As an Indo-Canadian, I know that it can be challenging to find the perfect foundation shade [1] to match medium-brown skin that has warm, yellow undertones [2]. Although makeup brands globally are expanding their lines to include more medium shade foundation options [3] (thank you, brands), it can still be a struggle to find the exact shade that isn't too dark, isn't too pale, or doesn't grey out the natural golden glow my skin has.
After years of experimenting, I've pulled together a list of my top foundation product picks that match my skin tone and that vary in coverage [4], price, and ingredients. This list has become my personal go-to to share with family and friends with similar skin tones to mine — even if they are a few shades lighter or darker — and it's been proven by their praise and through my personal experience as an avid foundation-wearer.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation
Shades available: 50
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation [5] ($43) offers medium coverage, is buildable, and has long-lasting wearability. It's become a staple of mine on work days when I have a large number of video calls because it leaves a smooth finish that looks stunning on camera (and in case my coworkers didn't know already: no, I didn't wake up like this). I've found the best results when I apply this with a Beautyblender.
Bite Beauty Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation
Shades available: 32
Bite Beauty Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation [6] ($39) offers medium coverage, feels moisturising when applied, and leaves a dewy looking finish. I love that it's formulated with clean ingredients, and because of that it's become my typical day-to-day go-to. And seriously, if you're looking for a product that makes it look like you're not even wearing makeup [7], this is the one for you.
L'Oreal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation
Shades available: 40
L'Oreal Infallible Fresh Wear 24HR Foundation [8] ($15) offers medium to full coverage at a great price. It's buildable, blends well, and works great for my sensitive and break-out prone skin (which is a huge plus, especially for a drugstore foundation). It feels light, even when I do build it up to provide a more full-looking coverage.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation
Shades available: 40
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation [9] ($8) offers medium coverage with a matte finish. It's low price goes a long way, especially given that I've found the foundation to last a full day without sliding or sweating off. I apply this with a Beautyblender to get a natural and smooth looking finish, and like that it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin [10]. Oh, and it's great for those days when my skin is feeling a bit more oily and I want a product that controls my shine.
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
Shades available: 50
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation [11] ($35) is long-wearing, full coverage, and it looks absolutely natural. I use a Beautyblender to apply it, and it blends in seamlessly in a way that feels lightweight and enhances my skin rather than making it feel cakey. A little bit goes a long way, so you will get your money's worth!
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
Shades available: 40
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation [12] ($40) is medium coverage and is waterproof, so it's always my pick to use on warmer days when I'm looking for something that will stay all day and not sweat off! I apply this with my foundation brush [13] for best results, and love the way it blends into my skin for a very natural and lightweight finish.