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12 Best Waterproof Foundations for Streak-Free Days
These budge-proof formulas are heat, sweat, rain and tear-resistant.
Of all the hard-working beauty products that check off multiple boxes, the best waterproof foundations are certified MVPs in the category. Similar to the best traditional foundations, these offer various finishes and levels of coverage to suit your specific skin type and desired aesthetic. Yet when rain, sweat, humidity, or even a good ol’ fashioned cry threaten to put a (literal) damper on your look, these budge-proof formulas will effectively stay locked in for hours.
“Waterproof foundations typically work by [using polymers or silicone-based compounds] to create a micro-film on the skin, which holds pigments while repelling sweat and water,” explains Eddie Duyos, Make Up For Ever Pro Artist and Brand Education Manager.
Our picks for the best waterproof foundations of 2023
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Keep in mind that said polymers can contain pore-clogging ingredients, so if you have acne-prone skin, it’s best to look for non-comedogenic waterproof formulas. (FYI, there are plenty of these available!)
For a flawless, streak-free mug, I tapped Duyos, as well as two additional makeup artists and dermatologist Dr. Ellen Marmur, to uncover the 12 best waterproof foundations money can buy. I even included one of my personal go-to's and another ELLE editor-favorite formula. Keep scrolling to find your perfect match.
Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
Make Up For Ever HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation
Pros
- Natural-looking finish
- Buildable
- 24-hour coverage
Cons
- Not ideal for those who want fuller coverage
“The Make Up For Ever HD Skin Liquid Foundation is definitely a holy grail when it comes to a waterproof formula, especially in the summer,” says Duyos. “With its medium, buildable coverage and natural matte finish, this foundation stays on until you want it gone!” Thanks to a proprietary micro-skin system, it’s formulated to sync with your complexion to give you that true-to-skin finish.
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Natural
Shades: 38
Size: 0.04 or 1.01 oz.
bareMinerals Barepro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation
bareMinerals Barepro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation
Pros
- SPF 20
- Breathable
- Helps improve skin texture and tone
Cons
- Some may wish it was more hydrating
Cover and treat your blemishes simultaneously with this skincare-packed formula from bareMinerals. With ingredients like brightening bamboo extract and smoothing papaya enzymes, “it’s great at blurring pores and imperfections while improving skin texture over time,” says bareMinerals Global Makeup Artist and Brand Educator Carly Giglio. “I recommend this formula to anyone seeking all-day coverage and protection, as it offers 24-hour wear, mineral SPF 20, and a matte finish that’s still super breathable.”
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 35
Size: 1 oz.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation
L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation
Pros
- Affordable
- Dermatologist-approved
- Reduces shine
- Non-comogodenic
Cons
- May take some work to even out skin texture
Dr. Marmur calls this “a great affordable option,” as it’s “long-lasting and has SPF25 to keep your skin protected.” Offering buildable coverage, the under-$12 formula won’t clog pores and contains oil-absorbing ingredients like perlite to minimize shine.
Coverage: Medium to full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 40
Size: 1 oz.
Laura Mercier Real Flawless Weightless Perfecting Foundation
Laura Mercier Real Flawless Weightless Perfecting Foundation
Pros
- Hydrating
- Shine-reducing
- Breathable
Cons
- Not ideal for those who want full coverage
“Unlike other film formulas that can be drying and create a cakey look, this foundation incorporates flexible non-drying film formers that help to improve water resistance while maintaining comfortable coverage,” says Laura Mercier’s Global Beauty Director Tayaba Jafri. “Additionally, it’s long-wearing, hydrating, and helps reduce shine throughout the day.”
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Natural
Shades: 30
Size: 1 oz.
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40
Pros
- Good for redness, fine lines and breakouts
- Reduces oil without stripping the skin
- SPF40
Cons
- Lighter shades may run dark
Fuller coverage foundations aren’t for everyone. When you’re looking for something lighter that will also help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, even out dark spots, and keep breakouts under control, IT Cosmetics’ CC+ Cream is a beauty bag essential. In fact, it’s earned Dr. Marmur’s seal of approval. “It has anti-aging benefits, intense hydration properties, and helps to absorb natural oils from the skin,” she says. Alongside a blend of plumping collagen and peptides, it contains detoxifying charcoal and colloidal clay as well as bacteria-fighting tea tree oil.
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 12
Size: 1.08 oz.
