When it comes to base makeup, cream foundations are a game-changer, especially for dry or mature skin. Combining hydrating properties with excellent coverage, these foundations deliver a natural finish that adapts seamlessly to changing seasons and aging skin. Their unique formulas treat and conceal while providing a luxurious, skin-like texture.
According to Jessica Kohn, Education and Events Manager at Laura Mercier, “Cream foundations are a great choice for those who want a skin-like finish with good coverage.” If you’re looking for a versatile, nourishing base that works harmoniously with cream blushes and bronzers, cream foundations might just be your perfect match.
Why Choose Cream Foundations?
The best cream foundations stand out for their ability to deliver hydration and coverage in one product. Unlike liquid foundations, which can sometimes feel drying, cream formulas often contain skin-loving ingredients that moisturize while concealing imperfections.
Professional makeup artist Lan Nguyen Grealis explains that cream foundations vary greatly depending on the brand and formulation. For example, some are ideal for quick application, while others excel in long-lasting coverage. With so many options on the market, we’ve tested and reviewed the very best cream foundations to help you find the perfect fit.
Top Picks: Best Cream Foundations of 2024
1. Best Overall: Jones Road What The Foundation
•Price: $95
•Number of Shades: 16
•Finish: Natural, glossy
Jones Road’s What The Foundation has become a cult favorite for its dewy, skin-like finish. Infused with jojoba oil, this product is perfect for dry or dehydrated skin, leaving a glossy finish that feels incredibly nourishing. However, its slightly greasy texture might not be ideal for those with oily complexions.
•Reasons to Buy: Nourishing, natural-looking.
•Avoid If: You have oily skin or prefer a matte finish.
2. Best for Quick Application: Fenty Beauty Eaze Blur Smooth Stick Foundation
•Price: $50
•Finish: Semi-matte
Fenty Beauty’s foundation stick is perfect for on-the-go application. Its creamy texture melts into the skin effortlessly, making it easy to blend with your fingertips. Additionally, the formula includes murumuru butter for nourishment and sodium hyaluronate for hydration, adding skincare benefits to your makeup routine.
•Reasons to Buy: Quick, creamy application; recyclable packaging.
•Avoid If: You prefer fuller coverage.
3. Best for Glow: Makeup by Mario SurrealSkin Foundation
•Price: $38
•Finish: Glowy
This ultra-lightweight cream foundation delivers a sheer, radiant glow. While it’s not ideal for building coverage, it’s perfect for enhancing naturally good skin. Mario Dedivanovic recommends using a brush for the best results.
•Reasons to Buy: Silky texture, radiant finish.
•Avoid If: You need fuller coverage or dislike a glossy finish.
4. Best Skin-Loving Formula: SUQQU The Cream Foundation
•Price: $80
•Coverage: Medium
•Finish: Radiant
This luxury foundation combines skincare and makeup with 13 Japanese botanical extracts, including green tea and silk protein. Its radiant finish brightens dull skin and improves the complexion over time. However, the jar packaging can be a bit messy.
•Reasons to Buy: Radiance-boosting, shade variety.
•Avoid If: You prefer spill-proof packaging.
5. Best for Mature Skin: Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Cream Foundation
•Price: $138
•Coverage: Medium to Full
•Finish: Luminous
Specifically designed with aging skin in mind, this luxurious foundation combines Japanese technology with ingredients like platinum gold silk essence. Moreover, its lightweight texture smooths wrinkles and reflects light. As a result, it provides a radiant and youthful glow.
•Reasons to Buy: Improves skin over time, blends seamlessly.
•Avoid If: You’re on a tight budget.
6. Best Budget Option: Max Factor Miracle Touch Foundation
•Price: $23
•Coverage: Full
•Finish: Natural Matte
Affordable yet high-performing, this compact cream foundation blurs imperfections and flexes with the skin for a natural matte finish. Its cream-to-liquid formula hydrates while delivering full coverage, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option.
•Reasons to Buy: Affordable, pore-blurring.
•Avoid If: You dislike using sponges.
7. Best for Oily Skin: Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation
•Price: $90
•Coverage: Medium to Full
•Finish: Naturally Radiant
This oil-free gel-cream formula is ideal for oily and combination skin. Infused with botanicals like arnica and aloe, it offers a weightless feel while delivering excellent coverage. Despite its messy jar packaging, it’s one of the longest-lasting foundations we tested.
•Reasons to Buy: Long-lasting, non-greasy.
•Avoid If: You’re on a budget or prefer pump packaging.
8. Best 2-in-1 Foundation: Stick Formulas
•Finish: Natural Radiance
In addition, these multi-functional stick foundations double as concealers, providing precise coverage with a mess-free application. Furthermore, vegan ingredients like squalane and vitamin B5 ensure a hydrating, skin-friendly formula. As such, they are perfect for touch-ups and everyday use.
•Reasons to Buy: Travel-friendly, multitasking.
•Avoid If: You need very high coverage.
Cream vs. Liquid Foundation: Which Is Better?
While liquid foundations are often more familiar, cream formulas offer unique benefits, particularly for dry or mature skin. Rose-Marie Swift, founder of RMS Beauty, explains that cream foundations are thicker and more hydrating, making them better suited for dry skin types.
In terms of coverage, cream foundations tend to have a higher pigment load, allowing for better concealment of imperfections. However, liquid foundations are typically easier to blend and are available in a wider range of finishes.
How to Apply Cream Foundations Like a Pro
Applying cream foundation requires a slightly different technique than liquid formulas. Here’s how to get the best results:
1. Prep Your Skin: Use a good moisturizer or primer to create a smooth base.
2. Use the Right Tools: Blend with a damp beauty sponge, brush, or your fingers to warm up the product and melt it into the skin.
3. Layer Sparingly: Start with a small amount and build coverage gradually to avoid cakiness.
4. Set with Powder: For long-lasting wear, lightly set your foundation with a translucent powder, especially in the T-zone.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cream Foundations
The best cream foundations combine skincare benefits with high-performance makeup, making them ideal for those with dry or mature skin. Whether you prefer a radiant, dewy glow or a natural matte finish, there’s a cream foundation for every need and budget.
From budget-friendly options like Max Factor to luxurious picks like Clé de Peau, the options in this guide have been carefully tested to ensure they deliver flawless results. Find the perfect formula and elevate your beauty routine today!