The best foundation is a very personal choice, but there are certain formulas and finishes that suit different skin types and scenarios. As Aarti Pal, an award-winning make-up artist with a specialism in bridal beauty, tells Bazaar, full-coverage foundation can be game-changing for myriad reasons.
The benefits of full-coverage foundation
Not only is it great for special occasions, "such as weddings, photoshoots, or any event where long-lasting, flawless skin is desired", but those days when the weather is humid. "If you need a foundation that can withstand sweat and heat, full-coverage options are often more durable," Pal explains.
In addition, a higher coverage base can be "beneficial for those with hyperpigmentation, scars, or unevenness as it provides the appearance of a smooth and even skin tone," she continues. Plus, those with combination or oily skin might want to invest, given how "often full-coverage foundations are formulated to stay put and control oil".
When to avoid full-coverage foundation
While formulations have advanced immeasurably since the thick, cakey textures of old, full-coverage foundations still aren't for everyone. Naturally, preference is at play (on the other end of the base make-up scale you might be in your skin tint era), and for daily use – especially in a natural or casual setting – "full-coverage can feel heavy and unnecessary," Pal notes, adding that "lighter coverage can offer a more breathable, natural finish". But beyond this, certain skin types should also be aware of its suitability for them.
"Those with sensitive skin might find full-coverage formulas too heavy or irritating, potentially causing reactions," Pal points out, while dry skin types should know that "unless the formula is specifically hydrating, full-coverage foundation can potentially accentuate dry patches" (look to these best foundations for dry skin, to find the best option). Another thing full-coverage formulas are notorious for are settling into fine lines and wrinkles, and emphasising them. "In such cases, using it sparingly or opting for a lighter formula where there is more texture to the skin might be better," the make-up artist advises.
What to look for in a full-coverage foundation
Therefore, skin concern and skin type compatibility are two things you need to look for when choosing a full-coverage foundation – "ensuring the formula is suitable for you; for example 'oil-free' for oily skin, 'non-comedogenic' for acne-prone skin, or 'hydrating' for dry skin".
Aside from that, consider a product's longevity, "looking for claims of long-lasting wear, especially if you need all-day coverage" and its finish, "whether you prefer a matte, dewy, or satin look".
The best full-coverage foundation
Below, Pal and other beauty experts share their favourite full-coverage foundations:
1
Best full-coverage foundation
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
Now 25% Off
The most robust full-coverage foundation? Estée Lauder's iconic Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup.
Pal notes: "It provides up to 24 hours of wear, making it ideal for long days or special occasions, comes in an extensive range of shades to match a variety of skin tones, and is transfer-resistant – staying put even in humid conditions or through physical activity."
Providing excellent coverage of imperfections while feeling comfortable on the skin, "it leaves a matte finish without looking cakey," she adds, saying that it's suitable for oily and combination skin types.
"This is my favourite foundation for full-coverage, and the best I've found for granting that flawless, perfected skin look without enhancing any lines," says Bazaar's multiplatform beauty director, Bridget March. "I never collects in any crevasse or cakes, lasting all day and night with a velvety, radiant finish."
"It pairs well with any skincare and SPF beneath and with glow-boosting creamy formulas (blush, highlighter etc.) on top.
"I urge you to try it if you want a polished look that lasts."
3
Best full-coverage foundation for dehydrated skin
Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Luminous Matte Foundation
Now 17% Off
As its name suggests, YSL's All Hours Luminous Matte Foundation is long-lasting, and leaves a finish that's at once brightening and mattifying – the holy grail combo for a grownup full-coverage foundation. Infused with hyaluronic acid for sustained hydration, it's suitable for dehydrated skins too, leaving the complexion smooth (and never patchy looking).
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4
Best full-coverage foundation for brides
Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation
Now 60% Off
Considered one of the very best bridal foundations, this "Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation looks amazing in photos," Bobbi Brown global pro artist Amy Conway tells Bazaar. "It has 16-hour wear, offers a medium-to-full coverage and comes in 42 'skin tone-correct' shades so it always looks flawless and natural," the make-up artist adds. March concurs – having worn it for her own wedding party and loving the radiant results.
5
Best budget full-coverage foundation
L'Oréal Paris Infallible 32hr Matte Cover Foundation
An excellent budget option for those playing trial and error with full-coverage: L'Oréal's Infallible 32hr Matte Cover Foundation gets rave reviews for its pigments that pack a punch while feeling feather-light on the face.
Another formula laced with hyaluronic acid, it's non-drying, blending beautifully upon application and remaining fresh-looking all day.
6
Best full-coverage foundation for controlling shine
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Natural Matte
The fullest-coverage sibling within IT Cosmetics' beloved CC+ franchise, this 'colour correcting, pore refining, full coverage cream' does it all – concealing imperfections and cancelling shine with a healthy, natural-looking finish.
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If you prefer a solid foundation look to MAC, masters of a beautiful skin base. The brand's Full Coverage Foundation is water-, sweat- and crease-resistant, covering everything from blemishes to birthmarks while blending seamlessly to look like real skin.
As per make-up artists' recommendations, apply it either with a damp sponge or foundation brush, then blend with the warmth of you fingers for a diffused finish.
8
Best full-coverage foundation for breakout-prone skin
Too Faced Born This Way Matte Foundation
This oil-free formula is great for the breakout-prone, offering complexions substantial coverage that reads as naturally radiant. Transfer-resistant and waterproof, it claims to last as long as 24 hours – should you be in the market for all-nighter make-up...
9
Best full-coverage foundation with diverse shade options
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
Now 17% Off
Having moved the needle in terms of inclusivity, Fenty Beauty's Pro Filt'r foundation comes in a range of 50 shades. But that's not all that impresses about this buildable base, which can offer ample coverage with a matte finish that resists sweat and humidity. Great for the acne-prone, but also flattering on parched skin types (there's no clinging to dry patches here), it's a safe choice if you like your complexion perfectly polished.
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Skincare-first (which can be atypical of full-coverage, long-wear make-up), Dior's Forever Matte Foundation is said to improve the natural mattness of the skin – as well as granting a shine-free complexion that lasts all day. Beautifully lightweight, the silky formula is a pleasure to wear, from the smooth application to its soft matte finish.
