There are a handful of reasons you want a good, long-wear foundation in your makeup collection. It's a must if you work long hours, have a big event coming up, live in a hot and humid climate, or just want to wear a white T-shirt without running the risk of your base makeup smudging onto your collar. (It's safe to say we have all been there and can mutually agree it's the worst.)
Smudge-proof, long-lasting foundation formulas not only keep your makeup from sliding off your face when you sweat or your complexion gets oily around 3 p.m., but they also allow for maximum coverage hours after you apply them — like up to 24 hours after. That means your makeup is more likely to look like it did when you put it on at 8 a.m. (read: pure perfection).
No matter your reasoning for seeking a foundation with a long-wear claim, there are ample options at both your local drugstore and beauty retailers at a wide range of price points. From a top-rated formula from Nars to a cult-classic Maybelline New York option, we rounded up the best long-wear foundations ahead.
One of the best drugstore options for long-wear foundations is the Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage Foundation ($12). The lightweight formula offers buildable coverage, is oil-free, and won't clog pores.
The Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation ($47) is an oil-free liquid formula that boasts up to 24 hours of wear. It leaves your complexion with a natural, soft-matte finish and is suitable for all skin types. And we have proof that it passes the face-mask test.
Long-lasting foundations don't have to be matte — the Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation ($49) is buildable and gives you 16 hours of fade-resistant wear. Fruit extracts in the formula help give your complexion a radiant look over time.
As its name suggests, the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation ($43) doesn't budge after it's applied. It offers 24 hours of full, matte coverage and is suitable for combination and oily skin types.
For a natural, barely there look, the L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation ($15) is a great option. It's waterproof and transfer-resistant, and it holds up against sweat without sliding or fading.
Not only is the Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation ($40) built for long wear, but it's waterproof, too. The liquid formula is best for combination and oily skin types and gives you comfortable matte coverage.
If you prefer less coverage but still want something that lasts, the Lorac Pro Soft Focus Longwear Foundation ($38) offers just that. It's a water-resistant formula that gives your complexion a smooth finish while nourishing it with ingredients like vitamin C and watermelon extract.
The KVD Vegan Beauty Lock-It Tattoo Foundation ($37) gives you flawless, matte full coverage with just a small amount of product. It's transfer-resistant so you can trust it won't end up anywhere it's not supposed to and suitable for all skin types.
For weightless full coverage, try the Smashbox Studio Skin Full Coverage 24 Hour Foundation ($36). It's waterproof and sweat-resistant, and it helps control oil with kaolin clay.