17 Best Foundations for Acne Scars to Get Glowing Spotless Skin
Acne is common but what’s irksome is the marks that are left behind by those pesky bumps. Their presence could affect your complexion with discoloration and also the texture of post-acne scars. Fortunately, the best foundations for acne scars can help cover these skin imperfections and ensure a smooth balanced look. These foundations are gentle on acne-prone skin and work seamlessly without causing any irritation. They hide your marks and uneven texture and tone to give you flawless skin.
You might be tired of camouflaging your marks with regular foundations that aren't as efficient as the best foundations for scars. However these advanced formulations are different from run-of-the-mill foundations. They actually get the job done without paving the path to a new breakout while calming the skin.
Based on our first-hand experience and product testing, we have uncovered some of the best foundation makeup for acne scars that will help you achieve healthy and perfect skin. Keep reading to discover your best pick.
Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation
Dermablend Cover Crème Full Coverage Foundation
Dermacol FlimStudio Prague
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream
Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage
Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Makeup
Dermablend Professional Smooth Liquid Camo Foundation
Wunder2 Last&Foundation
e.l.f. Acne Fighting Foundation
BaeBlu LUX Liquid Foundation
In This Article
17 Best Foundations for Acne Scars
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1Editor's Pick
Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation
This semi-matte foundation by Jane Iredale is best for those with sensitive skin and oily skin. The talc-free formula spreads beautifully on the skin without making it look patchy. It offers a soft sheer finish that makes your skin look luminous. Made with plankton and algae extracts, this foundation works as a makeup and as a hydration tool for the skin. Protect your skin from pollution, dirt, and external aggressors with this foundation.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Talc-free
- Semi-matte finish
- Expensive
Dermablend Cover Crème Full Coverage Foundation
When it comes to full coverage, always opt for Dermablend. This creamy foundation easily covers blemishes and dark circles. The best part of this product is that it comes with SPF 30 which shields your skin. Most suitable for sensitive skin, this foundation also conceals scars, birthmarks, bruising, and tattoos. Even for those with inflamed skin, this foundation is allergy-tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic.
- Suitable for all skin types
- Soothes troubled skin
- Comes with SPF 30
- Creamy texture
- Doesn't come with an applicator
Dermacol FlimStudio Prague
For those looking for a full-coverage foundation, this Dermacool Filmstudio makeup for scars is their good-to-go partner. The cream conceals and corrects dark circles, surgical scars, and tattoo marks other than acne spots. A little goes a long way to vanish your flaws like they were never there. Moreover, it comes with a broad spectrum SPF 30 advantage to protect your skin against sun and UV damage. Since it's gentle on the skin, you can use it daily and on special occasions to keep your skin picture-ready.
- Smoothes skin
- Natural matte finish
- All day wear
- Great coverage
- Available in 19 shades
- The shade might not suit all
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream
Infused with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E & mineral SPF 50+, the lush formula reduces the appearance of pores, dark circles, acne spots, redness, and wrinkles. This best foundation to cover acne scars and large pores provides an even texture and looks effortlessly. The ingredients moisturize and hydrate the skin while maintaining the natural skin barrier (1), (2), (3). The blend minimizes discoloration, soothes and nourishes skin, and offers sun protection. Unlike other formulas, this doesn't crease or crack to provide seamless skin.
- Clinically tested
- Brightening color corrector
- Best for mature skin
- Conceals dark spots
- Unscented
- Some may find its consistency thick
Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage
The Catrice Foundation promises you long-lasting coverage for up to 24 hours. Enriched with niacinamide, the makeup coverage for scars feels like a second skin and offers sophisticated air-brushed effects from AM to PM. The HD liquid provides full coverage with an opaque finish that mattifies skin and conceals imperfections throughout the day. What's unique is-it features a dropper applicator for easy application. Each foundation bead drops quickly and smoothly on a small applied pressure.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Easy-to-use formula
- Sweat-resistant
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Might not suit hypersensitive skin
Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Makeup
Made with advanced micro clear technology, the Neutrogena oil-free foundation is a multitasker. It treats blemishes and prevents future acne breakouts for clean, bright skin. The acne fighter contains 0.5% salicylic acid to relieve existing acne and marks while controlling oil production to prevent the exaggeration of the condition (4). Neutrogena's formula is one of the best makeup for covering scars that also delivers a natural and breathable coverage without feeling greasy and sticky. Applying 1 to 3 layers daily gives visible results. However, excessive use must be avoided.
