If you have oily skin, I recommend trying foundations like Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless or Revlon SPF 15 for a lasting matte finish that keeps shine at bay all day. Estée Lauder Double Wear and L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte are great for long wear and resistance to sweat or water. For a lightweight option, e.l.f. Soft Glam works well. Keep watching to discover more about these top picks and how to choose the perfect one for you.
Key Takeaways
- Look for oil-free, transfer-resistant, and long-lasting formulas designed to control shine for 12-24 hours.
- Choose matte foundations with ingredients that minimize pores and absorb excess oil.
- Consider popular options like Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless, Revlon Liquid Foundation, and Estée Lauder Double Wear Matte.
- Ensure proper skin prep and shade matching to enhance longevity and matte finish.
- Opt for foundations resistant to sweat, humidity, and water for all-day matte coverage.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
If you have oily or combination skin and want a foundation that controls shine without feeling heavy, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless is a great choice. It’s lightweight, oil-free, and designed to minimize pores, giving you a natural matte finish that lasts up to 12 hours. The medium coverage blends seamlessly, covering redness and uneven tones without feeling cakey. Available in 40 shades, it suits many skin tones. The formula absorbs oil and helps reduce midday shine, making it perfect for daily wear. Plus, it’s dermatologist-tested, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic, so it’s gentle even on sensitive skin.
Best For: those with oily or combination skin seeking a lightweight, long-lasting matte foundation that controls shine and minimizes pores.
Pros:
- Controls oil and shine for up to 12 hours
- Blends seamlessly for a natural, matte finish
- Suitable for sensitive skin; dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic
Cons:
- Lacks a pump, making application potentially messy
- Some batches may have inconsistent consistency or coverage
- Can oxidize over time, turning slightly orange on certain skin tones
Revlon Liquid Foundation, SPF 15, Medium-Full Coverage
Revlon’s Liquid Foundation with SPF 15 is an excellent choice for those with oily or combination skin who need long-lasting coverage. I appreciate its 24-hour wear and matte finish, which keeps shine at bay without feeling heavy. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula is lightweight and easy to blend, offering buildable medium to full coverage. It’s also transfer-resistant, waterproof, and resistant to heat, sweat, and humidity—perfect for all-day wear. Plus, with antioxidant Vitamin E and earth-sourced mineral powders, it nourishes skin while controlling oil. The wide shade range ensures a good match, making this foundation reliable for a natural, matte look that lasts.
Best For: those with oily or combination skin seeking long-lasting, matte coverage that resists sweat, humidity, and transfer for all-day wear.
Pros:
- Provides 24-hour longwear with a matte finish that controls shine effectively
- Oil-free, fragrance-free formula that feels lightweight and easy to blend
- Contains antioxidant Vitamin E and earth-sourced mineral powders to nourish skin and control oil
Cons:
- Packaging without a pump requires dipping or other tools for application
- Some users find the texture thick or sticky, and notice a chemical smell
- May look unnatural or mask-like if over-applied or if shade matching is inaccurate
Estée Lauder Double Wear Matte Foundation (1 Fl Oz)
The Estée Lauder Double Wear Matte Foundation is an excellent choice for anyone with oily skin seeking a long-lasting, shine-free finish. Its lightweight texture blends easily and offers buildable coverage, from natural to fuller looks, without feeling heavy or cakey. The matte finish stays intact for hours, resisting oxidation and reducing the need for touch-ups. With a wide shade range, it’s practical for daily wear and suits various skin tones. Users love how it covers blemishes, redness, and scars while maintaining a natural appearance. Most importantly, it stays put all day, providing a reliable, comfortable, matte look that keeps oily skin under control.
Best For: individuals with oily or combination skin seeking a long-lasting, matte finish foundation that provides buildable coverage with a lightweight feel.
Pros:
- Offers all-day wear with a matte finish that resists shine and oxidation
- Provides natural, flawless coverage suitable for various skin types and tones
- Easy to blend, lightweight, and comfortable for daily use
Cons:
- May be difficult to find the perfect shade match initially
- Less suitable for very light or very dark skin tones if shades are limited
- Might require additional concealer for high-coverage needs or covering significant scars
LOreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation (102 Shell Beige, 1 Fl Oz)
Looking for a foundation that can keep up with your busy, active day while controlling oil and shine? The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation is a fantastic choice. It offers up to 24 hours of demi-matte, longwear coverage that effectively conceals imperfections for a smooth, flawless finish. It’s lightweight, easy to blend, and resists sweat, water, and oil, making it perfect for long days, humidity, or even swimming. The shade range is broad, accommodating many skin tones. Just remember to prep dry skin well, as its matte finish can cling to flaky patches. Overall, this foundation is reliable, durable, and great for oily skin that needs staying power.
