Wondering how to get the photo-ready base? Tired of the cakey, ashen makeup look? Looking for the perfect high-end dupes? Let us help!
It’s critical to get the appropriate foundation for your skin tone so that makeup can complement rather than detract your appearance!
After careful evaluation and testing, we have assembled the 10 best foundations in India. I am sure, no matter your skin type, tone, and budget, you will find a product that ticks all your requirements.
We have also included a detailed guide that will help you choose the best foundation for yourself!
Best Foundation in India 2024
L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Matte Cover Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Looking for a dupe for the luxurious Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation at less than half its price? Say hello to L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Matte Cover Foundation, a cult favorite, mattifying, full-coverage foundation at an affordable price!
The foundation comes in a sleek black tube; since the consistency is relatively thick, you can control the product you intend to squeeze out. It is compact, and you can squeeze it even if you intend to take a small crossbody bag.
The foundation has 12 shades with different undertones that are named creatively to describe the color and the undertone.
It is a matte foundation; it dries out pretty quickly; hence you need to be ready with your blender to evenly spread it as soon as you apply it to your face.
One of the best qualities of the Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation was that even though it is matte, it did not feel heavy like a typical full coverage foundation. It is lightweight, but it could instantly conceal the greasiness on your skin. Guess what-This foundation can do just that!
It is a boon for oily skinned beauties because it has microsponge technology that can instantly soak up all the oil from your skin. If you have dry skin, I recommend using the best moisturizer for dry skin before applying this foundation.
One of the ingredients in the product is Vitamin E. It is an extraordinary antioxidant that can help the skin heal from damages caused due to environmental factors. I love it when foundations are paired with skincare ingredients to give your skin that extra love!
The foundation is free from fragrances and has a Sun Protection Factor of 20. Hence, no need to add the extra layer of sunscreen; just tap some blush and lipstick, and voila, you are ready to steal the day!
Highlights:
- Thick consistency
- Available in 12 shades
- Has Vitamin E
- Velvet matte look
- Conceal acne and blemishes
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Sweat-resistant
- Pump dispenser
- No touch-ups needed
- Suitable for oily and combination skin.
- No fragrance
Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.8/5
If you are looking for a long-wear foundation that gives you a soft matte finish, this is your product! It suits every skin type and works beautifully with oily and combination skin.
The range of foundation has 16 fantastic shades, and I assure you, you will find your match in this range!
One excellent ingredient in this liquid pot is Malva flower extract. It can work on the skin to increase elasticity by maintaining its moisture. This flower has also exhibited antiseptic properties; hence if you are prone to acne or pimples, this can help prevent the multiplication of bacteria on your skin.
Another fantastic moisturizing agent is Bisabolol. It works like magic on their skin by illuminating your face and giving it a healthy glow.
It is also spiked with Vitamin E, which can help in reducing oxidative stress. Vitamin E can help promote blood flow and improve the circulation on your face.
The formula is oil-free and dries down to give you a matte look. The foundation is also devoid of any fragrances; hence, this can be a good bet if you are allergic to smells.
The formula is packed with an SPF of 15; hence if the plan is to stay in the sun, this foundation will not melt and protect your skin from the harsh sun rays!
The best part is that this foundation can last for really long hours without creasing and cracking; hence, if you have a long day ahead and no time for touch-ups, this is one of the best products!
Highlights:
- Soft, supple finish
- SPF 15
- Liquid consistency
- Intense moisturization
- Prevent acne
- Easy to blend
- Available in 16 shades
- Perfect for oily/ combination skin
- It does not cause breakouts.
- Long staying power
- No fragrance
Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.8/5
This formula is the affordable dupe of MAC studio fix foundation. It is a versatile liquid that can work with any skin type and undertone. Both the foundations give your skin a natural and silky texture post-application.
Despite the excellent coverage provided by the foundation, I like that the formula is breathable, so you won’t feel like you’re wearing makeup. I also love that this foundation does not feel heavy on the skin; brownie points for both!
The shade range offered by this range is commendable. It has more than 20 different shades, and hence you will undoubtedly find your perfect fit!
The foundation has Glycerin and Tocophenol that can work unanimously on your skin to help give your skin a boost of moisture!
Always running out of time in the morning while getting ready? You need this beauty in your life! The formula has an SPF of 22! Hence, you can skip the sun protection for good, just pat some blush and dab some lipstick, and you can get moving!
