Finding the perfect foundation can be a challenge, especially when you’re on a budget. Mary Kay is a well-known brand that beauty enthusiasts have trusted for decades. However, not everyone can afford the luxury of Mary Kay’s top-of-the-line foundations.
Fortunately, drugstore brands have stepped up their game and now offer a wide range of affordable foundations that can provide the same high-quality coverage and finish as their luxury counterparts.
In this article, we have put together the 7 best drugstore foundations like Mary Kay. Whether you are looking for full coverage or a natural, dewy finish, this article will help you find the perfect drugstore foundation similar to Mary Kay.
Best Alternative Drugstore Foundations For Mary Kay
1. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation is a versatile option for those who want to control shine and minimize the appearance of pores.
This foundation is available in 40 shades and offers medium to full coverage, making it an excellent choice if you want a flawless look.
With a matte finish, this foundation is perfect for those with oily skin but can also work for normal or combination skin types. It’s lightweight and breathable, so you don’t feel like you are wearing a heavy foundation, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Another great thing about Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation is its affordability. You don’t have to break the bank to get a great foundation. Its buildable coverage means you can customize the amount of coverage you need for different occasions, making it a versatile addition to your makeup collection.
2. L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation
If you want a foundation that provides full coverage and lasts all day, L’Oreal’s Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is worth trying.
This foundation is oil-free and perfect for those with oily skin types since it keeps shine at bay. Just like Mary Kay, It provides a beautiful matte finish and minimizes the appearance of pores. Moreover, it’s transfer-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off your clothes. It’s also easy to apply and blend, making it the perfect option, especially if you are always on the go.
One unique feature of the L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is its 24-hour wear time. If you have a long day ahead, you can trust that your foundation will stay put from morning until night.
The foundation is also available in 22 shades, so you are sure to find the perfect match for your skin tone. It’s a great drugstore foundation similar to the Mary Kay option for anyone looking for full coverage and long-lasting wear at an affordable price.
3. Revlon ColorStay Foundation
Revlon’s ColorStay Foundation is a cult favorite for good reason. It’s available in both normal/dry skin and combination/oily skin formulas, so you can choose the one that’s right for your skin type.
This foundation provides medium to full coverage and offers a natural matte finish, perfect for everyday wear. It’s also transfer-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off on your clothes or face mask.
One thing that sets Revlon’s ColorStay Foundation apart from other drugstore foundations is its long-wear formula.
It can last up to 24 hours, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or days when you need your makeup to last. With a range of shades available, you are sure to find the perfect match for your skin tone.
4. NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation
The NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation is perfect for those who want a full-coverage, matte foundation that lasts all day. This foundation is available in 45 shades and is perfect for all skin types.
The formula is lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting, making it ideal for everyday wear. It also contains oil-absorbing powders that control shine, making it perfect for those with oily skin types.
NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation is popular for its waterproof formula. If you are looking for a foundation that can withstand sweat, humidity, or even a dip in the pool, this foundation is a great choice. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great option for those who prioritize ethical beauty products.
5. Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation
The Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation is an affordable drugstore foundation that provides medium to full coverage with a natural-looking finish.
This foundation is available in 20 shades and is perfect for all skin types. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great option, especially if you are keen on supporting ethical beauty brands.
The foundation is well-known for its ability to reflect light, making it perfect for photography or special occasions.
The formula is also lightweight and blends easily, so you don’t have to worry about it feeling heavy on your skin. Additionally, it’s long-wearing and won’t transfer, making it a great option for all-day wear.
6. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation
The Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation is a drugstore favorite for its ability to provide full coverage with a natural finish. This foundation is available in 45 shades and is perfect for all skin types.
Its ability to double as a concealer makes it a favorite option for a lot of women. It’s perfect for covering up blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections, making it a great option for those who want an all-in-one product.
The formula is also long-wearing and transfer-resistant, making it the go-to option for all-day wear.
7. Covergirl TruBlend Matte Made Foundation
Covergirl’s TruBlend Matte Made Foundation is a great option for those looking for an affordable foundation that provides full coverage and a matte finish.
This foundation offers 12 hours of wear and is available in 40 shades, so you can find the perfect match for your skin tone.
It’s also transfer-resistant and doesn’t settle into fine lines or pores, making it a great option if you have oily or combination skin.
Another great thing about the Covergirl TruBlend Matte Made Foundation is its easy application. The formula is buildable and blendable, allowing you to customize the coverage to your liking. It also contains a unique Flexi-hold technology that moves with your skin for a comfortable, natural-looking finish.
How do I know which foundation shade is right for me?
The best way to determine your foundation shade is to test it on your skin. You can do this by swatching the foundation on your jawline and blending it out. Make sure to test the foundation in natural light to get the most accurate shade match. You can also consult with a beauty expert at the drugstore or use online shade-matching tools.
How long should I expect a drugstore foundation to last?
Most drugstore foundations can last for up to 8 hours or more with proper application and setting.
What kind of foundation is best for aging skin?
A lightweight, moisturizing, and non-comedogenic foundation with anti-aging ingredients, such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C, is best for aging skin.
Final Words
Finding a good drugstore foundation can be a game-changer for your makeup routine. Not only are they affordable, but many drugstore foundations now offer high-quality formulas that can rival their high-end counterparts.
Just like Mary Kay, the 7 drugstore foundations I highlighted in this post offer a variety of coverage, finishes, and shades to suit a range of skin types and preferences — you should check them out.
