The 20 Different Types Of Foundation Makeup (The ULTIMATE GUIDE!) (2025)

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Makeup is my thing. As a retired makeup artist and beauty influencer, it’s safe to say that foundation holds a VERY special place in my heart… but I understand that trying to figure out the different types of foundation makeup and find the right one for you can be overwhelming and hard (like instant headache-hard, right?!)

No worries, because I got you! In this article, I will be discussing the different types of foundation available, their benefits, and which skin types they are best suited for. From powder to liquid to cream, each type of foundation has its own unique properties that make it suitable for different skin types and occasions.

The 20 Types of Foundation

To help you make an informed decision, I will be breaking down the different types of foundation and their properties. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you find the perfect foundation for your needs.

Please note that each type of foundation offers unique benefits and is designed for different skin types. Understanding the differences between them can help you choose the right foundation for your needs.

Liquid Foundation

Liquid foundation is one of the most popular types of foundation makeup (and my personal favorite!). It’s easy to apply and provides a natural finish. It’s suitable for all skin types, and you can find different formulas such as oil-free, matte, and dewy.

Liquid foundation is buildable, which means you can apply multiple layers for more coverage. It’s best applied with a brush, sponge, or your fingers.

Powder Foundation

Powder foundation is ideal for those with oily skin as it helps absorb excess oil and provides a matte finish. It’s also easy to apply and gives a natural look. You can use a brush or sponge to apply powder foundation. However, it’s not suitable for those with dry skin since powder absorbs oil and can make the skin look flaky.

Cream Foundation

Cream foundation is thicker than liquid foundation and provides more coverage. It’s suitable for those with dry skin as it’s hydrating and doesn’t settle into fine lines. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Stick Foundation

Stick foundation is convenient and easy to use. It’s perfect for those on-the-go or for touch-ups throughout the day. It provides medium to full coverage and is suitable for all skin types. It’s best applied directly to the skin and blended with a brush or sponge.

Mousse Foundation:

Mousse foundation is a lightweight, mousse-textured formula that provides medium coverage. It’s suitable for those with normal to combination skin and provides a natural finish. It’s best applied with a sponge or brush.

Mineral Foundation

Mineral foundation is made from natural minerals and is suitable for those with sensitive skin. It provides buildable coverage and a natural finish. It’s best applied with a brush, and you can find different formulas such as loose powder or pressed powder.

BB Cream Foundation

BB cream foundation is a skincare-makeup hybrid that provides coverage and skincare benefits. It’s suitable for those with normal to dry skin and provides a natural finish. It’s best applied with a brush or your fingers.

CC Cream Foundation

CC cream foundation is similar to BB cream foundation but provides more coverage and color correction. It’s suitable for those with uneven skin tone and provides a natural finish. It’s best applied with a brush or your fingers.

Serum Foundation

Serum foundation is lightweight and provides a natural finish. It’s suitable for those with normal to dry skin and provides skincare benefits. It’s best applied with a brush or your fingers.

Tinted Moisturizer

Tinted moisturizer is a lightweight foundation that provides sheer coverage and hydration. It’s suitable for those with normal to dry skin and provides a natural finish. It’s best applied with your fingers.

Cushion Foundation Makeup

Cushion foundation makeup is a compact foundation that provides buildable coverage and hydration. It’s suitable for those with normal to dry skin and provides a natural finish. It’s best applied with a sponge.

Airbrush Foundation

Airbrush foundation is a professional makeup technique that provides a flawless finish. It’s suitable for those with normal to oily skin and provides buildable coverage. It’s best applied with an airbrush machine.

Full Coverage Foundation

Full coverage foundation provides maximum coverage and is suitable for those with acne, scars, or hyperpigmentation. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Light Coverage Foundation

Light coverage foundation provides a natural finish and is suitable for those with clear skin. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Matte Foundation

Matte foundation provides a matte finish and is suitable for those with oily skin. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Dewy Foundation

Dewy foundation provides a glowy finish and is suitable for those with dry skin. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Natural Finish Foundation

Natural finish foundation provides a natural finish and is suitable for those with normal skin. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Oil-Free Foundation

Oil-free foundation is suitable for those with oily skin and provides a matte finish. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Waterproof Foundation

Waterproof foundation is suitable for those who need their makeup to last all day or are going swimming. It’s best applied with a brush or sponge.

Spray Foundation Makeup

Spray foundation makeup is a quick and easy way to apply foundation. It’s suitable for those with normal to oily skin and provides buildable coverage. It’s best applied with a spray gun or aerosol can.

While different types, brands, and textures of foundation are constantly being brought to market, here are the most popular types of foundation. Now that I’ve gone over the different kinds of foundation let’s talk about the different ways to apply foundation makeup!

