Foundation is easily one of the staple products needed for a makeup routine regardless of skin type. Not only are there different formulas to meet almost any skin concern, but the product can be used for a lightweight, barely there look, or a full glam "I definitely did not wake up like this" beat. On top of being able to use foundation as concealer, color corrector, and even bronzer, it's safe to say that the product is a non-negotiable in any makeup routine.
While finding a good foundation is essential, on top of the seemingly endless options available feeling completely overwhelming, searching for your tried-and-true formula can also be expensive. If you're overwhelmed, fear not. There are plenty of stellar drugstore foundations available for reasonable prices you can work into your budget.
Before taking a trip to your neighborhood drugstore, there with a handful of factors to consider before buying a foundation. Will that full coverage formula make your skin look cakey or dry? Will a liquid foundation stay in place even at the end of a busy day? We've made it easier for you to answer these questions by picking out the best drugstore foundations that measure up to even luxury options. From matte options that keep oily skin from ruining your day to lightweight formulas perfect for a no-makeup look, there's an affordable foundation out there for every skin tone and concern.
Ahead, you'll find the best drugstore foundations around, which will keep your skin looking radiant and clear all day long.
The NYX Professional Makeup Can't Stop Won't Stop Foundation ($15) may be full coverage, but it's surprisingly lightweight and a worthy option for those with normal, oily, and combination skin.
The Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation ($13) features a medium-coverage formula that'll leave your skin looking soft and velvety without feeling too heavy or weighed down.
The E.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation ($6) features a liquid, oil-free formula meant to even out skin tones and textures and give skin a natural-looking finish.
Don't knock stick foundations until you try them. The Black Opal True Color Skin Perfecting Stick Foundation ($12) applies like butter and will leave your skin with a flawless, full-coverage finish every time you use it.
Grab the Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation ($8) the next time you want a "glowing from within" look.
The Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Powder Foundation ($9-$15) helps you cover up redness, acne, and marks. This powder drugstore foundation is buildable and includes SPF 20.
If your party outfit was expensive AF, don't worry; the Wet n Wild Photofocus Foundation ($6) is here to provide you with long-lasting coverage for hours at an incredible price point.
The Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation ($9) is perfect for all skin types. The high-coverage foundation can also be used to treat spots and imperfections as a concealer.
For beauty on a budget, pick up the Catrice HD Liquid Coverage Foundation ($11). Without being too heavy on your skin, it will provide full coverage and last the entire day.
The best thing about the NYX Professional Makeup Total Control Drop Foundation ($14) is that you can build up your desired coverage with each drop. One to two gives you a barely there effect, while three to four covers any breakouts or hyperpigmentation like a charm.
The L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation ($16) has a medium-coverage formula that blends into a fresh, natural-looking finish.
Use the Burt's Bees Mattifying Powder Foundation ($17) to keep oily shine away without breaking your budget. You can also layer it over your usual liquid drugstore foundation to keep it in place all day long.
The sponge-like compact of L'Oréal True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation ($8-$23) is soaked with superfine pigments that leave behind a subtle — yet buildable — finish.
You'll never splurge on department-store foundations again if you give the CoverGirl Outlast All-Day Foundation ($11-$18) a chance. With this gem, you won't need additional primer or concealer.
The LA Girl Pro Coverage Foundation ($5-$10) is a favorite among beauty bloggers for its full-coverage finish and great range of shades. Plus, it comes in a pump, meaning you won't have to dip a brush or fingers into the liquid, and it will stay fresh longer.
Lovers of the convenience of stick foundations will adore the Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Foundation ($8), which gives a full-coverage finish without ever getting cakey. Simply draw it on your face and blend it in with the warmth of your fingers.
Don't sleep on the L'Oreal True Match Foundation ($11) just because it's been around for a long time. The formula blends into skin effortlessly and makes it look like you naturally have an even tone without wearing makeup. Plus, it comes it an impressive 43 shades.
Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Foundation ($5) completely covers up blemishes (with zero concealer necessary) but still manages to leave behind the subtlest, skin-like finish — because why not get a foundation that can do both? It's also formulated with antioxidants to ward off environmental aggressors.
When you're after that lit-from-within glow but want enough coverage to ensure nothing else dims your shine, reach for the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Glow ($13).
The CoverGirl Clean Oil Control Compact Pressed Powder ($6) reduces the appearance of pores and keeps oily skin in check.
The ColourPop Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Hydrating Foundation ($16) is praised for its hydrating properties, but with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, any skin type can use this foundation and achieve glowy, luminous skin.