When your skin is prone to acne, finding that foundation that does-it-all for you ain’t easy. I mean, clearly, you need a lightweight formula that doesn’t clog pores and doesn’t draw more attention to your pimples. Also, for the best, it has to be oil-free and include ingredients that regulate sebum, and why not blemishes-healing elements. At the same time, though, your foundation needs to contain hydrating agents, such as hyaluronic acid. If your skin gets too dry, in an attempt to replenish its moisture, it will increase sebum production, which can make you break out even more. And, of course, complete coverage to cover up pimples and those annoying acne scars. While it may feel like an impossible mission, actually, I found some great foundations for acne-prone skin with full coverage that I bet your skin will love you for.
Best Full-Coverage Foundations for Acne
Oxygenetix Acne Control Foundation
This one was made with acne-prone skin in mind since it’s made with 2.5% salicylic acid, meant to help heal and stop blemishes apparition with each wear. Also, the aloe vera gel addition gives it antibacterial properties and keeps your skin hydrated all day long. Its texture is breathable, with buildable medium to full coverage without feeling heavy. The antioxidant-rich grapeseed extract protects the skin, and Cerevisiae supports collagen production and rapid skin recovery — it’s easy to love it!
La Bella Donna Loose Mineral Foundation
Looking for a mineral powder foundation? This one is made only with four ingredients — so clean! It layers smoothly, and it’s one of the most effective foundations for skin prone to acne due to its pure, mineral-enriched formula. It has a subtle softening effect thanks to its powdery texture while absorbing excess oil and giving complete coverage. Plus, it provides mineral sun protection SPF 50, eliminating the need for an additional product. Corrects, nourishes, heals, and protects.
Clinique Even Better Repairing Foundation
OK, so the MVPs of this foundation are salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, peptide, niacinamide, resveratrol, and caffeine, to name a few. It’s that foundation that takes care of your skin while makes it look flawless for the entire day! It helps unclog pores, plumps skin, hydrates without looking cakey. This is not only a foundation, it’s a skin-repairing product, absolutely uh·mey·zing for acne-prone skin.
Armani Power High Cover Foundation
Want a matte velvety smooth finish throughout the day? And you also want to keep your skin protected against UV damage? Then this foundation is for you. Armani’s foundation covers everything while shielding your skin with a lightweight feeling, yet a super coverage power, and SPF 25 sun protection. It feels and looks like your skin, but better. P.S. It’s an Allure 2020 Best of Beauty Award Winner!
Dermablend Intense Mattifying Foundation
Non-comedogenic, with a mattifying effect, this foundation is the right fit for oily and acne-prone skin types. It stays on all day long, giving that full coverage you want. It has a soft powder texture that looks and feels natural, leaving imperfections concealed, giving your skin a smooth look—the perfect option for on-the-go due to its mirror-included case.
Tarte Amazonian Clay Foundation
With a creamy texture (still oil-free), this foundation layers like a dream and stays on all day long while offering skin benefits. Amazonian clay (great at controlling excess sebum), vitamin E for hydration and antioxidant properties, plus mineral pigments to soothe and make your skin soft. Did I mention it’s got SPF 15 too? Full coverage, matte finish, mineral sun protection, vegan, and sooo many shades you can choose from — can ask for more?
Estée Lauder Stay-in-Place Foundation
When it comes to full coverage and long wear, really, this foundation is not missing from any top. And since it’s oil-free and sebum-controlling, with a matte finish, it goes just perfect for acne-prone skin types. I have used this one for the last six years, and I can say it won’t smudge or come off during the day — TBH, I’ve always set it with an organic setting powder. On top of everything, it’s an Allure Best of Beauty award winner.
Cargo Swimmables Longwear Foundation
An ultra-fluid, long-wearing foundation that gives flawless full coverage with a luminous finish perfect for acne-prone skin. It does not clog pores, is made without oil but with a blend of plant and fruit extracts, such as orange, apple, raspberry, and vanilla, promoting a fresh look. Its creamy texture melts nicely, becoming one with your skin and lasting all day (or night!).
The takeaway
Picking up and finding that hidden gem can be a difficult task, and it takes time and research. It’s simple to just use a foundation to hide your imperfections or just to look good, but to get these results that blow every look and still heal your skin is a long journey. But now that we shared our favs of the most efficient foundations to use for acne-prone skin, you’re one step closer to that flawless look you want!