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-developed
- Provides fast acne-relief
- Controls oil production
- Slightly light shade
Dermablend Professional Smooth Liquid Camo Foundation
Here comes the life savior for those with dry skin. The dermatologically tested formula offers buildable coverage with a flawless finish. This medium-coverage foundation is super-hydrating and prevents water and moisture loss to maintain a dewy effect. The Dermablend for scars formula corrects skin color, blurs flaws, and fades pesky spots without hassle. Besides, it also features the benefits of sunscreen that guards your truly, lovely skin against sun damage and environmental stressors. Additionally, it's a non-comedogenic formula that doesn't clog pores.
- 16-hour long-wear
- Radiant finish
- Reduces redness
- Allergy-tested
- Covers hyperpigmentation
- Some might find it a bit cakey
Wunder2 Last&Foundation
Say hello to unblemished and spotless skin with Wunder2 Last&Foundation. This lightweight, dewy foundation contains hyaluronic acid that helps nourish skin and makes a smooth canvas to hold your makeup. It delivers a creaseproof and waterproof coverage for up to 24 hours, so you don't have to worry about frequent touch-ups. Also, it's transfer-proof and smudge-free which aids your favorite makeup looks to stay in place from morning to night. Based on our observations, the formula seems buildable, so you can create naturally-finished looks.
- Oil-free
- Non-fading
- Cruelty-free
- Easy to apply
- Provides natural glow
- Packaging may be flimsy
e.l.f. Acne Fighting Foundation
This best scar-covering makeup foundation by e.l.f. is a holy grail for acne-prone skin. The added salicylic acid blurs blemishes, tea tree, and witch hazel soothe irritated skin, and aloe vera and camphor minimize redness and cool the skin (4), (5). Furthermore, this full-coverage formula balances uneven skin tone and blesses with a pro-like finished look. From novice to experienced beauty junkies, the formula suits all and gives salon-like results at home without drilling a hole in your pocket.
- Natural finish
- Weightless
- Reduces acne spots
- Phthalate-free
- Outstanding coverage
- Might make the skin a bit oily
The PÜR 4-in-1 Love Your Selfie Longwear Foundation & Concealer
The PÜR 4-in-1 Love Your Selfie Longwear formula lets you fall in love with your skin every time you look in the mirror. This long-wear multipurpose formula works both as a foundation and concealer to hide your acne, spots, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation like magic. Infused with shea butter, energy ceretin complex, and ceramides, the ultimate blend instantly hydrates skin and improves its overall appearance. Shea butter moisturizes skin, energy complex reduces premature aging signs and boosts complexion, ceretin complex increases healthy skin renewal, and ceramides make skin plump and hydrated.
- Soothes inflamed skin
- Minimizes discoloration
- Improves skin tone
- Clean ingredients
- Gluten-free
- Some may find its consistency thin
BaeBlu LUX Liquid Foundation
Thanks to BaeBlu LUX Liquid Foundation, you can bring back your youthful look without spending on exclusive treatments. This best makeup for pitted acne scars is meant to correct your skin and erase imperfections, including aging signs. The ultra-rich concoction increases vibrance and retains smoothness while treating your skin woes. The product suits all skin types irrespective of age, so anyone can use it. Unlike most conventional foundations that feel greasy and thick, this lightweight formula goes on smooth like butter with every glide keeping those sticky feelings at bay.
- Semi-matte finish
- Comes in 10+ shades
- Plant-based ingredients
- No synthetic fragrance added
- Offers medium to full coverage
- Might settle into fine lines a bit
Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation
Keeping your skin concerns in mind, the Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation lets your skin absorb more oxygen for faster wound healing and increased cell production. The clinically tested formula is safe for use post-dermatological treatment and heals irritated and damaged skin. This makeup coverage for scars carries the benefits of salicylic acid and aloe vera that help soothe skin and defend it against stressors like pollution and UV damage. In addition, it removes dead skin cells to promote new cell production for healthier skin.
- For everyday use
- PETA certified
- Transfer-resistant
- Feels light
- Breathable formula
- A bit expensive
Fifth & Skin Better’n Ur Skin Liquid Foundation
Your skin will feel proud for using this foundation makeup to cover scars. The Fifth & Skin liquid foundation is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic. It doesn't trigger new breakouts and prevents the existing skin condition from worsening. The formula allows your skin to breathe and provides buildable full coverage to conceal blemishes, freckles, blackheads, sun spots, and acne marks. What's unique is- it dries to a powder-like finish, keeping that dusty-like feel at bay, and smells heavenly- the credit goes to vanilla.
- Natural sun protector
- Non-GMO product
- Paraben-free
- Great for all skin types
- Reduces visibility of fine lines
- Effects may not last long
Cover FX Power Play Foundation
The Power Play Foundation targets oily skin and is a perfect solution for associated skin problems. It's talc-free and non-comedogenic and never provokes skin to show any countereffects (increase in acne or breakouts) after application. This foundation makeup for scarring is a true blend of an ultra-fine powder trio and fermented algae extract that creates a protective layer around the skin to combat oxidative and free radical damage (6). It's a high-performance skin corrector you would like to incorporate into your regular skincare routine.
