Rufus R. Noble The best foundation formulas can make a big difference in how you look. It can be daunting to find the perfect foundation for you, regardless of whether you are looking for full-coverage or natural products. There are many good options available, not just luxury brands.
Foundation is liquid, cream or powder makeup that is applied to the skin and neck to even out the skin color. It can also be used to cover imperfections and sometimes to alter the skin’s natural tone . Foundations can also be used as a sunscreen and base layer for more complicated cosmetics. The application of foundation to the body is commonly referred to as ” Body Painting” or “body makeup”.
You can find a wide range of amazing drugstore products in various shades and textures to suit your coverage needs. We asked makeup artists to give us their recommendations for the best drugstore foundations. Bonus: Many are less than $20.
Maybelline Fit Me Dewy and Smooth Foundation $8
“This foundation comes in 24 shades and its formula perfectly matches your natural skin texture,” Ashleigh Ciucci , makeup artist states. The sheer liquid can even out skin color and leaves a touchable finish.
Honest Beauty Cream Foundation, $22
“This foundation is super-buildable and [allows] for] a clean makeup application,” states Dominique Lerma.
W3ll People Bio Tint Multi-Action Moisturizer SPF 30 $29
“I prefer to use natural and organic brands and I love W3llPeople everything,” Gloria Noto , celebrity makeup artist, explains. This tinted moisturizer adds a beautiful color sheen to the skin and gives it a touch of dewiness. Plus, it’s queer-owned!”
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup, $13
“Neutrogena Healthy skin liquid makeup is my go-to foundation,” declares celebrity makeup artist Edward Cruz. It is easy to apply and can be built up. To create soft dimension, I prefer to use two shades: one deeper and one lighter. To blend it naturally, I use the lighter shade at the center of my face and the darker shade around the perimeter.
Black Opal Stick Foundation $8
It’s “my favorite drugstore foundation that i use on myself and my client,” says Jessica Smalls , makeup artist. It provides great coverage and a beautiful satin finish. I also love the colors they offer for African American skin.
L’Oreal True Match Super-Blendable Makeup, $11
Mai Quynh says that there are 45 shades available. She adds, “You’re sure to find the perfect match for you face.” Kristine Cruz , a fellow makeup artist, agrees. She adds that the formula is both oil-free & fragrance-free. It has a natural matte finish, which is perfect for oily skin.
Burt’s Bees, BB Cream $16
“It’s a light tint with SPF 15, that evens skin tone and illuminates,” said Azra, makeup artist.
CoverGirl Vitalist Healthy Elixir Foundation, $13
“It’s the only drugstore foundation that works concealer and a foundation. It has a fresh glowing look instead of the matte finish we would expect from full-coverage makeup,” said Andrew Sotomayor .
NYX Invincible Fullest Coverage Foundation, $9
“I was on a trip recently and needed a foundation to last the night,” said Ashley Donovan, makeup artist. I was so happy to find this foundation in a drugstore. It feels just like skin, with amazing coverage and durability. It sets with a matte finish.
