Maybelline foundations are a go-to choice for many due to their quality, variety, and affordability. But if you’re looking to explore other options—whether to find a different formula, price point, or new brand—there are plenty of excellent drugstore alternatives. This guide highlights the best drugstore foundation alternatives to Maybelline across various budgets, skin types, and coverage needs.
Why Consider Drugstore Alternatives?
- Variety: Discover formulas and finishes that might better suit your skin type or desired look.
- Price options: Find foundations that fit tighter budgets or offer premium features without breaking the bank.
- Ingredient preferences: Some brands focus on clean, natural, or sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients.
- Shade diversity: Certain brands may offer a different or wider shade range.
Best Drugstore Foundations Under $10
1. e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation
- Coverage: Medium
- Finish: Natural to matte
- Why it’s great: Lightweight with a buildable formula that controls shine and looks natural on skin.
- Ideal for: Oily and combination skin on a budget.
2. Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation
- Coverage: Medium to full
- Finish: Matte
- Why it’s great: Long-lasting and photo-friendly, this foundation performs well under different lighting conditions.
- Ideal for: Those needing a budget-friendly, camera-ready foundation.
Best Foundations $10-$20: Affordable Quality
3. L’Oréal Paris True Match Foundation
- Coverage: Medium
- Finish: Natural
- Why it’s great: A classic drugstore favorite with a wide shade range and a formula that adapts well to different skin tones.
- Ideal for: All skin types seeking natural coverage.
4. Revlon ColorStay Foundation
- Coverage: Medium to full
- Finish: Matte or dewy options available
- Why it’s great: Known for its impressive longevity and variety for different skin types (normal/dry or combination/oily).
- Ideal for: Long-wear needs across skin types.
Best Foundations $20 and Up: Premium Drugstore Choices
5. NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation
- Coverage: Full
- Finish: Matte
- Why it’s great: Highly pigmented, long-wearing, and transfer-resistant, offering great value for a higher-end drugstore price.
- Ideal for: Full coverage lovers and oily skin types.
6. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer
- Coverage: Full
- Finish: Natural matte
- Why it’s great: Combines foundation and concealer in one, offering flawless coverage with a lightweight feel.
- Ideal for: Those looking to simplify their routine with high coverage.
Honorable Mentions: Specialized Foundations
7. Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation
- Coverage: Medium
- Finish: Radiant
- Why it’s great: Formulated with antioxidants and skin-loving ingredients for a natural glow.
- Ideal for: Sensitive or dry skin.
8. Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation
- Coverage: Light to medium
- Finish: Dewy
- Why it’s great: Natural, clean ingredients perfect for eco-conscious buyers who want a fresh, radiant finish.
- Ideal for: Dry or normal skin, natural makeup looks.
How to Choose the Best Alternative for You
- Know your skin type: Pick formulas that match your skin’s needs—matte for oily, hydrating for dry, etc.
- Consider coverage: Choose from light, medium, or full depending on the look you want.
- Finish preference: Decide if you prefer matte, dewy, radiant, or natural finishes.
- Shade range: Make sure the brand offers shades suitable for your skin tone.
- Budget: Select products within your price comfort zone.
Final Thoughts
While Maybelline foundations are beloved for their quality and affordability, exploring drugstore alternatives can help you discover new favorites that match your budget and beauty goals perfectly. Whether you want to try something new or save a few bucks, there’s a foundation out there tailored just for you—without compromising on quality or performance.
With this list, you can confidently find a foundation that offers great coverage, a flattering finish, and the wear time you need—no matter your budget!