and mature skin, and is available in 40 shades.

Pros:

• Lightweight, buildable formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Provides a natural, luminous finish that gives the skin a healthy glow
• Suitable for all skin types, including dry and mature skin
• Available in a wide range of shades, making it easy to find a good match for different skin tones
• Long-lasting formula that can stay on the skin for up to 12 hours
• Contains a blend of pigments and micro-pearls that help to blur imperfections and even out skin tone
• Non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts

Cons:

• May not provide enough coverage for those looking for a full coverage foundation
• May require touch-ups throughout the day, particularly for those with oily skin
• May not be suitable for those who prefer a matte finish

4. Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation

Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation is a full coverage foundation that promises to last for up to 16 hours. It is suitable for all skin types, including combination and oily skin, and is available in a range of 43 shades.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and dark spots
• Long-lasting formula that can stay on the skin for up to 16 hours
• Suitable for all skin types, including combination and oily skin
• Lightweight formula that feels weightless on the skin
• Contains a blend of skin-loving ingredients like bamboo grass extract and cordyceps mushroom extract that help to hydrate and nourish the skin
• Non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts
• Comes in a range of 43 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Contains SPF 15, which provides some sun protection for the skin

Cons:

• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for those with dry or mature skin
• May require touch-ups throughout the day for those with oily skin

5. Maybelline Superstay 24H Full Coverage Foundation

Maybelline Superstay 24H Full Coverage Foundation is a long-lasting, full coverage foundation that promises to stay on for up to 24 hours. It is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, and is available in a range of 28 shades.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and dark spots
• Long-lasting formula that can stay on the skin for up to 24 hours
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily skin
• Affordable compared to some other foundations on the market
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Transfer-resistant and waterproof, which means it won’t smudge or come off easily
• Comes in a range of 28 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones

Cons:

• May feel heavy on the skin, especially if too much product is applied
• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for those with dry or mature skin
• May require touch-ups throughout the day for those with oily skin
• May not provide a natural-looking finish for those looking for a more subtle makeup look

6. Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation

Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation is a long-lasting, full coverage foundation that promises to stay on for up to 24 hours. It is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, and is available in a range of 50 shades.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and dark spots
• Long-lasting formula that can stay on the skin for up to 24 hours
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily skin
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Transfer-resistant and waterproof, which means it won’t smudge or come off easily
• Contains a blend of ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that help to hydrate and nourish the skin
• Comes in a range of 50 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones

Cons:

• May feel heavy on the skin, especially if too much product is applied
• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for those with dry or mature skin
• May require touch-ups throughout the day for those with oily skin

7. Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation is a medium-to-full coverage foundation that promises a natural-looking finish. It is suitable for all skin types and is available in a range of 35 shades.

Pros:

• Provides buildable coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still looking natural
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Contains hyaluronic acid and coconut water to help hydrate and nourish the skin
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and dry skin
• Comes in a range of 35 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Can be layered for more coverage without looking cakey
• Has a natural-looking finish that doesn’t look too matte or too dewy

Cons:

• May not provide full coverage for those with severe acne or scarring
• May not be long-lasting for those with oily skin without touch-ups throughout the day
• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for those with dry or mature skin

8. IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream is a multi-tasking product that acts as a foundation, sunscreen, and skincare product all in one. It is suitable for all skin types and is available in a range of 12 shades.

Pros:

• Provides buildable coverage that can cover imperfections, redness, and dark spots while still looking natural
• Contains SPF 50, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a foundation with sun protection
• Contains hyaluronic acid and other skincare ingredients that help to hydrate and improve the texture of the skin
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Can be used alone or as a base for other makeup products
• Comes in a range of 12 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones

Cons:

• May not provide full coverage for severe acne or scarring
• May not be long-lasting for those with oily skin without touch-ups throughout the day
• Limited shade range compared to some other foundations on the market
• May accentuate dry patches or fine lines, making it unsuitable for those with dry or mature skin

9. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation is a medium-to-full coverage foundation that promises a natural-looking finish. It is suitable for all skin types and is available in a range of 30 shades.

