15 Best Waterproof Foundations For A Stunning Look – 2024
Achieve flawless looks with makeup essentials that can easily blend into the skin.
Jamila is a professional makeup artist with a decade of experience, who is all about accentuating natural beauty and creating glamorous looks. Her journey began in Amsterdam in 2013 where she honed her skills before taking the leap and moving to Los Angeles in 2015.
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Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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The best waterproof foundations are intended to last longer, unlike the ordinary ones that meltdown by noon. Well, who doesn’t want a sweat-resistant fresh makeup look? It is possible. Add one of the waterproof foundations to your makeup game and see the magic. These foundations hide all the facial marks plus you get the advantage of a long-lasting touch of makeup for a stunning look. So our list entails some of the best waterproof foundations. Take a look.
In This Article
Best Waterproof Foundations For Every Skin Type
1. Best Overall: Phoera Longwear Liquid Foundation
The Phoera Long wear Liquid Foundation conceals dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It corrects uneven skin tone and provides an ultra-smooth, matte finish. The Whitening And Moisturizing Repair Complex helps cover fine lines and wrinkles. The long-wear formula is sweat-proof and does not look cakey. This product controls excess oil and makes your face appear clean and fresh. Learn about a tester’s experience of using this product in this video.
No. Of Shades: 10
- Provides full coverage
- High-performance formula
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
- Controls shine
- Non-cakey
- Non-greasy
- Matte finish
- Thick consistency
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 15,047 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Budget: NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation
The NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation is lightweight and highly pigmented. The creamy formula conceals skin discoloration, dark spots, scars and redness. This liquid foundation is infused with vitamin E and easily glides on the skin, leaving a smooth, matte finish. It is oil-free, does not oxidize, and lasts for up to 24 hours. This video will help you learn about a reviewer’s experience of using this product.
.
No. Of Shades: 45
- Smudge-proof
- Transfer-resistant
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
- Lasts for up to 24 hours
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Affordable
- Not suitable for dry skin types
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 2,007 reviews claiming its efficacy.
3. Best With SPF: Dermacol Make-up Cover
Are those unpleasant dark spots and blemishes bothering you? The Dermacol Make-Up Cover foundation hides acne, scars, redness, pigmentation, tattoos, and post-surgical bruises. This foundation can also be used as a color corrector. It offers 50% coverage and contains SPF 30 which provides sun protection. This product lasts all day and does not require any reapplication. Have a look at this video to learn about a tester’s experience of using this product.
No.Of Shades: 19
- Offers high coverage
- Contains SPF 30
- Suitable for all skin types
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Preservative-free
- Might look cakey
- Might clog the pores
Pro TipPhoera Longwear Liquid Foundation Best Overall | NYX Can't Stop Won't Stop Full Coverage Foundation Best Budget | Dermacol Make-up Cover Best With SPF | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | AllColor | AllColor | Acne Prone,Sensitive,All Skin TypesColor |
| Dimensions | 3.74 x 1.26 x 1.26 inches | 1.21 x 1.21 x 4.6 inches | 0.79 x 0.79 x 4.72 inches |
| Weight | 3.84 Ounces. | 3.84 Ounces | 0.88 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 15,047 | 2,007 | 24,917 |
| Price | $14.99 | $12.65 | $19.49 |
4. Best For Oily Skin: Revlon Color Stay Foundation
The Revlon Color Stay Foundation is lightweight that offers a matte finish. It lasts for 24 hours and provides SPF 15 sun protection. The breathable formula offers medium to full coverage. This product is smudge-resistant, oil-free, and suitable for combination skin types. This brand is committed to animal-welfare and steers clear of any sort of animal testing.
No. Of Shades: 43
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Buildable
- Matte finish
- Oil-free
- Contains SPF 15
- Lasts for up to 24 hours
- Smudge-resistant
- Suitable for oily and combination skin types
- Watery consistency
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 4,203 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
5. Best Drugstore:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation
The L’Oreal Paris infallible 24 HR Fresh Wear Foundation is lightweight and provides medium to full coverage that lasts all day. It contains three oil absorbers – sweat, water, and transfer. This foundation glides smoothly on your skin and offers a natural-looking finish. It is non-comedogenic and provides SPF 25 sun protection. Many reviewers on Amazon like the product for its breathable feel on the skin.
No.Of Shades: 40
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Contains SPF 25
- Lasts for 24 hours
- Transfer-resistant
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for all skin types
None
6. Best Lightweight:Cover FX Power Play Foundation
The Cover FX Power Play Foundation glides seamlessly on your skin to give you a weightless matte finish. It has a buildable coverage that can be worn comfortably all day long. It contains ultra-fine rice hull powders that help to control the excess shine of your face and blur imperfections. The rice bran wax in the formula makes it easy to blend. The formula is also infused with fermented algae extracts that protect the skin against free radicals. This transfer-proof formula is non-comedogenic and is free of common toxins. Plus, none of this brand’s products are tested on animals.
