The Best Long-Wear Foundations That Won't Stain Your Face Mask (or Fave White T-Shirt)
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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.
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Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage Foundation
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.
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Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation
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.
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Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
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.
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Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
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.
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L'Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation
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.
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Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation
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.
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Lorac Pro Soft Focus Longwear Foundation
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.
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KVD Vegan Beauty Lock-It Tattoo Foundation
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.
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Smashbox Studio Skin Full Coverage 24 Hour Foundation
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.
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