We compared two budget matte liquid foundations: the Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation and the PHOERA Soft Matte Liquid Foundation.
What we looked at
Coverage claims, finish, SPF, shade range, size, and price.
The verdict
If you want a well-reviewed longwear foundation with SPF 15 and 43 shades for combination or oily skin, the Revlon ColorStay is the pick at £5.59. If you would rather pay £1.40 more for a full coverage soft matte formula with an oil-control claim, the PHOERA is the alternative, at £6.99.
A £5.59 30ml oil-free foundation with SPF 15 and up to 24 hours of wear.
A £6.99 30ml full coverage soft matte foundation.
Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation for Combination/Oily Skin SPF 15 (30ml) — Best Seller
Intended for: Marketed as a 30ml oil-free liquid foundation for combination and oily skin with SPF 15, a matte finish, medium and buildable coverage, up to 24 hours of wear, and 43 shades. Carries 4.3 stars from 17.7K ratings on this listing.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the PHOERA on these listings, at £5.59
- SPF 15 and an oil-free formula for combination or oily skin
- 43 shades per the listing
- Very large review history (17.7K ratings)
Worth knowing
- Medium, buildable coverage rather than stated full coverage
- Listing shade shown is one of many, so check your shade
Best for
- Buyers with combination or oily skin
- Anyone who wants a wide shade range
- Those who want SPF in a foundation
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want stated full coverage
- Anyone with dry skin who wants a dewy finish
PHOERA Soft Matte Full Coverage Liquid Foundation (30ml) — Full Coverage
Intended for: Marketed as a 30ml soft matte, full coverage liquid foundation that is lightweight, oil-controlling, blendable and described as waterproof with 24-hour wear, to even out skin tone; the listing shown is shade 101 Porcelain. Carries 4.3 stars from 4.6K ratings on this listing.
What we liked
- Stated full coverage with a soft matte finish
- Oil-control claim on the listing
- Described as waterproof and long-lasting
- Same 4.3 star rating as the Revlon
Worth knowing
- Costs £1.40 more than the Revlon on these listings
- Smaller review history than the Revlon (4.6K vs 17.7K ratings)
Best for
- Buyers who want full coverage
- Anyone who wants a lightweight matte finish
- Those who want an oil-control claim
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want SPF in a foundation
- Anyone who wants the largest review base