No. Of Shades: 40
- Suitable for all skin types
- Transfer-proof
- Breathable
- Buildable coverage
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Talc-free
None
7. Best Hydrating: Smashbox Studio Skin Hydrating Foundation
The Smashbox Studio Skin Hydrating Foundation offers a natural-looking, matte finish that lasts all day. The oil-free formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid and prevents breakouts. This studio-tested foundation glides smoothly on your skin and does not settle into the pores or creases. It is transfer-resistant and offers medium to full coverage. Many reviews on Amazon indicate that the product delivers a natural-looking, hydrated finish.
No.Of Shades: 40
- Buildable
- Lasts for 24 hours
- Transfer-resistant
- Provides a matte finish
- Oil-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
None
8. Wunder2 Last & Foundation
The Wunder2 Last & Foundation plumps up your skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The lightweight formula contains hyaluronic acid that hydrates your skin and makes it look firmer and younger. It covers redness, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. This product blends seamlessly into the skin, leaving it with a fresh glow. Plus, this brand formulates high-quality products that are not tested on animals.
No.Of Shades: 7
- Crease-proof
- Transfer-resistant
- Provides long-lasting hydration
- Lightweight
- Offers full coverage
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Unpleasant smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 707 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
9. Best Satin Finish:MAC Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation
The MAC Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation is ideal for someone who hates heavy makeup. It glides smoothly onto the skin and offers medium to full coverage. The dermatologist-tested formula imparts alluring, natural-looking skin. It can double up as a concealer as it skillfully hides blemishes to give you even-looking skin. It feels lightweight on the skin and can stay put for 36 hours. Be it rain, sweat, or tears, it can withstand all! Plus, it helps to hydrate the skin to give you an irresistibly smooth, flawless finish. This cult-favorite product was praised by reviewers for its ability to last incredibly long while feeling weightless on the skin.
No. Of Shades: 13
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologist-tested
- Conceals imperfections
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Buildable coverage
- Easy to apply
- Long-wearing
- Transfer-resistant
- Does not cake
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Watery texture
10. Best Matte Finish: Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation
The Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation glides smoothly on your skin. It is enriched with Amazonian clay, vitamin E,and mineral pigments that soothe and soften the skin. This foundation covers enlarged pores and fine lines. The broad-spectrum SPF 15 protects your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. This foundation offers a matte finish and controls oil without drying out your skin.
No.Of Shades: 37
- Lasts for 12 hours
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-tested
- Vegan
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Triclosan-free
None
11. Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup
The Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup leaves you with a matte and natural-looking finish. It is tested for streaking and fading at 88°F (31°C) with 80% humidity. This foundation absorbs sweat and shine, and controls oil, keeping you fresh all day. It is dermatologist-tested, lightweight, and offers moderate coverage.
No.Of Shades: 20
- Lightweight
- Easy to blend
- Matte finish
- Lasts through humidity
- Oil-free
- Offers medium coverage
- Might look chalky
12. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Makeup stays on for 24 hours in all temperatures and climates – be it hot, humid, or cold. The lightweight formula is easily blendable, buildable, and offers a matte finish. This dermatologist-tested foundation provides a pore less, ageless, ultra-soft natural glow. It does not settle on the fine lines and pores, and does not make your skin cakey or chalky. This product also controls oil and excess shine. It helps cover hyperpigmentation, redness, and dark spots. Many reviewers on Amazon were raving about this product’s near-weightless feel.
No.Of Shades: 56
- Transfer-resistant
- Provides radiant glow
- Smudge-proof
- Non-creasing
- Lightweight
- Blurs pores
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-greasy
- Contains SPF 10
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-acnegenic
None
13. Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick
For a no-mess application, try out the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick. It offers the smooth finish of a concealer and the lightweight texture of a powder. This foundation offers full coverage and hides discoloration and imperfections, providing a flawless finish. Moreover, this brand prides itself on not testing its products on animals.
No.Of Shades: 32
- Lightweight
- Fade-resistant
- Lasts for 12 hours
- Easy to blend
- Vegan
- Provides flawless complexion
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Fragrance-free
- No synthetic dyes
- Expensive
14. FV Skin Nourishing Liquid Foundation
The FV Skin Nourishing Liquid Foundation is just what you need to nail the ‘no makeup look’. It skillfully covers imperfections and gives you a softened, smooth, natural finish. This hypoallergenic formula stays on your skin for 10 to 12 hours. It features micron-sized absorbent powders that absorb excess oil and keep unwanted shine at bay. It is transfer-resistant and it does slide on your face even on hot summer days! Plus, it blends like a charm and leaves a matte appearance. In addition to that, this brand is committed to animal welfare and does not test its products on them.
No. Of Shades: 14
- Hypoallergenic
- Contains skin-loving ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-cakey
- Non-comedogenic
- Buildable coverage
- Long-wearing
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Talc-free
None
15. UCANBE Matte Pro Longwear Liquid Foundation
The UCANBE Matte Pro Long wear Liquid Foundation is budge-proof and transfer-resistant. It provides medium coverage that you can build without getting dull or cakey. The silky formula glides on your skin like a dream to cover problem spots and uneven skin tone. This foundation leaves your skin with a matte and pore less finish.