If you struggle to find the perfect match for your shade and skin tone, you need to check this range and grab your super savior! The product is budget-friendly.
Since the product is tested for allergies, it should not cause any untoward reaction, even if you have sensitive skin.
Highlights:
- Oil-free formula
- Perfect for all skin types
- Available in more than 20 shades
- Full Coverage
- Liquid consistency
- Easy to blend
- Tested for allergies
- Perfect for oily/ combination skin
- It does not cause breakouts.
- Long staying power
- Buildable coverage
- No fragrance
- Non-comedogenic
- Very affordable
- Dermatologically tested
SUGAR Cosmetics – Ace Of Face – Foundation Stick
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
If you are willing to spend on a foundation stick that will be your favorite for upcoming years, this is your best bet! Its long-lasting formula provides coverage that not only looks like a second skin but also feels like it.
The Sugar Cosmetics foundation stick has unique packaging that I cannot gush enough about it. I love the sleek black tube because it is dual-ended! The larger end of the stick has the foundation, whereas the opposite smaller end contains a stippling face brush. Kudos to the packaging!
Sugar upped the base game by launching over 22 shades in one go! The coverage offered by the foundation is phenomenal, and if you choose one with a golden undertone, you can skip concealing and color correction altogether!
The pigmentation of the foundation is so intense that it can blur out the harshest scars and acne. I was always paranoid of trying foundation sticks because they always felt drying, but this one is a pleasant surprise.
The formula is ultra-soft and feels very moisturizing. The foundation is slightly on the higher end of the price margin, but you will not regret even one bit in investing in this gem!
Since the formula is free from mineral oils and parabens, it will not trigger any reactions on your skin and give you the perfect makeup look for any and every event!
Pro Tip: You can use the darker tone of the foundation stick as contours, and I cannot tell you how excellent your entire makeup will look with these sticks!
Highlights:
- Sleek and Attractive packaging
- It comes with an excellent brush
- Creamy soft texture
- 22 shades
- Can skip color correction
- Buildable foundation
- Free from parabens
- Provides matte finish
- It does not accumulate in the creases and crevices of the skin
- Long-lasting
- Waterproof.
- Travel-friendly.
- Cruelty-free
- 100% Vegan
- Dermatologically tested
Maybelline New York Super Stay 24H Full Coverage Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Maybelline SuperStay Full Coverage 24H Foundation provides up to 24 hours of coverage and camouflages blemishes, redness, and discoloration.
The foundation launched with 9 shades in India, although it has more shades in the U.S.
The foundation glides smoothly on the skin with a blender or a stippling brush and gives you a smooth canvas to do your makeup. The base looks flawless with just one small dollop of the product.
The consistency is relatively thick, and because it dries quickly, you need to be quick with your blending; otherwise, it may get patchy.
The foundation has Vitamin E, which is very good for the skin’s health.
The foundation is water-resistant and transfer-proof, making sit perfect for extended wear. Some foundations accumulate in pores when you sweat excessively; this one does NOT crease even after 7 long hours.
A significant concern regarding this foundation is that it can be drying; hence if you have dry skin, you may have to load up with the best moisturizer for your skin before applying this on your face.
While choosing the shade, you may want to be mindful since the foundation does oxidize after drying; hence go for a shade lighter than your skin tone to get your perfect match!
Highlights:
- Full Coverage
- Oil-free
- It does not clog pores
- Thick consistency
- Sweat-resistant
- Transfer-proof
- Long-wear
- Easy to blend
- Available in 9 shades
- Perfect for oily/ combination skin
- It does not cause breakouts.
- Long staying power
- No fragrance
- Dermatologically tested
Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Perfect Cover Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Looking for a versatile foundation that is medium coverage and affordable? Lakme 9 to 5 Primer + Matte Perfect Cover Liquid Foundation can be an excellent investment. As the name describes, it is a 2 in 1 product; hence you will not need to invest in a primer; this foundation can give you that flawless finish!
The foundation comes in 16 vivid colors that complement most Indian skin tones. The shades are named systematically to assist the user in determining the correct shade with the appropriate undertone. Neutral undertones should choose from the N range of foundations, while cool undertones should choose from the C range, and warm undertones should choose from the W range.
The formula has a liquid consistency that can blend effortlessly on your skin with the help of a damp beauty blender. The foundation is quick-drying and gives you a non-greasy look.
It is an excellent product if you are in a rush. It is effortless to apply and provides medium to full coverage. It has a Sun Protection Factor of 20, and I love that! I prefer minimal products on my face early morning; hence, I tend to skip the sunscreen if I apply this amazing liquid.
