TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.3*
Why it's great: "I found this powder to be remarkably refreshing," writes one reader, who says she hated pressed powder before discovering this Dior compact. "It goes on very lightly, and I never felt too heavy or too cakey. I put it on during the day and rarely have to retouch my face." Other readers like that the product "keeps shine at bay," but doesn't dry out skin. "This is the best foundation I have ever used," another reviewer gushes. "It is worth every penny."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.4*
Why it's great: "I recommend this mineral foundation to anyone who wants glowing skin without that mask-like look," writes one reviewer of Jane Iredale's Amazing Base. Readers with sensitive skin found this product particularly "soft, natural and light."
Though the product is pricey, readers agree that you get your money's worth — one container lasts seven weeks or more. Readers recommend this foundation for those with wrinkles, rosacea and breakout-prone skin, calling it "natural, easy and flawless."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.5* Why it's great: We can't mention this foundation without mentioning the "Fenty Effect" — aka the fact that its initial 40-shade launch inspired countless other brands to create more inclusive lines. Now, it has a whopping 50 shades... and the formula is great, too. One fan raves that it "sits very nicely on the skin" and "feels like I'm wearing nothing at all." Another user agrees, praising its "lightweight" feel and "soft matte" "filter"-like finish.
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.6*
Why it's great: Reviewers love that this product "goes on smooth, looks very natural and does not leave skin itchy or dry." One user writes, "It does what it says it will do and so much more. You do not have to re-apply it."
Another reader explains that it is sometimes "very hard to find a foundation that works with African-American skin tones," but says this line has a shade that "matches perfectly." Users prone to breakouts also approve of the product.
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.6*
Why it's great: "The best natural-looking coverage you can get," is how one reader describe this Elizabeth Arden foundation. One reviewer says, "It's easy to use, and you can apply it in less than five minutes and need to apply makeup quickly."
The product also has incredible lasting power. "Once applied, it will stay there all day long," one reader writes. Since the foundation has a heavier texture, some users recommend using your fingertips or a foundation brush instead of the included sponge. Still, the full coverage is much appreciated. "I am 43, but with this makeup on, people routinely guess that I'm around 30," confesses one reviewer.
When it comes to finding the best foundation, we know you're looking for one that will have you covered no matter what the situation. And depending on your skin needs, that best foundation may be one that provides you with full and long-lasting coverage or perhaps a lighter formula that works well with oily skin. For some individuals the best foundations are those that offer a diverse range of shades or those that won't break the bank while providing users with airbrushed-like skin.
But with so many foundations out there, it can be hard discovering the perfect one to suit your complexion's individualized needs.
Thankfully, our TotalBeauty.com reviewers have done the legwork for you, weighing in on the foundation products you can't live without. Discover which brands and formulas received the most upward facing thumbs — you just might discover your new foundation fix.