Il Makiage Woke Up Like This
Il Makiage Woke Up Like This
Pros
- Wide shade range
- Foundation quiz offered
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Pricey
“The occasions in which I need my foundation to be waterproof are rare, but every time I’m caught in a torrential downpour or cry happy tears watching a video of a dog reunite with its owner, I appreciate the impressive staying power of Il Makiage’s I Woke Up Like This Foundation,” says ELLE Beauty Editor Margaux Anbouba. “The online color-matching software was spot on for selecting my shade and I love how silky it feels during application.” Featuring a blend of blurring powders, light-diffusing spheres, and nourishing hyaluronic acid—the Insta-famous formula is meant to dry down matte yet look anything but dull.
Coverage: Medium to full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 50
Size: 1 oz.
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Smoothing
- Hydrating
Cons
- Pricey
While getting my makeup done for a special occasion recently, a makeup artist used this Lancôme foundation on me—and it’s since become my go-to for a lasting, full-coverage beat. The luxe waterproof formula complemented my skin tone impeccably, masked blemishes without feeling heavy, and stayed put through hours of dancing and mingling in the sticky summer heat. (Trust, those selfies still go down in my camera roll as legendary.)
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 50
Size: 1 oz.
NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
Pros
- Buildable
- Breathable
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May not be ideal for those with oily skin
Not a fan of matte waterproof foundations? This buildable Nars formula lets your natural oils shine through for a balanced, dewy finish. The breathable foundation is transfer-, fade- and sweat-resistant for up to 16 hours and stars a range of fruit extracts to smooth and hydrate your complexion. And for those with sensitive skin, it’s non-comedogenic.
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “A lovely medium-to-full coverage foundation that leaves a natural, dewy, flawless look. It has a thin consistency that feels very light on the skin. It’s buildable, so it easily covers any imperfections, and a little does go a long way. It’s rare to find a full-coverage foundation that doesn’t look too matte and heavy on the skin. I’m so impressed with this; I think it’s become one of my new favorite foundations!”
Coverage: Medium to full
Finish: Radiant
Shades: 34
Size: 1 oz.
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Longwear Foundation
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Longwear Foundation
Pros
- Helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles
- Soothing
- Hydrating
Cons
- Pricey
Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Foundation is not only made to avoid settling into fine lines and wrinkles but actually target them, too. The waterproof formula features a complex of patented peptides, hydrating mosses, and the brand’s menthol-infused AirCool technology to smooth and soothe the skin. According to studies performed by the brand, the foundation has been shown to reduce wrinkles by an impressive 22 percent in eight weeks.
A Sephora reviewer says: “This is the BEST full coverage foundation I’ve ever used. I have maturing skin (turning 50 in September) and this foundation makes my skin look flawless. Doesn’t feel heavy or settle in my fines lines like a lot of full-coverage foundations do and stays on all day (even under my mask). Winning!!”
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 40
Size: 1.01 oz.
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Liquid Makeup Foundation
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Liquid Makeup Foundation
Pros
- 55 shades
- 24-hour wear
- Oil-free
Cons
- May not be the best option for dry skin
Available in over a whopping 55 shades, Estée Lauder’s full-coverage foundation is sweat-, heat- and humidity-resistant for up to 24 hours and oil-free to minimize shine. What’s more, each shade has a specific undertone rating, from “cool 1” to “warm 4,” so you can find the most seamless match possible.
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I probably own at least 15 different foundation brands, but this is hands down one of my favorite foundations. I have a tricky complexion to match. Not anymore!!! Thank you Estée Lauder for such a shade trajectory! I am wearing 5W1.5 in Cinnamon. I also have 5W2.0 in Rich Caramel. I am keeping them both. I was concerned that a matte foundation that stays in place would be too much, but not at all. It actually looks radiant. I will no longer be on the hunt for the perfect foundation.”
Coverage: Full
Finish: Matte
Shades: 57
Size: 1 oz.
Covergirl Outlast Extreme Wear 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation
Covergirl Outlast Extreme Wear 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation
Pros
- Good for face and under eyes
- Has SPF
- Affordable
Cons
- Some users report shades are off
Looking to consolidate your makeup routine? This waterproof base acts as a primer, concealer, and foundation all in one. It’s hydrating like your favorite moisturizer, can mask dark spots and pores, and is thick enough to conceal stubborn dark circles. In addition to offering up to 24 hours of full coverage, it comes in 21 shades, contains a touch of sunscreen, and is super affordable.
An Amazon reviewer says: “Good for daily wear. I have dry skin and it holds up very well for me, even through sweating and 15-hour competition days. I don’t use any primer except on my chin to mattify the area, and I finish with setting powder. Provides a lovely full coverage and natural look. Great quality for the price!”
Coverage: Full
Finish: Natural
Shades: 21
Size: 1 oz.
