When it comes to high-performance foundations, two names often dominate the conversation: Il Makiage and Huda Beauty. Both brands promise flawless finishes, long wear times, and impressive shade ranges—but how do they actually compare in real life? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between these cult-favorite foundations to help you decide which one is right for your skin type, finish preferences, and budget.
Brand Backgrounds
Il Makiage
Il Makiage is a tech-driven beauty brand known for its sleek packaging, bold marketing, and AI-powered shade-matching quiz. The brand’s “Woke Up Like This” foundation has gained popularity for its natural matte finish and skin-like appearance. It’s marketed as full-coverage but lightweight, and ideal for daily use.
Huda Beauty
Huda Beauty, founded by beauty influencer Huda Kattan, made waves with its #FauxFilter Foundation, famous for its full glam coverage and dramatic, flawless finish. The line has since evolved with the newer #FauxFilter Luminous Matte formula, which aims to balance high coverage with a breathable texture.
Coverage and Finish
Il Makiage: Natural Matte Perfection
Il Makiage offers medium-to-full buildable coverage with a soft matte finish. It’s designed to mimic real skin, blurring imperfections without looking cakey. The finish is often described as breathable, with a satin-matte effect that works well for normal to combination skin.
Huda Beauty: Glamorous Full Coverage
Huda Beauty foundations are known for their intense pigment and maximum coverage. The #FauxFilter formula is especially suited for full-glam looks, special occasions, or photo-ready makeup. The newer luminous matte version still offers heavy coverage but feels more flexible and hydrating than the original.
Shade Range
Both brands offer inclusive shade ranges, but there are some distinctions:
- Il Makiage: Offers over 50 shades with varying undertones. Its quiz-based system is designed to help users find their exact match with surprising accuracy.
- Huda Beauty: Provides around 40+ shades across warm, neutral, and cool undertones. The shade names and categories are easy to navigate but require manual selection.
Winner for personalization: Il Makiage.
Wear Time and Longevity
Il Makiage
This foundation typically lasts 8–10 hours with minimal touch-ups. It performs best when set with a light powder and works well in mild to moderately humid conditions.
Huda Beauty
Built for long events and high-drama looks, Huda’s foundation can last 10–12 hours and even longer with a good primer and setting spray. It’s more resistant to oil and sweat, making it ideal for photoshoots and nights out.
Application and Blendability
- Il Makiage: Applies smoothly with a brush or sponge. It’s praised for blending seamlessly into the skin and working well without a primer.
- Huda Beauty: Best applied with a damp sponge to prevent heaviness. Due to its high pigment concentration, it requires precise application to avoid over-layering.
Ease of use: Il Makiage has the edge for beginners or those wanting fast, everyday makeup.
Skin Type Suitability
- Il Makiage: Great for normal, combination, and slightly oily skin. Dry skin types may need extra hydration or primer.
- Huda Beauty: Best suited for oily and combination skin types. Those with dry skin might find it too heavy or matte without proper prep.
Price Point and Value
- Il Makiage “Woke Up Like This”: Around $45 for 30ml.
- Huda Beauty #FauxFilter: Also priced around $42–$48 for 35ml.
Both are in the premium foundation category, but Il Makiage’s frequent first-time user promotions and quiz-based trial system make it appealing for those unsure of their shade.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| Criteria | Il Makiage | Huda Beauty |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Medium to Full | Full |
| Finish | Natural Matte | Glam Matte |
| Shade Matching | AI-Powered | Manual |
| Best For | Everyday Wear | Full Glam |
| Skin Types | Normal to Combo | Combo to Oily |
| Longevity | 8–10 hours | 10–12 hours |
Choose Il Makiage if you want an everyday foundation with a breathable feel, seamless application, and spot-on shade matching.
Choose Huda Beauty if you’re after full glam, high-pigment coverage that stays flawless under bright lights and long nights.
Both foundations are excellent—but your skin’s needs and your makeup style will determine the true winner.