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The Best Drugstore Foundations of 2025
By Carly Cochrane
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4 years ago | Updated
It’s time to throw away the preconceived ideas about drugstore foundations and delve deep into all that they have to offer.
We know that it sometimes pays to be a foundation snob, especially if you want to lay down a flawless and undetectable base. And we know that drugstore foundation may give you unwelcomed high school flashbacks (Dream Matte Mousse, we’re looking at you). But, when we say they've come a long way over the years, we mean they’re seriously giving high-end, luxury formulas a run for their money.
Drugstore foundations now deliver serious results—think long-wearing coverage, inclusive shade ranges, and skin-loving ingredients—all at a price point that won’t break the bank. If you’re wondering what is a good drugstore foundation, the truth is there’s now a formula for every skin type and concern—from dry and mature to oily and acne-prone.
With brands now serving up inclusive shade ranges and ingredient-led formulas, all with the same budget-friendly price, you’d be a fool to give them the cold shoulder.
So, allow us to reintroduce you to the best drugstore foundations that will give you so much more bang for your buck.
L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24hr Freshwear Liquid Foundation
£9.89 £13.99 (30% off)You can thank Tik Tok for bringing this one to our attention. Although the Infallible Freshwear Powder is currently having its viral moment, this counterpart will forever be in the limelight.
Developed with innovative oxygen technology for light, comfortable and streak-resistant wear, this full-coverage liquid foundation smooths, blurs and perfects skin.
If you're asking what drugstore foundation has the best coverage, this full-coverage formula should definitely be on your radar.
Max Factor Facefinity All Day Flawless Flexi-Hold Foundation
£5.41 £13.99 (62% off)Working as a primer, concealer and foundation, this three-in-one formula from Max Factors gives you way more bang for your buck. Covering all bases, it blurs, conceals and protects your complexion. Enjoy a matte, full-coverage finish for up to 24 hours, as exclusive Flexi-hold Technology ensures the foundation stays put until you say so.
It's also a brilliant option if you're after what is a good drugstore foundation for mature skin, thanks to its smoothing, long-lasting coverage that doesn’t settle into fine lines.
Max Factor Facefinity Compact Foundation
£5.16 £11.99 (57% off)And if liquid formulas aren't for you, then Max Factor come through with the perfect cream-powder formula. The Facefinity Compact Foundation offers full coverage but doesn’t feel heavy on the skin. Not to mention, it's perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
It's also a great pick if you're searching for what is the best drugstore powder foundation.
Maybelline Superstay Active Wear Full Coverage 30 Hour Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation
£11.49 £11.99 (5% off)Another all-day foundation we strongly recommend adding to your collection is the Superstay 30h Liquid Foundation from Maybelline.
If you love full-coverage and high-glam looks, this is your match made in heaven. The high-pigment colour and semi-matte finish mask every blemish, imperfection and dark spot, leaving you with seamless skin that lasts all day.
One of the top contenders for those wondering what drugstore foundation has the best coverage—this formula truly stays put.
Maybelline Fit Me! Matte & Poreless Foundation
£8.04Maybelline are the top dogs of the drugstore, so it’s no surprise that they have two cult-favourite foundations amongst our lineup.
The Fit Me! Matte & Poreless is arguably the best drugstore foundation for oily skin types. The giveaway is in the name! It keeps skin matte, not flat, controls shine throughout the day and reduces the looks of pores.
If you're wondering what is a good drugstore foundation for oily skin, this one remains unbeaten.
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation & Concealer
£26.00 £37.50 (31% off)OK, Clinique may be more upscale drugstore, but they're drugstore nonetheless. We're big fans of their Beyond Perfecting Foundation & Concealer as the two-in-one formula effortlessly camouflages dark spots, blemishes and skin imperfections, leaving skin looking fresh and flawless.
Bellápierre Cosmetics Compact Mineral Foundation SPF 15
£34.00 £39.99 (15% off)Compact foundations are ideal for those that are always on-the-go, and this one from Bellápierre Cosmetics is nothing but a handbag essential. The five-in-one formula acts as a concealer, foundation, SPF, finishing powder and setting powder to ensure a fool-proof application wherever, whenever.
It’s a great mineral-based solution if you’re after a powder format but want full coverage.
Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation
£10.34A lightweight, hydrating serum foundation with hyaluronic acid and a semi-matte finish. It delivers natural, buildable coverage—perfect for fans of skin-like texture.
If you're someone wondering what drugstore foundation is good for dry skin, this is a crowd-pleaser.
L.A. Girl Pro.Coverage HD Long Wear Illuminating Liquid Foundation
£9.99 £10.99 (10% off)Meet the foundation that hustles as hard as you do. Lightweight, waterproof and packed full of pigment, this foundation works around the clock to provide a coverage and colour that keeps up with your day-to-day lifestyle.
Ideal for dry or dull skin types that still want medium to full coverage.
Milani Conceal & Perfect 2 In 1 Foundation & Concealer
£11.60Who doesn’t love a makeup multi-tasker? Milani come through with an affordable formula that’s one part foundation, one part concealer, so that you can hide dark circles, blemishes and redness with ease.
Rumour has it that this foundation can withstand the Grammys, Coachella sets and red carpets, making it a must-have for your glam bag.
Milani Screen Queen Foundation
£5.45Did you know that studying, 9-5 office jobs and even scrolling on TikTok can take a toll on your skin? It's time to break up with blue light. Milani's Screen Queen Foundation ensures that you stay looking glam as you rack up the screen time by protecting skin from digital damage, including dullness, discolouration and hyperpigmentation.
SOSU by SJ Dripping Gold CC Me In Foundation SPF 45
£19.43 £26.95 (28% off)This CC Me In Foundation is a straight-up dupe for the IT Cosmetics CC Cream and costs a fraction of the price.
Boasting colour correcting powers and a medium-to-full coverage, this foundation blurs impurities and improves the appearance of skin tone and texture with just one thin layer.
Skin-loving ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, treat your skin on a deeper level, meaning you can flaunt a flawless natural complexion on those off-duty days too.
This CC foundation is also a brilliant hybrid pick for those asking, 'What is the best drugstore foundation for mature skin?', delivering glow and care in equal measure.
e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter
£16.18 £17.95 (10% off)A cult favourite that offers light, radiant finish with SPF and skin-soothing ingredients. A top pick for those seeking no-makeup makeup alternatives.
Maybelline Super Stay 24HR Skin Tint + Vitamin C
£14.95This skin tint offers buildable light-to-medium coverage, long lasting wear, and vitamin C–infused radiance. Praised for its glow and longevity—even in heat and humidity.
Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint
£25.00 £30.00 (17% off)Florence By Mills give you full control over your coverage with the Like A Light Skin Tint. The lightweight foundation offers a sheer tint that can be built up for light to medium coverage. It's pigmented enough to hide the appearance of minor skin impurities yet blends easily to reveal a glowing, healthy complexion.
FAQs
Can drugstore foundations work for sensitive skin?
Yes! Many drugstore foundations are now formulated with gentle, non-comedogenic ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin. Look for options labelled fragrance-free or hypoallergenic—Physicians Formula and e.l.f. are popular for this.
How long does drugstore foundation last on the skin?
It depends on the formula, but many drugstore foundations offer up to 24-hour wear. Long-wearing picks like Maybelline Superstay and Max Factor Facefinity are great if you're wondering how long does body moisturiser last—and yes, your foundation should match that staying power!
What is the best way to apply drugstore foundation for a flawless finish?
To get the best finish, start with a primer suited to your skin type, then apply foundation using a damp beauty sponge or dense foundation brush. Always blend outwards and build up coverage gradually. Setting with a translucent powder or setting spray helps it stay put all day.
Is drugstore foundation suitable for mature skin?
Absolutely. If you’re asking what is the best drugstore foundation for mature skin, look for formulas that are hydrating and lightweight, with a radiant or satin finish. Avoid overly matte foundations, which can emphasise fine lines.
Can I build coverage with drugstore foundations?
Yes—many drugstore formulas are buildable, allowing you to go from light to full coverage without caking. Look for descriptions like “buildable” or “layerable” on the packaging, and avoid quick-drying matte formulas if you need flexibility.
Do drugstore foundations oxidise?
Some can, especially those with high pigment or matte finishes. To prevent this, test the foundation on your skin and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before purchasing. You can also use a primer and setting spray to lock in colour and prevent changes throughout the day.
With so many impressive foundations now available at the drugstore, you needn’t spend your rent money on an expensive formula. Flaunt a flawless complexion, all whilst continuing to save those all-important pennies. Still not sure what is a good drugstore foundation for your skin type? Browse our full collection and filter by coverage, skin type and finish to find your perfect match. Check out more of our favourite foundations with our guide to The Best Foundations for All Skin Types.
Written by Carly Cochrane
As the Senior Content Editor for Cosmetify, Carly is the go-to for all the latest (and greatest) beauty tips, tricks and trends. With over six years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins-and-outs when it comes to health, beauty and wellbeing.