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
Pros
- Lightweight yet buildable
- Can be used to cover tattoos
- Hydrating
Cons
- Some customers don’t like the dropper applicator
If it’s good enough for the runways, it’s good enough for us. This ultra-lightweight, buildable foundation is used backstage at Dior catwalks to even out tone and blur imperfections from head-to-toe. Per the brand, it’s designed to “withstand extreme conditions,” meaning it shouldn’t melt off under bright stage lights, during a high-intensity workout class, or downpours. Swipe on a single layer to create a natural grow or blend in a few layers to mask tattoos or create bolder looks.
A Sephora reviewer says: “This is the most stunning everyday foundation for a skin-like feel—you can achieve fuller coverage or tone it down as needed. It looks gorgeous on the skin, wears beautifully, and doesn’t cling to dry patches, pill, or crease throughout the day.”
Coverage: Medium
Finish: Natural
Shades: 43
Size: 1.7 oz.
What to consider when shopping for the best waterproof foundations
- Skin type: “Skin type is very important to consider when shopping for waterproof foundations,” says Giglio. “If you have dry skin, you might not want a fully matte waterproof foundation and instead look for something with a radiance to it. If you’re oily, you might want to opt for a powder formula and not cream or liquid.”
Dr. Marmur adds that oily skin types should look for non-comedogenic options and include gentle ingredients that won’t cause irritation or breakouts. And for the best results, she suggests starting with a base of mattifying serum (such as her brand’s Balance Serum). “This will create a super lightweight layer to reduce excess oils and seal the pores so the foundation layers over top seamlessly.”
- Hydrating ingredients: Regardless of your skin type, however, proper hydration is key. Dr. Marmur recommends looking for waterproof foundations with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep your skin moisturized throughout the day and prevent creasing, cracking, or a cakey-looking finish.
- Formulas with SPF: “If you plan on taking a dip in the pool or lounging in the sun, it’s essential to choose a formula with SPF,” says Dr. Marmur, who notes that mineral-based sunscreens “tend to last longer on the skin.” When perusing online, make sure to look for options with broad-spectrum SPF, which can protect your skin against both harmful UVB and UVA rays.
- Desired level of coverage: “Think about the coverage you want to achieve,” says Dr. Marmur. “Waterproof foundations offer sheer to full coverage, and some have lightweight textures that are buildable for versatility.”
How do I find the best shade for me?
“Choose within your undertone and go from there,” suggests Gilgio. “Try to be in natural light when swatching and test on different places–the cheek (closer to nose) and the jaw line onto the neck. Always go for the shade that ‘disappears’ into your skin tone.”
Keep in mind that your tone may vary by season, so you may need to opt for a slightly darker shade in the summertime and lighter shade during winter.
And when swatching waterproof foundations, make sure to let the formula dry on your skin first before making a decision. “Many waterproof formulations have a dry-down factor, meaning the shade may appear slightly deeper after a few seconds on the skin due to the presence of film-forming ingredients in the formula,” explains Duyos. He notes that this process should not be confused with oxidation, which “refers to the continuous color changes of foundation throughout the day as it’s exposed to oxygen.”
How long do waterproof foundations last on skin?
“Waterproof” foundations are technically water-resistant not waterproof, so “you may have to reapply the product throughout the day if you’re exposed to excessive amounts of water or sweat,” explains Dr. Marmur. However, many of them can last on skin for at least 24 hours before you physically remove them.
How to remove waterproof foundations
“The best way to remove waterproof foundation is to incorporate a double-cleanse method,” says Duyos. “This involves using an oil cleanser as the first step, followed by a traditional cleanser.”
“Another option is to utilize a cleansing balm, which effectively breaks down all the makeup, including the film-forming agents that contribute to the foundation’s waterproof properties,” he adds. “By using the double-cleanse method, you ensure thorough removal of the waterproof foundation.”
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Ellen Marmur is a board-certified dermatologist practicing in New York City and the founder of MMSkincare.
- Eddie Duyos is a Pro Makeup Artist and Senior Manager of Pro Education and Artistry for Make Up For Ever North America.
- Carly Giglio is bareMinerals’ Global Makeup Artist and Brand Educator.
- Tayaba Jafri is Laura Mercier’s Global Beauty Director.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
Sam Peters is a seasoned commerce writer and editor with over five years of experience covering fashion, beauty, and lifestyle topics. For this story, she interviewed a dermatologist and three makeup artists to learn about the best waterproof foundations and what to look for when shopping. She also personally tested one product, spoke with ELLE editors about their favorite picks, and scoured customer reviews for highly-rated formulas. Each product has been analyzed based on factors like staying power, finish, and ingredients offered.
Sam Peters is a Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Her writing has appeared in WWD, Footwear News, Real Simple, PopSugar and Bridal Guide, among others. She enjoys unpacking the latest trends and testing and reviewing some of the most innovative, emerging products on the market.
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