The 14 Best Water-Based Foundations — and Why You Need One

One of the buzziest beauty categories right now is water-based foundation — and for good reason. Across the board, they tend to be known for being ultra-hydrating and doubling as skincare products. Of course, benefits truly vary from product to product; nonetheless, water-based foundations are seemingly at the forefront when it comes to makeup innovation.

Countless brands — including both drugstore (Maybelline New York! L'Oréal Paris!) and high-end brands (Giorgio Armani Beauty! Valentino Beauty!) — have come out with water-based foundation, and many of them are not-so-quietly becoming top sellers and TikTok stars in their own right. They're praised for perfecting one's complexion while also delivering a healthy dose of skincare actives to one's complexion.

If you're still scratching your head about what water-based foundation is, we've got you covered. To answer your biggest questions, we spoke with makeup artist and beauty expert Jenny Patinkin. Ahead, we answer your biggest questions, starting with what is it? before we dive into who it's best for and round up our favorite products from all price points. 

What Is a Water-Based Foundation?

Whether or not your foundation is water-based comes down to the ingredient list. "Water-based foundations are formulated without an oil base (aka oil won't be at the top of the ingredient list) and with low on no silicones or dimethicones," says Patinkin. "They tend to feel lighter on the skin and have a natural, sheer finish, but the technology is becoming so advanced that there are some beautiful medium-coverage formulas now, too."

How to tell if your foundation is water-based? The good news: It's easy. Look at your prospective formula's ingredient list; if water (aqua) is listed as the first ingredient, it's water-based. One thing to keep in mind: To ensure your foundation applies seamlessly, be sure to team your water-based foundation with a water-based primer. Otherwise, you run the risk of your foundation pilling or separating. Two of our favorites are the Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer and the Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer.

Who Should Use a Water-Based Foundation?

Everyone can benefit from a water-based foundation, especially since many offer skincare benefits — and who doesn't want that? But it's especially great for a few specific skin types, per Patinkin, who notes it's "good for sensitive or acne-prone skin." The reason why it's a great choice is because "oils and '-cones' in an oil-based and silicone-based foundation can be comedogenic or irritating," says the pro. (Editor’s note: A dermatologist can help you determine if ingredients in your foundation are right for your skin type.)

She adds that water-based foundations are also "theoretically good for keeping dry skin hydrated, but some of that depends on the skincare products you use to prep your skin and the climate you live in, too." That being said, be sure your hyaluronic acid-infused water-based foundation isn't the only source of hydration your skin's getting throughout the day. A few products we suggest complementing your foundation with are CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, L'Oréal Paris 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and Garnier Green Labs Hyalu-Melon Smoothing Milky Washable Cleanser.

Best Water-Based Foundations

Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite water-based foundations. We've outlined the benefits and differences that make each of them unique so you can decide whether or not to add it to your shopping cart — and daily regimen.

Lancôme Teint Idôle Ultra Wear & Care Glow Foundation Serum

Available in 30 shades, the Lancôme Teint Idôle Ultra Wear & Care Glow Foundation Serum stars hyaluronic acid for a hydration boost and mandelic acid to smooth your skin. It offers buildable medium coverage and has a glowy finish.