OG YouTubers Put Me On to This Oil-Free, Longwear Foundation (2025)

We put the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

Foundation is one of the biggest makeup staples for a reason: A standout formula will elevate your overall look, ensuring your skin looks even, glowing, and as dewy or matte as you desire. Launched in 1997, Estée Lauder's Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation has stood the test of time as one of the most popular products for full coverage that lasts. Iconic supermodel Elizabeth Hurley was the face of the initial campaign, touting airbrushed skin with the oil-free formula that promised long-wear coverage with a matte finish. Fast forward to the rise of YouTube and social media, and Double Wear has remained a top foundation that delivers full coverage and a seamless, camera-ready finish.

With dozens of beauty awards, 57 shades, and several newer Double Wear additions from lips to concealer, it's safe to say that this mainstay isn't giving up its prestige title anytime soon. Read on for my full review of this iconic foundation, from the application experience to the staying power.

About My Skin: A solid skincare routine, but wear makeup daily

I have worked hard on my skin to get it as healthy and balanced as possible without wearing makeup, and to make sure that my makeup looks great when I do wear it. I have a consistent skincare routine that addresses my concerns, plus I have gotten IPL treatments and Fraxel Dual laser. While all of the above has been helpful to my skin, I do experience occasional breakouts, plus I have some sun spots. Regarding foundation, I prefer a formula that provides coverage but looks and feels natural. I wear makeup daily and often reach for more sheer foundation formulas, including skin tints that contain SPF. I don't wear powder, but I do go for bronzer, cream blush, highlighter, mascara, and concealer. I was excited to see how Estée Lauder's Double Wear foundation would fit into my routine for more full-coverage days.

The Formula: Long-lasting and oil-free

The Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation has a straightforward, oil-free formula that focuses on ingredients that help it achieve full, matte coverage and a long-lasting result. The main reason this product is so popular is its long-wearing ability, with buildable coverage that lasts up to 24 hours. The formula is waterproof as well as humidity, sweat, and transfer-resistant, making it excellent for special events, performers, and anyone who wants full coverage and minimized pore appearance. The liquid formula comes in 57 shades to cater to every skin tone, and the one-ounce bottle ensures you have enough product for many makeup looks to come.

How to Apply: Slow and steady

It took me a few times to get the hang of applying this foundation. The most important thing I learned is that a little goes a very long way: A drop of this formula can cover your entire face, and I didn't need to add any more than the swatch you see me applying here. Since it's a matte finish, you do need to blend it quickly, as it dries pretty fast.

I buffed the foundation in a circular motion on my skin to help it look as natural as possible. I found that if I over-applied this foundation, it looked heavier than I preferred. While I wish this foundation had a pump to make things easier, I can understand why it doesn't come with one, as the formula is thicker than most foundations—in the end, it might clog a pump format.

It's also important to moisturize your skin before applying the Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation, ensuring you've minimized any noticeable dry patches. I applied a hydrating essence, serum, and cream, letting my skincare sink in for 10-15 minutes before moving on to makeup. The wait time is important as if you apply it right after skincare, it won't sit as evenly, and depending on your products, you might experience pilling. In the end, making sure my skin was hydrated made the foundation blend in much more smoothly and evenly.

Using a foundation brush is the best way to get seamless, airbrushed results. This technique can help the foundation blend without streaking, so I recommend it over other application tools like sponges or your fingers.

The Results: Unparalleled coverage

Estée Lauder Double Wear is the most full-coverage foundation I've ever tried. This foundation covers anything and everything, and made a noticeable difference in the scars I have from breakouts, my pores, and sun spots.

It took me a few tries to get comfortable with the formula, as you can feel it on your skin if you apply too much. Once I got the hang of it, I could easily wear it throughout the day without feeling like a thick layer of makeup was on my skin. I applied very little, so keep that in mind when experimenting with it. The foundation held up for long days as promised—I experienced some shine and oiliness peeping through towards the end of the day, but it wasn't enough to complain about and is something I experience no matter what foundation I'm wearing.

I wear mostly cream contour, blush, and highlighter products, but I noticed that the foundation played well with both cream and powder formulas. It's versatile and works well in conjunction with your preferred routine. I had to blend it well around my mouth and nose to ensure there wasn't any caking, but once I did, I was happy with the result. I also used it under my eyes for brightness instead of concealer, which was an added bonus.

The Final Verdict

After wearing the Estée Lauder Double Wear foundation for a few weeks, I can see why so many people love it. If you want a full-coverage formula that smooths the appearance of skin and holds up under all the elements, this formula delivers everything it promises. While it took me a minute to pinpoint the amount I needed and the best application method, I found this formula to be a true winner once I figured out my specific needs. This is an ideal product if you want a foundation that will cover anything and everything while giving a soft, matte finish.