Best Liquid Foundations Of 2024 For Full Coverage: An MUA’s Top 15 Choices
Cover the imperfections and get that flawless finish with these liquid foundations.
Nyssa GreenMakeup Artist 
Nyssa Green is an Emmy award winning makeup artist and a trusted beauty and lifestyle expert with over 20 years of experience. Her diverse portfolio of clients includes celebrities from all walks of life, like Alicia Keys, Bono, Jane Fonda, Vickie Winans, Jermaine Dupri, several US Presidents, authors, and politicians.
Read full bio of Nyssa Green
Experience: 2 yearsShalini Roy has a Master's degree in English literature from Pondicherry University. She is an ambivert whose expressions have found their way in writing. She channels her passion for all things fashion and makeup to write engaging content related to beauty and lifestyle and has two years of experience.
Read full bio of Shalini Roy
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The best liquid foundations are the MVP of any makeup routine, contributing to bringing out your timeless beauty. They not only cover the dark spots and blemishes on your skin but also add a natural glow. Liquid foundations help enhance your skin tone and leave you with a bright and flawless look. So, choose a liquid foundation according to your skin type and undertone and let it work its magic! But getting your hands on the right and suitable liquid foundation can be tricky. Worry not! Our list will narrow down your search and help you find the perfect product for your skin. Swipe up!
In This Article
15 Best Liquid Foundations For All Skin Types
1. Best For Natural Finish:Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup
If you are looking for a lightweight foundation in a wide range of shades, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup is your best bet. It provides poreless full coverage effortlessly. This is the best matte liquid foundation available that is available in all skin tones. To understand the nuances of the product in detail, you can check out this tried-and-tested review of this liquid foundation..
- Value for money
- Suitable for normal to oily skin type
- Non-comedogenic
- Natural finish
- Oil-free
- Covers blemishes
- Evens out the skin texture
- Light to medium coverage
- Dries quickly
- Blends well
- Does not come with a pump dispenser
"I applied it lightly and it offers a natural look. I used a primer and a sponge for a clear, well-blended finish. I also paired it with a little mascara to enhance my look. Overall, I recommend this product!"
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 9,365 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
2. Best Matte Finish Formula:Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation For Combination/Oily Skin
Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation For Combination/Oily Skin has a cult following. This oil-free foundation is specially designed for oily and combination skin. The lightweight formula blends like a dream to deliver a flawless matte finish for up to 24 hours. It is buildable from medium to full coverage. It is formulated with salicylic acid to control sebum and create a poreless finish. This foundation with SPF 15 will have you covered for a statement-making gorgeous radiance throughout the day. The best part? It is available in 43 shades. Check out this YouTuber’s review of this product.
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Medium to full buildable coverage
- Covers blemishes and pores
- Does not cause breakouts or accentuate wrinkles
- Matte finish
- Does not come with a pump dispenser
- Strong fragrance
- Not suitable for use in summer
"I love its coverage which hides my imperfections and manages my oily T-zone very well. It is easy to apply and blends well to give me a natural look. The sun protection it offers is a huge plus for me. I make sure to clean my skin at night to remove all my makeup and this foundation gets removed quite easily."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 4,203 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best For Oily Skin:L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Longwear Foundation Makeup
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Longwear Foundation Makeup has a lightweight and long-wearing formula that creates a demi-matte finish. It claims to last up to 24 hours. It protects your skin from sweat, heat, and humidity with its oil-free, creamy formula. The liquid blurs imperfections to deliver smoother, clearer skin. You can also check this video out for a brief test review of the product.
Pros
- True matte finish
- Suitable for oily skin
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight formula
- Easily blendable with fingers
- Travel-friendly tube packaging
Cons
- Dries up very quickly, making it hard to blend
- Creases under the eyes
"The coverage of this foundation is good, and it offers smooth application. According to me, it's plus points are its lasting power and beautiful, non-matte finish on the skin. This is truly my new favorite drugstore foundation."
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 19,807 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup Best For Natural Finish | Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation For Combination/Oily Skin Best Matte Finish Formula | L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Longwear Foundation Makeup Best For Oily Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal; OilyColor | CombinationColor | AllColor |
| Dimensions | 1.18 x 1.18 x 4.33 inches | 1.25 x 1.25 x 4.13 inches | 0.74 x 1.85 x 4.78 inches |
| Weight | 3.88 Ounces | 4.23 Ounces | 1.44 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,365 | 4,203 | 19,807 |
| Price | $6.2 | $9.99 | $10.97 |
4. Best Moisturizing:Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation
Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation is an all-in-one product for your skin. Its anti-aging formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C that moisturize your skin and improve its texture. It has garnered rave reviews as it reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines effectively. This 3-in-1 foundation is a must-have in your bag to battle against dehydrated, aging skin.
