Contents
Shopping for the best foundation under 100 can be tough. Luxe Color Changing Foundation adapts to your perfect shade, thanks to its unique microbead color technology. L’Oreal Paris True Match is a solid value pick. You give up some of the fancy tech for a well-loved formula that works for most skin tones.
The main tradeoff is between advanced features like Luxe’s color-changing ability and the classic, proven performance of L’Oreal. This page will help you explore all your best options.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $100, cheapest first.
Top 8 Foundations Reviewed in Detail
Below, you will find detailed reviews of each foundation. Each review highlights key features, pros, and cons.
1. Best Overall
wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation Makeup, Soft Beige (Packaging May vary)
- YOUR SKIN, ONLY BETTER: Our high-performing, skin-perfecting foundation is formulated with a matte, light-diffusing complex to help prevent white cast in photos and deliver a radiant-looking complexion.
- SELFIE-APPROVED FOUNDATION: Color matched for all undertones with a matte, second-skin finish, this foundation delivers buildable coverage for a flawless-looking complexion in any kind of light.
- BEST FACE FORWARD: From bronzer and blush to primer, highlighter, natural finish powder, and concealer, we’ve got you covered and photo ready for your next big thing. You’ve met your true makeup match.
- ALWAYS CRUELTY FREE: We are 100 percent cruelty free, and always have been. We also carry vegan makeup and tools such as foundation, nail polish, contour palettes, lipstick, makeup brushes and more.
- STAY WILD: We are the trusted beauty destination for beauty lovers of all ages, ethnicities, skin colors, and economic statuses. No matter who or where you are in life, we have a product for you.
Luxe Color Changing Foundation is our top pick for the best foundation under 100. Its standout feature is the microbead color technology, which adapts to your skin tone. This means no more guesswork when choosing a shade. It applies white and transforms to your perfect shade in minutes, ensuring a flawless match. Compared to other foundations, Luxe provides a unique approach to shade matching that many users appreciate.
In contrast, L’Oreal Paris True Match offers dependable performance with a wider shade range. Its 6 pigment formula ensures a precise match for diverse skin tones. However, it lacks the advanced technology that Luxe provides. Users often prefer L’Oreal for its traditional performance and ease of use.
One limitation of Luxe is its dependency on skin pH, which can lead to varied results. If you’re not keen on experimental features, you might prefer a classic formula like L’Oreal. Ultimately, Luxe shines with innovation for those looking for something fresh.
Pros
- Adapts to your unique skin tone
- Uses microbead color technology for accuracy
- Applies white and transforms in minutes
- Provides a natural, matte finish
Cons
- Results may vary by individual skin pH
- May require more frequent touch-ups for oily skin
- Not suitable for those who prefer a traditional foundation
Best for: Those seeking a perfect shade match. Not ideal for: Users who prefer classic foundations.
Luxe Color Changing Foundation offers innovation for a flawless look.
2. Best Value
Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Liquid Foundation Makeup, Classic Ivory, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)
- Maybelline Fit Me Dewy Foundation With Spf: Ideal for normal to dry skin, this liquid foundation hydrates and smoothes skin texture for a natural-looking, luminous finish; Protects with SPF 18
- A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me liquid foundation provides coverage for a wide array of skin tones, from Ivory to Mocha; Use as a full face foundation with buildable coverage for a flawless, natural-looking, “I woke up like this” finish
- Best Face Forward: Maybelline has sheer, medium, and full coverage foundation in liquid and powder foundation formulas, and a range of concealers, face primers, contour, highlighter, and pressed and setting powder to help you create a perfect canvas
- Create any look with Maybelline; foundation, BB creams, concealers, and setting powders for the perfect canvas, eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils, and eyeliners for any eye look and lip products, from showstopping lipstick to plumping lip gloss
- Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation is a great value pick. Its standout quality lies in the unique formula that contains six pigments for a true-to-skin match. With a remarkable 99% satisfaction rate from women in tests, this foundation is trusted by many. It comes in 47 shades, ensuring a fit for all undertones, including cool, neutral, and warm. This versatility makes it a strong competitor among foundations in this price range.
Compared to Luxe, L’Oreal’s formula is more traditional but effective. It locks in moisture and provides a natural finish, which many users appreciate. While Luxe offers advanced color-changing technology, L’Oreal’s broad shade range caters to those who want reliable performance without the fuss.
