The 6 Best Foundations for Winter to Discover Right Now

Cold winter temperatures call for changes in many aspects of our beauty routines, including the type of makeup we wear. The foundation that gets you through summer likely has properties that combat sweat and heat so that they last through hot, sticky days. 

For winter, you need foundation that offers hydration (or at the least won’t dry out your skin), radiance and wears comfortably even when the cold air is whipping at your face. If that sounds like too much to consider when looking for a makeup product don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’re offering up six of the best foundations for winter to help you get through the chilly season without sacrificing your makeup look.

Which Foundation Is Best for Winter?

When it comes to choosing a foundation for winter, formula and finish will depend on your skin type. That being said, liquid and cream foundations are typically the top choice since our skin can get dry during the winter. While you don’t have to opt for these formulas, they can offer long-lasting wear with all day comfort. Check out our favorite foundations to wear when the temperature dips and our radiance begins to go with it.  

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup 4-in-1 Tinted Face Balm Foundation

This creamy balm foundation not only offers coverage for blemishes and to even skin tone, but it includes a firming serum that helps smooth lines and wrinkles and firm skin over time. It melts into skin immediately for easy blending and comfortable wear through the day. It’s even non-comedogenic, so all skin types — including sensitive skin and acne-prone skin — can take advantage of its benefits.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup

This makeup staple has remained a fan-favorite for years for good reason. With 45 shades that mimic the look of your actual skin — blurring the line between the foundation and your complexion while improving texture — this foundation will become your year-round go-to. It’s free of oils and fragrance so it won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive skin types. 

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Makeup Radiant Serum Foundation with SPF 50

Formulated with vitamin B3 and a serum to keep mature skin hydrated, this foundation is perfect for everyone looking to keep their skin from looking and feeling dry. The lightweight formula won’t settle into fine lines and also includes SPF 50 for UV protection (because even in the winter you need sunscreen). It’s a go-to for anyone looking for even, radiant coverage. 

L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation

If you love a long-lasting, full-coverage foundation that has a thin, breathable texture this is your pick. Made with SPF and a buildable finish, it’s waterproof, transfer-resistant and sweat-resistant. It won’t clog pores even though the top seller has 24-hour staying power. It’s indeed a great winter foundation but it’s truly a must-have no matter the season.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Hyaluronic Tinted Serum

Sure, this tinted serum is not quite a foundation, but with sheer coverage that evens skin tone and adds a luminous touch to the complexion, it had to make the list of winter base products not to skip. It’s made with one percent hyaluronic acid to combine the long term hydration benefits of skin care with the immediate payoff of makeup. It feels super lightweight and can even be applied to the skin with your hands just like any other serum (be sure to wash your hands after or you’ll make a mess of everything you touch).

L’Oréal Paris Skin Paradise Water Infused Tinted Moisturizer

Like our favorite tinted serum, this tinted moisturizer behaves like a foundation so it made the cut. Infused with 70 perfect water, aloe and witch hazel, it offers ultimate hydration with gorgeous natural coverage. When you’re feeling like the winter cold is giving your complexion a dull and sallow look, this is the perfect base to create a fresh glow that rivals your summer visage.

Next: Powder vs. Liquid Foundation — Which One Is Better?

Written by: Shalwah Evans, Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier