There’s no denying that foundations formulated for deeper skin tones have come a long way over the past few years. Expansive, inclusive shade ranges that don’t leave you looking like Casper are no longer few and far between, but even without having to employ hacks like colour mixing, finding the perfect shade and finish can still feel like a minefield.
As other Black and darker-skinned women will know all too well, we have to consider more than just finish and wear when it comes to foundation shopping: Can I easily colour-match online with this brand? Does this foundation have multiple undertone options? Will it leave my skin with a grey tinge? In order to help cut through the noise, I’ve rounded up the very best foundations for darker skin tones, from old favourites to the best of the new launches, to make shopping for foundation for darker skin tones a breeze.
And it make it even easier for you, I’ve broken up this comprehensive list of 18 foundations into three categories—dewy, skin-like and full coverage—in order to hone in on exactly what makes each option worthy of a spot on the list, and so you can find one that suits your needs.
From new-school Fenty to a skin-caring option from By Terry and Glossier’s latest launch, scroll for the 18 best foundations for darker skin tones.
I love a dewy base, but this means that I’m all too aware of the very thin line between dewy and sweaty when it comes to foundation. Here are my favourite dark-skin-friendly foundations that bring the glow without the grease.
My new autumn favourite! I’d describe this as a foundation-skincare hybrid option, thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid. Glossy enough to create a seamless finish that glows with coverage, it makes my skin feel bouncy, and the serum-esque bottle and pipette applicator make the application process feel like an extension of my morning skincare routine. I would like to see a wider undertone option, however. Undertone Variation: 4.5/10Online Shade Match: 7/10
What other buyers thought: “I bought this foundation on an impulse buy but I have fallen in love. I’ve always been a full-coverage type of girl however after a day of heavy makeup I most definitely break out so I wanted to try something a little lighter. By Terry foundation is my new skin secret. I have worn this foundation and had so many compliments about how fresh and glowy my skin looks and after a full day wearing this foundation no spots in sight.” [SIC]
It was a great day for this beauty editor when I discovered these drops—a product that feels genuinely innovative. This foundation applies like a light facial oil and yet somehow blends out (preferably using fingers) into a soft-coverage, dewy foundation. The brainchild of celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman, I found it easy to shade-match, but due to its unusual texture, it’s one that I’d advise testing in real life to make sure it’s right for you. Undertone Variations: 7/10Online Shade Match: 9.5/10
What other buyers thought: “I’ve used these complexion drops a few times now and absolutely love them. They are very light and moisturising on the skin and give you a really natural coverage. Like my skin but way better.” [SIC]
This lightweight, easy-to-build foundation surprised me with its seamless coverage and adaptability. It didn’t dramatically crease and cake in my laughter lines like a lot of other foundations, so it’s a new contender for my everyday go-to. It’s also a fantastically breathable option for anyone who doesn’t typically like the feel of foundation but also isn’t into the full “Glossier” look (skin-first, barely there). One caveat: For full, night-out glam, this gel-cream texture might be a tad too sheer. Undertones Variations: 10/10. Online Shade Match: 9.5/10
What other buyers thought: “I rarely wear foundation but this has become a new staple. It evens my skin tone out perfectly and I can build it from light-medium without it feeling cakey. If you have combo skin I recommend lightly setting it with powder in places you get oily. The undertones of this is amazing it perfectly matches my skin. As an olive-undertone foundations are a hit or miss but this is definitely a hit! Highly Recommend!!” [SIC]
I loved this both because of its shade match and itseven, medium coverage when applied with my favourite stippling brush. It has a lovely, natural finish, but in terms of staying power, its glowiness makes me lean towards recommending it for shorter periods of wear, making sure to powder any particularly oily areas. Undertones Variations: 7/10Online Shade Match: 9.5/10
What other buyers thought: This foundation is amazing. It looks natural on my skin, and it’s buildable if you want more full coverage. It does not feel heavy and gives a nice overall look. The foundation held up well throughout the day, even with me experiencing extreme heat and humidity. I’m really happy with this purchase, and I’ve already started recommending it to a few people.” [SIC]
The clue as to why this lightweight, easy-to-build foundation is so popular lies in its name. It surprised me with how seamlessly it both blended and stayed in place—this is another one that didn’t slip and settle into my laughter lines. I think it would be a fantastic base option for bridal makeup thanks to its perfect balance between a “your skin but better” glow and undetectable coverage. Undertones Variations: 8/10Online Shade Match: 9/10
No-makeup makeup more your thing? These foundations are for you. Below are the very best options that will leave dark skin looking like its truest self with just a little bit of coverage. Foundation? Where?