One of L’Oreal’s limitations is that it might not provide the same level of innovation as Luxe. Some users might miss out on the excitement of trying out a color-changing foundation. However, for daily use, L’Oreal is a dependable choice.
Pros
- Six pigments for the best skin match
- Available in 47 diverse shades
- Locks in moisture for a natural finish
- High customer satisfaction from users
Cons
- Lacks innovative features like color changing
- Might not suit very oily skin types
- Some shades may appear too light or dark.
Best for: Those looking for a reliable foundation match. Not ideal for: Users wanting innovative features.
L’Oreal Paris True Match delivers proven performance at great value.
3. Best Premium
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free Foundation Makeup, Natural Ivory, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte Foundation: For a natural looking medium coverage liquid foundation makeup, look no further; In 40 shades, you’ll find a fit for every skin tone; Best for normal to oily skin; refines pores for a natural looking matte finish
- A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me liquid foundation provides coverage for a wide array of skin tones, from Ivory to Mocha; Use as a full face foundation with buildable coverage for a flawless, natural-looking, “I woke up like this” finish
- Maybelline Fit Me For A Flawless Face: With Matte + Poreless foundation or Dewy+ Smooth foundation with SPF 18, concealer, finishing powder, bronzer and blush, Maybelline New York Fit Me collection has everything you need to put your best face forward
- Create any look with Maybelline; foundation, BB creams, concealers, and setting powders for the perfect canvas, eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils, and eyeliners for any eye look and lip products, from showstopping lipstick to plumping lip gloss
- Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
COVERGIRL Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Foundation is a premium option. Its unique anti-aging formula helps reduce wrinkles and improve skin tone. With hyaluronic complex and vitamin C, it hydrates and nourishes the skin. This foundation is designed to give users a more youthful appearance, making it a sought-after choice for those concerned with aging.
When compared to Luxe and L’Oreal, COVERGIRL offers a different focus: anti-aging benefits. While Luxe focuses on shade adaptability and L’Oreal provides color accuracy, COVERGIRL targets skin improvement. This adds a layer of value that might attract those looking for more than just coverage.
One limitation is that it may not provide enough coverage for those wanting a completely flawless look. It’s excellent for evening out skin tone but could leave some imperfections visible. If you prioritize skincare benefits in your foundation, this one is worth considering.
Pros
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Contains hydrating ingredients for skin health
- Evens skin tone effectively
- Blurs imperfections for a smoother look
Cons
- May not cover all blemishes completely
- Not tailored for oily skin types
- Limited shade range compared to competitors
Best for: Those wanting skincare and foundation in one. Not ideal for: Users seeking full coverage.
COVERGIRL Simply Ageless combines skincare with foundation benefits.
4. Runner-Up
e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation, Medium Coverage, 21 Light Neutral
- LONG-LASTING LIQUID FOUNDATION: Hit that dreamy sweet spot between full beat and barely there with e.l.f. Cosmetics’ long- wearing Soft Glam Satin Foundation.
- MEDIUM, BUILDABLE COVERAGE: The e.l.f. Satin Finish Foundation delivers medium buildable coverage and a satin finish.
- BREATHABLE FORMULA: Infused with 1% Hydrating Hibiscus Complex, plus fruit extracts, this breathable liquid foundation won’t clog pores and feels as good as it looks—no caking or heaviness here, just smooth, satiny skin.
- FOR MULTIPLE SKIN TYPES: This foundation is great for dry, oily and combination skin.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation is a strong runner-up. It provides medium coverage, making it a favorite among many users. This foundation is particularly well-suited for normal to oily skin types. It comes in 40 shades, allowing for a wide variety of skin tones. The matte finish controls shine while refining the appearance of pores.
Compared to Luxe and L’Oreal, Maybelline is straightforward in its approach. It offers reliable performance without any advanced technology. Some users prefer its simplicity and effectiveness over more complex options. The classic matte finish appeals to those who want a polished look.
A limitation is that it might not provide enough hydration for dry skin types. Users with very dry skin may find it accentuates dryness rather than hydrating. However, for most skin types, it offers a dependable and budget-friendly choice.
Pros
- Medium coverage with a natural matte finish
- Refines pores effectively
- Available in 40 shades for diverse skin tones
- Well-suited for normal to oily skin
Cons
- Not recommended for dry skin types
- May require touch-ups in hot weather
- Limited coverage for severe blemishes
Best for: Users wanting a simple and effective foundation. Not ideal for: Those with dry skin.
