We’ve Put in the Legwork—These Are the Absolute Best Foundations for Acne-Prone Skin

There is a frustrating myth about foundation that has circulated for years, suggesting that even the very best foundation will exacerbate acne. Consider the myth thoroughly debunked: there is no issue at all with wearing foundation on spotty skin (in fact, the only time wearing any make-up on blemishes becomes a problem is if it isn't cleaned off properly come the end of the day).

I know this both because skin experts have told me that's the case, and because I have suffered from acne for years and years, so I've paid attention.

As a make-up artist and journalist, I've spent years covering both my own and clients' breakouts, so I've learned a great deal about the kind of foundation that is ideal for acne-prone skin.

Before I share a definitive list of the very best foundations for acneic skin (slightly different from the best foundations for oily skin, which is more about containing shine and less about adapting to the different challenges of acne), here are some top make-up artist's (and my) tips on making up skin with acne.

Andrew Gallimore's top foundation tips for acne-prone skin

• "Target the problem bits - you don't need to apply heavy blanket coverage everywhere to successfully cover acne."
• "Never use concealer before foundation, always after."

Daniel Sandler's top foundation tips for acne-prone skin

• "To get the best coverage on skin with acne, lightly pat and press base onto skin until you're happy with the amount of coverage."
• "Use a dry brush to apply—if you use something damp, you'll lift off base as you apply it."
• "Start using a small amount of base and then apply more if necessary to certain areas."

Jessica Kell's top foundation tips for acne-prone skin

• "Avoid shimmer at every cost. I know it can be tempting to want to bring illuminating products into your base, but all it will do is highlight any rough texture or uneven surfaces."
• "I like to use two foundations when dealing with an acne flare up, one full coverage and one medium coverage. It might seem a little much but using a blend between the two means you can tailor where your skin needs extra coverage and where you can use much less."

My top foundation tips for acne-prone skin

• "Give SPF or moisturiser a bit of time to soak in before applying foundation to reduce the difference between the textures."
• "Apply a very thin wash of base across the face, tapering it towards the edges, then go back and apply more over the more spotty areas."

The best foundations for acne-prone skin

Over the years, I have tried countless foundations—some are great for acne-prone skin, others not so much. In attempt to pull together the ultimate list of the best foundations for acne-prone skin, I set out on a journey of rigorous testing. For any foundation to make the list, it had to meet the below criteria:

• It had to be buildable, so that it can be amped up where needed (though all of the below offer different levels of coverage).
• It mustn't be too shiny or slippery, so it can be pressed onto spotty patches without sliding off.
• If possible, it should contain skin-loving ingredients to reduce redness and inflammation.

So without further delay, here's the very best foundations for acne-prone skin.

1. Shiseido Synchro Skin Self Refreshing Foundation

Best for staying put all day

2. Givenchy Beauty Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Matte Foundation

Best for a properly matte - but not chalky - finish

3. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Foundation

Best for that 'your skin but better' finish

4. Trish McEvoy Even Skin Water Foundation

Best for sheer, sticks-around-all-day coverage

5. Vichy Dermablend Corrective Fluid Foundation

Best for full coverage

6. Guerlain Parure Gold Skin 24H No-Transfer High Perfection Foundation 

Best All Rounder

7. Suqqu The Liquid Foundation

Best for glow that sticks around