Top 13 Cruelty-Free And Vegan Foundations for Flawless Skin
If you've been vegan for a while and you're trying to replace the contents of your makeup bag animal-free products developed without animal testing, we got you! Foundation is one of the key products used to achieve a flawless finish, and for many of us, the idea of creating a makeup routine without it is simply unfathomable. If you can relate, your first step is to keep reading and discover your next go-to cruelty-free vegan foundation to complete your fabulous daily look!
Ingredients We Avoided
When it comes to finding the perfect clean vegan foundation, you may find that knowing what ingredients to avoid is even more important than knowing what bonus ingredients to look for. While a clean foundation that simply doesn't work for you may be disappointing, a toxic foundation that looks great on you can potentially harm your skin and health after prolonged use.
So, in order to rule out this possibility, it's essential we know what to avoid in our vegan cosmetics! Although there are mixed opinions among experts regarding the safety of many ingredients used in popular foundations today, there are five that most agree are much more harmful than helpful. These would include parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, triclosan, and BHT/BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), not to be confused with beta hydroxy acid, which is actually beneficial.
Parabens have long been classified as hormone disruptors, and are also linked to cancer and even environmental damage. In fact, various parabens have been heavily restricted or banned entirely in the EU. Meanwhile, phthalates are classified as 'toxic to reproduction', while also being carcinogenic and mutagenic. Formaldehyde-releasing ingredients are often used as preservatives in cosmetic products under the names 'imidazolidinyl urea,' 'diazolidinyl urea,' or 'DMDM hydantoin.' However, formaldehyde is currently classified as a category 1B carcinogen.
We also avoid any products containing triclosan, which can cause irritation, contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. It has also been classified as an endocrine disrupting chemical. And finally, BHT and BHA are used as preservatives in cosmetic products. However, these too have been classified as both endocrine-disruptors and carcinogens.
Thankfully, all of the products listed in our guide are free from these risky substances, and packed with skin-loving ingredients that are meant to leave you with a healthy, glowing complexion!
What To Look For In a Vegan Foundation
When browsing for a vegan foundation, making sure it's animal-free is just the tip of the iceberg. After all, vegan products should be better for the animals, our planet, and your health to be considered truly ethical and cruelty-free. Opting for organic ingredients, natural extracts, and sustainable packaging is the best method we have to ensure we're causing the least amount of harm possible with our purchase.
We also like to make sure the product has a cruelty-free label or certification, since some products that are called 'vegan' may actually be tested on animals. While we would not consider these products vegan, many companies have gotten away with it in the past, so it's important to keep this in mind! And although it's not entirely necessary unless you have sensitive skin, it's always a good idea to try and steer clear of products that contain 'fragrance,' since this substance can be irritating and may contain hidden toxic ingredients.
Finally, we like to support companies that offer a wide range of shades so that one day everyone can enjoy an extensive variety of non-toxic, cruelty-free, and natural beauty products!
Finding The Right Foundation For Your Skin Type
For Combination and Oily Skin
If your skin produces a lot of oil, the last thing you want is a foundation that is greasy or loaded with ingredients that can block/clog your pores! For this reason, although silicone is generally considered safe in cosmetic products, it's an ingredient those with oily skin may want to avoid.
If a product is listed as 'non-comedogenic,' this is also a green flag for those with oilier skin. As a bonus, if you can find a vegan lightweight foundation with ingredients like salicylic acid, clays, or silica, which help to absorb oil and leave you with a matte finish, we'd suggest going for it!
Another indicator that a foundation will work on your combination or oily skin is that it's listed as a 'velvet' or 'matte' finish. This indicates that the formula, at the very least, is not overly greasy. It could also be a good idea to go for a powder foundation, or a water-based liquid foundation, as opposed to an oil-based product.
For Dry or Sensitive Skin
For those with dry or easily-irritated skin, the key is to look for ingredients that lock in moisture, like hyaluronic acid, silicones, ceramides, or glycerin. This can help to keep your skin barrier from cracking and becoming exposed to contaminants. You may also want to look for soothing ingredients like aloe, green tea, niacinamide, or chamomile.
That's why liquid foundations may be your best bet! Just make sure yours is free from clay, salicylic acid, fragrance, and other drying or irritating substances. And finally, products that offer a 'dewy' or 'radiant' finish could be excellent candidates and leave you with a gorgeous natural glow.
Keep in mind that if you have extra sensitive skin, you should always try doing a patch test before applying new makeup products to your entire face, no matter how clean they are.
For Aging Skin
If your top priority is to maintain your skin elasticity and protect your vulnerable complexion from environmental damage, you may opt for an SPF foundation for extra protection! However, this would not replace a daily vegan sunscreen, which should always be applied under your foundation.