- Lightweight formula
- Easy to apply
- Does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles
- Reduces the appearance of blemishes and pores
- Moisturizes skin
- Full coverage
- Suitable for dry skin
- Long-wearing
- Cruelty- free
None
"I discovered this foundation 2 years ago and it's been an incredible addition to my routine. It applies velvety smooth, offers decent coverage, and allows me ample time to blend. It leaves a dewy finish and makes me look fresh as a peach!"
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 33,556 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
5. Best Long-Wear Foundation:Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
Heat-resistant, waterproof, oil-free – Estee Lauder’s Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup foundation is all you need to make your skin look flawlessly matte. This lightweight long-lasting foundation lasts for 24 hours. It comes in a wide range of shades that blur imperfections and uneven skin tone with their buildable coverage. No matter where you go or what you do, this foundation for acne-prone skin is all you need to oomph up your look.
- Sweat- and humidity-resistant
- Medium to full buildable coverage
- Does not look cakey
- Non-acnegenic
- Fragrance-free
- Does not crease or cause breakouts
None
6. Best For Buildable Coverage:e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation
e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation builds from sheer to full coverage to deliver a gorgeous semi-matte finish, as attested by positive reviews. This lightweight and oil-free liquid foundation evens out your skin tone and smoothens its texture. The highlight of this liquid foundation is its creamy texture that makes it easy to apply without creasing or flaking. It is available 40 shades that range from luminous to matte finishes. People of all skin tones can find their match to get seamless, radiant-looking skin.
- l Easy to apply
- l Blends easily
- l SPF 15
- l Natural dewy finish
- l Does not dry out your skin
- l Vegan
- l Cruelty-free
- l Comes with a pump dispenser
- Not very long-wearing
- Might cause breakouts on sensitive skin
- Greasy texture
"This e.l.f foundation is pleasantly easy to apply, not overly opaque, and stays long without creasing. Although the texture is slightly thicker than my usual foundation, it offers good coverage without feeling too matte. Thumbs up for daily use."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 2,990 rave reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Illuminating Formula:L.A. Girl Pro Coverage Liquid Foundation
If parabens are a no-no for you and you are looking for an ideal full-coverage liquid foundation, go for L.A. Girl Pro Coverage Liquid Foundation. It is lightweight and contains antioxidants that hydrate your skin and improve its skin texture, making it comfortable to wear all day. Its illuminating formula of the matte liquid foundation delivers a glamorous, natural-looking finish. Enhance your skills in makeup artistry with this product to recreate your favorite celebrity-inspired looks.
- Imparts a natural glow
- Moisturizes skin
- Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
- Available in a wide range of shades
- Does not crease or get patchy
- Does not settle into pores
- Matte finish
- Comes with a pump dispenser
- Can cause a bit of shine
- Does not cover pores or blemishes entirely
- Not long-wearing
"This foundation is my go-to for rainy weather because it is waterproof. I layer it with a shimmery concealer when I need a glamorous look but I wear it without any other makeup product for casual outings. It does not stick to or clog the large pores on my skin, which is why it is my go-to."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 1,299 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
8. Best Hypoallergenic:bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
The search for a hydrating liquid foundation ends here. bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream is an oil-free foundation that boosts your skin’s hydration by 215%. It is recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation as it is an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen. It is a non-chemical, mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30. It has a sheer to medium buildable coverage that adds a natural-looking sheer glow to your skin.
- Moisturizes skin
- SPF 30
- Sulfate-, paraben-, and phthalate-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Keeps skin hydrated for up to 12 hours
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-acnegenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Tested by dermatologists
None
"I like the fact that this foundation leaves my skin with a soft, slightly shiny finish. It comes with SPF and is perfect for daily wear. I recommend using this along with a tinted moisturizer."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 1,588 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
9. Best Hydrating Tint:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint is the best drugstore liquid foundation that you can pick to moisturize your dry skin and get a glamorous and healthy glow. Its water-gel formula is infused with hyaluronic acid that quenches your skin’s thirst for up to 24 hours. This expert-recommended foundation for dry skin is also lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for acne-prone, combination, and oily skin types.
