10 Best Drugstore Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin – 2024
Cover up your imperfections and acne breakouts with these drugstore foundations.
Felicia is a licensed esthetician and a certified airbrush makeup artist. Prior to this, she worked in the IT industry as a business sales assistant while enriching her bridal professional beauty and styling skills on the side. Felicia likes a minimalist approach to glamor and is known for creating natural elegant looks through subtle makeup.
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Finding a foundation that is best suited for your skin tone can be a pretty tiresome task. If you’re someone who has to deal with terrible acne breakouts, it can be even more challenging to find the right one at a reasonable price. Drugstore foundations for acne-prone skin are no longer hard to come by, and they can offer exceptional results to help you cover up imperfections, blemishes, and more without having to break the bank. While you may not be able to stop by the store and pick it up as conveniently, we’ve created a list of the best drugstore foundations for acne-prone skin to help make things easier for you.
In This Article
Best Drugstore Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin
1. Best Oil-Free:Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation
The Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation is a cult-favorite product, with over 40 shades to suit every skin tone. It is the go-to foundation for people with acne-prone and oily skin types. The lightweight formula minimizes the appearance of pores and is infused with micro-powders that control excess shine and blur imperfections to provide a natural matte finish. It gives flawless coverage and helps you achieve healthy skin with a radiant glow. This video will provide you with added insights about the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
- Full coverage
- Long-lasting
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Allergy tested
- Available in 40 shades
Cons
- None
Pro TipTo achieve a skin-like, natural look, use your fingertips and apply the foundation using a gentle tapping motion.
2. Best Blendable:L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation
If you are looking for a foundation that stays in place all day long without budging, try the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation. The lightweight formula offers medium coverage and hides imperfections to give you a smooth and flawless makeup look with a semi-matte finish. This cult-favorite foundation is available in 28 shades that suit light, medium, and deep skin tones. Take a look at this video to know more about a reviewer’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
- Long-lasting
- Oil-free
- Transfer-resistant
- Available in 28 shades
Cons
- None
Pro TipPair this foundation with a L’Oreal Paris face primer to smooth the skin and improve its texture before applying other makeup products.
3. Best Transfer-Resistant:Revlon Colorstay Makeup For Combination / Oily Skin
The Revlon Colorstay Makeup offers a smooth, matte finish that stays intact all day. The foundation provides medium to full buildable coverage and is easy to blend. It is formulated with SPF 15 to protect your skin from sun damage. This foundation is great for achieving a dewy glow. This drugstore foundation comes in 43 shades that suit all skin tones – light, medium, or dark. You may check more about a tester’s experience with this product in this video.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Affordable
- Buildable coverage
- Transfer-proof
- Oil-free
- Has SPF 15
- Available in 43 shades
Cons
- None
Pro TipTake one to two pumps of the foundation and apply using a stippling brush. Blend the production from the center of your face towards the edges for a flawless look.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 4,203 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
| Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation Best Oil-Free | L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation Best Blendable | Revlon Colorstay Makeup For Combination / Oily Skin Best Transfer-Resistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal; OilyColor | OilyColor | CombinationColor |
| Dimensions | 1.18 x 1.18 x 4.33 inches | 0.74 x 1.85 x 4.78 inches | 1.25 x 1.25 x 4.13 inches |
| Weight | 3.88 Ounces | 1.44 Ounces | 4.23 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 91,275 | 3,067 | 4,203 |
| Price | $549 | $9.99 | $9.99 |
4. Best Sweat-Resistant:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Fresh Wear Foundation
This foundation by L’Oreal Paris offers 24-hour staying power and provides medium to full coverage, which makes it a celebrity makeup artist-favorite. It is formulated with a blend of three oil absorbers that make it non-comedogenic, able to absorb water and sweat, and transfer-proof. This easily blendable drugstore foundation goes on smooth and stays true to its color to give you a natural look. It comes in 30 shades to suit various skin tones. Reviewers highly recommend its non-greasy formula because it gives flawless coverage all day.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Has SPF 25
- Easy to apply
- Easy to blend
- Waterproof
- Transfer-proof
- Sweat-resistant
- Non-comedogenic
- Available in 30 shades
Cons
- None
"This foundation provides long-lasting coverage and a natural finish for all my everyday wear. It blends smoothly and is kind to my dry skin. It also has an extensive shade range, so it was easy to find a perfect match for my skin tone. It's quite a staple in my daily routine."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 14,089 great reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Non-Cakey:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Fresh Wear Foundation In A Powder
The L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24H Fresh Wear Foundation In A Powder is an almost weightless mattifying formula. It offers a non-cakey look and breathable comfort with great coverage that lasts all day long. This powder formula effectively blurs imperfections, evens skin tone, and is resistant to transfer, heat, water, and sweat. The dermatologist-tested foundation is available in 14 shades that offer a non-greasy finish.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Sweat-proof
- Transfer-proof
- Heat-resistant
- Non-cakey
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Long-lasting
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- None
"This product provides a light touch when applied with a broad brush, and the coverage is buildable as per my skin needs. The long-lasting formula smooths my skin and covers redness without caking. It's a good buy for regular use."
