The 20 Best Foundations That Our Beauty Editors Swear By 2024

A firm favourite with the A-List, this wonder product is a must-have in any beauty junkie's arsenal - you'll notice it consistently makes the 'best' lists for most skin types including mature and even dry. Not only does it blur imperfections, but it lights up your skin to give you that post-holiday glow. A cult classic among make-up artists the Armani Luminous Silk foundation finds the sweet spot between glow-giving and mattifying - it's oil free and infused with skin plumping glycerin. In our experience, this one works best when set with a light dusting of powder.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'The multi-award winning foundation is as lightweight as they come and offers a medium coverage which can be built up to impart a covetable natural-looking second skin finish. I still remember the first time I picked up a bottle at duty free many (many) moons ago, having instantly fallen in love with its silky-smooth velvety finish which, to my surprise, sat perfectly fine on my bumpy, acne-ridden face. Breathable, long-lasting and primed to cater to suit-all with an extensive 40 wide shade range, it's no wonder this OG is still a winner. And, like many of the newer foundations now available on the market which are infused with skincare ingredients, this classic has long put skin first that to the inclusion of glycerin (a hero ingredient that helps to lock in long-lasting moisture) and an oil-free base to keep acne at bay and maintain comfort-levels to enjoy all day wear. It's one of my favourites for combination skin types.'

Shade range: 40
Coverage: Medium, Buildable
Finish: Satin
Size: 30ml

Who needs a Valencia filter when you have Fenty Beauty's Pro Filt'r Foundation? The make-up bag staple gives skin an instantly smooth, pore-diffused, shine-free finish. This foundation comes in 50 different shades and it is a matte formula, with a buildable coverage to give you a medium-to-full coverage. It's particularly good for those with very pale, or very dark skin-tones.

Renee Washington, beauty assistant, says: 'I remember when Rihanna dropped her Fenty foundation with 50 shades - the internet almost shut down! I immediately got my hands on shade 430. This foundation has everything—long-wear, medium coverage, and a natural-looking luminous finish that gives you that perfect glow without any greasiness. And if you’re an oily girl, it works wonders in reducing surface oil and shine. The formula feels like a second skin, and with 50 shades, it makes it super easy to find your match. The only con? It oxidises a bit, so it can get darker after application, and you have to be careful about what you pair it with to avoid separation. Despite these minor quirks, its still one of my favourite foundations for its impressive performance and inclusive shade range.'

Shade range: 50
Coverage: Medium-full
Finish: Semi-matte
Size: 32ml

Ultimately, the Unreal Skin Glow has been formulated to create a 'soft focus, blurred glow that looks natural, refreshed and rested.'For this one, Tilbury has trademarked the term 'light mapping mesh tech' which, she says, allows for a ring light effect - there's her 'soft-focus blurring, smoothing emollients and glow moisture mesh formed from hyaluronic acid and pearlescent pigments' to thank for that.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'When this one first did the rounds in the office we were, to say the least, slightly apprehensive. One swatch across my hand revealed what looked like a glittery, almost iridescent pigment. Considering it's aimed at those who prefer no to minimal foundation, it all felt a little overwhelming. In fact, I had to double check the packaging to ensure it wasn't actually a highlighter I was about to blend all over my face. Yet when I was brave enough to apply it properly I was pleasantly surprised. The pigment melted into my skin beautifully, improving the overall tone and texture with just a few swipes. It felt comfortable too, and played well over my skincare. As for those aforementioned pearlescent pigments? Well, they were working hard. Although erring on the more subtle side of sparkly it's helpful to note that this formulation is a glittery one. And there's no getting away from it. If you don't mind a touch of shimmer then that's all well and good but if, like me, you err on the oilier side, then you may not want quite so much added luminosity. That said, with a bit of trial and error, I was impressed with the overall finish. Teamed with a touch of concealer and a dusting of of setting power my complexion looked brighter and more radiant. Don't judge a foundation by the initial swatch....'

