15 Best Mineral Foundations For All Skin Types
Layer your skin with the perfect base to create a flawless makeup look every time.
Expertise: Makeup & Beauty
Experience: 3 years
Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art. Combinin... more
Choosing a makeup product is never easy, especially when conscious about how your skin will react to the ingredients. If you are one of those people who are extremely wary about what goes on your skin, you are not alone. Instead of swearing off makeup forever, you can invest in the best mineral foundations free from harmful ingredients and chemicals.
By replacing your foundation with a mineral foundation, your skin will stay radiant and flawless without reacting to the ingredients. These products are made with non-comedogenic ingredients, so they do not clog your pores. If you can’t wait to get your hands on a mineral foundation, check our list of the top ones in the market.
In This Article
Top 15 Mineral Foundations For Different Skin Types
Whether you want to control an oily T-zone or even out your skin tone, there’s a mineral foundation that is made for every skin type. Here are our top picks!
Best Mineral Foundations For Oily Skin
1. Best Variety Of Shades:bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15
Pros
- Gives your skin a radiant and natural finish
- Does not clog pores
- Comes with SPF 15
- Fragrance-free
- Helps improve your skin
Cons
- Its packaging is not travel-friendly
Review
This mineral powder foundation is extremely popular among beauty gurus on YouTube, and it’s also an award-winning product. Its formula is free of parabens, fillers, binders, and synthetic chemicals. It provides light to medium coverage and is one of the best when it comes to beauty meets skincare foundations. Also, it comes in a variety of shades and undertones, so it won’t be hard to find one that matches your skin tone. With a staying power of 5-6 hours, without touch-ups, this is the best mineral powder foundation out there. You’ll also notice your skin feeling and looking healthier when used over a period. Watch this video to know more about the product.
2. Best Seamless Blending:L’Oreal True Match Naturale Powdered Mineral Foundation SPF 19
Pros
- Provides a natural and radiant finish
- Comes with SPF 19
- Buildable coverage
- Suits all skin types
- Available in a wide range of shades
Cons
- The brush that comes with it leaves you with a patchy application
Review
This is one of the more affordable mineral powder foundations, and it indeed is amazing for oily skin. Its formula is lightweight, and when applied using a kabuki brush, this blends into the skin seamlessly. It covers redness, evens out skin tone and leaves your skin with a nice satin finish. With a decent staying power of about 5-6 hours without touch-ups, this powder foundation by L’Oreal is worth giving a shot!
3. Best Smooth Finish:Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup
Pros
- Looks very natural
- Does not oxidize
- Leaves you with an incredibly smooth finish
- Offers SPF 15
Cons
- Limited shade range
Review
If you instantly want to even out your skin and diminish the imperfections, this mineral powder foundation for oily skin from Bobbi Brown is the way to go. The powders in this formula are triple-treated with vitamins, glycerin, and skin softeners. It glides on the skin like a dream and is so lightweight – you’ll feel like you’re wearing no makeup. Its coverage is buildable, and with just a little product, you can build thin layers with a dense brush for added coverage. It stays on for 6-7 hours or more when used along with a primer.
4. Best Staying Power:Cover FX Pressed Mineral Foundation
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Long-wearing
- Buildable coverage
- Blends well
Cons
- Requires touch-ups
Review
This mineral foundation from Cover FX gives you buildable, matte coverage – and it’s not the cakey kind. To control and absorb oil, it contains Kaolin Clay, which is a big plus! You can use it either wet or dry, depending on your desired coverage and this works well both ways. If you want a matte hydrated look, pair this with an illuminating primer! This video will give you more insights into the product.
Best Mineral Foundations For Dry Skin
5. Best Anti-Wrinkle Formula:Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation
Pros
- Keeps skin well hydrated
- Helps minimize the appearance of pores
- Hygienic, attractive, and travel-friendly packaging
- Feels like a second skin
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- No SPF
Review
This is the best mineral foundation for dry skin for so many reasons! It comes packed as liposome beads in a transparent, airless pump bottle. It gives you dewy, light coverage and is great for normal to dry skin. To use, shake it well and then pump out a little product, mix well and apply it all over your face using a sponge or a brush. It will help keep dry skin properly hydrated and healthy.