However, because you likely wouldn't remove your full face of makeup every 2-3 hours to reapply sunscreen as is recommended, using SPF cosmetics can be a great solution! This is especially true if you go for a powder foundation with SPF, which you can simply dust over your look to reapply.
Aside from SPF, you may also want to go for an antioxidant-rich formula with ingredients like vitamin E, green tea, or algae to boost collagen production and fight free radical damage. Additionally, hydrating ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and ceramides can help you achieve a glowing, youthful look. And lastly, foundations containing niacinamide, vitamin C, or kojic acid can help to reduce redness or hyperpigmentation, leaving you with flawless skin even after you've removed your makeup!
Our Top Recommended Vegan Liquid Foundations
Vegan Liquid Foundations for Normal Skin
Exa Beauty High Fidelity Foundation
Price | $38.00
Amount | 1.1 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Sheer.
Infused with hyaluronic acid, coffee extract, and grape seed extract, this foundation brightens, nourishes, and locks in hydration like a serum! A dermatologist-approved vegan formula, this liquid makeup works on all skin types (plus 43 shades) and even provides a shield against pollution and free radicals to further protect your complexion.
A major bonus is that this product is packaged in a totally recycled/recyclable box, and the bottle is made of recyclable glass! It's always so nice to find a product that is better for you and our planet. Try this eco-friendly, cruelty-free foundation now!
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Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation
Price | $47.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Medium.
Familiar with this popular brand by singer/actress Lady Gaga? Haus Labs is 100% vegan and cruelty-free! We especially loved their Triclone Skin Tech Foundation, which is enhanced with over 20 skincare ingredients, including fermented arnica to support your natural skin barrier. This makes it ideal for all skin types, including those that are irritation or acne-prone!
With 51 shades to choose from, you're sure to come across the right vegan, cruelty-free foundation for you. Find your perfect match now and glam up while enhancing your complexion every time!
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Vegan Liquid Foundations For Dry Skin
Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint
Price | $26.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Dry, Sensitive, Acne-Prone.
Coverage | Sheer.
Going for that natural, "no makeup" look? This is the foundation to go for to nail it perfectly! It's ultra-sheer, however it also brightens, minimizes the appearance of pores, evens your skin, and moisturizes for a dewy effect. It's also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. This vegan foundation comes in 12 adaptable shades, covering a wide range so you can easily find the perfect match. Try it today!
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Range Beauty True Intentions Hydrating Foundation
Price | $28.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Dry, Sensitive.
Coverage | Sheer-Medium.
Although this pick fits all skin types, Range Beauty's lightweight foundation is ultra-hydrating and dewy, making it ideal for dry skin types! It's also totally non-toxic, non-comedogenic, and soothing, making it a great alternative for those with irritation-prone skin. Go for this highly acclaimed, award-winning vegan foundation now and watch your skin glow all day!
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Gabriel Cosmetics Moisturizing Liquid Foundation
Price | $32.30
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Dry, Sensitive.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
Looking for a liquid foundation that won't leave you with irritated skin or dry patches after it's removed? Gabriel Cosmetics' moisturizing foundation hydrates and nourishes your complexion with all-natural ingredients, including sesame oil, jojoba oil, glycerin, and shea butter. Enhance your natural features and achieve smooth skin with this vegan foundation infused with powerful antioxidants!
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Vegan Liquid Foundations for Oily Skin
Ere Perez Quinoa Water Foundation
Price | $36.48
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Oily, Combination, Sensitive.
Coverage | Light-Medium.
Made with just 12 base ingredients and iron oxides instead of synthetic colorants, Ere Perez's Quinoa Water Foundation is a truly natural and non-toxic option. Providing light coverage, it leaves you with a beautiful matte finish that looks like a second skin! Want to pull off the "no makeup" look? This product could be the best base to achieve it. However, it's also buildable, meaning you can apply a second layer to better conceal any imperfections.
We also love that this oil-free foundation follows the concept of 'makeup as skincare.' Their quinoa water formula is meant to reduce inflammation and boost skin elasticity. They also included blackcurrant, which offers antioxidants and skin-loving vitamins. Collectively, these ingredients work to reduce hyperpigmentation and fine lines, so you can love your skin with or without makeup!
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Milk Liquid Matte Foundation
Price | $40.00
Amount | 1.01 oz.
Skin Types | Oily, Combination.
Coverage | Full.
Made silicone, paraben, and phthalate-free, Milk's liquid full-coverage foundation leaves a flawless, soft-focus effect! Its formula is breathable and provides the perfect base for all of your fabulous makeup looks. However, it does contain fragrance, meaning it's not as suitable for those with sensitive skin as other options on our list. However, it's an excellent pick for those with normal to oily skin, made with silica and a matte finish to combat shine or an oily T-zone. Give it a try!
