Top 10 Serum-Infused Foundations
These Foundations Do More Than Cover—They Benefit Your Skin, Too
Foundation isn't just makeup—it's the cornerstone of your entire beauty routine. Whether you're aiming for that barely-there natural glow or building up to full coverage for a special event, the right foundation sets the stage for everything else. But here's what we've learned after years of testing countless formulas: the best foundations do so much more than just even out your complexion.
That's where serum-infused foundations come into play—the game-changing hybrid products that are revolutionizing how we think about base makeup. These innovative formulas combine high-performance coverage with potent skincare ingredients, delivering what we like to call "makeup that works overtime." Instead of just sitting on top of your skin, serum foundations actively improve your complexion while you wear them.
Curious to learn more? Ahead, we'll share everything you need to know about serum-infused foundations, including which brands offer the best products to buy online right now.
The Top 10 Serum-Infused Foundations at a Glance
Before we begin, here's a quick preview of the best serum foundations that made our final cut. From drugstore gems that punch above their weight class to luxury formulas worth every penny, this diverse lineup has something for every skin type, coverage preference, and budget. Each one brings something special to the table—whether it's breakthrough ingredient technology, exceptional wear-time, or that coveted "your skin but better" finish we're all chasing.
- Best Serum Foundation Overall: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation
- Best Serum Foundation for Mature Skin: L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
- Best Clean Serum Foundation: Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation
- Best Long-Wear Serum Foundation with Vitamin C: Maybelline New York Super Stay 24H Skin Tint + Vitamin C
- Best Drugstore Serum Foundation: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
- Best Lightweight Serum Foundation with Hyaluronic Acid: Saie Glowy Super Skin Tint Foundation With Hyaluronic Acid
- Best Radiant Serum Foundation for Buildable Coverage: MAC Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation
- Best Oil-Free Serum Foundation: Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation
- Best Budget Serum Foundation: Revolution Beauty Skin Silk Serum Foundation
- Best Luxury Serum Foundation: Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Dewy Foundation Drops
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Jump To Products
The Rankings
Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Dewy Foundation Drops
Overall Score
4.7
10
Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Dewy Foundation Drops
4.11
4986 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Luxury Serum Foundation
WHO IT'S FOR
Westman Atelier's Vital Skincare Dewy Foundation Drops are packed with ingredients that benefit all skin types, particularly mature skin. This potent skincare blend includes ginseng extract, pomegranate extract, and Tsubaki oil, cold-pressed from a Japanese Camellia and known for its firming and re-texturizing benefits.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The complexion-boosting drops glide across your skin like a lightweight oil that transforms into a cushiony serum, providing a lasting fresh-faced radiance.
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Revolution Beauty Skin Silk Serum Foundation
Overall Score
4.7
09
Revolution Beauty Skin Silk Serum Foundation
4.19
2964 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Budget Serum Foundation
WHAT IT DOES
This lightweight, buildable formula delivers medium coverage with a natural silk-like finish while nourishing your skin with hydrating ingredients that keep your complexion looking fresh all day. The serum-infused texture blends seamlessly into skin, creating an airbrushed effect without feeling heavy or cakey.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
At an incredibly wallet-friendly price point, this foundation proves you don't need to splurge for serum-foundation benefits. It's perfect for makeup beginners or anyone wanting to test the serum foundation waters without a major investment.
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Cruelty Free
Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation
Overall Score
4.75
08
Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation
4.25
9063 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Oil-Free Serum Foundation
WHAT IT DOES
This full-coverage, weightless liquid foundation promises to deliver a smooth complexion with a satin matte finish. And because it has an oil-free formula, it’s one of the best serum foundations for those with combination or oily skin types.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Clinique really said, “We’re going to make a foundation that looks like skin,” and somehow, they were successful. Plus, they made this miracle product available in 42 different skin tones, so your chances of finding the perfect match are pretty good.
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MAC Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation
Overall Score
4.75
07
MAC Studio Radiance Serum Powered Foundation
4.31
4996 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Radiant Serum Foundation for Buildable Coverage
WHAT IT DOES
This radiance-boosting formula combines MAC's legendary color-matching expertise with powerful skincare ingredients to deliver buildable coverage that actually makes your skin look healthier over time. The lightweight serum base provides an instant luminous glow while smoothing imperfections for a professional-quality finish.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
What sets this apart is MAC's extensive shade range—with options for every skin tone and undertone, you're guaranteed to find your perfect match. The formula is also surprisingly long-wearing for a serum foundation, maintaining its fresh appearance for up to 12 hours.
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Saie Glowy Super Skin Tint Foundation With Hyaluronic Acid
Overall Score
4.8
06
Saie Glowy Super Skin Tint Foundation With Hyaluronic Acid
4.14
2679 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lightweight Serum Foundation with Hyaluronic Acid
WHAT IT DOES
This cult-favorite tint delivers that coveted "no-makeup makeup" look with sheer to light coverage that's enhanced by plumping hyaluronic acid for an instantly dewy, healthy-looking complexion. The weightless formula evens out skin tone while providing serious hydration that lasts all day.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Beauty insiders swear by this clean formula that's free from potentially irritating ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
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Cruelty Free
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
Overall Score
4.8
05
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
4.38
16475 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Serum Foundation
WHAT IT DOES
It’s right there on the label: Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint moisturizes and plumps skin for up to 24 hours. But it also conceals uneven skin tones and blemishes by providing a light layer of coverage.
