Our Favorite Skincare-Infused Foundations for Better Skin

As much as we love our multi-step beauty routines, sometimes we just want a product that tackles two steps in one. Whether it’s an exfoliating serum that doubles as deodorant or creamy color for cheeks, lips and eyes, multitaskers are always a welcome addition to our regimens. Enter skincare-infused foundations—the makeup/skincare hybrid that not only conceals “imperfections,” it can actually improve them over time. Think about it this way: if you’re going to wear foundation anyway, why not opt for one with built-in skincare benefits? Ahead, our favorite skincare-powered foundations that tackle skin issues like dullness, uneven skin tone, and fine lines and wrinkles while you wear them.

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare, $39.50

IT Cosmetics CC+Cream with SPF+ Fair , $39.50

IT Cosmetics has been ahead of the curve when it comes to skincare-infused formulas (see: their cult classic CC+ cream), so it’s no surprise that this medium-coverage foundation from the brand delivers. Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and vitamins E and B5 support healthy hydration while HEPES acid gently exfoliates for brighter, more even-toned skin.

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40, $48

This tinted serum from ILIA was a hit from the moment it launched, thanks to its squeaky-clean ingredient list and impressively dewy, your-skin-but-better coverage. Active levels of skincare ingredients like niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid improve the look of skin tone and texture while you wear it. And the built-in mineral SPF 40 doesn’t hurt, either.

BECCA Light Shifter Dewing Tint, $30

It’s not a regular tinted moisturizer—it’s a dewy tinted moisturizer. BECCA Light Shifter Dewing Tint turns the glow up to 11 with luminous pigments, hyaluronic acid, squalane, glycerin, and vitamin E for an ultra-dewy finish. The eight shades are pretty sheer, so if you’re looking for forgiving, light coverage, this one’s for you.

Kjaer Weis Invisible Touch Liquid Foundation, $48

This botanical-powered serum foundation builds from light to medium coverage with a naturally radiant finish. It boasts an impressive roster of plant-based skincare ingredients including mimosa flower wax to prevent water loss, rosehip oil to brighten, and Spilanthes acmella flower extract to firm and tighten.

Kevyn Aucoin The Etherealist Skin Illuminating Foundation, $58

If you prefer a bit more coverage, this pick from Kevyn Aucoin offers the hydration and antioxidant power of a serum with the airbrushed effect of a high-performance foundation. The finish is satin-matte—not overly dewy—so it’s a good option for oily and combination skin types.

Koh Gen Do Maifanshi Aqua Foundation, $77

Think of this as a spa treatment in a foundation. French sea minerals nourish on contact while Koh Gen Do’s signature blend of jojoba oil, olive-derived squalane and shea butter leave skin smooth and supple. The shade range is a bit limited, but if you can find a match, you’re sure to join the formula’s legions of fans.

La Mer The Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation, $125

The skin-rejuvenating properties of La Mer’s Miracle Broth™ are basically legendary at this point, so we were thrilled when extended shades of this skincare-infused foundation hit shelves. It offers buildable, natural-looking coverage that feels weightless on skin, even as it works to hydrate, plump and soften fine lines.

Jouer Cosmetics Essential High Coverage Crème Foundation, $38

Just because you want skincare benefits doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice coverage. This full-coverage foundation from Jouer Cosmetics conceals blemishes, redness and hyperpigmentation on the spot with a natural-matte finish. While you wear it, hyaluronic acid, peptides, plus chamomile and cucumber extracts promote smooth, nourished skin.