Shade range: 20
Coverage: Light-medium
Finish: Sheer
Size: 10g

A firm favourite that is probably used by 85% of your friends at any given one time. This foundation promises to (and definitely does) last all day long. Over 60 shades to choose from with this product and has 24-hour staying power. We love it for its lightweight formula that gives a matte finish and a buildable coverage to blur blemishes.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'I tested the Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation several times in the run up to my wedding and I realised I was incredibly impressed by it – in fact, it quickly became my weekend foundation– the perfect option for when I wanted to feel a little bit more “done” when compared to my daily, more sheer finish. The key to beautiful skin was keeping the amount I applied to a minimum. The more delicate I was with the application, the happier I was with the finish. My skin appears more matte while a touch of my natural sheen is still able peek through. Overall I'd describe this as a great, medium to full-coverage foundation that plays well with all skin types, especially oilier complexions. There's also an impressive 60 shades comprising of cool and warm tones - meaning there's likely to be something for everyone. While those who love a totally natural look might not find favour with this one, others will be delighted by the promise of longevity and flawless looking finish.'

Shade range: 60
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Size: 30ml

This foundation is described as 'weightless, waterproof and long-wearing.'

Georgia Scott, beauty and fashion product writer for Grazia says: 'Since trying this foundation, I can honestly say I've found a new favourite. It's described as a lightweight formula and I 100% agree. The texture really reminds me of a serum, in the way it comfortably sits on the skin. I typically apply my foundation with a dense, buffing brush, such as Hourglass' Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush or Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Complexion Brush. One of the best things I noticed about this foundation is a little bit goes a long way. I love that I can achieve an even, flawless complexion in a flash and I was even more impressed with its staying power.If, like me, you love a flawless complexion without feeling cakey, this foundation is definitely one to add to your make-up bag. I would describe this foundation as offering medium yet buildable coverage, but its a product that can work for your skin all year round throughout the different seasons. The blurring, airbrush finish you might've spotted on TikTok is not a hoax - it's definitely visible in real life and I noticed that my skin looked just as flawless after hours of wear.'

Shade range: 28
Coverage: Medium buildable
Finish: Matte
Size: 30ml

Glossier's Stretch Fluid Foundation launch arrives hot on the heels of the brand’s OG Stretch Concealer, £22. Made with an impressive 89% skincare base, this nourishing gel-crème formula is brimming with a medley of plant-derived squalene and glycerine - both hero hydrators. Shine never reaches OTT levels thanks to the help of mattifying rose berry and plankton, while amino acid-coated pigments make for seamless blendability.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'It takes a lot for a new foundation to turn my head. After all, there's a lot to consider: the finish, the glow factor, the shade range, the list goes on. For me, the right one delivers a natural-look, even coverage that lasts and blurs my post-acne pigmentation, all while blending seamlessly into my olive toned South Asian skin. I did warn you it was a lengthy list. That said, this foundation ticks every box. And patchiness with wear? Not a hint. It doesn't take much for a beauty product to make it big on TikTok these days, but as far as Glossier's Stretch Fluid Foundation is concerned, the hype is well-deserved.'

Shade range: 32
Coverage: Light to medium
Finish: Radiant
Size: 30ml

Chances are you'll have seen this one on TikTok - it's beloved by content creators thanks to its skin beautifying abilities. It's light, but buildable, and can be teamed with a concealer for added coverage.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'I've been testing this tinted gel for a few months now and I'm officially hooked. I have problematic skin (to say the least) so I need to be rest assured that incorporating any new base products into my routine won't break me out. This, I kid you not, has left me with some of the best skin I've had in years. I apply a small amount with my fingers tips and blend it across my whole complexion. Not only does it refine and even out my skin instantly, but the assortment of skin loving ingredients (think zinc to minimise redness and copper peptides to boost collagen) has plumped and soothed in the long run, too. I do have to give it a little top up around about lunch time, though - but it leaves me looking so radiant that I can't really complain.'