Best For: individuals with oily or combination skin seeking long-lasting, matte coverage that resists water, sweat, and extended wear.
Pros:
- Up to 24 hours of longwear demi-matte finish
- Oil, sweat, and water resistant, ideal for active or humid days
- Provides buildable medium to full coverage with a natural look
Cons:
- Can cling to dry patches if skin isn’t properly prepped
- Slight chemical scent that dissipates after application
- Shade range may have limited undertone variety for some skin tones
Maybelline Super Stay Skin Tint with Vitamin C (112)
If you have oily or combination skin and want a lightweight, long-lasting coverage, Maybelline Super Stay Skin Tint with Vitamin C (112) is an excellent choice. It offers natural, skin-like light-to-medium coverage that evens out your skin tone and reduces redness. The formula provides a radiant, dewy finish that brightens your complexion instantly and over time, with many users reporting healthier, more radiant skin after continued use. Resistant to sweat, humidity, and fading, it stays put for up to 24 hours without settling into fine lines or pores. Its buildable coverage and seamless blend make it perfect for everyday, natural looks that last all day.
Best For: those with oily or combination skin seeking a lightweight, long-lasting, natural-looking coverage with a dewy finish that resists sweat, humidity, and fading.
Pros:
- Provides a natural, skin-like light to medium coverage that evens out skin tone
- Long-lasting up to 24 hours with a radiant, dewy finish
- Resists sweat, humidity, and transfer, suitable for all-day wear
Cons:
- Shade matching can be challenging online, with some shades appearing more yellow or different on screens
- Dropper packaging may be inconvenient or prone to overflow
- May require proper hydration for dry skin to prevent a matte finish
FV Waterproof Foundation, Medium Coverage, Oil-free & Long Lasting
For those with oily skin seeking a reliable foundation, FV Waterproof Foundation offers a perfect solution. It provides medium to full coverage, effectively evening out skin tone and concealing blemishes without feeling heavy. The lightweight, liquid formula delivers a natural matte finish that controls excess oil and minimizes pores, keeping your skin looking fresh all day. Its waterproof and sweatproof properties ensure it stays put for up to 16 hours, resisting fading and smudging even in humid conditions. Made with skin-friendly, cruelty-free ingredients, it’s gentle enough for daily wear and easy to apply with fingers or a sponge for a flawless look.
Best For: individuals with oily skin seeking a long-lasting, oil-free foundation that controls shine and provides medium to full coverage.
Pros:
- Provides up to 16 hours of long-lasting, waterproof wear
- Controls excess oil and minimizes pore appearance for a matte finish
- Lightweight, breathable formula that feels comfortable on the skin
Cons:
- May require multiple layers for full coverage of blemishes or imperfections
- Not suitable for very dry or sensitive skin types without proper hydration beforehand
- Requires setting powder for extended wear in humid or hot conditions
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer stands out as an excellent choice for those with oily skin seeking full coverage that lasts all day. I love how lightweight yet full-coverage it is, providing a natural finish that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. It’s easy to blend, works well with or without primer, and controls oil throughout the day, reducing shine. Users, including myself, appreciate its longevity—staying fresh and flawless even after hours. The shade matches are versatile, offering a seamless look, while its skin-friendly formula suits sensitive skin. Overall, this foundation delivers reliable, long-lasting coverage perfect for oily skin that wants a matte, natural look.
Best For: individuals with oily or combination skin seeking full-coverage, long-lasting foundation that controls shine and provides a natural matte finish.
Pros:
- Offers full coverage with a lightweight, comfortable feel
- Excellent oil control and shine reduction throughout the day
- Blends easily and works well with or without primer
Cons:
- Proper shade matching is essential for the best results
- May be less suitable for very dry or mature skin without proper moisturizing
- Some users might find the coverage too full for a natural, minimal look
Almay Skintone Matching Foundation with SPF 15, Light to Medium Mine, 1 Oz
Almay Skintone Matching Foundation with SPF 15 is an excellent choice for those with oily or sensitive skin seeking a natural, radiant finish. Its innovative Tonemimic technology instantly transforms from white cream to match your skin tone, providing customizable medium coverage that looks seamless and luminous. The lightweight, oil-free formula feels airy and blends effortlessly, making it ideal for sensitive or aging skin that avoids settling into lines. With SPF 15, dermatologist testing, and hypoallergenic ingredients, it’s a gentle yet effective option. Users love its ease of application and natural finish, though some caution against over-application to prevent a chalky look.
