Get ready for flawless skin with our cream foundation guide. From picking the right formula for your skin type to mastering the art of application, we’ve got you covered. Let’s say goodbye to cakey makeup and hello to a natural, radiant complexion
One of the most popular cosmetics, a foundation may hide imperfections, balance out skin tone, and provide radiance. Whether you’re dealing with acne or just want to enhance your skin’s natural radiance, your foundation search should be centered on your skin’s needs. Due to the vast array of foundation hues and formulas—liquid, powder, and cream, it might be necessary to experiment with several before settling on the right one.
Think about how much of your bare skin you’re comfortable showing when deciding how much coverage you want from your cream foundation. The choice between light and full coverage is a matter of personal preference. It’s possible to find a cream formula that works well for almost anybody, but those with oily or combination skin may prefer liquid formula for a more sheer look.
If you’re looking for a cream foundation, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we take a look at some of the best cream foundations on the market today and explain why they’re so good. We’ll also cover what makes them different from each other and how you can use them in your makeup routine. So let’s get started!
- Versatile application
- Travel-friendly
- Buildable coverage
With over 30 shades, Milk Makeup‘s Flex Foundation Stick is an excellent choice when you’re on the hunt for a natural-looking medium-coverage foundation stick that won’t cake or crease.
You can apply many coats without worrying about your skin seeming cakey as a result of the formula’s easily buildable shades. It’s a good choice for dry or sensitive skin because of the calming ingredients, but don’t let that put you off if it describes your skin type; the elastic formula makes it work well for oily and average skin types, too.
- All-in-one solution
- sun protection
- evens skin tone
One of the most effective cream foundations available on the market today, IT Cosmetics’ CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ does it all.
This liquid foundation is the full-coverage foundation you’ve been looking for; it even moisturizes and protects the skin so it won’t crease or break, and it effectively masks the look of flaws like dark spots, enlarged pores, and wrinkles.
Collagen, hyaluronic acid, niacin peptides, and antioxidants are infused into the product for the aforementioned purposes, as well as to minimize the appearance of acne and hyperpigmentation. It works well on all skin types and doubles as a mineral sunscreen and anti-aging serum.
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Skin-perfecting formula
- Buildable coverage
- Limited shade range
KVD Beauty’s Foundation Balm is a no-brainer if you want a moisturizing, lightweight, long-wear foundation that’s easy to apply.
This non-comedogenic foundation balm keeps your skin looking flawless and healthy all day long while reducing the sight of pores. The fresh matte finish also helps minimize shine so it’s perfect for all occasions.
This lightweight cream product also absorbs swiftly into the skin to conceal any imperfections or discoloration, giving you a flawless, self-assured look in no time. Plus, the range of 40 shades means you should be able to find one that works with your skin.
- Convenient and portable
- Precise application
- Buildable coverage
- May not be for oily skin
This foundation stick is here to make your life easier.
It’s so easy to use, you’ll be amazed. Just swipe it on, and your complexion is evened out in one simple move. You can use it all over your face for medium-to-full coverage, or use it as a spot concealer for all-day coverage.
The natural-looking finish makes you look like you’re not wearing any makeup at all! It has shea butter in it, which provides moisture without making your skin feel greasy.
“Bought this for my mom, who doesn’t like to wear makeup. She’s been using the foundation stick as a spot concealer and she loves how it’s weightless and gives a skin-like finish,” explained one shopper.
- Convenient and portable
- Buildable coverage
- Includes SPF 15 for sun protection
Don’t let your foundation get in the way of your flawless look.
This foundation stick is long-wearing, and it provides full coverage with a velvety finish. It masks blemishes and under-eye circles, sculpts cheekbones, and defines your features without disturbing the rest of your makeup—perfect for highlighting, contouring, touch-ups, and seamless full-coverage applications.
The formula also blurs the appearance of pores and conceals imperfections for even-toned, flawless skin.
- Convenient and portable
- Smooth and seamless finish
- Easily buildable coverage
- May dry out fast
Hourglass’ foundation and concealer in one is a powerhouse of coverage. It’s easy to use and gives you a flawless, long-wearing finish.
It contains double the amount of pigment versus traditional foundations for instant coverage in one application, so you can get on with your day without having to worry about reapplying your makeup every few hours. The formula also lasts for up to 12 hours, so you can wear it all day without worrying about it fading or smudging.
Available in 32 shades to perfectly match every skin tone, this product has something for everyone!
- Natural
- Versatile
- Hydration
- May have a scent
If you’re looking for the creamiest foundation, check out rms beauty’s UnCoverup Natural Finish Cream Foundation. Using a creamy formula, it covers flaws well while yet seeming natural.
Suited for all skin types, this formula also contains coconut oil, known for its incredible moisturizing properties that work to help soften and soothe your skin while jojoba speedily absorbs into it without leaving any greasy traces behind like some other oils do. Plus, there are two natural shades available.
“Best foundation for that dewy glow all over! I have extremely sensitive skin, and this is the only foundation that doesn’t break me out,” shared one reviewer.
- Full coverage
- Smooth and matte finish
- Wide range of shades
This cream foundation provides a matte finish that is equally natural-looking and undetectable. Hydrating elements such as snow mushroom, which calm redness and brightens the face, assist in smoothing texture, blurring the look of pores, and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you live in a humid climate or tend to have oily skin, you’ll love this formula’s transfer-proof, waterproof qualities. With more than 40 shades, finding your exact shade of Tarte‘s Face Tape Foundation is simpler than ever.
