Without a Doubt, These Are the Best Full-Coverage Foundations

Growing up with acne taught me a lot of things—namely, that double cleansing is essential, the difference between a whitehead and a blackhead, and also, how to apply foundation so that my skin looked loads clearer and calmer than it actually was. The secret was, of course, down to a combination of clever concealing and finding the best full-coverage foundations. I mean the ones that actually do last all day, that provide coverage without feeling heavy or looking cakey, and that have skin-kind formulas which don't contribute to further skin problems.

These days, my skin is clear enough that I can mostly get away with wearing a skin tint or BB cream. But if I do need something more heavy duty to mask an unexpected breakout or to conceal the scarring and lingering hyper-pigmentation that I have on my cheeks, then I turn back to my trusty full-coverage foundation favourites.

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(Image credit: @MONIKH)

Full-coverage foundations haven't always been pleasant to wear, but these days, makeup trends are all about radiant, glowy, natural-looking skin, and newer foundation formulas reflect that. In 2023 it's safe to say that the best full-coverage foundations will not only conceal breakouts, tone down redness, reduce shine and last all day, but also feel comfortable to wear and leave skin with a natural finish.

Of course, there are still a lot of foundations out there to sift through in your hunt for the best, and it also helps to know how to apply them. I've rounded up the best full-coverage foundations below, along with some helpful application tips from makeup artist Lucy Hart. You're welcome. 

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(Image credit: @PEONYLIM)

How to Apply Full-Coverage Foundation

According to Hart, skin prep is essential to get full-coverage foundation looking the best it can, so take the time to focus on your skincare before you even pick up your makeup bag. "Hydration is key, so always start with a rich moisturiser," she advises. "Ideally, one that has properties that give skin a glow." If you're not overly concerned about oil control, she recommends skipping primer and just sticking with moisturiser.

To apply your foundation, Hart says one of the most foolproof techniques is to use both a brush and a sponge. "You can use a traditional, flat-bristled foundation brush to distribute the product, and then use a damp makeup sponge to press it into the skin," she explains. "However, my favourite way to apply a full-coverage foundation is with a duo-fibre brush. It’s a little bit more dense but still quite fluffy. I use this in a tapping motion, almost as you would a sponge."

"Using fingers is a messy technique but it is one of the best ways to apply foundation," she adds. "However, with full-coverage formulas especially, I would always finish off by bouncing over with a sponge just to even out the coverage and make sure the product is pressed into skin."

When it comes to choosing a formula, Hart advises looking for foundations with creamy textures. "With cream foundations you can build up the layers of coverage, and they also layer beautifully with other cream makeup products," she explains. "Creams give you a bit of flexibility and freedom in being able to manipulate your makeup. And if you want a matte finish, you can set them with a translucent powder."

"I prefer foundations that are full coverage to feel quite breathable and not clogging or cakey," says Hart. "Remember that thicker isn't always better. Lighter-feeling foundations can have the same pigment and coverage, and you'll still get that doll-like skin really efficiently, easily and quickly."

The Best Full-Coverage Foundations:

1. SUQQU The Cream Foundation

2. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

3. Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

4. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation

5. L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24h Fresh Wear Foundation

6. Beauty Pie Everyday Great Skin Foundation

7. Huda Beauty #Fauxfilter Luminous Matte Liquid Foundation

8. Sculpted By Aimee Satin Silk Longwear Foundation

9. Jones Road What The Foundation

10. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

11. No7 Stay Perfect Foundation

12. NYX Professional Makeup Can't Stop Won't Stop Full Coverage Foundation

13. Maybelline Superstay 30hr Foundation

14. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Foundation

15. Anastasia Beverly Hills Luminous Foundation

16. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay in Place Foundation

17. Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation

18. Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

Next Up: The Best Foundation Brushes For a Seamless Finish, According to a Beauty Editor

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Freelance Beauty Editor

Grace Day is a beauty editor and content creator. She has over 10 years of beauty-industry experience, spanning editorial, retail, and e-commerce, which gives her a unique understanding into how people shop for their beauty routines.While studying for a history degree (specialising in the history of beauty) and working as a beauty adviser in department stores, Grace started writing her own beauty blog in order to share the products she discovered while dealing with acne. After graduating, she moved to Beauty Bay as beauty editor and content manager. Grace is currently a beauty contributor to Who What Wear. She has also written for Hypebae and PopSugar and works as a brand consultant and copywriter.