No longer reserved solely for make-up artists, foundation sticks are revolutionising the morning routines of beauty aficionados the world over. Specifically brilliant for those who want quick, easy-to-use products that are travel-friendly (hello, commuters), they offer portability and convenience, along with precision application and buildable coverage.
Gorgeously creamy, often in dewy or natural finishes, foundation sticks are ultra-blendable and allow you to place the product only where you need it, such as under the eyes or on blemishes, without mess or wasted product. More so than liquid foundation, a foundation stick is perfect for those on-the-go touch-ups and makes it easy to gain your preferred level of coverage. Loved by the likes of Sienna Miller, whose no-make-up-make-up look is always on my beauty vision board, they've grown in popularity in recent years, now becoming a must-have for many.
Grazia's Best Foundation Sticks 2026, At A Glance:
Best foundation stick overall: Hourglass Vanish Seamless Foundation, £49
Best sheer foundation stick: Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Hydrating Foundation Stick, £35
Best long-lasting foundation stick: Dior Forever Skin Perfect, £48
Self-confessed foundation stick lovers, beauty director Rachael Martin and beauty writer Georgia Scott, have pooled their knowledge and tested out a selection of the products below to help you select the best foundation stick for your needs. From super sheer to full coverage, it's the perfect companion for flawless skin – here's where to find one to add to your beauty stash.
Shop: The Best Foundation Sticks For A Seamless Base
How to choose between a liquid foundation and a foundation stick
Choosing between a liquid foundation and a foundation stick really comes down to how you live your life (and how much time you actually have in the morning). Liquid foundations are your go-to if you want a seamless, skin-like finish that’s easy to sheer out or build up; they’re ideal for everyday wear or when your complexion needs a little extra glow.
Foundation sticks, meanwhile, are the low-effort, high-impact option: brilliant for on-the-go touch-ups, targeted coverage, or anyone who likes to apply make-up straight from the tube and blend with their fingers. In short, liquids suit the detail lovers; sticks are for the beauty minimalists who want results, fast.
Georgia Scott is a beauty commerce writer for Grazia. She has been obsessed with beauty products for as long as she can remember and spends her days hunting for the latest trending products to get her hands on to review.