- Softens the skin
- Does not settle into fine lines
- Hydrates skin
- Suitable for dry skin
- Available in 10 different shades
None
"This tint does wonders for my skin, giving it a natural finish and buildable coverage. It moisturizes my skin and never cakes up my base. Plus, it's a breeze to apply and stays on for a long time. I definitely recommend it."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 8,502 reviews claiming its efficacy.
10. Best Transfer-Proof Formula:Nyx Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation Makeup
Nyx Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation Makeup amplifies your style game and takes it up a notch. This long-wearing liquid foundation for oily skin is all you need to cover imperfections and get glowing skin on the go for 24 hours. Its creamy formula is available in various shades to match your complexion, control shine, and give you a refined matte look.
- Non-comedogenic
- Waterproof and non-transferable
- Matte finish
- Full coverage
- Controls oil
- Suitable for oily skin
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- l Not long-wearing
- l Might dry out dry skin
"This lightweight foundation offers decent coverage. It blew me away with its smooth application and fantastic coverage. It's a fantastic alternative to more costly options and leaves my skin feeling great. Always apply in thin layers for the best effect!"
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,007 great reviews on Amazon.
11. Best In Budget:Maybelline New York Dream Satin Liquid Foundation
Maybelline New York Dream Satin Liquid Foundation helps you achieve an airbrushed and poreless finish. This moisturizing formula is infused with hyaluronic acid and blends well to deliver full and luminous coverage. Its breathable texture feels lightweight and soft on the skin. This flawless finish foundation is available in a wide range of shades for every skin tone.
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for normal and sensitive skin
- Creamy and smooth texture
- Easy to blend
- SPF 24 PA++
- Affordable
- Does not dry quickly on application
- Fragrance-free
- Comes with a pump dispenser
- Average staying power
- Not flash-friendly during night time use
- Not suitable for summers
"I love how lightweight and long-lasting this foundation is. It offers good coverage without appearing cakey. It does not crease or make my face oily as the day passes, which is a huge plus."
12. Best Foundation With SPF:L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Makeup
L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Makeup is formulated with 40% pure water, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It hydrates your skin instantly and gives you a luminous look. Its Liquid Light Technology imparts an instant glow to your skin. This buildable coverage foundation stays put for 8 hours and is available in 15 shades.
- Imparts a natural glow
- SPF 20
- Suitable for all skin types
- Smooth formula
- Comes with a pump dispenser
- Not buildable or full coverage
- Low staying power
- Difficult to blend
"I love the way this foundation feels on my skin. It offers good coverage and is easily buildable. The application is smooth, and it makes my skin glow."
13. Best Organic Formula:Shimarz Mineral Liquid Foundation
Organic, vegan, gluten-free – Shimarz Mineral Liquid Foundation is everything you need to get a glowing, glamorous look while keeping your skin away from all harmful chemicals. It is enriched with natural plant ingredients and suitable for all skin types. The waterproof liquid foundation covers up imperfections, redness, and the signs of aging effectively. This is a natural finish foundation with a smooth formula that ensures full, shine-free coverage along with protection from the harmful UV rays.
- Waterproof
- Hypoallergenic
- Free from harmful chemicals
- Smooth and creamy formula
- Hides dark circles, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Long-wearing
None
"Applying this foundation is easy, and it gives a natural, non-oily look. It feels good on the skin, offering sheer yet effective coverage. Its vanilla donut-like fragrance makes it a delight to use. I recommend if to people who prefer light makeup and a natural look."
14. Best Skin Nourishing Formula:Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Makeup
Burts Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Makeup is another natural liquid foundation on the block. It is formulated with ethically sourced meadowfoam seed oil, which is moisturizing and nourishing. It is buildable enough to blur out imperfections and give your skin a flawless radiance. This is a lightweight liquid foundation formula that does not look cakey or heavy on the skin and is available in 18 gorgeous shades to match your skin tone.
- Paraben- and SLS-free
- Free from synthetic fragrances
- Medium to full buildable coverage
- Hydrates skin
- Comes with a pump dispenser
- Not suitable for dry or sensitive skin
"While this foundation's texture might come off as a bit thick, I found that when I mix it with Burt’s Bees lotion, it gives good results. The color was a perfect match too. I like how it leaves my skin wonderfully moisturized and looking fabulous. A worthy addition to any makeup routine."
15. Best Travel-Friendly:Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup
Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup is the perfect foundation for blemish-prone skin. This oil-free liquid foundation works wonders in preventing blemishes and giving your skin a smooth, matte finish. It conceals imperfections, prevents breakouts, and neutralizes redness to deliver moderate natural-looking coverage. It also feels weightless and smooth on the skin.
