These Are, Without a Doubt, the 11 Best Foundations for Deep Skin Tones (According to a Beauty Editor & Celeb MUAs)

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Shopping for a foundation when you’re Black or Brown can be a process if you don’t have the right tips. There are so many factors to consider—from undertone to finish and, most importantly, shade range. In the past, a lot of foundations just didn’t capture the nuances of Black skin as well as they could and there were only a couple shades for deeper skin tones. Luckily, there are more options out there today with extra dimension and the right undertones, but the absolute best foundations for deep skin tones tick all the boxes. 

As someone who’s tried a lot of foundations in their five-year beauty writing career, I can say I have full confidence in the below picks. And not only that, I tapped celebrity makeup artists for their favorites to get a well-rounded perspective. For everything you need to know about foundation shopping for deep skin tones, keep reading.

Best Foundations for Deep Skin Tones at a Glance

Best Overall: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Foundation, $49
Best Dewy Formula: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Serum Foundation, $34
Best Natural Finish: Glossier Stretch Fluid Foundation, $34
Best Stick Formula: LYS Beauty Triple Fix Stick Foundation, $25
Best Full Coverage: Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation, $69

How to Choose the Best Foundation for Deep Skin Tones

Celebrity makeup artist Marquis Ward says it’s all about selecting the right undertone for Black and Brown skin. “Whether you’re warm (golden/yellow), cool (red/blue), or neutral, knowing this helps you find a foundation that enhances your complexion instead of masking it,” he explains.

“When shade-matching, always test in natural light and let the product sit for a few minutes—this helps you see how it oxidizes and adapts to your skin.” Ward also says you shouldn’t be afraid to try multiple formulas before committing. Skin is never one-dimensional so you may even find that mixing two different shades gives you the best finish or results. Celebrity makeup artist Maya René also says it’s important to check how your foundation will play with your skincare. “Some formulas separate or shift depending on your moisturizer or SPF, so it’s worth testing before committing to it,” she adds.

Ward mentioned that there are a few things to watch out for when choosing the best foundation for dark skin tones too. “Steer clear of formulas that look gray, ashy, or too flat,” says Ward. “That usually means the foundation lacks proper undertone balance or pigment richness. Avoid brands that treat darker shades as an afterthought with only one or two deep options—they often miss the mark on inclusivity and undertone accuracy. Also, overly matte foundations can sometimes make deeper skin tones look dull or lifeless. If you love a matte finish, consider pairing it with a hydrating primer or setting it with a luminous powder to keep your natural glow intact.”

Experts in This Article

Marquis Ward: Celebrity makeup artist & lead artist and educator for LYS Beauty
Maya René: Celebrity makeup artist & Hair and Makeup department head for Hot Ones