- Dual-purpose
- Long-lasting wear
- Different skin types
Both the foundation and the setting powder in this duo will quickly become staples in your beauty routine. The medium-coverage, creamy consistency is easy to work with and disappears into the skin for a flawless finish.
Together, the two provide a natural-looking, poreless finish that doesn’t cake or settle into lines thanks to the use of an air-spun setting powder. A total of 21 different shades ensure that everyone may find a good match, regardless of their skin tone.
- Smooth application
- Natural finish
- Compact includes a mirror
This cream foundation has the coverage of a cream but the finish of a powder, making it ideal for those who like a more natural appearance. The powder finish of Fashion Fair’s Crème to Powder Skin Foundation is exquisite and lasts all day, although it applies like soft cream.
Resorcinol, a skin brightener, reduces the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone, while turmeric calms inflammation, speeds wound healing, and improves the skin’s overall look. Further, these tones are designed for those with medium to oily complexions and darker skin tones in mind.
- Full coverage
- Long-lasting
- Matte finish
- May feel heavy
With an SPF 30, Dermablend’s Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation is created to provide full coverage while preserving the skin. Hyperpigmentation, scars, acne scars, and uneven skin tone are all effectively concealed by this formula’s high-performance pigments.
The natural-looking, matte finish is achieved with a creamy texture that never appears cakey or mask-like. When applied directly to the face, it can also be employed as a cream concealer or a cream contour. The product lasts for up to 16 hours when used with the brand’s setting powder.
- Versatile coverage
- Long-lasting formula
- Nourishing ingredients
When applied, this foundation balm creates a flawless, even complexion with a subtle matte sheen. It’s great for people who need coverage but also want to keep their face hydrated, including those with dry skin.
It’s available in 20 different tones and infused with skin-loving elements like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants like vitamin E, which moisturize your skin for a soft, smooth appearance and feel.
- Long-lasting coverage
- Hydrating formula
- Smooth application
- Limited
This foundation has the coverage of a cream and the pliability and comfort of a liquid, making it ideal for those who want a lighter application. The mineral pigments in each drop diffuse the light, making defects like pores and tiny lines almost invisible.
The plant-based moisturizers help maintain skin health and provide temporary smoothing advantages that last longer than the effects of the moisturizers.
- Lightweight formula
- Dermatologist tested
- Versatile shades
- Limited shade range
When you’re looking for a foundation that won’t just cover your skin but will actually help your skin shine through, look no further than Honest Beauty’s creamy demi-matte formula.
The only thing you’ll see when you put it on is the lit-from-within glow of your own natural oils—and the jojoba oil inside helps balance out that extra hydration! It’s like a primer, but it’s also a foundation.
The flexible medium-to-full coverage goes on smoothly every time and works as both a primer and foundation in one. You’ll love how silky it feels on your skin, and how easy it is to apply!
How to Choose the Perfect Cream Foundation
Desired Finish
Contrary to popular belief, not all cream foundations have a luminous finish. Satin and matte options are also available, so think about the final appearance you want to achieve. A dewy foundation can make your skin appear more hydrated, while a matte one can help reduce shine.
Coverage Level
Similarly, cream foundations come in a range of coverage levels. While some may appear thicker and heavier, there are plenty of options that offer sheer coverage. The inherent consistency of a cream foundation allows for easy customization of coverage based on your application technique.
Format
When selecting a cream foundation, consider the format that works best for you. Stick foundations, for example, are user-friendly and can be applied and blended effortlessly using your fingertips, eliminating the need for brushes or additional tools. Other formats include jars, tubes, or compacts, each with its own advantages and application methods.
Skin Type
When selecting a cream foundation, it’s crucial to consider your skin type. Some formulations may be more suitable for dry or sensitive skin, while others cater to oily or acne-prone skin types. Choose a product that is compatible with your skin type to ensure optimal results and avoid any potential irritation.
FAQ
What is a cream foundation?
Cream foundation is like a magic wand for your face! It’s a type of makeup that comes in a creamy consistency and is used to even out your skin tone and cover up any blemishes or imperfections. Think of it as a superhero cape for your face, making you feel confident and ready to take on the day.
It comes in various shades, so you can find the perfect match for your skin tone. It’s typically applied with a brush or beauty sponge, and is buildable, which means you can layer it on for more coverage if needed. It’s also a great option for people with dry skin as it adds moisture, and also for people with oily skin as long as you set it with powder to avoid any extra shine.
How do you match foundation to your skin tone?
Matching the foundation to your skin tone can be a tricky task, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, always test the foundation on your jawline, as this area is closest to your true skin tone. Second, take into account any undertones your skin may have—cool, neutral, or warm—and choose a foundation that complements those undertones. And finally, don’t be afraid to mix and match foundations to create your perfect shade.
How do you apply cream foundation?
Applying cream foundation can be a breeze, even for those who are new to makeup! Here’s the rundown: Begin with a freshly cleansed and moisturized face to guarantee a seamless application. Be sure to utilize a foundation brush or a damp beauty sponge to dab the foundation on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
The key is to blend thoroughly! Employ circular motions to integrate the foundation into your skin, ensuring all uneven areas are covered. Remember to blend the foundation down your neck to sidestep the infamous “mask” appearance. For additional coverage, apply another layer of foundation or use a concealer to camouflage any persistent blemishes. And there you have it! Your complexion is now flawless and even. Keep in mind that a little cream foundation goes a long way, so avoid over-applying. Enjoy the blending process!