6. Best Gentle Formula:bareMinerals Bareskin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation
Pros
- Packed with gentle ingredients
- Leaves your skin looking fresh and luminous
- Lightweight
- Long-wearing
Cons
- This doesn’t do a lot to cover dark spots or other skin imperfections
Review
This mineral liquid foundation contains brightening ingredients like Vitamin C, so with use over time, your skin will look more even-toned. Its formula is free of silicone, parabens, and fragrance. If your face is sensitive and dry, don’t you worry because this is the best liquid mineral foundation for problematic skin. The best part is that it’s very lightweight and has the consistency of the serum, while it’s jam-packed with pigments – just enough to even out your skin tone and give your face a flawless, fresh finish. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video.
Best Mineral Foundations For Combination Skin
7. Best Waterproof Formula:Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation
Pros
- Waterproof formula
- Full coverage
- Long-wearing
- Vegan
- Available in a wide range of shades
Cons
- Comes without an applicator
Review
If you have an oily T-zone coupled with dry areas, the Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation is for you. When applied using a mini kabuki brush, this formula blends beautifully into your skin and adapts to your skin type. Its formula is enriched with light-reflecting gemstones that will make your skin look youthful and radiant. This one’s highly recommended for combination to dry skin!
8. Best Multipurpose Use:NYX Cosmetics Mineral Stick Foundation
Pros
- Extremely blendable
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to use
- Can be used for contouring
Cons
- Coverage is average
Review
This one’s a multi-purpose mineral foundation stick from NYX, and we love it because it can help you achieve pretty mean contouring. Available in a whole range of shades, this stick is very easy to use, and it blends seamlessly with a makeup sponge or brush. It also doesn’t feel heavy on the skin and covers up redness and evens out your skin tone with ease. However, if you have dark spots or under-eye dark circles, you’ll need to go in separately with a concealer. Give this a shot if you’re looking for a user-friendly foundation formula.
9. Best Sun Protection:Gaya Mineral Foundation
Pros
- Lightweight
- Does not clog pores
- Allows skin to breathe
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
Review
If you are eyeing a multifunctional makeup product, then you have found the right product right here. This product has a 4-in-1 formula that works as a foundation, concealer, setting powder, and sunscreen. The skin-loving ingredients control shine and reduce breakouts to give you flawless coverage. The loose mineral powder provides full coverage that lasts long without looking cakey or settling into lines. The formula is chemical-free, vegan, and free of artificial fragrance.
Best Mineral Foundations For Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin
10. Best For Acne Prevention:Aveda Inner Light Mineral Tinted Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 15
Pros
- No chemical fragrance
- Contains active sunscreen ingredient that is very effective and non-irritating
- Non-greasy
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Does not provide adequate coverage
Review
If you have acne-prone skin that’s very sensitive to cosmetics, this foundation from Aveda is something you will love. It has a serum-like consistency, and it works like a tinted moisturizer more than a foundation. It blends like a dream and looks like a second skin, making your face look fresh and radiant instantly. This one leaves you with a dewy or luminous finish that lasts all day long. It’s perfect for an everyday foundation. It comes in an opaque tube so make sure you store it in a dark place to protect its ingredients from sunlight. If you have very oily skin, it’s best if you set this using pressed powder.
11. Best For Daily Use:Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20
Pros
- Contains SPF 20
- Blends easily
- Does not look cakey
- Lightweight
Cons
- Price may be a concern for some
Review
This foundation from Elizabeth Arden makes for the perfect daily wear foundation. Its coverage is very buildable, and it leaves your skin with a smooth, radiant finish. It’s non-drying and makes your skin look naturally brighter and radiant. Its new technology grinder case releases enough product for a single application. Hence, there is no wastage or mess. It’s extremely easy to apply and comfortable to wear for long hours. Although the price is on the higher side, this one’s worth every penny and will last you a long time!
12. Best For Special Occasions:MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Moisture SPF 15 Foundation
Pros
- Instantly hydrates and freshens skin
- Contains SPF 15
- Medium to full coverage
- Velvety, satin finish
Cons
- Not suitable for sultry or humid days
Review
If you have dry, acne-prone skin, the MAC Mineralize foundation will work well for you. It comes in a wide range of shades for every skin tone and different undertones. It’s also perfect for dehydrated skin and for one that looks dull and lacks any glow. With buildable coverage, you can wear this in the evenings and even for special occasions. Use a makeup sponge or a brush to blend the product out, and it blends seamlessly. If you’re looking for a full coverage foundation, this one’s something you should absolutely try.
