Finding a decent foundation formula in an inclusive range of skin tones used to require shopping department store shelves and dropping major dollars for the sake of the cause. But with drugstore beauty getting better and better, as of 2019 you can now find products that check all the boxes in the same place you buy your tampons and shampoo. What’s more? The best drugstore foundation 2019 has to offer won’t cost you more than $15.
While you may shy away from the idea of buying a complexion product in a place where you can’t swatch the color—there are ways to work around that. According to makeup artists, all you need is some natural lighting and the inside of your wrist. And as far as finding the right product for your skin type, we’ve got you covered there, too. The general rule? If you’ve got dry skin, look for something hydrating, and if you’re oily or acne-prone, stick with a mattifying finish.
Below, the best drugstore foundations 2019 shops have stocked on their shelves—not a single one of which retails for more than the cost of a designer salad.
1. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Matte Foundation, $8
This foundation is almost like a CC cream—it’s got a medium level coverage, but it’s breathable and buildable, so you can wear it however you want. It’ll last whether you’re dining al fresco after work or going to the gym—seriously, it lasts forever and resists humidity and sweat like magic. Plus it comes in 22 shades.
2. Maybelline Fit Me! Dewy + Smooth Foundation, $9
I’m all about that dewy skin look, and this foundation is one of the easiest ways to get it. I just swipe it on and immediately look like I have a post-facial glow. The best part, though? It’s also got sunblock in it—SPF 18, so you can get protection along with a radiant complexion.
3. Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation, $7

If you’re looking for more of a heavy coverage, this one’s great. It’s in between a matte and dewy look, and is particularly great because it doesn’t irritate any pimples that you may have–just covers ’em up.
4. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 20, $15
Neutrogena’s Skin Liquid is the perfect, seamless way to get light and silky coverage that doesn’t make you feel like you’re wearing any makeup at all. It looks uber-natural, and has mineral-based sun protection (titanium dioxide!) inside it so you’re moisturized, covered, and have your SPF down all in one fell swoop.
CoverGirl Matte Ambition All Day Foundation, $12
I’m a major fan of this CoverGirl foundation because it’s actually transfer-resistant—so it’s practically the only item in my makeup bag that won’t stain my shirts (and sheets and towels and boyfriend’s shirts). If you’ve got oily skin, it’s also good at mattifying that shine.
6. NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation, $15
It’s hard for me to do my own makeup and make it look professional, but using this foundation comes close. The coverage is so good, everyone will think you got your face done. It truly lasts all day and covers up e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g.
7. e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation, $6
Save mad money by opting for this e.l.f. foundation that comes in 40 different shades, each of which will give you creamy, buildable coverage. It’s not sticky or cake-y, and has a little SPF in it for some sun protection (I’d still use a stand-alone sunscreen with it, though). It’s, like, your best drugstore foundation bargain at 6 bucks a bottle. You’re welcome.
Aside from mascara, check out the video below to see the drugstore products a dermatologist swears by:
While you’re there, don’t just stop at foundation—these are the absolute best drugstore mascaras that will make your lashes pop. And here are some brilliant drugstore beauty hacks to try that’ll cut down your primping time.
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