Let me tell you a little secret, apparently you don’t need to splurge on an extra expensive, full coverage foundation for it to be fabulous! There are some superb budget full coverage foundations out there that will put their high-end rivals to shame.
First and foremost, finding a foundation that works well with your skin type is crucial to achieving a flawless base. Full coverage foundations will be your BFF if you’re looking to cover up any imperfections, blemishes, sins, or regrets but be warned, finding your perfect fit isn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
One of the most common problems that can often deter people from a full coverage formula is the dreaded cake face; let’s take a moment to think of all of those who have fallen victim to this makeup mishap. The good news is we live and we learn and it IS possible to apply full coverage foundations that don’t make you look clownish. So, let’s get into testing some the products that are said to be the best budget full coverage foundations.
The best budget full coverage foundations
I’ve tried a countless amount of full coverage foundations in my time, usually in a desperate bid to finally find a formula that doesn’t settle into my fine lines or congregate around my dry patches. Turns out buying foundations isn’t quite as easy as you’d think, and the truth is I don’t want to be spending £25+ on a foundation that:
- May not even work well with my skin.
- I have to continuously rebuy because it runs out SO fast after using every day.
There is only one possible solution to my makeup woes – find a budget friendly foundation that won’t break the bank.
The Ordinary Coverage Foundation
Coming in at only £5.90 The Ordinary Full Coverage Foundation comes in at the cheapest on our list. I had heard a lot of good things about this foundation before trying so decided I needed to give it a go myself. Having previously used the lighter coverage, serum foundation and being impressed I thought that this foundation was probably going to be a winner, especially when you consider the low price.
My main struggle was trying to identify the shade to go with. There weren’t many reference photos with the shades, so I felt like I was picking blindly and hoping for the best. The foundation arrived quickly and it was time for the moment of truth. I picked a shade that turned out to be a little too dark for me but I won’t let that cloud my opinion of the formula as the colour match is easily sorted with a bit of light concealer.
The consistency of the formula felt runnier than I expected for a full coverage foundation. As someone who has skin on the dryer side, I didn’t mind this though as it wasn’t too drying on my skin. I then went on to apply the foundation using the same method I use to apply every foundation, with a sponge.
First layer on and the foundation felt nice on my skin. It was lightweight and didn’t make my skin feel tight like other full coverage formulas often do. I have to admit it didn’t seem overly “full coverage” to begin with and had just evened out my skin rather than covering any red blemishes.
After adding another layer of the foundation, it did seem to build quite nicely to a medium to full coverage. It may even have a better coverage if I had used a brush to apply.
NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation
Again, this foundation by NYX seems to be a favourite in the drugstore, often praised for its coverage and long-lasting ability. I was slightly worried about trying this one as its a matte formula and I usually lean towards hydrating formulas. But as it’s often been referred to as the best budget full coverage foundation I felt as though I couldn’t miss trying it.
Once again, I picked a shade that will only work when I’ve faked tanned but again, that’s on me for being rubbish at identifying the correct shade. Nevertheless I proceeded to apply the foundation with my trusty blending sponge.
Right off the bat this foundation seemed to be more full coverage than The Ordinary foundation I previously tried. One layer and it pretty much covered everything. I did go back in over my spots with another light layer and honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by its ability. A thumbs up for me on for the coverage.
Let’s speak about the formula though. Like I previously mentioned this is a matte formula which didn’t feel particularly comfortable on my skin, but that is probably down to the fact my dry skin requires more hydration. If you have oily skin, then you’ll probably love this one and I would 100% recommend.
L’Oreal Infallible 24hr Freshwear Liquid Foundation
Ok, I have to admit I’vee tried this foundation before. A few years ago this foundation was always my go-to for everyday makeup – yes, I used to love a full coverage face. But, having not tried it for a good few years I thought it was only fair to test it out again to see if I still love it as much as I used to. Spoiler – I still think it’s my favourite budget full coverage foundation.
Having already matched my skin with this foundation I actually managed to purchase the correct shade. The formula of this foundation is more on the hydrating side which of course, I love. Hydrating formulas usually don’t give the highest of coverages but I honestly think the coverage of this foundation is great. I would say it is more buildable and to get a proper full coverage you may need to layer up slightly, but the beauty of this formula is that it doesn’t feel at all heavy on your skin.
It glides on beautifully and is easily blended out with a beauty sponge to create an airbrushed look. If you do have dry skin and you’re looking for a budget full coverage foundation then go give this one a try, I promise, you won’t be disappointed.