Different Ways to Apply Foundation

When it comes to applying foundation, there are several ways to achieve a flawless finish. In this section, I will discuss the three most popular methods: using a makeup brush, a makeup sponge, or your hands.

Apply Foundation with a Makeup Brush

Using a makeup brush to apply foundation is a classic method that has been around for years. It provides a smooth and even coverage, and it’s perfect for those who want to have more control over their application.

Here are the steps to using a makeup brush:

1. Start by applying a small amount of foundation to the back of your hand.

2. Dip your brush into the foundation and apply it to your face using circular motions, starting from the center of your face and working your way outwards.

3. Blend the foundation into your skin, making sure to cover any blemishes or imperfections.

Some popular types of foundation brushes include flat, angled, and stippling brushes. Each brush provides a different type of coverage, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs.

Apply Foundation with a Makeup Sponge

Apply Foundation with Your Hands

Using your hands to apply foundation is a simple and easy method that is perfect for those who are always on-the-go. It provides a natural and seamless finish, and it’s perfect for those who want a more minimal look. Here are the steps to using your hands:

Start by applying a small amount of foundation to the back of your hand.
Use your fingers to apply the foundation to your face, starting from the center of your face and working your way outwards.
Blend the foundation into your skin, making sure to cover any blemishes or imperfections.

Using your hands can provide a more natural and skin-like finish, but it’s important to make sure your hands are clean before applying foundation to avoid any bacteria or dirt on your face.

Overall, there are several ways to apply foundation, and each method provides a different type of finish. Whether you prefer using a brush, sponge, or your hands, it’s important to choose a method that suits your needs and preferences.

How to Choose the Right Foundation for You

Foundation helps to even out skin tone, cover blemishes, and create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. However, with so many different types of foundation available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your skin type and desired finish.

When choosing a foundation, it’s important to consider factors such as skin type, coverage needs, and desired finish. Some foundations are better suited for oily skin, while others work well for dry or combination skin. Similarly, some foundations offer full coverage, while others provide a more natural, sheer finish.

Here are some tips to help you find the perfect foundation for your skin:

Determine Your Skin Type

Before you start shopping, it’s important to know your skin type. This will help you choose a foundation that works best for you. Here are some common skin types:

Dry: If you have dry skin, look for a foundation that is hydrating and has a dewy finish.
Oily: If you have oily skin, look for a foundation that is oil-free and has a matte finish.
Combination: If you have combination skin, look for a foundation that is lightweight and has a natural finish.
Normal: If you have normal skin, look for a foundation that provides light to medium coverage.
Sensitive: If you have sensitive skin, look for a foundation that is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
Aging: If you have aging skin, look for a foundation that contains anti-aging ingredients and provides sheer to medium coverage.

Find Your Undertone

Your undertone is the color that lies beneath the surface of your skin. It’s important to find a foundation that matches your undertone to avoid looking washed out or too orange. Here are some tips to help you determine your undertone:

Cool undertones: If your skin has pink, red, or blue undertones, you have a cool undertone.
Warm undertones: If your skin has yellow, peach, or golden undertones, you have a warm undertone.
Neutral undertones: If your skin has a mix of cool and warm undertones, you have a neutral undertone.

Test the Foundation

Once you’ve found a foundation that matches your skin type and undertone, it’s time to test it out. Here are some tips to help you find the right shade:

Test the foundation on your jawline, not your wrist or hand.
Test the foundation in natural light to get an accurate match.
Try a few shades to find the perfect match.
Don’t forget to blend the foundation into your neck to avoid a line of demarcation.

Consider the Formula

There are many different formulas of foundation, so it’s important to choose one that works best for your skin type and preference. Here are some common formulas:

Liquid: Liquid foundation is versatile and works for most skin types.
Powder: Powder foundation is great for oily skin and provides a matte finish.
Cream: Cream foundation is hydrating and works well for dry skin.
Stick: Stick foundation is convenient and easy to apply.
Mousse: Mousse foundation is light and airy, providing a natural finish.

Remember, the right foundation should enhance your natural beauty and make you feel confident. By following these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect foundation for your skin.

Best Makeup Brushes for Foundation

When it comes to achieving a flawless foundation application, the right makeup brush can make all the difference. As someone who has tried countless foundation brushes over the years, I can confidently say that these are the best of the best:

Flat Top Kabuki Brush

A flat top kabuki brush is a must-have for anyone who loves liquid or cream foundations. The dense, flat top allows for easy and seamless application, and the bristles are soft enough to blend out any harsh lines.