6. Best Coverage:Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation
If you are looking for a full coverage, lightweight foundation for a naturally matte finish, pick this one from Catrice Cosmetics. It effectively conceals imperfections and evens out the skin tone and lasts up to 24 hours. It feels almost like a second skin, leaving you with an airbrushed effect. This serum foundation is an ideal choice for all skin types and gives a glowy finish. This drugstore foundation features an easy dropper applicator and comes in 23 shades that work across all skin tones, ranging from fair to deep. Reviews from online forums highly praise this foundation for its non-creasing, barely-there finish. Ethically conscious consumers also opt for this product as it is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Excellent coverage
- Easily buildable
- Alcohol-free
- Gluten-free
- Oil-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May dry out the skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,228 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
7. Best Hypoallergenic:Covergirl Clean Powder Foundation
If you want a 2-in-1 foundation that provides liquid-like coverage but feels light like a powder, go for the Covergirl Clean Powder Foundation. It evens out your skin tone to give you a smooth and flawless complexion. This hypoallergenic foundation is ideal for sensitive skin as it doesn’t clog pores and provides a fresh feel that allows your skin to breathe.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
- Great coverage
- Non-cakey
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This is a versatile option for everyday needs. It provides good coverage, wear time, and a natural finish. It's a reliable staple for me to reduce any oily shine or cover imperfections without a heavy makeup feel."
8. Best Natural Finish:Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup
The Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup is a blemish-concealing liquid foundation that offers a natural-looking finish. It also prevents the formation of new acne on your face. Its MicroClear Technology controls excess oil secretion while boosting the effectiveness of salicylic acid in the formula to prevent breakouts from the root. This oil-free formula helps cover breakouts while offering a skin-like finish. This drugstore foundation reduces shine and offers breathable coverage. It is available in 14 shades that are designed for a variety of skin tones.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
Cons
- None
9. Best Waterproof:Phoera Matte Liquid Foundation
The Phoera Matte Liquid Foundation provides medium, buildable coverage that feels light on the skin and makes it soft. It helps blur skin imperfections like fine lines and blemishes for an airbrushed effect and controls excess oil. This drugstore foundation is waterproof and oil-controlling and provides a matte finish. The medium coverage foundation is enriched with SPF 25 to provide effective sun protection. It comes in 10 shades that suit all skin tones from fair, light, and medium to tan and deep. It is suitable for mature skin, controls shine, and gives a flawless finish.
Pros
- Buildable coverage
- Long-lasting
- Waterproof
- Non-cakey
- Lightweight
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- None
10. Best Fragrance-Free:Almay Clear Complexion Makeup
The Almay Clear Complexion Makeup has a unique anti-acne formula that not only conceals active acne but also prevents its further formation. It is the perfect foundation for acne as it is enriched with a maximum strength dose of salicylic acid that controls shine, minimizes pores, and reduces acne flare-ups without irritating the skin. This dermatologist-tested foundation helps conceal blemishes and is hypoallergenic and lightweight. Additionally, it is not tested on animals, making it an ideal cruelty-free option for conscious consumers. It comes in 14 different shades to suit a variety of skin tones. This is a must-have in a makeup artist’s kit.
Pros
- Non-cakey
- Buildable coverage
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
If you are wondering how to apply makeup on acne-prone skin for the best results, here’s a step-by-step tutorial that will help you get a flawless look.