Shade range: 24
Coverage: Light
Finish: Dewy
Size: 30ml

A tried-and-tested classic that puts skin first. The formula includes hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe vera extract and boasts 48 inclusive shades that promise to match a whopping 99.5% of skin tones. Expect impressive shade matching, all-day hydration and an enhanced natural glow thanks to skin ingredient heroes.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: This has been an everyday classic for sometime, not least because of the affordable price tag. I have skin prone to redness so I find it quite tricky to find the correct shade, but there's 48 here meaning there was plenty of options to consider for my own unique undertone. Where application is concerned, I put a small amount on my hand first before smoothing onto my skin with a stippling brush - this helps me to have better control of how much product I'm using. It glides on beautifully, the finish is smooth, and there's a subtle glow there too - I assume there's the hyaluronic acid and glycerin to thank for that. I've tried it without powder before, but, because of the hydrating properties, it does tend to slide off. With some setting powder, however? I'm left with hydrated, dewy looking skin without so much of a hint of oiliness. No touch-ups needed. And did I mention it also contains SPF? While it's only SPF17 (you will need a standalone SPF too) it's still reassuring to know it's bolstered with protection. It's a beauty bargain.'

Shade range: 40
Coverage: Light
Finish: Luminous
Size: 30ml

Lisa Eldridge is well known for her prowess in the beauty sphere - her newly launched skin tint ticks boxes and is an excellent option for mature skin types.

Cassie Steer, freelance beauty editor, says: '"Your skin but better" is a phrase bandied about rather loosely in the beauty world but makeup maven Lisa Eldridge has absolutely nailed the kind of smooth, luminous, even skin that alludes to a certain lifestyle where you have the luxury of carving out time for ‘self-care’ whilst supping on golden mylk and gua sha-ing the bejesus out of a mere suggestion of dullness. She’s also got the tones (with 18 all-encompassing shades) just-so; I’m T3 which is one of the few pale shades I’ve tried that is neither too pink or too yellow. I also love that whilst it’s packed with 78% skincare ingredients to soothe and hydrate, my skin isn’t left feeling greasy. Did I mention I love it?'

Shade range: 16
Coverage: Light
Finish: Natural
Size: 30ml

This light-weight, skin nourishing, Tinted Treatment contains SPF20 to protect and protect skin

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'When it comes to anything to do with base, a close to perfect shade match is one of my top requirements. Brulée Beauty takes pride in catering to golden and yellow skin tones as well as those in-between shades that are all too often neglected on beauty counters. With an innate understanding and respect for the spectrum of colours within the medium shade range, it's not a surprise that I found my perfect match with Brulée Beauty's Skin Nectar, Shade 3 to be exact. Described as a nourishing tinted moisturiser, it's quickly become my go-to amid the return of warmer weather thanks to its lightweight, comfortable feel, no-fuss application and high-quality, soft second skin finish. The best bit? Unlike most skin tints, this can be built up to full coverage, all without that heavy feeling. It will easily give your favourite foundation a run for its money this summer.'

Shade range: 5
Coverage: Light
Finish: Radiant
Size: 30ml

A skin tint is the perfect way to mesh the complexion perfecting prowess of a foundation with skincare ingredients - there's a reason why Google searches for 'skin tint' are up 114. U Beauty's offering is a go-to.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: 'Science-first skincare brand Ubeauty takes innovation seriously - peruse the clinical testing and white paper (a rarity for a beauty brand) if you so wish. Something called SIREN technology is the secret to the brand’s sell out success. Seriously, those moisturisers fly off the shelves. All you need to know is that each of the products is very, very hydrating. The same principle has been applied to the Super Tinted Hydrator. The skincare/makeup hybrid is essentially a tinted version of the best selling moisturiser. Coverage is sheer, almost imperceptible, but my god you’ll glow (not shine, don’t panic). Avocado and grapeseed oils plus hyaluronic acid feed skin with good stuff and you’re left with that much coveted skincare status of looking well rested. Yes, it’s eye-wateringly expensive but, in my experience, a little really does go a long way and the compliments you’ll receive go some way to justifying the cost.'

