The 15 Best Powder Foundations To Hide Imperfections, As Per An Expert – 2024

Looking for buildable coverage without a greasy finish? These foundations will help you out!

Reviewed by Kerrin Jackson, Makeup Artist
Written by Esha Saxena, MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies)
Edited by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

If you have oily, sensitive, or acne-prone skin and haven’t been fortunate enough to find the right foundation formula, a powder foundation may just be the greatest thing you try for your base.

Kerrin Jackson, a 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist, says, “While today’s makeup trends seem to gravitate away from a heavy powder finish to a dewy, more natural look, there will always be a place for pressed powders in beauty. They are perfect for mattifying targetted shiny spots, like our noses or chins. And correcting redness or uneven areas with ease.”

Powder foundations offer impeccable coverage without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue on your skin as they are made without oils and emollients. The bottom line? You’ll say goodbye to that dreaded shine thanks to their excellent oil-absorbing properties. We have put together 15 of the best powder foundations for radiant skin available on the market right now that will leave you with a dreamy, air-brushed effect and visible results.

Did we mention that these cosmetics are perfect for daily wear? Because they are.

ProductsCheck Price
Best Long-Wearing:M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best Matte Finish:Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless PowderPrice on Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Milani Even-Touch Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best In Budget:NYX Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:Bare Minerals Bare Pro Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best Buildable Coverage:L’Oreal Paris True Match 4-in-1 Compact FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best Fragrance-Free:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best For Oily Skin:Smashbox Photo Filter Powder FoundationPrice on Amazon
Best For Moisturizing:NYX Professional Makeup Hydra Touch PowderPrice on Amazon

Best Of The Best: Top 15 Powder Foundations

1. Best Long-Wearing:M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation Image: M.a.c

Review

This powder foundation from M.A.C’s Studio Fix range gives you everything you will ever need from a powder-based foundation formula. Available in shades for every skin tone on the planet, it takes the prize for its convenient application and staying power as highlighted in various reviews. Use a kabuki brush or a damp beauty sponge to apply the makeup product and see what works best for you. It blends well and leaves your skin looking flawless. Its coverage is impressive, and you can use it over your moisturizer and sunscreen for an even-toned base that lasts for up to 8 hours.

Skin Type: Normal | Color: Nc43 | Product Dimensions: 3 x 3.4 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.5 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-wearing
  • Controls oil
  • Buildable coverage
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Photo-friendly
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • None

2. Best Matte Finish:Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder

Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte

Review

Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder is one of the best drugstore powder foundations for oily skin. If you apply this using a damp beauty sponge, it leaves your skin with a beautiful, natural-looking matte effect. Pick a shade that perfectly matches your skin tone and be amazed by how it performs. Keep in mind that wearing a primer underneath this formula makes it last a lot longer.

Skin Type: Normal; Oily | Color: Buff Beige | Product Dimensions: 2.59 x 2.59 x 0.79 inches | Weight: 2.02 Ounces

Pros

  • Blends well
  • Natural finish
  • Keeps your face matte all day
  • Available in a wide range of shades
  • Buildable coverage
  • Affordable
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Pro Tip
Your typical foundation brush might not be the greatest option for applying powder. Instead, the broader circumference of a blush brush makes it simple to mix your powder foundation around the hairline, chin, and nose.

3. Best Cruelty-Free:Milani Even-Touch Powder Foundation

Milani Even-Touch Powder Foundation

Review

The trick with this product is to moisturize well and then use a primer before applying it for long hours of wear. You can use a tinted moisturizer instead of a regular one if you want some extra coverage. As per reviews, the best way to go about it is to use damp sponge or a kabuki brush to apply this powder and make sure you blend it out properly. It is a great powder foundation for aging skin, and it does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles. This foundation powder also keeps your face looking matte all day.

Color: Golden Beige | Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 1 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Easy to apply
  • Light to medium coverage
  • Beautiful gold packaging
  • Cruelty-free
  • Affordable
  • Long-lasting wear

Cons

  • Comes with a hard and dense sponge
M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation
Best Long-Wearing
Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder
Best Matte Finish
Milani Even-Touch Powder Foundation
Best Cruelty-Free
Skin Type Normal Normal; Oily-
Color Nc43 Buff Beige Golden Beige
Dimensions 3 x 3.4 x 3 inches 2.59 x 2.59 x 0.79 inches 3 x 3 x 1 inches
Weight 0.5 Ounces 2.02 Ounces 1.6 Ounces
Rating
Reviews275,230202
Price₹35.5₹6.94₹14.95

4. Best In Budget:NYX Professional Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation

NYX Professional Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation

Review

This powder foundation from NYX works well to minimize skin shine on your face. It goes on velvety, but once it sets, it creates a smooth and matte finish. You can apply this product with a sponge applicator. However, it also applies well with a brush. If you are looking for a very subtle and natural finish for a decent price, this drugstore foundation is something you can try!