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Vegan Liquid Foundations For Mature Skin
Flower Beauty Get Real Serum Foundation
Price | $15.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Dry, Sensitive.
Coverage | Sheer-Medium.
A buildable option for everyday wear, this product is perfect for skin that needs a little hydration boost! Its skincare-infused formula doesn't settle into fine lines and is packed with antioxidants to protect your complexion throughout the day. It even contains probiotics to support your natural skin barrier! Treat your skin to this fabulous vegan foundation now!
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Tarte Cosmetics Face Tape Foundation
Price | $40.00
Amount | 1.01 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Sensitive, Dry.
Coverage | Full.
Although this pick gives you a matte finish, it's totally non-drying, blurring, and packed with nourishing ingredients for a brighter complexion. It's also water-proof and sweatproof, making it the perfect everyday essential for your busy schedule.
This full-coverage foundation is dermatologist tested and lasts for a whopping 12 hours for long-lasting radiance. And with over 50 shades to choose from, you're sure to find your perfect match. Try it now!
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Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Flawless Serum Foundation
Price | $44.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Sensitive, Dry.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
This natural foundation works on all skin types, however it's especially beneficial for aging, sensitive, and dry skin! That's because it contains powerful antioxidants from grape seed oil and fruit stem cells, and it diminishes the appearance fine lines and wrinkles with the help of coconut alkanes.
Its natural formula also alleviates irritated or sensitive skin with its soothing organic aloe, and hydrates dry skin with organic glycerin. In fact, this product doubles as a serum, meaning it gives your complexion a boost so you can see the difference both with and without makeup!
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Our Top Recommended Vegan Foundation Sticks
Vegan Foundation Sticks for Normal Skin
ZAO Foundation Stick
Price | ±$28.46
Amount | 0.35 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
Looking for an organic, eco-friendly vegan foundation? ZAO's refillable foundation is made with certified organic ingredients that nourish and hydrate your skin! Additionally, its rich, buildable formula covers up all imperfections, and can even double as a concealer. Help protect the planet and your skin with this sustainable swap!
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Skin by Mented
Price | $30.00
Amount | 0.25 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
This foundation is specifically formulated for darker skin tones, and even doubles as a concealer. It glides on the skin for easy application and provides the perfect amount of coverage every time. Plus, its protective, hydrating formula makes it ideal for a vast range of skin types. Take their 60-second quiz now to find your perfect shade match!
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Nudeskin Tinted Blur Foundation Stick
Price | $32.00
Amount | 0.2 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Light-Medium.
If you love the convenience and easy application of a foundation stick, but you don't love how heavy they can feel on your skin, this product is for you! With a buttery smooth, lightweight texture, Nudeskin's Tinted Blur Foundation glides onto the skin without clogging your pores, for the perfect natural look.
This cream-powder stick functions as a blurring primer, oil-control cream, and contour stick, making it an ultra-versatile addition to your makeup bag! It's also the perfect foundation to take on the go, as you don't worry about it leaking or staining your belongings. Go for this light, breathable, and convenient vegan foundation today!
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Vegan Foundation Sticks for Mature Skin
Well People Bio Stick Foundation
Price | $29.65
Amount | 0.35 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Sensitive, Acne-Prone.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
This EWG-Verified pick is ideal for delicate skin, however it's suitable for all skin types! It's infused with skin-loving, antioxidant-rich ingredients like castor oil, safflower oil, carnauba wax, vitamin E, jojoba oil, calendula extract, and green tea extract. It's also dermatologist-developed, PETA-Approved Cruelty-Free, and Leaping Bunny Certified! You can't go wrong with this totally non-toxic, vegan foundation!
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Trestique Foundation Stick
Price | $30.00
Amount | 0.21 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Dry, All.
Coverage | Medium.
For unmatched precision and consistently perfect coverage, go for Trestique's foundation stick! Its antioxidant-rich, ultra-hydrating formula is amazing for dry or aging skin, but is also beneficial for other skin types. Plus, it comes in a refillable case that features a plush blending sponge for easy application when traveling or on-the-go! Enjoy a refreshed, radiant look with this vegan foundation made with natural ingredients!
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Our Top Recommended Vegan Powder Foundations
Vegan Powder Foundations for Normal Skin
Clove + Hallow Pressed Mineral Foundation
Price | $31.00
Amount | 0.31 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
A talc-free powder foundation with medium coverage, Clove + Hallow's satin formula is a safe pick for all skin types! Not only is it PETA-Certified cruelty-free and vegan, it's also made without toxic ingredients, and comes in a refillable compact to reduce waste.
