The 13 Best Long-Lasting Foundations For Every Skin Type – 2024

Keep your look fresh all day long with a smudge-free coverage and an even finish.

Reviewed by Sarah Abraham, Certified Makeup Artist
Written by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Edited by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

We’ve all been there where we just spent hours perfecting our makeup, only to see it fade away in minutes. To prevent this from happening, you need to get your hands on the best long-lasting foundation. Made from quality ingredients that keep your base locked in for hours, these foundations are sweat-proof and smudge-proof. They also help you not look cakey or ashy, even after a full day in the sun. Regardless of what skin type you have, there is a long-lasting foundation out there for you. The best ones not only have high-quality ingredients but are also infused with vitamins to enhance your makeup look and are lightweight, so your skin doesn’t feel weighed down. Now that you know the benefits of adding a long-lasting foundation to your makeup routine, the only thing left is to purchase one. Simply scroll through our thoughtfully curated list and find one best suited for your skincare and makeup needs. Trust us when we say you’re only one foundation away from a flawless makeup look!

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best Overall:L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup
Price on Amazon
Best Oil-Free Finish:Revlon ColorStay Makeup Foundation For Combination And Oily Skin
Price on Amazon
Best High Pigmented Formula:NYX Professional Makeup Full Coverage Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best For Wrinkles:Meifen Phoera Soft Matte Long Wear Liquid Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best For Daily Use:Max Factor Lasting Performance Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologist Tested Foundation:Almay Truly Lasting Color Liquid Makeup Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best Protection From Sun Damage:Bellaterra Cosmetics Mineral Powder Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best Buildable Coverage:Touch In Sol Advanced Real Moisture Liquid Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best Waterproof Product:Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Longwear Liquid Foundation
Price on Amazon
Best Lightweight Formula:Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Foundation
Price on Amazon

13 Best Long-Lasting Foundations For An All-Day Glow

1. Best Overall:L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup

4.3
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup Image: L'oreal Paris

The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup has just the right creamy and lightweight texture that you want on your skin. The full-coverage, long-lasting foundation has a matte finish that lasts up to 24 hours to give you a clear and smooth look. Create your ideal look with this water-proof and sweat-proof base makeup that goes on quickly and won’t get cakey during the day. This celebrity-endorsed brand’s product’s long-lasting foundation formula is best suited for medium to full coverage for a clear complexion. Simply use the tips of your fingers or a basic foundation brush and indulge in the transfer-resistant wonder of this oil-free formula. Click here to check out a detailed take on the tester’s experience with using this product.

Skin Type: AllColor: 102 Shell Beige | Product Dimensions: 0.74 x 1.85 x 4.78 inches | Weight: 1.44 Ounces

Pros

  • 24-hour wear
  • Non-cakey
  • Air-light texture
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Oil-free formula
  • Flawless matte finish

Cons

  • The foundation may be fast-drying, so you have to apply it quickly to avoid patchiness.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply L’Oreal Paris Makeup Infallible Pro Matte-Lock Longwear Mattifying Face Primer before you start applying your foundation to prevent it from smudging.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 19,807 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

2. Best Oil-Free Finish:Revlon ColorStay Makeup Foundation For Combination And Oily Skin

4.4
Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Image: Revlon
Now 41% Off

For a flawless finish and an undeniable glow, bring home this long wearing foundation from Revlon. Suitable for oily and combination skin types, this lightweight formula has a matte and oil-free finish that lasts all day. Want to enjoy a day out in the sun without the worry of sunspots and tanning? No problem! This one comes with an SPF 15 to protect you from the harsh rays of the sun. With 43 shades that compliment different skin tones, you cannot miss out on the ColorStay liquid foundation.

Skin Type: CombinationColor: NATURAL BEIGE | Product Dimensions: 1.25 x 1.25 x 4.13 inches | Weight: 4.23 Ounces

Pros

  • Liquid-proof
  • It lasts up to 24 hours
  • Oil-free
  • SPF 15
  • Matte finish
  • For buildable coverage

Cons

  • You may find the foundation to have a relatively thin consistency.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 4,203 reviews claiming its efficacy.

