10 Best Wet And Dry Foundation Powders Of 2024, As Per A Makeup Artist
Give a perfectly smooth and clear finish to your skin and avoid cakey looks.
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,... more
baishali bhattacharyaMA (English)
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior ... more
srijani roy chowdhuryMA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a ce... more
srijita deMA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant
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 ... more
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It’s time to put an end to your search for the best wet to dry foundation. As the name suggests, these foundation powders are perfect for wet and dry use. They are a perfect solution for a smooth and clear finish offering timeless beauty. The two-in-one makeup product covers all imperfections, smoothes skin texture, and provides flawless tone. Check out our top picks for the wet and dry foundation in the list below to choose the ones you would like to test.
In This Article
10 Best Wet And Dry Foundation Powders
1. Best Overall: BeautiControl Wet Dry Foundation
The BeautiControl Wet Dry Foundation powder is the perfect facial formula for a flawless look. The smooth finish foundation powder can be used wet or dry to achieve customizable coverage. It can be used all day to control shine for oily skin and attain a natural skin-perfecting look. The dry powder does not look cakey and covers all facial imperfections and redness.
Pros
- Good coverage
- All-day wear
- Non-irritating
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- None
Quick Tip2. Best For Long-Lasting Coverage:Dermacol WET & DRY Powder Foundation- No. 1
The Dermacol WET & DRY Powder Foundation No. 1 has a smooth texture and glides easily on your skin. It is perfectly blendable and provides long-lasting coverage, for both oily and dry skin. The soft, matte finish makes the skin look flawless with enhanced beauty. The vitamin E and unique silicone components in the product keep your skin soft all day long. It works for both wet and dry use, leaving the skin fresh and younger-looking.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Seamless blending
- Smells good
- Creamy texture
- Comes with a mirror and sponge
Cons
- None
3. Best Versatile:LANCÔME Dual Finish Powder Foundation
The LANCÔME Dual Finish Powder Foundation offers buildable coverage to full coverage. It gives the face a sheer matte finish. The foundation comes with a sponge and a puff for quick touch-ups. It eliminates the skin’s oily appearance and does not leave any greasy residue. This time-saving powder foundation is available in 33 shades to match any skin tone and it imparts a radiant finish. Check this video to learn more about the product.
Pros
- Good coverage
- Versatile
- Portable
- Buildable
Cons
- May cause allergy
4. Best Blendable Formula:mirenesse Skin Clone Mineral Powder Foundation
The mirenesse Skin Clone Mineral Powder Foundation has SPF15 and offers full coverage. This 4-in-1 vegan formula is free of synthetic additives and provides an airbrush, silky matte finish. It is enriched with vitamins B and E, which brightens and protects the skin. The hyaluronic acid in the formula locks in moisture and the self-adjusting pigments adjust to any skin tone for long-lasting wear. This foundation is suitable for oily, dry, combination, and mature skin types. The foundation has green tea extract that soothes the skin, while mistletoe extract increases skin vitality. Makeup artist Nyssa Green says, “The skin care properties added to this are an added bonus.” Gain further insights on its features from the reviewer’s experience records on online forums.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- SPF protection
- Blends well
- Paraben-free
- Phthalates-free
- Gluten-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Alcohol-free
- GMO-free
- Paraffin-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Glycol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Lead-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- A bit chalky
5. Best Non-Drying Formula:PALLADIO Dual Wet & Dry Foundation – Natural Clary
The PALLADIODula Wet & Dry Foundation is a favorite among make-up artists. The foundation in the shade natural clay can be used wet for maximum, long-lasting coverage and dry for touch-ups, setting make-up, and light yet flawless complexion. The formula is infused with fruit-derived alpha-hydroxy acids, which minimizes fine lines. The hyaluronic acid in the formula increases skin elasticity and boosts the skin’s hydration level, while zinc oxide gives it a smooth finish. This high-quality makeup powder can be used as a dual-purpose compact that offers a blendable application and comes with a mirror and sponge. Take a look at this video that details the tester’s experience to get more information on the product.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Portable
- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May set into fine lines
Quick Tip6. Best Full Coverage:Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation
The Kat Von D Beauty Lock-It Powder Foundation comes with a non-drying formula and offers a full-coverage makeup look. It comes in a pressed powder formula which comprises kaolin clay that offers a diffused and matte finish. This long-wear powder foundation is infused with rice powder extract that instantly blurs away blemishes and pores. Makeup artist Nyssa Green says, “The finish on this is amazing, especially if applied with a beauty blender.”
