Finding the right foundation can feel like searching for a holy grail, especially for those with deeper skin tones. Thankfully, the days of limited shade ranges and ashy undertones are fading fast. Here’s a curated list of the best foundations for dark skin, taking into account coverage, finish, and unique features:
- Best Full Coverage
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation - Best Sheer Coverage
M.A.C Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation - Best Skincare Foundation
L’Oréal Paris True Match Hyaluronic Tinted Serum - Best Matte Finish
Maybelline Fit Me Foundation - Best Radiant Finish
Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation - Best Shade Range
Juvia’s Place I am Magic Foundation - Best Stick Foundation
Black Opal True Colour Pore Perfect - Best Store Bought Foundation
Zaron Brownskin Foundation - Best Overall
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Longwear Foundation
Best Full Coverage
- Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation
This long-wearing formula offers full coverage that lasts all day, without feeling cakey. Perfect for special occasions or those seeking maximum camouflaging. This leaves a perfect velvet finish.
Best Sheer and Natural
- M.A.C Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
For a touch of evening out with a radiant finish, this lightweight foundation provides buildable sheer coverage that enhances your natural glow.
Best Skincare Foundation
- L’Oréal Paris True Match Hyaluronic Tinted Serum
This innovative product combines foundation with hydrating hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin looking flawless and feeling plump.
Best Matte Foundation
- Maybelline Fit Me Foundation
This drugstore favourite offers a wide shade range and a comfortable, matte finish that controls shine, making it a great choice for oily or combination skin. It is a buildable, lightweight foundation.
Best Radiant Foundation
- Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
Get a luminous, lit-from-within look with this foundation. It provides medium buildable coverage with a radiant finish that stays put throughout the day.
Best Shade Range
- Juvia’s Place I am Magic Foundation
This brand boasts a massive 42-shade range, ensuring a perfect colour match for even the deepest skin tones. The I am Magic Foundation comes in the Velvety Matte and Natural Radiance.
Best Stick Foundation
- Black Opal True Colour Pore Perfect Stick Foundation
This convenient stick foundation offers medium, buildable coverage with a semi-matte finish. It’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups and minimises the appearance of pores. You can even get a darker shade to use for contouring.
Best Store Bought Foundation
- Zaron Brownskin Foundation
This Black-owned brand delivers a flawless, long-wearing foundation formulated specifically for deeper skin tones. You can find it at Miniso and in most cosmetic stores.
Best Overall
- Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Longwear Foundation
Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty took the makeup world by storm with its inclusive shade range. This foundation offers buildable, long-wearing coverage with a hydrating formula, making it a favorite for many.
This list offers a starting point for your foundation journey. Most of these brands can be found in cosmetic stores like Lintons Beauty and supermarkets. Remember, the best way to find your perfect match is to try testers in natural light and prioritise a formula that complements your skin type and desired finish.
Curious about how to find your perfect foundation match? Read about it here. Happy foundation hunting!