Pros:

• Provides buildable coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still looking natural
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that stays in place for up to 24 hours without looking cakey or settling into fine lines
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and dry skin
• Contains SPF 25, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a foundation with sun protection
• Comes in a range of 30 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Affordable compared to some other foundations on the market

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches
• May oxidize on some skin types, causing it to appear darker than when first applied

10. Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Foundation

Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Foundation is a high-performance, full-coverage foundation that promises to stay in place for up to 24 hours. It is suitable for all skin types and is available in a range of 40 shades.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still looking natural
• Long-lasting formula that stays in place for up to 24 hours without fading or settling into fine lines
• Lightweight formula that feels comfortable on the skin and doesn’t feel heavy or cakey
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and dry skin
• Contains hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E, which help to hydrate and nourish the skin
• Comes in a range of 40 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Can be used with a brush, sponge or fingertips, making it easy to apply

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches

11. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation Makeup

NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation is a lightweight, long-wearing foundation that provides full coverage. It is available in 45 shades, making it easier for people with different skin tones to find a suitable match.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that can last up to 24 hours without fading or transferring
• Matte finish that helps to control oil and shine throughout the day
• Available in 45 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin
• Affordable price point compared to other full-coverage foundations on the market

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches
• May require touch-ups throughout the day for those with oily skin
• May feel too heavy or thick for those who prefer a lighter coverage foundation

12. MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation

MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation is a long-wearing, full-coverage foundation that is popular among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts. It is available in over 60 shades, making it easier for people with different skin tones to find a suitable match.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that can last up to 24 hours without fading or transferring
• Matte finish that helps to control oil and shine throughout the day
• Available in over 60 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin
• Can be built up to create a more full-coverage look, or applied lightly for a more natural finish

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches
• Can feel heavy or thick on the skin, especially when built up
• Can be difficult to blend

13. Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation is a vegan and cruelty-free foundation that contains Amazonian clay to help control oil and improve skin texture. It is available in over 40 shades, making it easier for people with different skin tones to find a suitable match.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that can last up to 12 hours without fading or transferring
• Contains Amazonian clay, which helps to control oil and improve skin texture
• Available in over 40 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin
• Free from parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, and other harmful ingredients

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches
• Some users have reported that the formula can feel heavy or mask-like on the skin

14. Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation is a popular long-wearing foundation that provides full coverage with a natural matte finish. It is available in over 40 shades, making it easier for people with different skin tones to find a suitable match.

Pros:

• Provides full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that can last up to 24 hours without fading or transferring
• Natural matte finish that helps to control oil and shine throughout the day
• Available in over 40 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin
• Oil-free formula that is non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very dry skin as it can accentuate dry patches
• Can be difficult to blend
• Some users have reported that the formula can oxidize or change color over time

15. Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation is a popular long-lasting foundation that provides medium to full coverage with a natural, radiant finish. It is available in over 30 shades, making it easier for people with different skin tones to find a suitable match.

Pros:

• Provides medium to full coverage that can cover imperfections, blemishes, and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin
• Long-lasting formula that can last up to 16 hours without fading or transferring
• Natural radiant finish that helps to give the skin a healthy, luminous glow
• Available in over 30 shades, making it easier to find a good match for different skin tones
• Suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin
• Oil-free formula that is non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin
• Infused with raspberry, apple, and watermelon extracts to help improve skin texture and radiance

Cons:

• May not be suitable for those with very oily skin as it can become shiny throughout the day
• Can be difficult to blend
• Some users have reported that the formula can emphasize dry patches or fine lines

No matter what your skin type, coverage needs, or budget may be, there is a foundation on this list that will work for you. Investing in a good foundation is worth it because it will give you a smooth and even base to work with, and make your makeup look flawless.

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Different Types of Foundations

There are several types of foundation available in the market, and each serves a different purpose. Here are the most common types of foundation:

1. Liquid foundation

This is the most popular type of foundation and is available in a variety of coverage levels, finishes, and formulas. Liquid foundation is versatile and can be applied using a brush, sponge, or fingers.

2. Powder foundation

This type of foundation is best for those who want a quick and easy application. It’s lightweight and offers light to medium coverage with a matte finish.

3. Cream foundation

This type of foundation is ideal for those with dry skin as it’s hydrating and provides a dewy finish. It offers medium to full coverage and can be applied with a sponge or brush.

4. Stick foundation

This type of foundation is perfect for those who want a quick and easy application. It’s portable and can be applied directly to the skin, making it ideal for touch-ups on-the-go.

5. Mineral foundation

This type of foundation is made from natural minerals and provides a lightweight, buildable coverage. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin as it’s free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.

6. Tinted moisturizer

This is a lightweight foundation that provides sheer coverage while also hydrating the skin. It’s ideal for those who want a natural-looking finish and a quick application.