Best Mineral Foundations For Mature Skin
13. Best Coverage:Estee Lauder Double Wear Mineral Rich Loose Powder Makeup
Pros
- Fantastic coverage
- Long-lasting
- Contains SPF 12
- Does not look cakey
Cons
- Its packaging makes it a little messy
Review
If you’re looking for a mineral foundation that offers exceptional coverage that’s easy to use – this foundation by Estee Lauder is perfect. It helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It photographs really well and makes your skin look airbrushed and smooth. We love its staying power, which only increases when used with a primer. This one leaves you with a silky matte finish. It’s non-drying, which makes it perfect for mature skin as you require more hydration.
14. Best On-The-Go Foundation:Lancome Miracle Cushion And Ageless Minerale
Pros
- Easy to use
- Travel-friendly
- Lightweight
- Blends seamlessly
Cons
- Coverage is not buildable
Review
This mineral powder foundation from Lancome is another excellent option for mature, dehydrated skin. It takes you less than three minutes to apply this, and it leaves you with a radiant, dewy finish. This also makes for a great touch-up on the go-to foundation. It works well for dry to combination skin type.
15. Best For Large Pores:Pur 4 In 1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation SPF 15
Pros
- Lightweight
- Does not exaggerate pores
- Contains ingredients that are beneficial for your skin
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Limited shades available
Review
This pressed-powder foundation from Pur is great for sensitive and aging skin. Its lightweight yet provides full coverage. You can apply this using a damp makeup sponge, and it will blend like a dream. It does not cause acne, neither does it aggravate your condition. If you want skin that looks like yours, but better – this foundation is the way to go.
Tips: How To Choose And Use Your Mineral Foundation
Now that you have a fair idea of which mineral foundations are worth trying, here are a bunch of handy tips to help you choose and apply your product.
- Before you buy your foundation, always make sure to test it out on your face or your jawline to make sure you’re getting a shade that’s right for you.
- Decide what kind of finish you’re looking for before you head to pick out your mineral foundation.
- Always check the list of ingredients before purchasing your foundation, because a lot of companies claim that their products are “mineral-based,” while in reality, they only add minerals to regular makeup.
- If you’re looking for some extra sun protection, choose a formula with SPF.
- Prep your skin well before going in with your mineral foundation for a flawless finish.
- If you’re using a mineral powder foundation, use a kabuki brush, which is shorter and denser than a regular brush. This will give you more coverage. The trick is to buff, buff, and buff for a seamless, polished look.
Makeup can make your skin look flawless. Regular makeup may make your skin dry and dull due to chemicals. If you have sensitive skin, it may worsen the situation. Mineral foundations contain non-comedogenic ingredients that protect your skin and make the skin look radiant. They are safer alternatives to chemical-based foundations and are available in various shades to match every undertone. In addition, these products offer buildable coverage and blend easily into the skin. These foundations are easy to apply, lightweight, and are long-lasting. However, some products may not suit every climate. Always check the list of ingredients before purchasing your foundation. Also consider your skin tone and always go for products that have SPF to protect your skin against the harmful UV rays.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Esha Saxena, the author, is a makeup enthusiast who loves trying new products that make the process convenient for you. She has carefully gone through customer reviews and has tried some for herself before bringing you this list of the best mineral foundations. These mineral foundations are made with non-comedogenic ingredients and are free from harmful ingredients and chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mineral foundation?
Mineral foundations are made of natural ingredients devoid of alcohol, mineral oils, preservatives, or artificial scents. These are safe for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Is mineral foundation better than liquid foundation?
Mineral foundations are safer than liquid foundations as they are made without chemical ingredients. They settle lightly on the skin and do not accentuate wrinkles and fine lines, unlike liquid foundations that settle in and look cakey.
Is mineral foundation good for dry skin?
Yes, mineral foundation is good for dry skin, as it does not settle into fine lines but offers full coverage without looking too dry.
Which makeup brands are mineral?
Brands like Bobbi Brown, BareMinerals, L’Oreal, and Gaya offer mineral products.
Are mineral foundations good for aging skin?
Yes. Mineral foundations offer full coverage without settling into wrinkles and fine lines. Hence, they are good bases for makeup on aging skin.
What’s the best BareMinerals foundation?
The bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 is one of the best foundations from this brand.
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