- Featherweight
- Water-proof
- Pollution defender
- Not animal tested
- Transfer-proof, seamless coverage
- Might need a spray and powder to set
ILIA - True Skin Serum Foundation
Dazzle like a superstar with naturally glowing skin. The ILIA - True Skin Serum Foundation delivers a buildable light to medium coverage to blur pesky acne scars and other flaws. With niacinamide and allantoin as the key ingredients, the silky liquid melts like cheese within the skin layers and visibly improves skin appearance with every wear. Your skin will look better and more polished than ever. Our analysis of the product shows that it blends seamlessly and builds texture leaving skin more natural and radiant.
- Fragrance-free
- Best for medium skin tones
- Refines tone
- Non-comedogenic
- Safe for all skin types
- Not for darker skin tones
Perricone MD No Makeup Foundation Serum
Nothing comes in handy more than a universal foundation that suits all skin tones and types. This semi-matte finish acne scar makeup formula goes well with your complexion and camouflages skin imperfections. It blends so well with your skin that you won't feel like you've applied anything. The magical elixir sculpts your face and creates a vibrant, luminous glow and a natural color flush that will prep your skin to get compliments and attention.
- Sheer
- Simple to use
- Blends well
- Covers pores
- Nourishing
- Some folks may find the finish dry
Youngblood Liquid Mineral Foundation
- Gives light to medium coverage
- Provides a flawless complexion
- Perfect for any skin condition
- Creamy formula
- Stays for long
- Small bottle size
You can now confidently sport healthy and spotless skin, thanks to the best foundation for acne scars. Below are a few tips you can check out to find the most ideal pick for yourself effortlessly.
How to Find the Best Foundation for Acne Scars?
Here are a few points to consider when purchasing the best foundation to cover acne scars.
Ingredients
Pick a formula made with natural and organic ingredients like plant extracts, organic acids, etc. Avoid harsh chemical-based formulas including parabens, alcohol, etc., as these can provoke new breakouts.
Skin Type
Know your skin type while picking a foundation formula. For instance, powder and non-comedogenic liquid foundations work well with oily skin types as they absorb the excess oil leaving the skin with a clear finish without causing new breakouts. Liquid formulations are perfect for dry skin types because they keep the skin hydrated for hours. Those with sensitive skin may prefer hypoallergenic options.
Coverage
Foundations provide light to medium and deep coverage. A light coverage foundation is apt for daily use to accentuate your beauty. On the other hand, medium to deep coverage hides light-to-dark marks.
Skin Tone And Undertone
It's essential to pick a foundation shade that matches your skin tone and undertone. Our contributor Maya Adivi, a certified makeup artist, says, “Your skin tone and undertone are the two most crucial consideration factors when shopping for foundations.”
It should blend perfectly giving you a natural-looking finish without appearing patchy and blotchy. You may determine your undertone by knowing what jewelry color looks best on you. For instance, silvery jewelry symbolizes cool undertones, including pinkish or reddish hues, while gold indicates warm undertones, including orange or yellow hues. Neutral undertones mean your undertone is the same as your natural skin color.
Now that you have understood how to choose foundation makeup for acne scars, let's know how to use it.
How To Use Foundation to Cover Acne Scars?
Here's the right way to use a foundation for acne scars.
- Start with your daily skincare routine. Wash your face with a facial cleanser and moisturize it.
- Apply a primer to prep your skin for makeup.
- Create a smooth canvas with your favorite primer.
- Apply the foundation using a blender or brush to cover the marks, blemishes, and other imperfections.
- Glide the brush thoroughly over the surface to cover the marks and spots completely.
- Follow with a dab or massage depending on the level of coverage you want.
Conclusion
The best foundations for acne scars come in handy to get you the most beautiful skin you have always dreamed about. Not only do they hide your scars, blemishes, and other skin flaws, but nourish, hydrate, and moisturize your skin. The above-mentioned products help you achieve your skincare goals while being gentle and soothing to your skin. With a lot of options available in the market, you can get your hands on the right pick by knowing a few factors that determine your purchase, including ingredients, skin type, coverage, and skin tone and undertone. It’s perhaps time to go shopping!
Contributor: Maya Adivi, Certified Makeup artist, Click here for blog
FAQ's
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Sayantani Deb, our beauty expert, loves wearing foundations that complete her makeup looks and keep them in place. While trying different foundations for acne scars, she experienced that- formulas like The PÜR 4-in-1 Love Your Selfie Longwear Foundation & Concealer, cover most skin imperfections for a clear, glowing look.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More