Make-up is a bare essential for most women (and some men), but the cost can really add up, especially if you like to use multiple products nearly every single day.
And it all begins with foundation. It’s in the name, being the most important step in a make-up routine if you want a nice base. Finding a good one that’s right for you (and not wildly expensive) can be difficult, though, because it needs to suit your skin.
To help you with the search for an affordable-but-quality foundation, we’ve curated a list of our favourite products, all of which can be had for under $35. From full coverage options to BB creams, we’ve got something for everyone.
Here are our top picks:
Overall pick
If you’re looking for a natural-looking hydrating foundation for light coverage – but one that can be built upon for fuller coverage – the L’Oreal Paris Liquid Foundation is a good choice. Costing under $34, this foundation stands out because it includes multiple hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera extract and vitamin E to keep your skin happy while you wear it. It’s available in over 40 colours, meaning you should be able to find a perfect match no matter your skin tone. This product is a clear fan favourite, with an impressive 4.5 stars from over 34,000 reviews on Amazon.
Also consider
Long wear
Most quality foundations should last you a full day of wear without any problems, but for those who want their foundation to go the extra distance without creasing or flaking, the Rimmel London Lasting Finish 35 Hour Foundation is a good full-coverage option. Priced under $27, this foundation promises to offer unbeatable hydration that lasts up to 35 hours. It’s breathable formula includes 2% niacinamide to prevent skin inflammation, as well as SPF 20 for sun protection. It comes in 16 colours for various skin tones, so you should be able to find a good match. It’s also available in compact form if you need a quick touchup at any time.
Dewy finish
Most people who use make-up on a regular basis have probably heard about the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation. It’s a very popular supermarket foundation that offers a lightweight, dewy finish and also contains SPF 18 for a little sun protection. It also has an oil-free formula so it doesn’t clog pores. Available in an impressive 24 shades, this is a foundation that caters for nearly all skin tones and it costs a very reasonable $25.99.
Low coverage
For the days when you don’t want full coverage but you still want your skin to glow, the Maybelline Instant Perfector 4-in-1 Glow Foundation is a great option. This is actually one of my personal favourites and, since purchasing, I very rarely reach for my fuller coverage foundation. It’s worth noting that this product won’t cover any blemishes, but you can always use a concealer over the top to hide spots or dark circles. This product is available in six shades only, however, but it’s highly likely one of them will suit your skin tone.
BB cream
La Roche-Posay is a popular name in skincare and it also makes a few make-up products. While its catalogue is on the more expensive side, it makes a BB cream that is surprisingly affordable. The Uvidea Anthelios Tinted BB cream will also double as a sunscreen thanks to itsSPF 50 certification, and it safeguards your skin from environmental aggressors with its antioxidant ingredients. It also lists thermal water – to calm and reduce skin irritation – as one of its ingredients, which means this product combines skincare, make-up and sunscreen in the one product. Admittedly it costs well over the $35 mark we promised all our listings would be, but if you shop on Amazon, you’ll often find it discounted to very affordable prices. The only downside – it’s available in just two colours - light and medium. If you want a more affordable option Niveas Sun BB Cream is also SPF 50 and costs only $18.
FAQs
How do I choose the right foundation for me?
With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which product is right for you. A good starting point is knowing your budget so that you only compare products within that price range. That done, think about your skin type. If you have dry skin, you should opt for a foundation that contains hydrating ingredients. If your skin is oily, you may prefer a foundation with a matte finish.
Coverage is another key factor. If you prefer lighter coverage, you should look for products such as skin tints or BB creams that provide a more natural look. If you prefer more coverage to even out skin tone or cover blemishes, look for full coverage or buildable formulas.
Finally, getting the right shade is key. Most foundations now come in a wide range of shades, so if it’s your first time buying, it’s worth trying colours in store to make sure you get the best match for your skin tone, and you can then make the following purchases online.
Is a cheaper foundation worse than a more expensive one?
Not necessarily. A higher price tag doesn’t always mean better performance and often, the higher-end products are often only more expensive because of packaging, added skincare ingredients or luxury branding. If you know what to look for, there’s no reason that a budget-friendly option can’t deliver the same results as a pricier one.
Should I get a foundation that includes SPF?
If you find a foundation that you like that includes SPF, it’s a great added bonus, but you shouldn’t solely rely on the SPF included in a foundation as your only defence against the sun, especially in a country like Australia. If you’re going to be out and about, it’s recommended that you also apply sunscreen to your face because a lot of make-up products that include SPF only include small amounts, and even if you find a product that has SPF50+, many people don’t apply enough foundation to get the full SPF benefit anyway.
For more affordable beauty product recommendations, we also have a guide on our favourite budget-friendly facial cleansers.
