With so many foundations on the market, how is a person supposed to choose just one? After all, there's a time and a place for each, from mousse to cream to cushion — heck, even aerosol. As you know, your choice of face makeup really depends on the coverage and finish you want, plus the tools you like to use. But what happens when your main priority is finding something fast and mess-free? (So basically, every weekday morning...)
Luckily for the lazy rushed set, there's one formula that's gaining popularity, with more and more brands bringing new versions to a makeup counter near you: foundation sticks. While not exactly new, they're one of the most genius bases you can toss in your bag, apply on the go, and still get great coverage sans tools and mirrors.
In short, stick foundations are the superhero of shortcut routines — and even if you prefer to be incredibly meticulous with your whole face and take more time and care, these babies are still just as useful. They can be used with your fingers or with tools and they can be layered for maximum coverage or diffused for lighter coverage.
Warning: If you’ve never tried these before, you might never turn back. Ahead, you'll find our favorites...
This foundation's shea butter-laced formula is great for dry skin and makes skin look supple and plump in minutes. You can use your fingers or a flat brush to smooth this one on — it’s that soft and silky. Oily skin? Simply set with a sheer powder for longer wear.
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick, $46, available at Sephora.
Less is more with this foundation stick, because it is highly pigmented — swipe once on your forehead, cheek, and chin — then blend. You may even be able to skip concealer, just go heavier where you need more coverage!
Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick SPF 21, $42, available at Sephora.
Oily skin? This foundation is injected with a shine-busting core that helps to keep it in place while skin stays matte — and it won't break the bank.
Maybelline Fit Me Shine Free Foundation, $8.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
Bring back your childhood coloring skills with this option: The thin formula glides right over imperfections and the crayon-like shape lets you reach exactly where you need coverage. It's great as a minimal base and the rounded edges make it easy to contour if you opt for a darker shade.
Clinique Chubby In The Nude Foundation, $24, available at Sephora.
This option doubles as a convenient touch-up tool — you'll get great coverage with just a dab or two of product. The texture is thick, so we don't suggest applying too generously on your face. However, if you're looking for a long-wear, full-face look, you've found it.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Stick Foundation, $25, available Sephora.
When you don't want to feel your makeup on your skin, but would appreciate a little bit of coverage, this creamy base will do you right. The best part is your skin still looks like skin, not a caked-on mess.
Flower Skincognito Stick Foundation, $8.98, available at Walmart.
Calling all selfie addicts: This formula will keep you looking natural in any lighting. This one takes under a minute to apply and smooth out, but doesn't sacrifice your hi-def glow.
Warning: It is gorgeous on the skin, but is also very thick, so start out slow!
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Stick Foundation, $43, available at Sephora.
Great for stick-foundation novices, this triangle-shaped foundation is really easy to get right. With just a couple swipes on each cheek, your entire face will be covered, just blend with warm (clean) fingers. The finish is dewy and it's available in a wide range of shades.
Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick, $46, available at Sephora.
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