In the market for a new foundation, but stumped on where to start? There’s a solution for that — and it’s called a virtual swatch guide. Featuring the 12 most buzzworthy options of the moment, we’ve made it easy to find your perfect match. Hover over the tiles below to identify each formula, then click to learn more, see swatches, and shop.
Resident risk-taker and boundary-breaker Rihanna skipped zero beats when creating her now-iconic foundation. Not only does this long-wearing, medium-to-full-coverage formula establish the perfect soft-matte base on any skin type, but it comes in a whopping 40 shades. We dare you to find one that isn’t a perfect match.
FENTY BEAUTY by RIHANNA
PRO FILT'R SOFT MATTE
LONGWEAR FOUNDATION
FENTY BEAUTY
BY RIHANNA
ALL SKIN TYPES
Lightweight yet full coverage, this buildable formula can be worn for a whopping 16 hours. The natural, skin-like finish is designed to seamlessly mimic your natural undertones, leaving behind a totally flawless base. Apply the formula on areas that need the most coverage first, then work out toward the edges of your face — less is always more.
NATURAL RADIANT LONGWEAR FOUNDATION
NARS
NARS
What blurs imperfections, conceals blemishes, and evens your skin tone at the same time? Sephora’s very own foundation! This oil-free formula is insanely comfortable on the skin and lasts for up to 10 hours. Hyaluronic acid keeps your complexion hydrated while vitamin E protects against external stressors like pollution or humidity.
10 HR WEAR PERFECTION FOUNDATION
SEPHORA
COLLECTION
SEPHORA
COLLECTION
A little goes a long way with Kat Von D’s long-wearing, matte (but not flat!) foundation. The pump is designed to distribute the perfect amount of product for a totally custom look — use one pump for medium to full coverage or two for flawless, full coverage. Like the rest of her cult-favorite makeup line, this formula is vegan and cruelty-free.
LOCK-IT FOUNDATION
KAT VON D
KAT VON D
Amazonian clay strikes again! Tarte’s naturally derived staple ingredient is the secret weapon behind this comfortable, long-lasting, non-caking foundation. Full coverage and matte, the SPF 15-infused formula is perfectly tailored to those with normal to oily skin types. One application will last you a full 12 hours, too!
AMAZONIAN CLAY 12-HOUR FULL COVERAGE FOUNDATION SPF 15
TARTE
TARTE
If you’re partial to liquid foundations, let this waterproof, long-wearing option convince you to try a stick variation instead. The concentrated formula delivers double the amount of pigment of a traditional foundation, yet feels weightless on the skin. It’s perfectly sized to take on the go so you can apply or touch up anywhere.
VANISH SEAMLESS FINISH FOUNDATION STICK
HOURGLASS
HOURGLASS
No shine to see here, folks! This full-coverage, matte velvet foundation leaves behind a completely photoready finish without fading, flaking, or caking. It’s also creamy, breathable, and highly blendable, which ensures your complexion will stay looking natural and fresh for a full 24 hours.
MATTE VELVET SKIN FOUNDATION
Make Up
For Ever
MAKE UP FOR EVER
A true cult favorite, this oil-free formula looks so flawless — and matches a variety of skin tones so impressively well — no one will know you’re wearing foundation. Coconut water helps replenish skin’s moisture levels, giving you that subtle “woke up like this” radiance all day. Any skin type can get in on the fun, but those with normal to dry skin will be especially impressed.
BORN THIS WAY FOUNDATION
TOO FACED
TOO FACED
This OG beauty brand is a staple in countless women’s beauty routines, and after trying this long-wear foundation, you’ll understand why it’s still on top. The oil-free formula leaves your complexion looking simultaneously natural and velvety-matte, making it one of the most universal options in the game. The stacked 40-color shade range is just an added bonus.
TEINT IDOLE ULTRA LONG WEAR FOUNDATION
LANCÔME
LANCÔME
Clogged pores, noticeable fine lines, oxidation, and transferring are all qualities most people look to avoid when shopping for a foundation. Sound familiar? Allow us to introduce your new favorite formula. This breathable, natural-matte option is not only ultra comfortable on the skin, but seamlessly buildable without causing breakouts or the like.
STUDIO SKIN 15 HOUR HYDRATING FOUNDATION
SMASHBOX
SMASHBOX
No matter how much you love a dewy glow or blinding highlight, no one wants to look like a shiny mess in photos. This foundation gives you the best of both worlds. Not only does the SPF 25-infused formula create a flashback-free finish, but it’s also made with finely milled pigments that naturally settle into the skin. A broad shade range means everyone can reap the impressive benefits.
SHAMELESS YOUTHFUL-LOOK 24H FOUNDATION SPF 25
MARC JACOBS
BEAUTY
MARC JACOBS
BEAUTY
When it comes to your complexion, the power is in your hands — and trying this foundation couldn’t be a better move. The matte, sweat-proof formula masks shine and blurs pores, all while providing weightless full coverage. It even protects against pollution! Ideal for normal to oily skin types, this may just become your best beauty asset.
POWER PLAY FOUNDATION
COVER FX
COVER FX
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