Shade range: 10
Coverage: Sheer
Finish: Glowy
Size: 30ml

Here's a foundation that truly puts skin first. With a 97% natural-origin formula that boasts 24-hour hydration and up to 12 hours of radiant coverage, it blurs, corrects and leaves behind a believable natural glow. Colour-corrective pigments and light-reflecting.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This foundation is wonderfully versatile - I can keep the coverage feeling light and subtle, or else I can build it for a more glamorous, evening look. I would say that a little goes a long way initially here - especially if you're wanting to begin with a light base. I use a wet beauty blender to apply the formula, paying extra attention to my t-zone where I would naturally be more oily. After just the smallest amount and my complexion immediately appeared more radiant, moisturised and even. My pores looked less prominent and my redness virtually undectable. The staying-power is also excellent. I wore this to the office recently and I didn't need to top up come evening drinks - and I hadn't even used setting powder!'

Shade range: 30
Coverage: Buildable
Finish: Glowy
Size: 30ml

Redness prone? This medium coverage, weightless, gentle foundation contains fermented arnica that helps reduce redness. A little goes a long way to perfect and enhance.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'The last time I stopped a lady at a party to compliment her buttery skin, I was told it was the work of Lady Gaga's Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation - which Molly Mae has also waxed lyrical about. A revelation of sorts, it's taken the TikTok community and make-up experts everywhere by storm thanks to its wide shade range, gentle and weightless feel and impressive coverage. I love the way it manages to make skin look natural but doll-like at once. It's extremely long lasting (no top-ups neccessary) and has a good range of colours. I'd recommend this one.'

Shade range: 43
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Luminous
Size: 30ml

Ideal for travelling, the Vanish Seamless Foundation Stick is a long-wearing high-pigment dream suited to those who prefer a bit of extra coverage.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'My all-time favourite foundation comes in stick form! It may look thick and uber-coverage at first but upon application you'll find it blends out a dream and comes equipped with a natural-looking finish – and that's all down to the innovative formula which means it boasts the fluidity of a liquid and the weightlessness of a powder in one. It's both my go-to for a quick fix face and an ultra-glam evening. There's several shade options suited to most undertones, plus it's incredibly long lasting.'

Shade range: 32
Coverage: Full
Finish: Natural
Size: 7.2g

Shiseido's Revitalessence Glow Foundation has found favour among beauty editors thanks to its lightweight serum-like texture that allows for a radiant, glowing base.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: 'It was love at first swatch for me and this lightweight foundation. It’s more of a megawatt tinted moisturiser than a traditional foundation; skin is warmed up and enhanced but not covered, so your real skin peeps through making for an overall effect that is natural and healthy. The clue is in the name, this stuff really does make your skin glow. I have friends who prefer a matte finish who find that it makes skin look too dewy, but for me there’s no such thing as too glowy. I have put many a beauty editor onto this brilliant everyday formula and they’re very thankful.' 

Rachael Martin, beauty editor says: 'Best foundation, ever! It's my skin but MUCH better. I'll apply a light layer with a fluffy brush and my skin is transformed from dull to radiant. A little goes a long way for the most natural result.'

Shade range: 32
Coverage: Light-medium
Finish: Luminous
Size: 30ml

Few products could be quite so iconic as the Nars Sheer Glow Foundation - it's been a staple in the kit of make-up artists around the world for years now thanks to its ability to impart a dewy radiance on even the most parched of complexions.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This was the first high-end foundation I ever used, and I've used it consistently ever since - it remains a favourite despite many, many new launches since. One of the main reasons I love it is because it's brimming with skincare benefits. Glycerin works a treat to perk up my tired complexion while turmeric brightens in the long-run. Just a small amount adds a subtle, soft glow to my skin, but it's also buildable if I find I need a little more coverage. I would say it's long-lasting but also that it benefits from a setting powder or spray - especially if you're oilier around the T-Zone like me. I'd suggest popping to the Nars counter at Space NK for an excellent shade match - there's over 40 options suited to all undertones.'