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS
If you’re going to use the word “hydrating” in your product, you’ve got to have an ingredient list that backs that claim up. We’re thrilled to share that this serum foundation features hyaluronic acid (an ingredient known for its skin-plumping and hydrating properties), leading the way.
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Maybelline New York Super Stay 24H Skin Tint + Vitamin C
Overall Score
4.85
04
Maybelline New York Super Stay 24H Skin Tint + Vitamin C
4.39
5970 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Long-Wear Serum Foundation with Vitamin C
WHAT IT DOES
This drugstore powerhouse combines long-wearing coverage with brightening vitamin C to even out your complexion while working to improve skin radiance over time. The lightweight tint provides natural-looking coverage that won't budge through your busiest days.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The 24-hour wear claim isn't just marketing hype—this formula truly delivers impressive staying power that rivals high-end foundations at a fraction of the cost. The vitamin C infusion also means you're getting antioxidant protection against environmental stressors while wearing it.
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Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation
Overall Score
4.95
03
Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation
4.42
10031 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Clean Serum Foundation
WHAT IT DOES
Described as having a “skin-like finish,” this serum foundation offers buildable coverage for those with oily, combination, and normal skin types. As a bonus, it’s non-comedogenic and safe for sensitive skin, so if that’s a concern for you, Ilia’s got you covered.
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is the primary ingredient behind Ilia’s True Skin Serum Foundation. Niacinamide is common in skincare products because it helps build keratin, a type of protein that keeps your skin firm and healthy. Additionally, it helps your skin retain moisture, which means this is one of the best foundation options for dry skin.
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Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
Overall Score
4.95
02
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
4.34
27251 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Serum Foundation for Mature Skin:
WHAT IT DOES
In addition to offering ample protection from the sun due to its SPF 50 formula, L'Oreal Paris’s Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation provides lightweight coverage and all-day hydration.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
What’s interesting about this product is that it’s as much of a face sunscreen as it is a foundation. It falls somewhere on the spectrum between tinted moisturizer and face sunscreen, making it a fantastic option for those with mature skin types looking for an everyday foundation.
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Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation
Overall Score
5
01
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation
4.28
32344 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Serum Foundation Overall
WHAT IT DOES
At the top of our list of the best serum foundations is Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint Foundation. As an Allure Best of Beauty award winner and a Sephora community favorite, this foundation combines niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and plant-based squalane to create a lightweight, tinted serum that will leave you with a smooth and dewy complexion.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
The addition of SPF 40 ensures protection from the sun, but what you may not know is that this product is formulated with zinc oxide in order to shield your skin from free radicals, blue light, and pollution as well.
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Cruelty Free
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Why Serum Foundations Are Worth the Investment
Traditional foundations can sometimes feel heavy, settle into fine lines, or leave your skin looking flat by midday. Serum-infused foundations take a completely different approach. These lightweight, buildable formulas are packed with skin-loving ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants that target specific concerns—think dullness, dehydration, uneven texture, and early signs of aging.
The result? Foundation that not only provides beautiful, natural-looking coverage but actually makes your skin healthier over time. You'll notice improved hydration, a more radiant complexion, and smoother texture—even on makeup-free days.
What to Look for in a Serum Foundation
When shopping for the perfect serum-infused foundation, keep these key features in mind:
- Active Ingredients: Look for proven skincare powerhouses like niacinamide for pore refinement, peptides for firming, or vitamin E for antioxidant protection.
- Coverage Level: Most serum foundations offer light to medium coverage that's easily buildable—perfect for creating a natural, skin-like finish.
- Finish: These formulas typically dry down to a natural or dewy finish that mimics healthy, well-moisturized skin.
- Longevity: The best serum foundations maintain their fresh appearance for 8+ hours without oxidizing or breaking down.
- Skin Compatibility: Many are formulated to work well with sensitive skin and won't clog pores or cause irritation.
How We Found The Best Serum Foundations
At Rank & Style, we don't just pick our favorite products and call it a day. Our Top 10 lists are powered by an algorithm that analyzes thousands of data points, including verified customer reviews, beauty industry best-seller rankings, social media engagement, and expert editorial assessments.
For this serum foundation roundup, we evaluated over 50 different formulas across price points, analyzing everything from ingredient quality and coverage performance to wear-time and user satisfaction scores. The 10 products below emerged as clear winners, each earning its spot through consistently high ratings and proven results.
Whether you're dealing with foundation that oxidizes throughout the day, formulas that emphasize every fine line, or coverage that feels heavy and mask-like, these editor-vetted serum foundations offer a better solution.
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