Few things can put a dampener on our mornings quite like meticulously blending out our foundations to achieve a radiant, fresh-faced finish, only to step outside and have the rain wash it away. Thankfully, there’s a quick fix to this sad saga, and that’s investing in one of the best waterproof foundations.
Affording all the same benefits as one of the best foundations, such as minimising the appearance of blemishes, smoothing texture and evening out skin tone, a waterproof formula, as the term suggests, will also hold strong against wet weather. “Water-resistant makeup can improve longevity,” explains Rebecca Moore, National Senior Make-up Artist for NARS. “In summer, it can help to prevent any excess oil, which can cause the makeup to shift. In colder months, this can help to keep the longevity of the makeup through bad weather or from transferring on your clothes, such as your scarf.”
The 6 best waterproof foundations tested and loved by our beauty team
From affordable brands like L’Oréal to popular foundation sticks, these are the best waterproof foundations on the market, with our team having put them to the test.
1. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Freshwear Liquid Foundation
RRP: £13.99 | SPF: 25 | Shades: 26 | Finish: Soft matte | Base: Water
Tested by: Jess Beech
The best drugstore foundations are constantly getting better, and L’Oréal products in particular are on par with some of our favourite high-end brands. The Infallible 32hr foundation promises no fading or shifting throughout the day, as well as being fully waterproof. When put to the test, we found all of the above to be true – even when we attempted to rub the foundation away with warm water. Despite the soft matte finish, it doesn’t feel uncomfortable or thick on the skin.
This foundation retains luminosity after blending, giving a flawlessly natural effect that is ideal for everyday wear and can be built up to give full coverage. Easy to apply and soft on the skin, this is a foundation that will impress and suit everyone who likes the look of smooth, blemish-free skin that isn’t at all cakey. However, due to the matte finish, we recommend anybody with very dry skin apply a heavy-duty moisturiser or primer first to avoid any clinging. But for its price and performance when faced with water, we can’t recommend this long-lasting foundation enough.
2. MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation
RRP: £34 | SPF: No | Shades: 30 | Finish: Radiant | Base: Water
Tested by: Kelle Salle
If you’re weighing up foundation vs tinted moisturiser and want a product that offers the best of both worlds, the MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body is it. Lightweight and glowy, this product boasts a long-lasting, lightweight and waterproof finish with extra radiance and hydration to boot. When testing, we loved its light watery texture that felt silky smooth and weightless once blended. We also noticed that it sinks in quickly, not unlike one of the best face moisturisers, to deliver a natural radiance that isn’t at all oily. Think sheer-yet-buildable coverage.
In terms of its waterproof claims, we were somewhat sceptical due to its weightless feel and appearance, which sounded as though it could slide off easily. However, it really delivers. We tested it both on our hands under running water and also scrubbed at our face in a warm shower, and absolutely no product came off. We didn’t even have to set it with a powder or finishing spray, which seriously impressed us. This one won’t go anywhere.
3. Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint
RRP: £39.50 | SPF: 20 | Shades: 12 | Finish: Natural | Base: Water
Tested by: Aleesha Badkar
We’re big fans of a skin tint here at woman&home – perfect for laid-back and natural makeup looks. Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint is undoubtedly the best waterproof foundation for those who like a sheer, natural base, it retains its lightweight appearance without compromising on lasting power.
When testing, we loved how hydrating this formula felt on the skin. Promising to deliver 24-hour hydration, it’s one of the best foundations for dry skin and provides a long-wearing antidote to dry and dehydrated complexions. It also boasts 12 hours of waterproof, crease-proof and both transfer and shine-resistant wear, all of which we found holds up pretty well. As the coverage is more sheer than most other foundations in this guide, its waterproof powers weren’t immediately obvious as with thicker formulas, where you can easily spot streaking. However, after a long day getting caught in the rain multiple times, our skin looked just as fresh and even as it did when we left in the morning. A skin tint that really goes the distance.
4. Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick
RRP: £49 | SPF: No | Shades: 32 | Finish: Seamless matte | Base: Silicone
Tested by: Naomi Jamieson
Among the best foundation sticks, Hourglass gets our vote every time. The Vanish Stick boasts a unique formula that’s unlike many others on the market. We love it because it perfectly balances high coverage with a lightweight feel, gliding across the skin and yielding a blemish-free, not-at-all cakey finish. It’s a fantastic option for those with acne-prone skin or those who seek the best foundation for oily skin, as it can be relied on to apply over any skin texture and stay in place once set.
When testing its waterproofing abilities, we were extremely impressed by the way water beaded off our skin without penetrating the foundation, making it one of our top picks for wet or humid weather. It almost gives the skin a waxy protective layer without the thickness or discomfort that would entail but with all the occlusive properties. We also love how mess-free this product is, making it perfect for travel or keeping in your handbag for any emergency makeup application.
5. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
RRP: £39 | SPF: No | Shades: 44 | Finish: Matte | Base: Water
Tested by: Naomi Jamieson
When testing the Airbrush Flawless foundation, we found that it has a slightly thicker consistency than most of the other waterproof foundations in this guide. For this reason, it pays to work quickly as it doesn’t take long to dry down into a soft matte that is tough to budge. However, with some speedy blending, you will get a flawless finish that will really stay put all day long – even in a downpour. Just make sure you apply moisturiser first if your skin is on the dry side. If your skin is oily or combination, then you’ll probably be able to forgo primer and powder.
If you’re on the hunt for the best waterproof foundation that also won’t transfer onto your scarf or roll neck, this is a great option. Even when wet, it takes some serious elbow grease to get any type of transfer, so winter rain and summer sweat are no match for it. We also love the subtle scent of this foundation, which smells remarkably similar to some of the best perfumes for women.
Read our Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation review for an in-depth guide
6. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
RRP: £39.50 | SPF: 10 | Shades: 60 | Finish: Medium matte | Base: Water
Tested by: Rhiannon Derbyshire
If there was a foundation that could survive an apocalypse, it would be this one. It was so stubbornly budge-proof when we splashed our faces with water during testing that we’re convinced that we could run a marathon, go white water-rafting and swim the Thames and it would still be perfectly in place (although we don’t quite have the fitness levels or evidence to back those claims up).
It is mattifying, which won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but it is buildable, so if you don’t want to look like you’re wearing a huge amount of base then go in with a light touch and buff well with a brush. You need to work fast as it dries quickly, so bear that in mind when applying. Again, because it is matte, it will cling to drier skin areas if they’re not properly prepped and primed. If your complexion is on the dry side then I’d suggest using a nice rich moisturiser first so that it applies more evenly and also being sparing with the amount you use. On the flip side, its staying power makes it fantastic for oily skin. It doesn’t slip and slide during the day, and there’s no dreaded 3 pm forehead shine. A cult favourite for plenty of good reasons.
How we tested the best waterproof foundations
A selection of some of the waterproof foundations that we tested for this guide
(Image credit: Amelia Yeomans)
Each of the products included in this guide was thoroughly tested and performed well enough to be deemed one of the best waterproof foundations. The main thing we looked out for, unsurprisingly, was how well each product fulfilled said waterproof claims. We tried these foundations in a variety of conditions, from light rain to underneath running shower water, to see how well they stood up.
As well as this, we also paid attention to how well each foundation performed as a makeup product, looking at how it applied and sat on the skin, how well it lasted throughout the day, how it layered with other products and its finish and coverage.
How to choose the best waterproof foundation
When shopping for waterproof foundation, particularly when buying online which can be tricky, there are a few important considerations that’ll help you get your hands on the best one for you.
- Packaging: Packaging can make or break a foundation (sometimes literally). Think about how you will be using this foundation and where you will store it. Will it be travelling, stashed in a gym bag, or simply kept at home for everyday application? If you’ll be taking it on the go, avoid glass bottles and opt for a squeezy tube. Will its consistency be easiest to apply with a pump, dropper or by squeezing? Don’t buy a foundation just because its packaging looks nice; take time to consider the actual user experience and if it will work for you.
- Shade and undertone ranges: Many brands offer fairly wide shade ranges, but not all of them cater to the vast variety of undertones. If you wear a foundation with the wrong undertone for your skin, this can completely change your look. Establish your skin’s undertone and shop for shades accordingly – our guide on how to find your foundation shade has more helpful insights.
- Finish: A foundation’s finish is one of the most important things to take into account. If you have no real preference here, make sure you pick a formula that will work with your skin type. If you’re prone to dryness, it’s usually best to avoid mattifying formulas. If you’re more oily, consider a waterproof foundation that isn’t overly shiny or dewy.
- Price: If this is going to be your everyday foundation, it’s worth spending a little more to get your perfect product. However, you may want to ensure it’s one that you can afford to re-purchase when necessary. Don’t assume that more expensive products are the best; take the time to read up on each foundation and choose in line with your budget and what seems like the best fit for your needs.
Are waterproof foundations good for oily skin?
They can be! “Water-resistant foundations are great for people with an oily skin type,” says Moore. “People of this skin type will find that their [regular] foundations will move and separate throughout the day. A foundation with a water-resistant benefit will help to prevent this and ensure long-lasting wear.” If you want to go the extra mile to make sure your base isn’t moving throughout the day then prep the skin with your best primer first and finish with a spritz of the best makeup setting spray.
How can I get a natural finish with a waterproof foundation?
Getting a natural finish with any complexion product is easier than you may first think, even with thick and matte formulas that can be prone to caking. “The best way to create a natural long-lasting complexion look is to apply less product and build up coverage – if needed with concealer,” Moore advises. “At NARS, we love a simple technique of applying your foundation with your hands. Begin with a small amount of foundation in the palm of your hands and apply it from the centre of the face outwards. Finally, pat it into the skin for a skin-like finish.”
Are all waterproof foundations transfer-proof?
Quite often the two go hand in hand. “The majority of the time, water-resistant foundations would [also] be transfer-proof, as they are designed to have a good longevity onto the skin,” says Moore. Though it is not guaranteed for every waterproof foundation, if the product can survive a soaking, it is more than likely that it will avoid any form of transferring.
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