9 best full coverage drugstore foundations

Most of us dream of having flawless-looking skin, but not all of us can afford the hefty price points of some foundations on the market.

Some may be reluctant to pick up a drugstore foundation in fear that the low cost is indicative of poor results, but that’s not necessarily true.

Everybody’s skin is unique so foundation will perform differently on everyone. Yes, that includes pricier foundations. You’ve just got to experiment with different formulas until you find one that works best for you.

We’ve made things easier for you by listing nine of our picks for best full coverage drugstore foundation. Best of all, you can try different formulas without blowing your budget as these foundations are definitely wallet friendly!

Maybelline Dream Urban Cover Full Coverage SPF40

$3.95 (RRP $25.95)

Our favourite Maybelline full coverage foundation would have to be Maybelline Dream Urban Cover Full Coverage SPF40.

This lightweight foundation offers broad-spectrum SPF 40 and is enriched with antioxidants, specifically designed to protect the skin from pollution and other harmful environmental aggressors.

A natural-looking, flawless finish foundation that also protects your skin for just $3.95? Now that’s a dream! 

Essence Insta Perfect Liquid Makeup

$6.95 (RRP $9.00)

If you would like to be able to pick and choose your level of coverage each day, Essence Insta Perfect Liquid Makeup is a great choice.

The practical drop packaging that Essence has included makes it easy to control application on those days where you just want a sheer, natural finish. Then, on those days when you want full glam, simply add more drops to build your foundation up to full coverage with a long-lasting, waterproof matte finish.

wet n wild Photo Focus Stick Foundation

$11.99

Love taking selfies for the ‘gram? Then this wet n wild foundation is ideal.

Not only does it provide long-lasting full coverage with a lightweight, semi-matte finish, but it has been tested under seven different lighting systems to make sure it stays looking flawless, regardless of your lighting situation.

Revlon ColorStay Life Proof Matte Foundation Stick SPF27

$7.95 (RRP $27.00)

There are several reasons why Revlon ColorStay Life Proof Matte Foundation Stick SPF27 would be our pick as the best Revlon full coverage foundation.

First, it utilises an ultra-pigmented yet weightless formula that glides across the skin for effortless application and sets with a soft matte finish. Second, it offers up to 24 hours of wear that can resist humidity, transfer and smudging. Third, it offers SPF 27 protection. Last but certainly not least, its unique twist-up stick component makes this foundation ideal for popping into your makeup bag for travel and on-the-go touch ups. 

L’Oreal Infallible 24Hr Matte Cover Foundation

$7.95 (RRP $33.00)

L’Oreal Infallible 24Hr Matte Cover Foundation provides full coverage with all-day hold, making it a great choice if you are after a reliable foundation.

L’Oreal uses an infusion of ultra-blurring serum and highly mattifying powders in this foundation to keep your skin looking flawless all day long, all while remaining lightweight and comfortable on the skin.

Natio Semi Matte Full Coverage Foundation

$4.95 (RRP $19.95)

If you like that ‘second skin’ type of look, then this Natio foundation is calling your name.

Natio Semi Matte Full Coverage Foundation incorporates balancing mineral pigments that cleverly adapt to your skin tone in order to conceal flaws and imperfections, all while maintaining a natural look. Its creamy formula glides over the skin and dries promptly with a lovely semi-matte finish.

Australis Fresh & Flawless Full Coverage Foundation SPF15

$2.95 (RRP $19.95)

This wonderful foundation by Australis may be the cheapest on our list, but that doesn’t make it any less special.

Aside from boasting a buildable yet incredibly lightweight formula, Australis Fresh & Flawless Full Coverage Foundation SPF15 also offers SPF 15 protection and contains Vitamin C and E to keep your skin nourished while also controlling excess oils to ensure your skin stays looking flawless and fresh.

NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Powder Foundation

$5.95 (RRP $33.00)

This NYX foundation is a great option for anyone who prefers a powder foundation formula.

NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Powder Foundation is a pro-level pressed powder foundation that slides over the skin, leaving behind flawless coverage and a soft, velvet matte finish. Best of all, it won’t cake or wear you down, so you can stay comfortable and enjoy a natural look.

Palladio Dual Wet & Dry Powder Foundation

$8.95 (RRP $24.95)

Here’s another powder foundation formula option, but with a twist.

Palladio Dual Wet & Dry Powder Foundation can be applied both wet and dry. Use it wet for high coverage, then use it dry to set it or apply light on-the-go touch ups.

This foundation offers high coverage and comes complete with a fitted mirror and sponge for a easy on-the-go application. Its unique formula also includes Alpha-hydroxy fruit acids to treat fine lines and Zinc Oxide to help prevent breakouts. No wonder this foundation is one of Palladio’s top-selling formulas!

Click here to shop some of the best affordable full coverage foundation at Cosmetic Capital.

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