Maybelline Fit Me delivers reliable performance for a polished look.
5. Best Design
e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation, Medium Coverage, 25 Light Neutral
- LONG-LASTING LIQUID FOUNDATION: Hit that dreamy sweet spot between full beat and barely there with e.l.f. Cosmetics’ long- wearing Soft Glam Satin Foundation.
- MEDIUM, BUILDABLE COVERAGE: The e.l.f. Satin Finish Foundation delivers medium buildable coverage and a satin finish.
- BREATHABLE FORMULA: Infused with 1% Hydrating Hibiscus Complex, plus fruit extracts, this breathable liquid foundation won’t clog pores and feels as good as it looks—no caking or heaviness here, just smooth, satiny skin.
- FOR MULTIPLE SKIN TYPES: This foundation is great for dry, oily and combination skin.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA.
OCÉANE Color Changing Foundation is a unique pick for those looking for something different. It adapts to your skin tone, similar to Luxe. This lightweight foundation is perfect for mature skin, offering a smooth application without caking. Its color-changing formula helps users achieve a natural makeup base, which is appealing for daily wear.
When compared with Luxe and L’Oreal, OCÉANE shares the color adaptability feature but focuses on mature skin. Luxe targets everyone, while OCÉANE particularly cares for older skin. This makes it a standout choice for users seeking a foundation that respects their skin’s needs as it ages.
A limitation is that it may not suit younger users who don’t require the specific benefits aimed at mature skin. This foundation shines for older skin types but may miss the mark for younger demographics.
Pros
- Adapts to different skin tones
- Smooth application without caking
- Lightweight formula for comfortable wear
- Designed with mature skin in mind
Cons
- Not ideal for younger skin types
- Results may vary based on skin condition
- Limited shade range compared to others
Best for: Mature skin looking for adaptability. Not ideal for: Users under 30.
OCÉANE Color Changing Foundation offers a gentle touch for mature skin.
6. Best for Small Spaces
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free Foundation Makeup, Natural Beige, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte Foundation: For a natural looking medium coverage liquid foundation makeup, look no further; In 40 shades, you’ll find a fit for every skin tone; Best for normal to oily skin; refines pores for a natural looking matte finish
- A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me liquid foundation provides coverage for a wide array of skin tones, from Ivory to Mocha; Use as a full face foundation with buildable coverage for a flawless, natural-looking, “I woke up like this” finish
- Maybelline Fit Me For A Flawless Face: With Matte + Poreless foundation or Dewy+ Smooth foundation with SPF 18, concealer, finishing powder, bronzer and blush, Maybelline New York Fit Me collection has everything you need to put your best face forward
- Create any look with Maybelline; foundation, BB creams, concealers, and setting powders for the perfect canvas, eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils, and eyeliners for any eye look and lip products, from showstopping lipstick to plumping lip gloss
- Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
Wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation is a thoughtful option for daily use. This foundation is designed to help give a radiant finish while minimizing the risk of a white cast in photos. It uses a light-diffusing complex to enhance your appearance and is suitable for all undertones. Many users love its lightweight feeling on the skin.
Compared to the Luxe and other picks, wet n wild focuses on achieving a luminous look rather than adapting color. While Luxe changes to your unique shade, wet n wild enhances your natural beauty. This feature is popular among users who want a fresh, radiant glow.
A limitation is that it may not provide enough coverage for those with significant imperfections. Users with blemishes or dark spots may need additional concealer. Despite this, it serves well for those aiming for a light, everyday look.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for daily wear
- Radiant finish without a white cast
- Suitable for all undertones
- Enhances natural beauty with a light-diffusing complex
Cons
- May not cover blemishes completely
- Not the best choice for oily skin
- Requires additional products for full coverage
Best for: Daily wear with a radiant finish. Not ideal for: Users needing heavy coverage.
wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Foundation is perfect for a fresh, light look.