The packaging is not very hygienic since it has a brush applicator. The foundation lasts for about 7-8 hours and is relatively not transfer-proof.
However, like every Lakme product, this foundation also has that peculiar smell that may irritate sensitive noses; if you fall in that category, you may want to give this foundation a hard pass.
Highlights:
- Matte finish
- Liquid consistency
- Quick-drying
- Easy to blend
- Available in 16 shades
- It does not accentuate pores
- Strong fragrance
- Perfect for oily skin.
- Medium to buildable coverage.
- It does not cause breakouts.
- Long staying power.
- Affordable.
L.A GIRL Pro Coverage H.D. Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
It is the foundation of your dreams for all you amazing dry-skinned beauties! L.A Girl Pro Coverage H.D. Foundation is a medium coverage foundation that can last without caking and creasing for 6 hours!
This foundation can be considered as a dupe for Make Up Forever H.D.! The consistency and the final feel of this product are very similar to its luxury counterpart!
The foundation has 16 shades to suit the dynamic undertones of the Indian skin type. I would recommend this foundation for dry skin because the foundation settles down to give your skin a luminous glow.
If you are not a fan of the dewy makeup look, you can eliminate the shine by using the best setting powder.
The foundation has Vitamin E and Vitamin C ester. Both the ingredients work harmoniously to diminish the signs of aging by targetting free radicals.
Another excellent skin-loving ingredient in this foundation is retinyl palmitate. This compound can also work on the skin by promoting skin regeneration and tightening like retinol. It makes your skin smooth and firm!
The foundation is lightweight and blends right away without any additional effort. The formula is free from parabens; hence it is a relatively safe option for individuals with sensitive skin.
The foundation has a milk fragrance that does not irritate the skin. The foundation is long-lasting, and because it is loaded with antioxidants, it can improve your skin at a cellular level!
Highlights:
- Thick consistency
- Available in 16 shades
- Has Vitamin E
- It has Vitamin C Ester
- Contains retinyl palmitate
- Anti-oxidation properties
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Dewy Makeup Look
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Mild fragrance
Colorbar Cosmetics 24Hrs Weightless Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Colorbar is a constantly evolving brand and introducing new products that can change the makeup game. The foundation has 30 shades that can suit the versatile skin palette in India.
One of the ingredients in the foundation is Zinc Oxide. It can protect the skin from U.V. rays and soothes troubled skin. It can also help in removing bacteria and reduce the appearance of zits and pimples.
It is not a full-coverage amount even though the consistency is thick. However, the foundation has a long-lasting potential, and you can go without touch-ups for over 5-6 hours.
The foundation can be a bit drying; hence, I recommend you invest in an excellent hydrating moisturizer before applying it for the day.
The tube packaging is convenient and makes it easy to travel within your handbag.
Highlights:
- Creamy soft texture
- Oil-free
- 30 shades
- Buildable foundation
- Free from parabens
- Sweat-resistant
- Long-lasting
- Travel-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- 100% Vegetarian
- Dermatologically tested
Elle 18 Lasting Glow Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 4.1/5
If you are on a tight budget and want something with light coverage, this one is for you. Priced at INR 100, it is one of the most affordable options on the list.
The shade range offered by the foundation is pretty limited, but since the formula is so lightweight, you can blend it in your skin to get an even tone. The 4 shades of the foundation are designed to address most skin types and tones.
The formula is augmented with Vitamin E. It can help reconstruct the skin’s lipid barrier to promote moisturization of the skin and prevent the loss of water due to a damaged barrier.
The formula is free from oils; hence it can work well with every skin time. The coverage offered with the foundation is mild; hence, you may need to color-correct and conceal your imperfections.
The formula has a liquid consistency that blends your skin within seconds of application. If you are looking for something not heavy-duty, this can be your go-to foundation.
The foundation has a beautiful scent that does not irritate sensitive skin.
Highlights:
- Mild coverage
- 4 shades
- Moisturization
- Oil-free formulation
- Quick-drying
- Vitamin E present
- Budget-friendly
Iba Pure Skin Liquid Foundation
Buy Now on Amazon
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
People have mixed views regarding this foundation due to its limited color range; however, it is a decent foundation with medium coverage for dry skin.
Contrary to the product claim that it gives a matte finish, it gives a dewy look. It is NOT a full
coverage foundation; hence it can be used for an everyday look.
The foundation has excellent moisturizing agents like aloe vera and glycerin. Aloe Vera can work as a humectant, pulling moisture from deeper skin layers and keeping the topmost skin super hydrated. It can also soothe dry skin patches and minimize itching and rashes. Glycerin can also help hold on to moisture and prevent skin scraping.
The foundation is also enriched with Vitamin E. Vitamin E can promote wound healing, and hence it can help diminish old acne scars and injury marks on the skin. Tocopherol in the formula can also eradicate radicals that can damage the skin and cause cell death.
Since the foundation is free from harsh chemicals, it can work with sensitive skin without causing any ill effects. The formulation also has an SPF 15; hence, you can skip sunscreen if you apply this before stepping out in the sun.
The biggest drawback of this foundation line is the lack of shade options. The 3 shades may not suit every skin color and undertones; however, if the shade is your match, you go, girl!
Highlights:
- Thick consistency
- Available in 3 shades
- Contain Vitamin E
- Hydrating formula
- SPF 15
- Has Aloe vera extracts
- Antioxidation properties
- Dewy Makeup Look
- Paraben-free
- 100% Vegan
- Free from alcohol
- Cruelty-free
- Mild fragrance
What is a Foundation?
Foundation, as the name suggests, forms the base of your makeup. Depending on the product, it comes in various forms like powder, liquid, cream, full-coverage, moderate-coverage, soft-finish, matte-finish, etc.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Foundations for Indian Skin?
It can be intimidating to navigate the various options in the foundation industry. To make your life easier, we have assembled this short guide to help you evaluate your skin and needs to help you shortlist your foundation.
Listed below are three easy steps that can aid your selection procedure.
Step 1: Understand your Skin
Oily Skin: If your skin is naturally greasy, you may want to choose an oil-free foundation or has oil-absorbing ingredients. Liquid foundations or Powder foundations can be a great choice! Choose a foundation that offers full coverage to get rid of the oily sheen.
Dry Skin: If you have dry skin, invest in a moisturizer with hydrating ingredients. Liquid foundation and cream-based foundations can be ideal for your skin. A dewy and sheer coverage foundation can be an excellent choice.
Sensitive Skin: Pick one free from harsh chemicals and complex ingredients that can trigger your skin. Avoid ingredients that can clog pores and bring about breakouts and zits.
Step 2: Get to Know Your Undertone
A skin tone is the underlying color of your skin. You can have a warm, neutral or cool undertone. To test your undertone, check the color of the veins on your wrist. If your foundation settles down to look grey or patchy, you probably have the incorrect undertone.
Green: Warm Undertone
Bluish-Purple: Cool Undertone
Step 3: Get the Right Shade
There is always a chance that the foundation may oxidize and become darker; hence always choose a shade 2 shades lighter than your skin color. Swatch it on your jaw to get the perfect shade.
Do’s and Don’ts of Foundation
Listed below are some common do’s and don’ts when applying a foundation.
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Always moisturize before applying your foundation. | Apply the foundation on bare skin. |
| Use a damp beauty blender to get a natural finish. | Use a powder brush to blend your foundation. |
| Use brushes with synthetic follicles to avoid product wastage. | Use brushes with bristles that absorb the product and leave harsh streaks on the face. |
| Set your foundation with a good powder. | Don’t add multiple layers to build up the foundation. |
| Tap the product in your skin. | Drag the product around. |
Takeaway
The best foundation that suits EVERY skin and tone is L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Matte Cover Foundation.
It is lightweight, smudge-proof, and offers excellent coverage for all skin problems. The foundation is also enriched with the goodness of Vitamin E. It has an SPF 20 that helps prevent the sun from damaging our skin and harming the cells.
If you prefer sheer coverage, you can pick any foundation from the list to suit your requirements and budget!
I hope you found this article helpful. Let us know in the comments below if you found the proper foundation for your skin tone.
Amina graduated from Mumbai University with a master’s degree in Biotechnology. Since her college days, she been fascinated by the rationale behind anything from cancer cells to cosmetic products. Her friends and family call her ‘The Myth Buster’.
To satiate her curiosity, she chose a profession that allows her to research and discuss interesting topics because she believes that knowledge is liberating. She is currently working as an educator, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Molecular Biology, Cosmeceuticals, and Immunology.
She is a makeup and fitness enthusiast and loves to try new products and techniques. Here at Drugresearch.in, she reviews and recommends products based on her personal experience.
