Our 5 Favorite Foundations for Every Skin Type

While it would be nice to say our complexion is free of flaws and imperfections, that’s just not the case…whatsoever. To cover up the occasional zit, misplaced freckle, or blotch of redness, we look to foundation for a helping hand, and there’s no shame in our game. The only thing worse than pesky problem areas, though, is picking a foundation that’s not suitable for our skin type. Fact is, the quickest way to make it look like you’re wearing makeup—and too much of it at that—is to wear the wrong kind of makeup for your skin type. To help ease the selection, we’ve rounded up the best foundations for every skin type below. So whether you’re oily, dry, or sensitive, there’s a foundation out there waiting for you! 

FOR OILY OR BLEMISHED SKIN: MAYBELLINE FIT ME MATTE+ PORELESS FOUNDATION 

Who said foundation has to make your already oily skin look even oilier? This formula by Maybelline—with micro-powders—mattifies skin to minimize shine and blur the look of pores. What you’re left with is a natural-looking, seamless finish that’ll hide what you don’t want anyone to see (ahem, blemishes). 

Maybelline Fit Me Matte+ Poreless Foundation, $7.99

FOR DRY SKIN: GIORGIO ARMANI CREMA NUDA SUPREME GLOW REVIVING TINTED CREAM 

There may have been a point in time when applying foundation onto dry skin was a surefire way to cause flaking and parched patches. But not anymore. Creamier bases with moisturizing formulas are widely available now, like this specially-blended foundation from Giorgio Armani boasting a hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid and mannose. Choose from six glow-enhancing shades for invisible correction. 

Giorgio Armani Crema Nuda Supreme Glow Reviving Tinted Cream, $200 

FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: VICHY DERMAFINISH CORRECTIVE FLUID FOUNDATION

When you have sensitive skin, covering imperfections such as redness, acne marks, and dark spots can be an uphill battle. Make it a little easier with this sensitive skin-approved foundation formulated with soothing Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water. The lightweight blend offers total coverage and all-day moisture, all while respecting the needs of sensitive skin. 

Vichy Dermafinish Corrective Fluid Foundation, $30

FOR MATURE & NORMAL SKIN: LANCÔME RÉNERGIE LIFT MAKEUP FOUNDATION

This lightweight, moisturizing fluid helps blur lines and wrinkles for up to 12 hours thanks to Micro-Lift technology and pure vitamin E. Your complexion will appear flawless and line-free. It’s not magic, but it sure seems like it.

Lancôme Rénergie Lift Makeup Foundation, $47

THE ANTI-FOUNDATION: L’OREAL PARIS MAGIC NUDE LIQUID POWDER BARE SKIN PERFECTING MAKEUP SPF 18

We get it: Not all foundations feel light and airy on the skin. If you’re looking for some coverage without the makeup feel, this formula is the one for you. It starts as a liquid and transforms into a soft powder upon contact. Just give it a good shake and apply it onto your skin. Trust us when we say it’ll feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.

L’Oréal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder Bare Skin Perfecting Makeup SPF 18, $12.95