3. Best High Pigmented Formula:NYX Professional Makeup Full Coverage Foundation

4.1
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation – Warm Carmel Image: Nyx Professional

The NYX Full Coverage Foundation comes in a wide range of tones that flatter your skin. The lightweight and waterproof formula glides onto your skin smoothly and offers a matte finish that lasts all day. The high-pigmented liquid foundation controls excess oil and gives you a shine-free complexion for up to 24 hours. This cruelty-free HD foundation comes in 45 carefully chosen shades that will suit your skin that won’t have you worrying about fading or transfers! This product has garnered multiple positive reviews that praise it for offering great coverage and natural finish.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, NormalColor: 15.7 WARM CARAMEL | Product Dimensions: 1.21 x 1.21 x 4.6 inches | Weight: 3.84 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Suitable for normal, oil, and combination skin
  • It comes in 45 shades
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • The matte formula may not be ideal for dry skin.
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup
Best Overall
Revlon ColorStay Makeup Foundation For Combination And Oily Skin
Best Oil-Free Finish
NYX Professional Makeup Full Coverage Foundation
Best High Pigmented Formula
Skin Type AllColor CombinationColor Oily, Combination, Sensitive, NormalColor
Dimensions 0.74 x 1.85 x 4.78 inches 1.25 x 1.25 x 4.13 inches 1.21 x 1.21 x 4.6 inches
Weight 1.44 Ounces 4.23 Ounces 3.84 Ounces
Rating
Reviews19,8074,20312,552
Price$10.97$9.99$12.6

4. Best For Wrinkles:Meifen Phoera Soft Matte Long Wear Liquid Foundation

4.2

Do you want a long-wear blemish-free coverage? The Meifen Phoera Soft Matte Long Wear Liquid Foundation will give you just that!. The smooth and hydrating liquid foundation contains whitening and moisturizing features covering fine lines and wrinkles without cracking or creasing. This foundation will give you an ultra-smooth finish for a brighter complexion, free from uneven textures and dark spots and circles. Get yourself a natural and statement-making look with this medium coverage foundation that is not just blendable but also buildable for a poreless radiance.

Skin Type: Acne ProneColor: 101 Porcelain | Product Dimensions: 3.74 x 1.26 x 1.26 inches | Weight: 3.84 Ounces.

Pros

  • Full coverage
  • Corrects skin imperfections
  • Soft-texture
  • Oil-control
  • Whitening and hydrating formula
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • It may have a slightly orange undertone.

5. Best For Daily Use:Max Factor Lasting Performance Foundation

4.5
Max Factor Lasting Performance Foundation Image: Max Factor

The Max Factor Lasting Performance Foundation lets you choose from up to 13 shades for a natural-looking base. This flawless high-performance foundation offers touch-proof coverage for a lasting glow, so you don’t have to worry about multiple midday touch-ups. The non-comedogenic foundation is recommended for everyday use and has a lightweight texture that glides on easily and covers pores and fine lines. This photo-ready product delivers a smudge-resistant 24-hour skin coverage that you simply cannot say no to!

Skin Type: DryColor: Soft Beige | Product Dimensions: 4 x 1 x 1 inches | Weight: 1.23 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Recommended for daily use
  • Touch-proof formula
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Lightweight texture
  • Smudge-resistant

Cons

  • Some may find the consistency of this foundation to be watery.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 2,858 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

6. Best Dermatologist Tested Foundation:Almay Truly Lasting Color Liquid Makeup Foundation

4.6

Say hello to 16-hour long flawless coverage and a lasting and nourishing glow with this affordable long-lasting foundation. Formulated with moisturizing ingredients like lemon and vitamin E, this lasting foundation keeps your skin naturally smooth and flawless. This light to medium buildable coverage foundation is easy to blend for a radiant finish and brightens dull skin. For a glowing finish that everyone is envious of, indulge in this heat-resistant and humidity-proof formula. Available in 7 different shades, this foundation is light on your skin and covers up blemishes and fine lines effortlessly. This one is a favorite among reviewers because its stays on for long, and blends seamlessly.