No.Of Shades: 7
- Transfer-resistant
- Budge-proof
- Smooths skin texture
- Offers medium to full coverage
- Non-cakey
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Matte finish
- Easy to blend
- Suitable for oily and combination skin types
- Travel-friendly packaging
None
This was the list of out top-performing waterproof foundations. All these products are chosen after carefully checking customer reviews online. However, follow these steps to make your foundation long-lasting and achieve the best results.
How To Apply Waterproof Foundation
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Exfoliate and tone your skin.
- Apply a moisturizer to your skin.
- Apply a primer to minimize the appearance of the pores.
- Use a color corrector to blur the imperfections.
- Apply tiny dots of your favorite foundation all over your face.
- Use a beauty blender or a brush to blend them evenly. Make sure to conceal the blemishes properly.
- Use a setting powder to make the foundation last long
- Apply a makeup setting spray to prepare the base properly.
Before buying a waterproof foundation, here are a few things you should keep in mind.
What To Look For In A Waterproof Foundation – Buying Guide
- Read The Label
Check the packaging carefully to see if it has the following keywords – “waterproof,” “sweat-resistant,” “long-wearing,” and “humidity-proof.” If your foundation mentions the following terms, it will provide you long-lasting coverage.
- Determine Your Skin Type
Choose a formula that matches your skin type. Most waterproof foundations are oil-free and offer a perfect satin-like matte finish. A non-comedogenic formula is suitable for people with oily and combination skin types. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, look for a hydrating formula that contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid. However, if you have sensitive skin, go for allergy-tested or dermatologist-tested formulas to keep potential skin irritations at bay.
- Look For Silicone
Silicone helps keep your makeup intact for long hours without allowing melting. It makes your waterproof foundation long-lasting. Silicones are non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, non-irritating, hypoallergenic, and help restore your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
- SPF Is A Must
Choose a foundation with SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. It helps prevent sunburn, tan, and dark patches. You need not apply sunscreens, which may feel heavy on your skin and appear blotchy. An SPF-based waterproof foundation can also delay premature aging, making your skin radiant and younger-looking.
Will it be difficult to remove waterproof foundation from your skin? Check out the next section for your answer.
How To Remove Waterproof Foundation
- Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water.
- Rub the cotton pad on your skin in gentle circular motions all over to remove traces of makeup. Do not rub your skin harshly.
- Wash your face with a mild cleanser to eliminate any residue and buff away the impurities.
- Follow up with a moisturizer.
Note:
You can also use Vaseline or olive oil to remove your waterproof foundation. These ingredients help dissolve the makeup, and your foundation will come off easily. Jamila el Bouch, a professional makeup artist, says “If you decide to use a waterproof foundation, make sure you have a makeup remover specifically for waterproof makeup as most cleansers will not properly remove waterproof makeup.”
Infographic: Things To Keep In Mind While Using Waterproof Foundations
Waterproof foundations are a great way to make sure that your makeup stays put for a long time without constant touch-ups. They help you look fresh and flawless all day long without hassle, but in the long run, it is necessary to keep track of how your skin reacts to these products. Check out the infographic below to understand what factors to consider while using a waterproof foundation.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
A waterproof foundation can last throughout the day, come what may. Be it a pool party, sweaty gym session, or rain and humidity – a waterproof formula will make your skin look gorgeous in all situations. Conceal your problem areas with a lovely matte finish with the Phoera Longwear Liquid Foundation. For a poreless, natural glow that stays for up to 24 hours, pick the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup, while the NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Full Coverage Foundation offers oil-free coverage infused with vitamin E for brighter skin. The buying and user guide will help you pick the correct one for you and use it the correct way. So pick your favorite foundation from our list now and stay on top of your makeup game by flaunting a statement-making look.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is certified in makeup techniques and loves reviewing different makeup products. She has carefully selected these waterproof foundations, which have been closely reviewed and selected based on user reviews and feedback available on multiple forums and brand websites. The foundations listed in this post hide all the facial marks and also stay on for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is waterproof foundation bad for your skin?
No, a waterproof foundation is not bad for your skin. However, regular use of a waterproof foundation might clog your pores, and your skin might not be able to breathe.
Can you wear a foundation while swimming?
No. Although waterproof foundations do not get messy in the pool, removing your makeup after swimming becomes difficult. The makeup on your face mixed with chlorine can deteriorate the texture of your skin and clog the pores.
Does waterproof makeup really work?
Yes, waterproof makeup is formulated to withstand tears and sweat. They stay on the skin for a long time but are difficult to remove.
Which foundation is long-lasting and waterproof?
The COVERGIRL Outlast Active 24HR Foundation has a long-lasting, waterproof formula. It is a 24-hour stay formula with SPF protection.
How long does a waterproof foundation last?
Waterproof foundations are usually long-wearing. They stay for 12 to 24 hours on your face without transferring or smudging.
Read full bio of Jamila el Bouch
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