How To Apply Makeup To Acne-Prone Skin
11. Start With A Primer: Choose a primer that offers a matte and non-sticky finish while smoothing over your imperfections and bumps.
12. Color-Correct The Spots: Go for a color-corrector to conceal blackheads, spots, and active acne. Use a peach or orange corrector to cover up dark circles and spots and a green corrector for active zits.
13. Cover Up With Concealer: Once you are done color-correcting, follow up with a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your actual skin tone.
14. Use Your Drugstore Foundation: Layer the concealer with your choice of the best drugstore foundation for oily and acne-prone skin that offers full coverage, depending on your skin tone.
15. Set Your Makeup: Once you are done, you are all set to apply a setting powder or a setting spray to ensure a longwear experience.
Now that you are aware of how to apply your ideal foundation to cover up those pesky imperfections, read about the factors that prove significant in making the right choice while investing in the best drugstore foundation.
How To Choose The Best Drugstore Foundation For Acne-Prone Skin—Buying Guide
- Check The Product Label
The main issue with acne-prone skin is that regular makeup products end up clogging the pores, worsening the severity of breakouts. So, ensure that the label clearly mentions ‘non-comedogenic,’ which means it won’t clog the pores. Another rule of thumb is to go for water-based foundations that do not affect oily skin adversely. Avoid foundations with denatured alcohol, artificial fragrance, or isopropyl alcohol that may end up stripping your skin of its natural oils and moisture. Opt for dermatologist-tested products to avoid further breakouts.
- Ingredients
Look for acne-fighting actives like glycolic acid and salicylic acid in the formula. They help regulate oil production, exfoliate dead skin, and keep your pores spot clean.
The Bottom Line
Acne is a very common skin issue that almost all women face at some point in their life. But, those of you who don’t, well, how does it feel to be God’s favorite? If you struggle with pesky acne breakouts, you need the best foundation for acne-prone skin to camouflage those blemishes. The Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation, available in over 40 shades, is dermatologist-tested and caters to various skin tones, while the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation offers a smooth, flawless makeup look with a semi-matte finish, concealing imperfections effectively. For sun protection benefits, opt for Revlon Colorstay Makeup For Combination/Oily Skin, which includes SPF to safeguard your skin from sun damage. The products mentioned above have lightweight, blendable, non-greasy, and long-lasting formulas. In addition, they are available in multiple shades to match various skin tones perfectly and offer enhanced beauty. All of this is in a budget that will keep you happy, thanks to drugstore brands! But, always remember to check the product label and read the ingredients list thoroughly before investing in any. Conduct a patch test before application to check for skin sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best drugstore foundation to cover acne?
The Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation is the best foundation to cover acne. It is a lightweight formula that blurs and hides all skin imperfections and provides an airbrushed effect.
How often should you wear foundation for acne-prone skin?
A foundation that has non-comedogenic ingredients can be used daily. Foundations with comedogenic ingredients like acetylated lanolin and algae extract can clog pores and worsen your acne. It’s best to avoid those products.
What makes a foundation great for acne-prone skin?
A full coverage foundation that has a matte finish is great for acne-prone skin. It will be able to entirely hide all the acne scars. A formula that features non-comedogenic ingredients is ideal for acne-prone skin.
Does foundation make acne worse?
Certain foundations contain harmful chemicals and comedogenic ingredients that increase sebum production, clog the pores, and develop more pimples. So, foundations can deteriorate the condition of acne. Therefore, invest in non-comedogenic foundations that are specially formulated for acne-prone skin.
How do I apply foundation to acne-prone skin?
• Deep cleanse your face and apply a lightweight moisturizer.
• Apply a mattifying primer to smoothen the pores.
• Use a green color corrector to neutralize the red acne marks.
• Apply a thin layer of your oil-free foundation to your face with a damp beauty blender. Do not use excessive foundation to cover the marks. It will look cakey.
• Dab some powder especially on the t-zones to give a matte effect.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is certified in makeup techniques and finds her passion in helping people choose the right products through her well-researched reviews. For this article, she extensively researched drugstore foundations for acne-prone skin to zero in on the best products listed above. These transfer-proof foundations, also endorsed by users through their valuable reviews, are lightweight, long-lasting, and easy to blend. Moreover, they help cover imperfections like blemishes, scars, etc.
Read full bio of Felicia Chang
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
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