Skin Type: SensitiveColor: 220 Neutral | Product Dimensions: 6 x 5 x 4 inches | Weight: 3.41 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Free from fragrances
  • Cruelty-free product

Cons

  • The foundation may have a thick, paste-like consistency.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Pour some warm water into the container, fix the lid, shake it well, and store it upside-down for a day to use up the last bit of the thick foundation.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 1,941 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

7. Best Protection From Sun Damage:Bellaterra Cosmetics Mineral Powder Foundation

4.4
Bella Terra Cosmetics Multipurpose Perfecting Powder – Ivory Image: Bella Terra

We’ve got great news for all you lovely women with sensitive skin! Bring home the Bellaterra Cosmetics Mineral Powder Foundation that is a safe bet for problematic skin types. Whether you have dry, oil, acne-prone, or sensitive skin, this mineral powder foundation will give you a nourishing and flawless glow. If you’re looking for sheer to light buildable coverage, this mineral powder can be used in combination with your daily moisturizer to cover up blemishes well. The no-makeup foundation will give you a seamless finish that is lightweight and makes you feel gorgeous all day. You can get a look that does not highlight any pores or fine lines with this fragrance-free SPF 15 formula also doubles up to protect your skin from sun damage.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, NormalColor: Chestnut | Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 1 inches | Weight: 2 Ounces

Pros

  • Does not contain parabens
  • Cruelty-free
  • Contains natural minerals
  • Vegan
  • Offers sun protection
  • Hypoallergenic

Cons

  • You may find that the foundation powder adds a luminous highlight to your face.

8. Best Buildable Coverage:Touch In Sol Advanced Real Moisture Liquid Foundation

4.4
TOUCH IN SOL Natural Moisturizing Oil Control Foundation 1.01 fl.oz. #21 Nude Beige - Full Coverage Makeup for Dry Skin ? Minimizes Pores, Hides Wrinkles - Advanced Real Moisture Foundation Image: Touch In Sol

With a lightweight hydrating formula, this long-lasting foundation leaves your complexion highlighted. The creamy long-lasting foundation for dry skin works to deliver a buildable coverage that hides your blemishes and evens out patchy skin. Recommended by makeup artists for a flawless look, this advanced moisture complex liquid foundation also has SPF 30 and is suitable for dry skin. The water-retentive technology holds moisture, as the sunblock protects your skin from UV damage. If this wasn’t all, it also has anti-wrinkle and whitening properties for skin that appears radiant and healthy.

Skin Type: Acne ProneColor: #23 Natural Beige

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Moisturizing foundation
  • Ideal for dry skin types
  • Does not contain parabens, ethanol, mineral oils, or tar-based pigments
  • Anti-wrinkle and whitening properties
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • You may find it a little challenging to blend.

9. Best Waterproof Product:Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Longwear Liquid Foundation

If you’re on the lookout for a good long-lasting foundation for oily skin, look no further than theUrban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation. This pigmented formula lets you apply a single layer of foundation for full coverage from acne scars and uneven skin tones for a dewy finish. Rock the perfect all-day look with this lasting foundation that is not only waterproof and non-transferable but also gives you an even-toned and flawless complexion. For maximum coverage and a matte finish that goes on quickly, you can depend on this liquid foundation that comes in a wide range of shades.

Skin Type: AllColor: Caramel Color | Product Dimensions: 1.46 x 1.46 x 4.21 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces

Pros

  • Hydrating formula
  • Waterproof
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Buildable coverage
  • Long-lasting matte finish

Cons

  • You may find that the formula is fast-drying and needs to be blended in instantly.

10. Best Lightweight Formula:Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Foundation

4.7
Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Image: Estee Lauder

The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup lets your skin look flawless and natural for upto 24 hours. The stay-in-place matte liquid foundation offers a buildable medium to maximum coverage and doesn’t fade. The double-wear formula is oil-free and controls sebum production, making this an ideal choice for a lasting base, especially for the summers. The waterproof formulation is also transfer-resistant, making this foundation handy for a long, action-packed day. Don’t worry about touch-ups with this lightweight foundation that gives you a flawless complexion.

Product Dimensions: 1.26 x 1.57 x 3.7 inches | Weight: 0.14 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Covers skin imperfections
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Oil-free
  • Waterproof
  • Transfer-resistant

Cons

  • This product may not be suitable for those who are looking for full coverage.

11. Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15

4.4
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15 Image: Bobbi Brown

Do you want a moisturizing sheer coverage? The Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15 delivers just that with the added benefit of a deeply moisturizing effect. With broad-spectrum UV protection, this formula is suitable for all skin types and minimizes pores’ appearance, as it covers skin irregularities. You can choose from the range of skin shades to best suit your skin tone for an even and radiant complexion. The water-based formula is perfect for oily skin as it gives you a subtle yet clear coverage. With glycerin as its active ingredient, the weightless, long-lasting foundation is buildable and ideal for a celebrity-inspired look with a sustained hydrating glow.

Skin Type: NormalColor: Natural | Product Dimensions: 1.4 x 1.4 x 4.5 inches | Weight: 1.1 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Water-based formula
  • Oil-free
  • It contains light-reflective optic ingredients
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, and formaldehyde
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • You may find that this foundation has a slightly watery consistency.

12. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

4.3
FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation in 210 - 32 ml/1.08 fl oz Image: Fenty Beauty By Rihanna

If you’re looking for an instantly smooth and shine-free complexion, the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundationis ideal for medium to full coverage. This celebrity-endorsed brand’s oil-free soft matte foundation is crafted with a climate-adapted technology that keeps your makeup base safe from sweat and humidity. This pro longwear non-comedogenic foundation builds easily and can be used with warm skin undertones. You can find the right shade for your skin from a wide range of up to 40 options to choose from. This product does not involve animal testing, which gives you one more reason to purchase it.

Skin Type: AllColor: Yellow | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.6 x 1.9 x 1.3 inches; 5.44 Ounces

Pros

  • Soft-matte buildable formula
  • Smooth and seamless
  • Available in 40 shades
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Oil-free and sweat-proof formula
  • Lightweight texture
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Some may find that this foundation feels greasy on your skin.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 277 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

13. Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

4.3

The Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation is a dermatologist-tested non-drying formula that offers you up to 16 hours of even coverage. The lightweight formula will leave your skin looking radiant as you go about your daily routines. Breathable and fade-resistant, this foundation is enriched with apple, raspberry, and watermelon extracts for a smoothening effect. The long-lasting foundation has a buildable medium to full coverage and will keep your skin safe from sweat and humidity. For a natural and prolonged finish, this blendable foundation will work its magic on your skin. Reviews on online forums assert that the product offers great coverage and lasts throughout the day!

Skin Type: SensitiveColor: Stromboli

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Free from parabens, alcohol, and oils
  • No fragrances
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Non-drying formula

Cons

  • You may find the foundation a little thick.

Foundation is an essential part of many beauty routines as it sets a base for flawless and creative looks. If you are looking for a smudge-free, no-transfer formula that will last you all day, you’re in the right place. Check our buying guide below and bring home the best long-lasting foundation for your skin.

How To Choose The Best Long-Lasting Foundations

  • Base

Depending on your skin type, foundations specifically deliver coverage with water-based, oil-based, or powder-based formulations. The wrong foundation can cause skin problems by drying out your skin, being flaky, and creased. Matte foundations have a longer wear time when you compare them to water-based and oil-based foundations. Look for textures that are lightweight, reflective, and creamy to give your skin a dewy look.