7. Best for Daily Use
L'Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation, Medium Coverage Liquid Foundation Makeup, N3, Light Medium, 1 Fl Oz
- Science That Sees Your True Match – Formulated with 6 pigments for the most precise match. 99 percent of women found their true match in a consumer test of 312 women. Available in 47 shades to match your undertone – cool, neutral or warm
- Makeup Foundation: Our liquid foundation formula locks in moisture and provides medium coverage with a natural finish that adapts to any skin color and texture. It’s so blendable you can’t tell where your foundation ends and your skin begins
- The Same True Match You Love, Now Better: Now formulated without alcohol, oils and fragrance, our foundation will not clog pores and is vegan. Perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Now with an easy-to-use pump
- Because You’re Worth It: Create the look you want with our full line of makeup including foundations, concealers, highlighter makeup, brow pencils, eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks and much more
- L’Oreal Paris Beauty: A leading total beauty care company based in Paris, we offer innovative products and unique expertise from beauty experts in makeup, skin care, hair care, styling and hair color
E.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation is made for those seeking a breathable and long-wearing option. This foundation delivers medium, buildable coverage that can be adjusted based on your needs. It has a satin finish that is neither too matte nor too dewy, making it versatile for different occasions.
When compared to other picks, e.l.f. provides a unique texture that many users enjoy. While Luxe and L’Oreal focus on shade matching and color accuracy, e.l.f. offers users the ability to build coverage. This makes it suitable for those who want flexibility in their makeup routine.
One limitation is that it may not suit those looking for full coverage. Users wanting to hide significant blemishes might find it lacking. However, for a natural look with room to adjust, it is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Medium buildable coverage for flexibility
- Satin finish offers a balanced look
- Breathable formula suitable for daily wear
- Long-lasting for all-day use
Cons
- Might not cover severe blemishes
- Could require multiple layers for desired coverage
- Not recommended for very oily skin
Best for: Users wanting flexibility and a natural finish. Not ideal for: Those needing full coverage.
e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation is versatile for daily makeup.
8. Best Lightweight
COVERGIRL Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Foundation – 220 Creamy Natural
- REDUCES WRINKLES: Anti-aging foundation instantly reduces the look of wrinkles for a smoother, more youthful appearance
- IMPROVES TONE: Evens skin tone and blurs the appearance of dark circles and other less-than-perfect areas
- HYDRATING FORMULA: Contains hyaluronic complex and vitamin C for firmer and healthier-looking skin
- FIND YOUR SHADE: Available in multiple shades so you can find the right match for your skin tone
- CRUELTY-FREE: Covergirl products are Leaping Bunny Certified by Cruelty-Free International, meaning they are never tested on animals
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation (Natural Ivory) offers a lightweight option for users seeking a reliable foundation. Like its counterpart in this list, it provides medium coverage and is best suited for normal to oily skin types. Its matte finish helps control shine while refining the appearance of pores.
In comparison to Luxe and L’Oreal, this version of Maybelline has a solid reputation for performance. It delivers effective results without advanced technology. Users often appreciate its straightforward nature, as it is easy to apply and blend.
However, one downside is that it may not suit dry skin types. Users with dry skin might find it accentuates dryness or flakiness. For most users, it’s an affordable choice that provides a polished look.
Pros
- Medium coverage with a matte finish
- Effective for normal to oily skin
- Refines pores for a smoother appearance
- Easy to apply and blend
Cons
- Not suitable for dry skin
- May require touch-ups in humid conditions
- Limited coverage for severe imperfections
Best for: Users wanting an easy-to-apply foundation. Not ideal for: Very dry skin types.
Maybelline Fit Me provides an easy option for everyday use.
Foundations Compared Side by Side
In the table below, you can compare the best foundation under 100. The columns show the brand, model, key features, and what skin types each is best for. Check the rows to find which foundation might be right for you.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luxe Color Changing Foundation | Best Overall | Luxe | $15.99 | Check |
| 2 | L'Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Foundation | Best Value | L'Oréal Paris | $9.97 | Check |
| 3 | COVERGIRL Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Foundation | Best Premium | Coty Beauty | $9.97 | Check |
| 4 | Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free… | Runner-Up | Maybelline New York | $8.98 | Check |
| 5 | Color Changing Foundation -Skin Tone Adapting Liquid… | Best Design | OCÉANE | $35.99 | Check |
| 6 | wet n wild Photo Focus Dewy Liquid Foundation Makeup | Best for Small Spaces | Markwins Beauty Brands | $4.48 | Check |
| 7 | e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation | Best for Daily Use | e.l.f. Cosmetics | $8 | Check |
| 8 | Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free… | Best Lightweight | Maybelline New York | $7.97 | Check |
| 9 | Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Liquid Foundation Makeup | — | Maybelline New York | $7.96 | Check |
| 10 | e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation | — | e.l.f. Cosmetics | $8 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Foundations
Understanding Coverage Levels
Foundations come in different coverage levels: sheer, medium, and full. Sheer coverage is light and great for a natural look. Medium coverage balances coverage and lightness, while full coverage hides most flaws. Choose according to how much skin you want to show. For everyday wear, medium coverage works well.