Skin Type: All | Color: Natural | Product Dimensions: 1.09 x 3.16 x 3.17 inches | Weight: 2.9 Ounces

Pros

  • Easy to apply
  • Glides onto the skin easily
  • Soft, natural finish
  • Lightweight formula
  • Perfect for instant touch-ups through the day
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Limited shade range

5. Best For Sensitive Skin:Bare Minerals Bare Pro Powder Foundation

Bare Minerals Bare Pro Powder Foundation

Review

This pressed powder foundation from Bare Minerals gives you the full coverage of your dreams. It is a matte formula that stays right where you apply it for up to 12 hours. Formulated with 90% natural ingredients containing minerals and vitamins, it makes for an ideal option for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It is available in 30 true-to-you shades to provide a natural look.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Color: Natural | Product Dimensions: 2 x 1 x 2 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Medium-to-full coverage
  • Naturally matte finish
  • Ultra lightweight
  • Long-wearing
  • Value for money

Cons

  • None

6. Best Buildable Coverage:L’Oreal Paris True Match Genius 4-in-1 Compact Foundation

L’Oreal Paris True Match Genius 4-in-1 Compact Foundation

Review

If you want to achieve a velvety finish, this powder foundation from L’Oreal does precisely that. It hides minor flaws and blemishes well and also blurs fine lines and wrinkles to offer an even complexion. If you have combination skin, this is an excellent formula for you. The true match powder foundation is a tad bit pricey for a drugstore brand, but it is a one-of-a-kind formula best for humid climates.

Color: 3W Golden Beige | Product Dimensions: 23.62 x 40.55 x 4.72 inches | Weight: 2.12 Ounces

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Easy to blend
  • Buildable coverage
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Blurring effect
  • Sleek packaging

Cons

  • Does not control shine on hot days

7. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation

Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation

Review

Bobbi Brown’s Skin Weightless Powder Foundation will leave your skin looking matte for about 7-8 hours. It has a gorgeous, lightweight consistency, and it can be used alone or over a liquid foundation – it works beautifully both ways. We recommend using a little bit of concealer in case you have dark spots or pigmentation before applying this powder with a blending sponge for a flawless, skin-like finish.

Skin Type: Oily | Color: No. 3.5 Warm Beige | Product Dimensions: 0.9 x 1.1 x 5.3 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to apply
  • Leaves your skin looking matte and natural
  • Does not sink into fine lines and wrinkles
  • Controls shine and oil
  • Sheer to medium coverage

Cons

  • Expensive

8. Best Fragrance-Free:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Powder Foundation

L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Powder Foundation

Review

If you want a powder foundation that helps your face look fresher and more vibrant, this one by L’Oreal is a great option. You can use it either with a dry sponge or a slightly damp one to build flawless coverage. Take note: it does not look streaky or melt away on hot days! For a drugstore powder foundation, this one is a blessing for oily skin.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Fragrance-free
  • Light to medium coverage
  • Absorbs excess oil
  • Decent staying power

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Pro Tip
Avoid pressing the brush too firmly into the skin when buffing with your powder foundation to reduce excess caking. You are using too much pressure if the bristles are bending. Instead, gently stipple the product into the skin with your hand.

9. Best For Oily Skin:Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation

Review

Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation contains a whole bunch of beneficial ingredients and is formulated without any parabens. This powder goes on smoothly and evens out your skin tone, diminishing redness and the appearance of pores and fine lines with ease. The best part? It does not look cakey at all. Its breathable formula provides a flattering, skin-like finish.

Pros

  • Perfect for oily skin
  • Light to medium coverage
  • Pore-minimizing formula
  • Natural flawless finish
  • Available in a wide range of shades
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • Expensive

10. Best For Moisturizing:NYX Professional Makeup Hydra Touch Powder

NYX Professional Makeup Hydra Touch Powder

Review

To all the dry-skinned beauties – if you are a fan of powder foundations and upset that it just won’t work with your skin type, the NYX Hydra Touch Powder is for you. It offers smooth, even application and provides your skin with the right amount of glow. Use it with a damp beauty sponge to amp up its coverage. Also, say goodbye to those annoying dry patches getting highlighted by your foundation.

Color: Amber | Product Dimensions: 1.16 x 1.16 x 5.51 inches | Weight: 2.58 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Buildable finish
  • Contains moisturizing botanical extracts
  • Can be applied dry or wet
  • Available in 20 shades

Cons

  • Delicate packaging

11. Best Waterproof:Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation

Review

If you fear flaking and cakiness, Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation is something that you’ve got to try! Buy a miniature kabuki brush to get the product out and apply it with a patting motion, slowly transitioning to gentle buffing. It has a unique silky texture that adapts beautifully to dry skin. Also, Amazonian Clay is enriched with light-reflecting gemstones that will make your complexion look radiant and youthful.

Color: Light-Medium Beige | Skin Type: Sensitive

Pros

  • Long-staying
  • Vegan
  • Waterproof
  • Full coverage

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No applicator provided

12. The Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Loose Powder Foundation

The Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Loose Powder Foundation

Review

This featherlight powder base is ideal for sensitive skin as it is formulated with pure minerals. It covers imperfections and fine lines well and leaves you with a radiant, natural-looking finish. You also get the added benefit of SPF 25.

Pros

  • Buildable coverage
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Easy to blend
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Limited shades

13. Best Non-Drying:Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 20

 Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation

Review

For sensitive to combination to acne-prone skin, this powder from Elizabeth Arden is a blessing! Apply your regular moisturizer and go in with this foundation. It offers SPF 20, which is great for daytime use. It feels incredibly light on the skin and blends like a dream, making it ideal for everyday wear.

Color: Pure Finish 9 | Product Dimensions: 1.18 x 3.15 x 3.15 inches | Weight: 1 Ounces

Pros

  • Non-drying
  • Blends well
  • Long-lasting coverage
  • Does not settle into fine lines
  • Has SPF 20, UVA and UVB filters

Cons

  • Its packaging involves a fixed grinder. Hence, you can’t see the quantity of powder left in the case below.
  • Expensive

14. Best For Sun Protection:Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Compact Foundation

Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Compact Foundation

Review

The Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Compact Foundation is clinically-tested and great for anyone who has acne or rosacea. It offers sheer coverage and adds a whole lot of radiance to your skin. It is great for daily wear when you don’t want to go through a whole elaborate makeup routine. Also, it contains SPF 20, making it ideal for wearing during the day. If you have sensitive skin, definitely try this out!

Skin Type: Sensitive | Color: 10 Classic Ivory | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 1.06 inches | Weight: 0.11 Ounces

Pros

  • Very smooth and finely-milled texture
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Keeps T-zone shine-free for 4 hours
  • Offers SPF protection
  • No fallout
  • Non-chalky
  • Easy to blend

Cons

  • Requires touch-ups

15. Best For Skin Tone Correction:Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup

Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup

Review

If you are crazy about the “lit from within” look, Clinique’s powder foundation effortlessly hands it to you. This powder formula goes on smoothly and evens out your complexion without looking fake or powdery. It is an ideal choice for daily wear as it is made with non-comedogenic ingredients and corrects uneven skin tone.

Skin Type: Dry, Combination | Color: No. 07 Matte Neutral (mf-n)

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Does not clog pores
  • Natural and radiant finish
  • Easy to blend

Cons

  • Limited shades
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Infographic: Benefits Of Using Powder Foundations

Powder foundations are perfect for those who prefer a simple makeup routine and are usually in a hurry. They give a seamless finish and some premium formulas also provide certain skin care benefits. Check out the infographic below to understand why a powder foundation can be a game-changer in your makeup routine.

Benefits Of Using Powder Foundation (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

The best thing about a powder foundation formula is that it allows your skin to breathe, unlike your regular full-coverage liquid products. It also works as a great on-the-go foundation and can be your bathroom touch-up savior. If you have oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin, you must definitely consider ditching your liquid formula for a mineral powder foundation as it changes the way your skin looks and feels. Try the M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation for buildable coverage and a matte finish. Opt for the Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder if you have oily skin type and need long-lasting effects. The Bare Minerals Bare Pro Powder Foundation is perfect for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It stays all day with optimum coverage. Kerrin Jackson, a 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist, says, “High-pigmented powders such as MAC Studio Fix can provide the coverage of a traditional foundation in literally half the time. Choose foundations that come with built-in mirror and applicator!” That was our round-up of the 15 best powder foundations for all skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear a powder foundation alone?

Yes, you can wear a powder foundation alone for oil control and coverage but you will require frequent reapplication throughout the day.

Do you put on concealer before or after powder foundation?

In the case of a powder foundation, it is better to apply the concealer first to get better coverage. It also prevents the makeup from looking cakey. However, with a liquid foundation, the foundation goes before the concealer.

Can you put a cream highlighter over a powder foundation?

Yes, you can use a highlighter according to the amount of shimmer you want.

What is the difference between compact powder and powder foundation?

Compact powders are used for touch up and to get rid of excess oil and sebum from the face, while foundations offer more coverage to provide a base for your makeup.

Do you set powder foundations with powder?

Yes, if you see oiliness after applying your powder foundation you can use a translucent powder to get rid of the excess shine and oil.

Does powder foundation make you look older?

No. Unless the powder foundation looks extra dry and settles in the fine lines on your face it does not make you look older.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Esha Saxena, the author, is a skincare and makeup enthusiast, who loves trying new products as per the skin type and concerns. She has carefully gone through several customer reviews and has tried some products herself before bringing to you this curation of the best powder foundations right here. She has also included the pros and cons of each to help you select the one best suitable for your need and concern. These foundations from reputed makeup brands are perfect for oily skin beauties, giving you a poreless matte finish.


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