  • Ingredients

In contrast to the skin on the rest of your body, your facial skin is even more sensitive and delicate. Opt for expertly crafted foundations that are skin-friendly and free from parabens, sulfates, and silicone, as they are gentle on the skin and suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Acne-prone skin or sensitive skin calls for extra concern and attention to be paid to the list of ingredients in your makeup. A hydrating base boosts natural skin oil production and moisturizes your skin from the inside, giving it a healthy glow. Choosing hypoallergenic ingredients is also important for maintaining the pH balance of your skin. Look for ingredients like vitamin E and shea butter or other essential oils!

  • Coverage

When choosing a foundation, considering the coverage is vital because it can alter the overall appearance of your makeup and offer exceptional results. Foundations are graded as sheer, medium, or maximum coverage, depending on the amount of coverage they provide. Medium to light coverage is ideal for dry skin as they are breathable. Foundations with a lot of coverage can make your face look cakey or drawn and can be avoided. A matte finish is most suitable for your skin if you are looking for a long-lasting foundation.

  • Skin tone

It’s essential to pick the right foundation shade for your skin tone, as it may give you an uneven tone if you ignore this step. To avoid an unnatural complexion, make sure you choose the appropriate shade for your skin tone. You could always test the foundation on your jawline before buying it or simply select one that best suits your shade.

  • Skin type

Consider your skin type when you’re headed to buy makeup, as each formulation caters to a specific skin type. If you have oily skin, you’ll notice that it has a general shine to it, as well as may be prone to breakouts. A mineral powder foundation or a water-based liquid foundation is also recommended for oily skin types. A non-comedogenic base is ideal when it comes to oily skin.

Dry skin, on the other hand, tends to feel tight and flakey. Your best bet could be a cream-based liquid foundation which will also keep your skin moisturized. For combination, skin, cream, or powder foundations could work well.

You will need to go the extra mile for aging skin and choose a formula with SPF or one that comes with anti-aging properties.

The Bottom Line

All your efforts to create a stunning makeup look will go down the drain if your foundation starts to crease after minutes of application. That is why the best long-lasting foundations for every skin type are crucial for every makeup enthusiast. They save you the embarrassment of fixing faded makeup and frequent touch-ups while attending an event. The long-lasting foundations are specially designed to keep your skin nourished under all the makeup you put and ensure a flawless, statement-making look. The products listed in our article have lightweight formulas that last up to 24 hours. Some of them are non-comedogenic and do not cause any irritation. The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Makeup has a non-cakey, oil-free formula, the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Foundation has a waterproof formula perfect for the summer, and the Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation offers an inclusive shade range with non-comedogenic formulations. They control sebum production on oily skin and ensure full coverage. Their smudge-resistant and dermatologist-tested formulas suit all skin types. However, steer clear of foundations that have water consistency or ones that do not match your undertone. Additionally, check what reviewers have to say about the products and consider investing in tried-and-tested formulas.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Srijani Roy Chowdhury, the author of this article, is a makeup enthusiast, and she believes that foundation helps provide flawless skin. However, she relies on foundations formulated without any harmful chemicals and is safe for the skin. So, she conducted deep research online to provide the best long-lasting foundation. The foundations listed above are transfer-resistant, oil-free, and cover your imperfections all day long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foundations cause acne/pimples or breakouts?

Know your skin type before investing in any makeup product. If you have oily skin and use an oil-based formula, your skin is likely to break out. Instead, take a look at the ingredient list before deciding and choosing a skin tone that matches yours well.

How can I make my foundation last all day?

Use a good primer before applying a long-lasting foundation to make it last all day.

How long should you let your foundation set?

Let your foundation set for 3-5 minutes straight for the best results.

What is the best way to apply a foundation?

Prep and prime your skin. Take some product onto a damp sponge or foundation brush and dab it onto the skin in a stippling motion.

Should I apply foundation – with a brush or with my hands?

Applying foundation with a brush offers flawless coverage and even finish. Applying it with fingers gives it a more natural look.

How long does a foundation last?

While an unopened foundation has a shelf life of 2-3 years, opened foundations should be used within a year.


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