Shade range: 40
Coverage: Medium buildable
Finish: Glowy
Size: 30ml

A new cult classic in the making, Saie's Glowy Super Skin Foundation reveals bright, radiant skin with minimal effort.

Renee Washington, beauty assistant, says: 'The Saie Glowy Super Skin Foundation in Shade 29 has quickly become a staple in my makeup routine. This foundation delivers on its promise of a radiant, dewy finish without compromising coverage. Its lightweight, serum-like texture blends effortlessly onto my skin, creating a smooth, even base. I've found that pairing it with e.l.f. Power Grip and REFY primer enhances its longevity and overall performance. The foundation layers beautifully under the Too Faced concealer, providing a flawless complexion. I appreciate the inclusion of skincare benefits like hyaluronic acid, rice bran peptides, polyglutamic acid, and glycerin, which keep my skin hydrated and nourished throughout the day. While the formula can be a bit runny and the pump could be improved, these are minor drawbacks compared to the foundation overall.'

Shade range: 36
Coverage: Light-medium
Finish: Glowy
Size: 30ml

Good things come in small packages if this foundation is anything to go by. A pressed powder foundation, the coverage is medium to full matte. You can apply it with a sponge applicator.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'When I was first introduced to this product, I thought it was too good to be true. I powder foundation that can boast the same coverage as a regular foundation but with the lightness of a powder? No way. But this proved me wrong. 'Full coverage in one swipe' – are the words of make-up artist Adeola Gboyega, who demonstrated its benefits on my skin when it launched. The results still astound me.'

Shade range: 9
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Size: 30ml

Despite having been something of a stalwart in the realm of foundations, YSL's coveted Éclat Le Teint Foundation has proven it's staying power - quite literally. It's gone viral on TikTok in the last few months thanks to its skin-perfecting formulation.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: On the rare occasions that I opt for a more pulled together makeup look I reach for this, and have done for the past ten years. To caveat, this foundation isn’t one of YSL’s most high-coverage offerings and it’s not a matte finish either but it’s about as full-coverage as I go. The creamy formula melts into skin and - crucially - doesn’t cling to any dry bits, or blemishes. You can build it up easily to achieve your desired finish but I find that one layer is enough to give me a natural-looking (but better) look.

Shade range: 28
Coverage: Lightweight medium
Finish: Natural
Size: 25ml

Another day, another excellent skin tint foundation. Hourglass know a thing or two about creating a candlelight glow on the skin, and the new Hydrating Skin Tint definitely doesn't disappoint. The lightweight, hydrating formula melts into the skin to provide an even yet sheer coverage ideal for dry and dehydrated skin types.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'If you're after a "your skin but better" finish then you've come to the right place.The Hourglass Veil hydrating skin tint contains squalane, meadowfoam seed oil and a rambutan blend, which 'work to provide nourishment and leave skin feeling smooth.' And, I can confirm, it does just that. I use the warmth of my finger tips and blend it in like a moisturiser - it's creamy and easy to work with. It also "sets" quickly leaving it feeling virtually undetectable on the skin - this is great for me as I hate to feel like I'm wearing anything on my skin. If I have any pesky spots or blemishes I'll use a concealer as well - the coverage is enough to even out skin tone, but not enough to cover spots. As it's so light on the skin I would say that you may need a little top-up during the day - especially if you're oilier around the t-zone. Use SpaceNK's handy shade matching service if you need a hand choosing a colour.'

Shade range: 18
Coverage: Light
Finish: Luminous
Size: 30ml