- Covers acne, blemishes, and redness
- Smooth matte finish
- Lightweight
- Just a little product required per use
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Might look cakey if layered
- Does not control oiliness on the skin
"Sometimes, when I want to give my skin a break from all other foundations, I turn to this one. It makes my skin look smooth without causing greasiness or breakouts. Although it is not full-coverage, I use it with the Clinique powder for a natural finish."
Buying a liquid foundation can be a little tricky. That is why we have talked about a few things that you need to consider before buying a liquid foundation for your skin type in the next section. Check it out!
Buying Guide For Liquid Foundation
What Does A Liquid Foundation Do?
Liquid foundations are available in oil-, water-, and cream-based formulations. Some of them can be built to create light to full coverage. They are also easy to blend. Liquid foundations hydrate dry skin and impart a natural radiance to your skin. They also cover fine lines and wrinkles effectively. Hence, liquid foundations, with their multiple benefits, are the best choice.
Is Liquid Foundation Ideal For All Skin Types?
Liquid foundation is available in a wide range of formulas for all skin types. Name the skin type, and you have one specially formulated for it.
- If you have oily skin, always pick an oil-free liquid foundation that will control the oil secretion on your skin and keep you shine-free for hours. Go for a foundation that does not clog your pores or makes you look chalky.
- If you have dry skin, look for a liquid foundation formulated with glycerin or hyaluronic acid that can keep your skin moisturized for long hours. It gives your skin a dewy, satin-matte finish that is nourishing, as well.
- There are liquid foundations specially formulated for acne-prone or combination skin types, too. Pick a low-concentration salicylic acid-based foundation that is free of silicones, alcohol, mica, and fragrance. This helps you prevent acne and breakouts. A foundation that delivers an oil-free, matte finish is the best bet for such skin types.
Now, let’s answer the biggest question that must be on every beginner’s mind.
How To Apply A Liquid Foundation?
Applying liquid foundation requires some skill. However, it is not that difficult when you pick the right shade and formula. Some easy steps to apply liquid foundation to your face are:
- Cleanse and moisturize your face.
- Take the adequate amount of foundation on the back of your hand and dab it gently in dots all over your face.
- Use a beauty blender, sponge, brush, or your (clean) fingertips to blend it evenly.
- Make sure to blend the foundation into your hairline and the edges of your face. Use a damp sponge, if required.
- Wait for the foundation to dry completely before gently patting some setting powder over it with a puff.
The Bottom Line
Foundations are a great way to cover the blemishes, dark spots, and other imperfections delivering exceptional results. They help to even out the skin and act as a base for your makeup. The best liquid foundations, expertly crafted to blend well on the skin, provide great coverage, and camouflage imperfections. The Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup offers a wide shade range and is non-comedogenic, while the Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation For Combination/Oily Skin controls sebum and imparts a gorgeous radiance. The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Longwear Foundation Makeup provides long-lasting coverage and a semi-matte finish, best suited to oily skin. They give your skin a flawless look, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, some liquid foundations also moisturize the skin and make you look radiant. The buying guide above will help you pick the best foundation for your skin type and tone.
Infographic: Different Ways To Use A Liquid Foundation
The following infographic will help you understand the multiple ways in which your liquid foundation can be utilized. It shows that a liquid foundation can be used as a multipurpose makeup item. You can use this product to conceal, contour, and also as an eye primer to create a smooth and flawless base. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Shalini Roy, is a makeup enthusiast who loves experimenting with new and trendy products and reviewing them for her reader. She has researched multiple online platforms and reviewed several reliable user feedback to prepare this list of the best liquid foundations. These foundations help cover your blemishes, enhance your skin tone, and help you attain that perfect glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does liquid foundation last?
Based on the frequency of usage, water-based liquid foundations can last up to 1 year. In comparison, oil-based foundations can last up to 18-24 months.
Which is the best liquid foundation?
The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation provides a flawless matte look. Its buildable coverage help blur imperfections and uneven skin tones.
How do I get full coverage without looking cakey?
Here are a few tips to get flawless coverage:
• Moisturize your skin thoroughly with a lightweight moisturizer.
• Prep your face with a hydrating primer.
• Pick medium coverage foundations.
• Use a sponge to apply the foundation evenly all over your face.
• Apply a setting powder set the makeup look.
How do I know what my undertone is?
Check your veins – if your veins look blue or purplish, you have a cooler undertone. If you have greenish color veins, then you may have a warm undertone.
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