Skin Type Matters
Select a foundation based on your skin type. If you have oily skin, look for an oil-free foundation. For dry skin, a hydrating formula with ingredients like hyaluronic acid is best. Combination skin should consider a flexible foundation that balances both. Understanding your skin type helps narrow your choices.
Shade Matching
Finding your perfect shade is important. Test foundations on your jawline in natural light. Look for a shade that blends smooth into your skin tone. Some brands offer color-changing options that adapt to your skin’s unique hue. This can save you time and prevent mismatches.
Finish Options
Foundation finishes include matte, dewy, and satin. Matte foundations control shine, making them great for oily skin. Dewy finishes give a healthy glow and work well on dry skin. Satin finishes offer a balance between matte and dewy. Choose a finish based on your desired look.
Ingredients to Look For
Check the foundation’s ingredients for skin-friendly options. Ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid help hydrate your skin. Avoid heavy fragrances and alcohol, as they can irritate sensitive skin. A good foundation will support your skin without causing breakouts.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from various online beauty resources and customer reviews. These included user ratings and expert opinions on foundations under $100. Our sources provided insights into popular and reliable options available.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 30 foundation products, filtering by price, customer reviews, and brand reputation. Each product needed to have a minimum of 4 stars based on user ratings. This helped us focus on the most reliable choices within our price range.
What we ruled out and why
Foundations with fewer than 100 reviews or low customer ratings were excluded. Products that did not specify shade ranges or suitable skin types were also removed. This ensured only the best options made the final list.
What we did not do
We did not perform hands-on testing or lab measurements. No products were personally owned or tested in any capacity. Our findings were based solely on research and data from credible sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly. We will review new products and trends in the foundation market. The goal is to ensure you receive the most current information and product recommendations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best foundation under 100?
The best foundation under 100 is Luxe Color Changing Foundation, which adapts to your skin tone. It uses microbead technology to ensure a perfect match.
How do I find my foundation shade?
To find your foundation shade, test products on your jawline in natural light. Look for a color that blends into your skin without noticeable lines.
What finish should I choose for my foundation?
Choose a matte finish for oily skin, a dewy finish for dry skin, and satin for a balanced look. The finish affects how your skin looks and feels.
Can foundation cause breakouts?
Some foundations can clog pores, especially if they contain heavy oils. Look for non-comedogenic foundations if you have acne-prone skin to prevent breakouts.
How long does foundation last?
The longevity of foundation varies. Most foundations last between 6 to 12 hours depending on skin type, formula, and how well it is set.
What to look for
Coverage Level
Coverage levels are important when choosing a foundation. Sheer coverage is light and offers minimal coverage. Medium coverage balances appearance and skin visibility. Full coverage hides most imperfections for a flawless look. Knowing your desired coverage helps narrow your options.
Skin Type Compatibility
Your skin type plays a big role in foundation choice. If you have oily skin, consider oil-free options to prevent shine. Dry skin benefits from hydrating formulas. Combination skin needs foundations that adjust to different areas of the face. Matching your foundation to your skin type ensures better results.
Shade Range
A broad shade range is important for finding the right foundation. Brands that offer many shades can cater to various skin tones. Always test foundations on your jawline to see how they match your natural color.
Finish Types
The finish of your foundation affects how it looks on your skin. Matte finishes offer a flat look, ideal for oily skin. Dewy finishes give a glow, making them great for dry skin. Satin finishes blend the two, offering a natural appearance. Choose based on your style preference.
Ingredient Quality
Look for quality ingredients in your foundation. Formulas that include vitamins and hydrators can benefit your skin. Avoid heavy fragrances or alcohol, as they can irritate sensitive skin. A good foundation should support skin health while providing coverage.
Shopping around? We have 39 more foundation guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH on botanical ingredients NCCIH (NIH)
- NIAMS skin health NIAMS (NIH)
About the author
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