If you love the cult-favourite foundation, then you’ll love its sheer-finish sister even more. The liquid formula is best quickly applied to the skin with fingers or a sponge for a lovely, soft finish. My only note is that I’d like to see this in a bottle about three times the size, but given its ultra-light yet even coverage, I won’t protest too much. Undertone Variations: 8/10. Online Shade Match: 10/10
What other buyers thought: “I was sent a sample of this foundation to try. If you want a very light coverage that feels natural then this fits the bill. I like a light foundation for going to the gym, general shopping, and around the house and this fits the bill. It is quite liquid rather than cream so took a bit of getting used to—apply more like a tinted moisturiser. It evens out skin tone leaving an almost ‘not there’ finish. For proper going out when a fuller make up is required I use a different foundation such as the Double Wear stay in place. I always use a transparent powder to finish any foundation.” [SIC]
To say I was wowed by this foundation from Lady Gaga’s makeup brand would be the understatement of the year. I had heard great things about its flexible texture and balanced shade, and it not only applied like silk, but is arguably one of the truest colour matches I’ve found in years. Truly, a wonderful find. Undertone Variations: 10/10Online Shade Match: 10/10
First, a warning: This is a very runny liquid formula, so it’s not for the overzealous, messy make-up applier. I’m talking about myself here—even after almost a year of use, I still get it everywhere. However, don’t let the consistency put you off, because this foundation gives a dreamy, thin base that covers all dark marks and acne scars without an orange tinge in sight. I opt for a hybrid fingertip-and-brush approach to application, and this seems to be the best method. The case for this foundation joining my daily makeup rotation was made by my sister, who couldn’t stop complimenting my skin the first time I wore it. Undertone Variations: 9/10Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: “The formula of this foundation is amazing, you can’t feel you’re wearing it, and it’s weightless and seamless. My only issue with it could have a little bit of more coverage; other than this, it’s PERFECT.” [SIC]
This serum foundation is one of the more exciting options for dark skin tones. Best applied with fingers, it leaves skin with unbelievably lightweight coverage and a truly “lit from within” glow. Despite being positioned as a tinted skincare option, I found it to be perfect for creating an even-toned base for the rest of my make-up. Don’t let the curated shade range fool you; I was able to find two options that blended undetectably with my skin—something that even some of the bigger brands have yet to master. The only thing to note is that this isn’t one I’d reach for when 24-hour coverage is needed. Undertone Variations: 9/10Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: “I’m new to Trinny’s products but I have to say that this is excellent. I have long-term health problems that have aged my face considerably. This BFF serum gives my skin a healthy look and combines really well with the eye serum, which is also excellent. Would definitely recommend it and will be buying it again.” [SIC]
I know, I know—but the hydration and skin finish provided by this foundation more thanmakes up for the price. Granted, this one will be firmly for special-occasion makeup, but its performance is impressive, and so is the shade range. With the likes of La Mer on board, I can now honestly say that shade-wise, there are options for all, and even less of an excuse for brands that don’t meet the mark. Undertone Variations: 9/10Online Shade Match: 8/10
What other buyers thought: “I really love this foundation. I was hesitant at first in regards to the price point but decided to purchase and it is *definitely* worth it. It isn’t super full coverage, but it’s perfect for those days when you want your skin to look like your skin, but better. It also doesn’t sit in my pores like so many other foundations. Will definitely be re-purchasing!” [SIC]
This foundation came on my radar via rave internet reviews. The formula dries down slightly matte with a silky finish, and when I tried it for over a week I was blown away by its weightless feel and neutral undertone. I can’t say I was completely surprised though; Makeup By Mario is responsible for my favourite lip products. This is the thickest of the skin-like options though, so be mindful when pumping, because a little goes a very long way. Undertone Variations: 9/10Online Shade Match: 8.5/10
What other buyers thought: As someone with dry skin, this foundation has become my best friend. My previous prestige foundations have separated and worn off quickly, even with skincare as a base. This one brings glow back to my skin. I will say, it may not be suited for someone with large pores or a lot of texture. But I will definitely be repurchasing!” [SIC]
If you go all in with your makeup, take note; these are the foundations that have your back all day (and night) long. All of these medium and high-coverage options have inclusive shade ranges, so you can find the best base for your full-glam looks.