Pros
- Ample coverage
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Pore-blurring effect
- Refillable compact
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- None
7. Best Lightweight Formula:SHANY Dual Powder Foundation – Pure Beige
The SHANY Dual Powder Foundation is suitable for all skin types and works in both wet and dry form. The pressed powder foundation is long-lasting and suitable for on-the-go touch-ups. This affordable powder formula is enriched with vitamin E which provides nourishment to the skin. The make-up base offers light, medium, or full coverage and controls oil around the T-zone, without excessive dryness. It is suitable for dry, combination, sensitive, and oily skin types. You can build this foundation easily to get either full or medium coverage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
- Talc-free
- Oil-free
- Cruelty-free
- Includes mirror
Cons
- Cakey look
8. Best For Dewy Finish:Sorme’ Believable Finish Powder Foundation – Pure Beige
The Believable Finish Powder Foundation from Sorme’ has a silky-smooth texture and keeps the skin hydrated, leaving a smooth and dewy finish. It is infused with vitamins, minerals, and nourishing botanicals. The foundation powder in the shade pure beige is perfect for dry or wet application and offers medium to heavy coverage. The antioxidants and alpha hydroxy acids in the formula stimulate the cells to rejuvenate and renew the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Hydrating formula
- Refill pans available
- Good coverage
- Silky feel
Cons
- Shade may differ
9. Best Sun Protection:Miljo Wet & Dry Mineral Powder Foundation – 404 Opal Warm
The Miljo Wet & Dry Mineral Powder Foundation is enriched with crushed minerals like silica, magnesium, and mica, making the skin feel smooth on application. The formula contains squalane and vegetable oils to soften and smoothen the skin. It is a healthy addition to your makeup routine. It also contains zinc oxide that heals the skin from free radical damage and provides natural sun protection.
Pros
- Smooth application
- Mineral-based
- Sun protection
- Available in multiple shades
Cons
- None
10. Best Shade Range:Studio Gear Dual Identity Wet/Dry Loose Mineral Foundation – Bisque
The Dual Identity Wet/Dry Loose Mineral Foundation from Studio Gear Cosmetics provides a natural appearance with full coverage. The formula works like a liquid base when used in wet form and gives a light, airy feel on dry application. The foundation in the shade bisque provides a radiant glow as well as a refreshed and rejuvenated look with exceptional results. This loose powder is available in multiple shades to match all skin tones. This video offers a more detailed explanation of the product based on the reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Versatile
- Available in multiple shades
- Good coverage
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Shades may vary
The Bottom Line
Foundation is the first and most important step towards a perfect makeup look. The best wet and dry foundations are a one-stop solution for a flawless makeup base and clear natural-looking finish. They help conceal dark spots, freckles, and hyperpigmentation to provide you with flawless skin. The wet and dry foundations absorb excess oil from the skin and give you an even tone. They provide good coverage and are cruelty-free and long-lasting. The Dermacol WET & DRY Powder Foundation works amazingly on oily skin; the powder doesn’t give a cakey feel but offers a natural finish to the makeup. You can try the Kat Von D Lock-It Powder Foundation if you want a matte finish that blurs visible pores and gives flawless coverage. If you want a lightweight formula that controls oil on the skin without making it feel dry, then the SHANY Dual Powder Foundation is your ideal pick. These formulas are available in shades to suit every skin tone. Nevertheless, some foundations may have a chalky texture, and it is better to avoid these options. If you have sensitive skin, try and opt for dermatologist-tested formulas or conduct a patch test to avoid adverse reactions.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Baishali Bhattacharya, the author of this article, holds a certification in makeup techniques. She has used her expertise and impeccable research skills in curating this list of the best wet to dry foundations. These 2-in-1 products can be applied wet or dry and leave you with a flawless finish depending on the makeup look. Baishali compared numerous foundations to give you her top favorites backed by research and influenced by user reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you apply the wet and dry foundation?
Gently press the wet and dry foundation powder on your face until you achieve your desired coverage. Then, evenly dab the powder on your skin and set it with a setting spray to get an even skin tone.
How long should you wait for your wet and dry foundation to dry?
Wait a minute or two for your wet and dry foundation powder to completely dry.
How do you keep the wet and dry foundation from drying out?
Pair the foundation with a mineral powder to keep it from drying out. However, wet and dry foundations offer smooth finishes without dryness, so using them would not be too drying or rough on your skin. Moreover, major skin prep is key! Use serums and moisturizers first to ensure no drying out.
Can water cause cracks in foundation?
Yes, water can cause cracks in wet and dry foundations. However, apply lightweight formulas that do not sit too heavily on your skin to avoid cracks.
How do I know if my wet and dry foundation is leaking?
If your wet and dry foundation leaks, it may look oily and fail to control shine. This happens when the formula is too old, and the product has expired.