Shop: Flat top brushes

Foundation Brush

Foundation brushes are great for those who prefer to use powder or mineral foundations. These types of brushes are typically more dense than kabuki brushes, so they can really pack on product and provide great coverage.

Shop: Foundation brush

Stippling Brush

If you prefer a lighter coverage foundation, a stippe brush is the way to go. The unique duo-fiber bristles allow for a more diffused, airbrushed finish. Stippling brushes are also great for blending out cream blushes and highlighters.

Shop: Stippling brush

Beauty Blender

While not technically a brush, the beauty blender has become a staple in many makeup bags for good reason. This egg-shaped sponge is perfect for applying liquid and cream foundations, and the pointed end allows for precision application around the nose and under the eyes. Plus, it can be used wet or dry depending on your preference.

Shop: Beauty blender

In conclusion, the right makeup brush can make all the difference in achieving a flawless foundation application. Whether you prefer a flat top kabuki brush, stippling brush, or beauty blender, there are plenty of options out there to suit your needs and preferences.

Foundation do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Start with freshly washed and clean skin
Apply moisturizer before applying foundation
Consider applying a primer before foundation
Match your foundation shade to your neck and chest
Set your foundation with a powder if it’s a creme foundation. This will help it last longer and prevent it from creasing or settling into fine lines and wrinkles.

Don’t:

Apply too much foundation, as this can make your face look cakey and unnatural. Start with a little and work your way up.
Put foundation all over your face. Apply to the center and work your way your edges and jawline for a more natural look.
Apply foundation in sunlight or with a bright light on, as it can be difficult to judge the color.
Choose the wrong shade of foundation. Your foundation should match your neck and chest.

Frequently asked questions: Foundation makeup guide

Is foundation necessary in makeup?

Wearing foundation is not necessary, and I often skip the foundation for running errands or when it’s super hot! I’ll usually just apply some mascara, lipgloss, and concealer (if I’m feeling up to it, I’ll apply a little blush lol!)!

Here’s a video sharing my easy foundation-free makeup look:

If you love beauty tutorials, check out my youtube channel!

How to store foundation makeup?

Foundation makeup is an essential part of any makeup routine and must be stored properly in order to maintain its quality. Here are some of the best ways to store foundation makeup:

1. Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight – Direct sunlight can damage foundation and cause it to oxidize or become discolored over time. It is best to keep foundation in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

2. Keep the lid tight – Ensure the foundation lid is always securely on and tightened. This will help keep it from oxidizing and minimize bacteria growth.

Optional: Use a makeup fridge – Did you know there are mini fridges designed to store makeup? While it’s not necessary, a makeup fridge does help to keep your makeup lasting longer and not going bad as quickly.

Shop: Makeup fridge

Should makeup match your face, neck, or chest?

Most people (okay, me lol) have a different complexion face than neck and chest. When it comes to matching makeup, it’s best to match your chest and neck. If you chest and neck are different colors, match your chest!

Which foundation should I choose?

There is no one size fits all when it comes to foundation makeup, as everyones skin and makeup desires are different. I even wear different types of makeup based on my mood (I’ll use BB cream for the beach, cream for a special occasion, and liquid foundation for everyday wear!).

Additionally, I have friends who may love a specific type of foundation, but when I tried it, it didn’t look very great or work for my skin!

Each type of foundation has its own unique features and benefits that cater to different skin types and skin concerns.

When it comes to choosing the right foundation, it is important to consider factors such as skin type, skin concerns, and personal preferences. For example, if you have oily skin, you may want to opt for a matte or oil-free foundation. If you have dry skin, a hydrating or moisturizing foundation may be more suitable for you.

Liquid foundation is one of the most popular options for foundation makeup. It provides buildable coverage and is easy to blend. Cream foundation, on the other hand, has a thicker consistency and is great for filling in scars and wrinkles. Powder foundation is lightweight and provides a natural finish, making it a great option for everyday wear.

Stick foundation is convenient and easy to apply, making it a great option for on-the-go touch-ups. CC creams and tinted moisturizers are perfect for those who want a more natural, lightweight coverage. Mineral foundation is a great option for those who prefer natural and organic products.

Honestly, the type of foundation makeup you choose depends on your individual needs and preferences.

With so many options available, it’s important to do your research and find the right foundation that works best for you (a hack is going to your local beauty counter and testing foundations while you’re there!)

All in all, I hope this post has shown you that there are various types of foundations out there, each offering its own unique benefits. Whether you prefer stick foundation, liquid foundation, or even powder foundation, there is one out there to fit your needs.

Do you have a favorite foundation? What’s your go-to foundation routine? Share with me and the makeup gang in the comments below!