Like all skincare, foundation has come a long way. Currently, the various options in the market promise to offer more than just coverage; they now address concerns like hydration, sun protection, and even anti-aging. This list highlights 15 remarkable foundations that combine performance with skincare benefits. Check them out below.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

This foundation disrupted the industry in the 1990s when it introduced transfer-proof technology. Makeup artists loved its ability to survive under intense lighting during photoshoots. Decades later, it’s still a top pick for anyone who needs a polished, long-lasting look for weddings or events.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

Inspired by the work of Armani’s couture fabrics, this foundation mimics the feel and texture of silk. It was initially launched for use in professional photoshoots but quickly found its way into personal makeup routines. Its ability to showcase the skin under natural light is unparalleled.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

The idea for this foundation came from Charlotte Tilbury’s years as a celebrity makeup artist. She wanted something that could hold up under stage lights while still being hydrating. It contains a skincare-infused formula that’s a result of her mission to blur the lines between makeup and skin care.

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream

Before its rise in popularity, CC creams weren’t common in Western markets. IT Cosmetics helped introduce this trend to blend coverage and skincare into one product. Dermatologists worked on its formulation and made sure it addressed redness and uneven texture while also offering high SPF.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation

This foundation launched at a time when few products catered to people living in humid climates. Lancôme developed an oil-free formula that could withstand sweat and heat without sliding. It became a staple for anyone dealing with unpredictable weather or demanding schedules.

Dior Forever Skin Glow Foundation

Dior has long been dedicated to blending beauty with science, and this foundation is no exception. The company studied the effects of hydration on foundation longevity and incorporated wild pansy extract to improve wear time. Its radiant finish was a result of years of testing different pigment technologies for maximum luminosity.

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

This foundation set itself apart with its fruit-based ingredients, including apple and watermelon extracts. It contains refined pigments to create a radiant finish without looking oily. It’s now a favorite for makeup artists needing products that perform under both studio lights and daily wear.

Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation

Despite being super affordable, this foundation is a good match for some of the most premium brands out there. It was developed with glycerin for extra hydration as a direct response to the lack of budget-friendly options for dry skin.

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation

When it first launched, this foundation targeted a gap in the market: mature skin. L’Oréal introduced vitamin B3 into its serum-like formula to address uneven tone and fine lines. As a cherry on top, its lightweight texture was a real game-changer.

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation

For those who don’t know, Pat McGrath is a legendary makeup artist who drew on decades of backstage experience to create this luxurious foundation. It contains diamond core powder not just for show—but to subtly reflect light to blur imperfections.

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15

In an era of concealing imperfections, this foundation was launched to build on natural beauty. It has a sheer formula that emphasizes skin instead of hiding it. Though minimalist, its approach has earned it a permanent place in many people’s daily makeup routines.

Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation

Acne and makeup aren’t a great combination, but this foundation aims to treat it with the inclusion of salicylic acid and vitamin C. It can even be used by those with uneven complexion to serve as long-term improvements alongside daily coverage.

Shiseido Synchro Skin Radiant Lifting Foundation

Created with Japanese technology, this foundation focuses on the interaction between light and skin. Its light-adjusting pigments were engineered to brighten dull areas naturally. Mandarin peel extract was also added to keep the skin hydrated throughout the day.

BareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation SPF 15

With a growing emphasis on clean beauty, BareMinerals created this foundation by avoiding synthetic fillers and using only five mineral ingredients for a lightweight, buildable formula. It was a breakthrough for those with sensitive skin.

MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 Foundation

This foundation is a must-have for professionals who work under harsh lighting. Its oil-controlling formula was developed to keep skin matte during long photo shoots. Even presently, it’s a trusted option for performers and makeup enthusiasts.