Is the Foundation dead? That might be the case with foundation as we once knew it—complete non-negotiable coverage—what makeup is all about. Gen Z likes beauty trends such as no makeup and a “#CleanLook,” in which skin tones and a dab of concealer are applied instead of applying foundation all over the face. And as more people embrace skin neutrality (embracing all blemishes, blemishes, and fine lines into their skin), there’s less of a need to hide all imperfections.
Thankfully, beauty brands are experimenting with better new foundation options. Enter stick foundation. As with bronzers and our favorite multisticks, the application of this tube is smooth and satisfying. The best stick foundation in the beauty corner is pushing more shoppers to try these convenient, cake-free coverage options.
Intrigued? Read on to find out what to look for in a stick foundation and where to find the best ones.
Featured image from an interview with Elizabeth Mathis Thiel Thomsen.
Best stick foundation in 2023
There are many things to consider when choosing a foundation. First, it looks. Consider shade range, texture, coverage and buildability. Ingredients may also be considered. Is the product clean? Is it non-toxic? Does it contain moisturizing ingredients or SPF?
To find the best stick foundation, I polled some of the editors who are already believers. And of course, I combed through reviews and store aisles and tried it myself.
All of our products are carefully curated by our editors to always give you an honest opinion, whether it’s a gift or a purchase for yourself. When you purchase something through our links, we may earn a small commission for free.
I use this foundation stick in “Buff”. It contains buildable coverage, non-toxic ingredients and is super lightweight.I love it — definitely, it’s my favorite. — Brandi, Motherhood Contributor
What we love:
- Buildable, long-lasting coverage
- non-toxic formula
- light coverage
- hydration
What we don’t do:
- Tell me what you mean? With a range of shades, skin-friendly ingredients, and non-irritating multi-sticks for acne-prone skin, it’s hard to find a fault. It’s easy!
To be honest, my purchase of this product was inspired by an Instagram ad promoting effortless summer makeup. But here’s the kicker. it actually worked. I keep this in my travel amenity bag and it’s super easy to swipe and blend with a makeup brush for a sheer color that reduces pores and adds a little shine. One caveat is that you need to moisturize your skin well before applying it so it doesn’t cake or look patchy. — Camille, Editor-in-chief
What we love:
- Easily create applications on the go
- Provides transparent shine and color
What we don’t do:
- If your skin isn’t properly moisturized, it can end up wearing like a cake
- limited shade range
Maximum Moisture: Milk Makeup Flex Foundation Stick
Milk makeup is known for its skincare-focused approach to makeup, and the brand’s premier stick foundation is further proof that milk makeup lives up to its mission. This ultra-moisturizing formula delivers an easy-to-apply texture and supple finish. This stick foundation doesn’t excel in its buildability, but it provided a ton of coverage in just a few swipes without feeling heavy.
What we love:
- hydration
- Easy to apply
- Provides full coverage with minimal application
What we don’t do:
- Not as buildable as other picks
I keep merit picks in my medicine cabinet, but I always carry affordable options for threads. For example, I have three sticks in my handbag, toiletries bag, and even my car. But no, my obsession doesn’t end there. Also, I have it in two shades. One to match and cover my skin tone, two more shades to darken for contouring and one shade to lighten as a highlighter. It has a soft, matte texture that is comfortable to use, and I love how it covers pores while still achieving a dewy, hydrated look. At this price point, it’s really a solid pick with all the features. My only complaint is that you have to reapply several times a day compared to Merit Sticks.
What we love:
- Available in a variety of shades
- Soft mat coating
- affordable price range
What we don’t do:
- Needs to be corrected or reapplied every few hours
The hype for this stick foundation is real. From the first swipe, I loved the texture. It glides on like silk and gives light and effective coverage in just a few swipes. I was very impressed with how it melted into my skin. Plus, as a clean beauty lover, I was impressed with the combination of nourishing ingredients and light oils in the thoughtful formula.
What we love:
- silky texture
- Light yet effective coverage
- Blends seamlessly into skin
What we don’t do:
- Our most expensive pick, but worth the splurge
Known for changing the game with its range of shades, Fenty Beauty has driven the entire beauty industry to match its extensive and comprehensive collection since its launch. And it is famous for the compliment-gathering effects of its products. This stick foundation provides smooth, seamless coverage that lasts all day.
What we love:
- comprehensive shade range
- Smooth, seamless coverage
- long lasting
What we don’t do:
With this drugstore stick foundation, you get pretty good value for money. Its smooth texture and multi-dimensional finish provide long-wearing, all-day coverage.
What we love:
- long lasting coverage
- affordable price range
- Semi-matte finish with no streaks
What we don’t do:
- I don’t really like it on warm (sweaty) days as it can get a little sticky when worn
You might be tempted to layer a higher SPF underneath, but having sunscreen in your foundation makes it easy to toss in your bag and reapply throughout the day. The blurring process makes pores and unevenness less noticeable, and evens out the skin tone.
What we love:
- Achieves a seamless, poreless finish
- Perfect color match for different shades
- Built-in SPF and Antioxidant Protection
What we don’t do:
- Product can get dirty after a few hours
For a filter look, make this Blur Stick like a slap on Instagram’s Paris filter. Gives a smoother texture and more even skin without clumping or creasing.
What we love:
- No sticking or wrinkling
- smooth finish
What we don’t do:
- Only available in 3 colors