Despite my scepticism over viral foundations, after trying this for a first-impressions review earlier this year over on the Who What Wear UK TikTok, Givenchy’s Prisme Libre Foundation has become my go-to for going out-out. Its seamless colour match will be welcomed by dark-skinned foundation wearers, but it’s definitely one that you’ll need to use both a primer and setting spray with. . Undertone Variations: 7/10Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: This foundation lasted through a whole concert plus a 4-hour drive to get there! It was super easy to apply and blend! I was able to build up coverage with layers, and it completely hid my acne scarring. I was a little hesitant about it at first since I have dry skin, and it claimed to be a matte foundation. However, it looked so nice on my skin and gave off a more natural look than I expected! The packaging was perfect – I love the pump feature. I will definitely be using this as my go-to foundation for nights out! Absolutely love this product and would definitely recommend to anyone who wants a foundation that blurs pores and is full coverage!!” [SIC]
Balmy in texture and with a smooth finish, this is a full-coverage option that still manages to look and feel like skin. My only con is that as with many SPF-infused foundations, a lot of people could be all-too tempted to forgo an actual SPF underneath, which wouldn’t leave your skin adequately protected. Undertone Variation: 7/10. Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: “Like all the TikTok influencers said, the consistency is very thick. It could be because there’s SPF 25 in the foundation, a physical SPF perhaps. Great for dry to combination to oily skin, from winter to spring. I didn’t bother to do a colour match so the colour was a bit too pale. I use bronzing powder for adjusting the colour, and it’s great, a lot of blending is required though [SIC].”
This foundation from Selena Gomez’s beauty brand more than delivers on its promise of major coverage payoff with minimal product. Just a few swipes gives you the kind of soft, matte finish you just have to see to believe, and one that’s often hard to find without veering into the dreaded ashy territory. With a good setting powder in hand, this is a great dark-skin option.Undertone Variations: 7/10Online Shade Match: 8/10
What other buyers thought: “I’m still in disbelief about how wonderful this foundation is!!! I have never before been able to find a foundation that actually matched my skin!! Tried everything from Fenty, Clinique, Huda Beauty, Laura Mercier, etc – they all were too white or orange/red!! This foundation is so versatile too, the coverage looks perfect when applied lightly or more heavily. I prefer to apply on the lighter side so that my freckles are still visible!! Texture is just heavenly too, doesn’t feel heavy or have a cakey look even when applied generously. ALSO my fiance who HATES makeup actually complimented how natural it looked!! LOVE LOVE!!” [SIC]
This luxurious foundation from underrated beauty brand Suqqu feels like your favourite night cream—not too sticky and with a big moisture payoff—blended with a full-coverage concealer. My biggest issue is that it comes in a pot with a small applicator, which I ignore in favour of my fingers, making for a messy makeup moment. However, the buildability of this foundation makes it worth having on your radar. Undertone Variations: 7/10Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: “This foundation is great on the skin and buildable without leaving it looking cakey.” [SIC]
Putting aside the now-familiar fanfare over Fenty’s extended foundation shade range (even though launching as a new beauty brand with 50 shades is still very impressive, even years later), the brand’s newest long-wearing formula is a great example of why people keep returning for more. I love accessible, easy-to-use makeup, and this foundation is definitely one I’ll reach for again, especially during my period when my skin is oiler and more textured. Undertone Variations: 9/10Online Shade Match: 8/10
What other buyers thought: “I love this! It is so so so easy to blend in with your fingers. This is a lazy girl’s dream! Not only it is extremely easy to use, but it also looks so good! Makes my skin look so beautiful with just a little product. I would definitely say this is buildable, so it could create nice coverage, but to me, that’s not needed. It looks beautiful with one layer.” [SIC]
I’ve yet to hear anything negative from anyone I’ve recommend this Ilmakiage foundation to. Known for its ingenious AI shade-matching technology which produces seamless results, it gives a truly lit-from-within glow. Since discovering it base in 2021, I’ve found it to be perfect for everyday wear and fully capable of creating an even-toned base for the rest of my makeup routine. Its only downside is its dry-down time—it sets faster than most foundations, so buff first, admire later. Undertone Variations: 7/10. Online Shade Match: 9/10
What other buyers thought: “I love it, I used it two years ago and I wanted to take the quiz again to see if the number was going to change, and they matched me with the same number and it’s perfect. I definitely recommend.” [SIC]
I’m not usually a huge fan of stick foundations because I like to limit the amount of tugging and pulling I do to my face. However, this creamy formula glides so smoothly and easily that it was enough to make me reconsider. I’ve loved NYC-based brand Milk Makeup for years thanks to its Black-girl-friendly bronzers, glittery shadows and lipglosses, and now I can add this foundation to the list. Four swipes (forehead, chin, both cheeks) is enough to create a medium-to-full-coverage look that doesn’t look too cakey. It’s a winner. Undertone Variations: 7.5/10Online Shade Match: 7.5/10
What other buyers thought: “I’m not really one for foundation anymore but I actually really love this product. It’s quick and easy to apply and blends really well with a brush. It also has a pretty decent coverage which is buildable without getting too cakey. I’d buy it again!” [SIC]
Haus Labs won me over with its innovative formulation and skin-defining finish. A flexible foundation with a colour match that eliminates any need for tweaking with other shades, this is a godsend. I’m interested to see how my shade-match fairs in the summer months, but with 51 others on offer, I wont be losing any sleep over it.
Next Up: Tonnes of New Products Landed on My Desk This Month, But These 10 Were the Best
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