7. Cushion foundation

This is a liquid foundation that comes in a compact with a sponge applicator. It provides a lightweight, buildable coverage and is ideal for those who want a natural-looking finish.

Each type of foundation has its own unique benefits and can be used for different occasions or to achieve different looks. It’s important to choose a foundation that works for your skin type and tone, and also consider factors such as coverage, finish, and longevity.

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Choosing The Right Foundation – A Detailed Buying Guide

Choosing the right foundation can be overwhelming, especially with the multitude of options available in the market. A good foundation is essential to achieving a flawless makeup look, so it’s important to take the time to find the right one for your skin type and tone. Here is a detailed buying guide to help you choose the right foundation:

1. Determine your skin type

Before purchasing a foundation, it’s important to determine your skin type. Is your skin oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? This will help you choose a foundation that works for your skin type and prevents any adverse reactions.

2. Determine your skin tone

It’s important to choose a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. You can determine your skin tone by looking at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. If they appear green, you have a warm undertone. If you can’t determine if you have a cool or warm undertone, you might have a neutral undertone. It’s important to choose a foundation with the right undertone to avoid looking too orange or too pink.

3. Determine the coverage you need

Foundations come in different coverage levels, such as light, medium, and full coverage. If you have clear skin, you might only need a light coverage foundation. If you have acne scars or blemishes, you might need a medium to full coverage foundation.

4. Determine the finish you want

Foundations also come in different finishes, such as matte, satin, and dewy. A matte finish is best for those with oily skin, while a dewy finish is best for those with dry skin.

5. Test the foundation

Before making a purchase, always test the foundation on your skin. Apply a small amount to your jawline and blend it in. The foundation should match your skin tone perfectly and should not oxidize or change color throughout the day.

6. Consider the ingredients

If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to choose a foundation that’s free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and irritants. Look for foundations that are labeled “hypoallergenic” or “non-comedogenic,” as they’re less likely to cause breakouts or irritations.

7. Consider your lifestyle

If you have an active lifestyle or live in a humid climate, choose a foundation that’s sweat and humidity-resistant to prevent it from melting off your face.

By considering these factors, you can find the perfect foundation for your skin type and tone. A good foundation will give you a smooth and even base to work with, and make your makeup look flawless.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right foundation can be a daunting task, but by following the tips outlined in this guide, you can find the perfect foundation for your skin type and tone. Remember to consider your skin type, undertone, coverage and finish preferences, and lifestyle when making your selection.

With so many great foundation options available, there’s no reason why you can’t achieve a flawless makeup look every day. Whether you prefer a lightweight formula for everyday wear or a full coverage foundation for special occasions, investing in a high-quality foundation is a must-have for any makeup collection.

Share Your Thoughts and Experiences: What are your favorite foundations to use? Have you tried any of the ones mentioned in this article? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! We would love to hear about your favorite foundations and how they have worked for you. Your insights and opinions could help others in their search for the perfect foundation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best way to apply foundation?

The best way to apply foundation depends on the type of foundation you’re using. However, the most common methods are using a brush, sponge, or your fingers. A brush gives you the most control over the application, a sponge gives a more airbrushed look, and using your fingers warms up the product and helps it blend into your skin.

2. How do I choose the right shade of foundation?

The right shade of foundation should match your skin tone exactly. To choose the right shade, test the foundation on your jawline and make sure it blends seamlessly with your neck. You can also go to a beauty store and ask for assistance from a makeup artist.

3. Can I use foundation as a concealer?

Yes, you can use foundation as a concealer by using a small brush to apply it over blemishes or areas where you need more coverage. However, it’s best to use an actual concealer for under eye circles or other areas that require heavy coverage.

4. How long does foundation last on the skin?

The longevity of foundation depends on the formula and your skin type. On average, foundation lasts between 8-10 hours on the skin. However, some long-wear formulas can last up to 24 hours.

5. How often should I replace my foundation?

You should replace your foundation every 6-12 months, depending on the formula. Liquid foundations typically have a shorter shelf life than powder formulas.

6. Can I wear foundation if I have acne-prone skin?

Yes, you can wear foundation if you have acne-prone skin, but it’s important to choose a non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog your pores. You can also choose a formula that contains acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

7. Can I mix different foundations together?

Yes, you can mix different foundations together to create a custom shade or formula. This is a great way to use up any foundations that might not be the perfect match for your skin tone. Just make sure to mix the formulas together thoroughly before applying.