This formula is made up of only 14 base ingredients, as well as iron oxides instead of synthetic colorants. However, keep in mind that it does contain silica which can absorb grease, making it perfect for oily or combination skin, but less ideal for dry skin types. Otherwise, enjoy this satin formula from a totally eco-friendly and cruelty-free brand!
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Vegan Powder Foundations for Oily Skin
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Vegan Powder Foundation
Price | $46.00
Amount | 0.32 oz.
Skin Types | Normal, Oily, Combination.
Coverage | Medium.
A talc-free pick colored with fruit extracts, 100% Pure's foundation powder is totally plant-based and packed with antioxidants! With peach, apricot, papaya, pomegranate, cranberry, strawberry, raspberry, wild cherry, and grape extracts, this formula is ultra-nourishing and naturally-derived. It offers medium coverage and a matte finish, making it ideal for oily or combination skin types. Give it a try today!
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Vegan Powder Foundations for Mature Skin
Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder Mineral Foundation
Price | $32.99
Amount | 0.32 oz.
Skin Types | Aging, Sensitive.
Coverage | Light-Full.
A vegan, matte formula with buildable coverage that won't settle into fine lines? Mineral Fusion has what you're looking for! Available in 24 shades, their Pressed Powder Foundation is both age-defying and soothing to fit both mature and sensitive skin types. That's because it's boosted with antioxidant-packed ingredients like sea kelp, white tea, and pomegranate. It also contains licorice extract, which can help to control oil production, and aloe and cucumber to help soothe irritated skin. Try it and see the difference!
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Omiana Loose Powder Foundation
Price | $33.00
Amount | 0.21 oz.
Skin Types | Sensitive, Acne-Prone.
Coverage | Semi-Sheer.
An ultra-clean formula made without talc, mica, titanium dioxide, or synthetic colorants, Omiana's vegan foundation option is designed for those with very sensitive or acne-prone skin! It's super lightweight and natural, and can even double as a setting powder. Simply moisturize beforehand, optionally apply primer, and dust on this all-natural foundation in light circles to even your skin tone and mask any blemishes!
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Our Top Recommended Vegan Foundations with SPF
Vegan Foundations With SPF For Normal Skin
Pacifica Beauty Ultra CC Cream Radiant Foundation SPF 17
Price | $18.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Normal, Dry.
Coverage | Medium.
For a vegan foundation that feels and looks natural and dewy, go for Pacifica's CC Cream with SPF! It offers mineral broad spectrum SPF 17 for some added protection over your daily sunscreen, and contains dimethicone and hyaluronic acid to keep moisture locked in and urban pollutants out. Try this medium coverage, cruelty-free foundation now!
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Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation SPF 20/15
Price | $57.00
Amount | 0.35 oz.
Skin Types | All.
Coverage | Medium-Full.
Formulated with just 10 base ingredients and all-natural iron oxides, Jane Iredale's mineral foundation provides totally mineral SPF 20 for their 20 lighter (more vulnerable) shades, and SPF 15 for their 6 darkest shades. Functioning as both a foundation and concealer, this option provides buildable medium to full coverage and a natural finish. It even comes with a refillable compact to reduce plastic waste. Reapply throughout the day as needed, and stay protected from the sun's harsh rays 24/7!
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Vegan Foundations With SPF For Oily Skin
Bare Minerals You Are Luminous Loose Mineral Foundation SPF 15
Price | $42.00
Amount | 0.6 oz.
Skin Types | Oily, Combination, Acne-Prone, Sensitive.
Coverage | Sheer-Full.
This hypoallergenic, mineral option is the perfect foundation for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin types! This pick is made without toxic ingredients like talc, PEGs, synthetic fragrances, parabens, or formaldehyde. Plus, it's non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested for extra safety! In addition, it's gentle formula is buildable and doesn't settle into fine lines, making it a good choice for mature skin as well. Try this cruelty-free vegan foundation in any of its 15 shades!
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Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation SPF 25
Price | $42.00
Amount | 1 oz.
Skin Types | Oily, Combination, Acne-Prone.
Coverage | Light-Medium.
Available in 36 shades ranging from a very light neutral to a rich deep neutral, as well as 4 undertone categories, you're sure to find the right option for you among their vast selection! A self-proclaimed 'foundation for skincare freaks', their Skin-Improving Foundation contains skin-loving actives like niacinamide, caffeine, squalane, provitamin B5, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and of course, mineral SPF 25 to protect your complexion.
Its smooth formula minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving your skin looking totally natural and glowy! Try it today and see an improvement in your skin after each use!
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Find a flawless foundation for your skin type made without animal products? We hope so! Thanks for always browsing cruelty-free and vegan options, and taking care of our planet and the beings that inhabit it. For more amazing vegan products, tips, and recommendations, be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter before you leave!