Best For: individuals with oily or sensitive skin seeking a natural, luminous finish and medium coverage that blends seamlessly.
Pros:
- Innovative Tonemimic technology that adjusts to skin tone instantly for a natural look
- Lightweight, oil-free formula that feels airy and is suitable for sensitive or aging skin
- Provides lasting coverage that effectively conceals imperfections without settling into lines
Cons:
- Can appear chalky if over-applied or not blended properly
- Packaging may be bulky or prone to contamination if not sealed tightly
- Some users find the product price slightly high for the quantity provided
COVERGIRL Clean Matte BB Cream
COVERGIRL Clean Matte BB Cream is an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin seeking a lightweight, shine-free finish. Its oil-free, water-based formula provides light to medium coverage, effectively evening skin tone and hiding blemishes without feeling heavy. It dries quickly, leaving a natural matte look that lasts all day, and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. I love that it’s breathable and suitable for sensitive skin. For best results, I use a damp sponge to blend, and since it lacks SPF, I add sunscreen separately. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and perfect for daily use in hot climates.
Best For: those with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin seeking a lightweight, matte finish with medium coverage and shine control.
Pros:
- Oil-free, water-based formula that reduces shine and controls oil all day
- Lightweight, breathable, and non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin
- Easy to blend with damp sponge and provides a natural, matte finish
Cons:
- Lacks SPF, so additional sun protection is necessary
- May shift slightly later in the day, reducing perfect appearance
- Can dry out skin if not properly moisturized beforehand
Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation (200 Soft Beige)
Are you looking for a foundation that controls shine all day without feeling heavy? The Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation in 200 Soft Beige might be just what you need. Its lightweight mousse texture offers a true matte finish, perfect for oily or combination skin. It provides medium to full coverage, effectively concealing blemishes and reducing shine with mattifying powders. While the thick consistency can be tricky to blend at first, mixing with a moisturizer helps. It dries quickly, feels comfortable, and stays matte throughout the day, minimizing touch-ups. Plus, its long-lasting formula makes it a great budget-friendly option for a flawless, shine-free look.
Best For: individuals with oily or combination skin seeking a lightweight, long-lasting matte foundation that controls shine and provides full coverage.
Pros:
- Offers a true matte finish that effectively controls shine throughout the day
- Provides medium to full coverage, concealing blemishes and imperfections
- Long-lasting formula that minimizes the need for frequent touch-ups
Cons:
- Thick mousse texture may be difficult to blend initially, requiring mixing with moisturizer
- Can feel heavy or chalky if not blended properly, especially on dry or sensitive skin
- Limited shade selection and potential discrepancies in color matching between photos and actual shades
LOreal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum Foundation
L’Oréal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum Foundation is ideal for those with oily skin who want a lightweight, hydrating product that won’t clog pores or add excess shine. It’s formulated with 1% Hyaluronic Acid, providing a natural glow and a sheer, luminous finish that enhances your skin’s appearance. Available in 14 shades, it offers a skin-like look with long-lasting wear—up to 12 hours. The serum’s smooth, buildable coverage blends easily with fingers or brushes, making it perfect for quick daily application. Plus, it’s vegan, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin, giving you a natural, radiant look without heaviness.
Best For: individuals with oily skin seeking a lightweight, hydrating foundation that provides a natural, luminous finish without clogging pores or adding excess shine.
Pros:
- Provides a natural, radiant glow with a sheer to buildable coverage
- Long-lasting wear up to 12 hours, maintaining a fresh look
- Easy to blend with fingers or brushes for quick application
Cons:
- May not offer enough coverage for those needing full concealment
- The dropper can be messy and difficult to control during application
- Limited shade range in some markets might challenge perfect match
LOreal Paris True Match Foundation, Light Medium
Looking for a foundation that offers a natural finish without feeling heavy on oily skin? The LOreal Paris True Match Foundation in Light Medium might be just what you need. It comes in 47 shades, matching various undertones precisely, thanks to its blend of up to six pigments. This vegan, water-based formula includes SPF 17 and is free from oils and fragrance, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It provides medium coverage with a luminous, natural look that’s easy to build. Users love its seamless blend, long-lasting wear—about five hours—and how lightweight it feels. Just remember to keep the pump clean for ideal application.
Best For: those with oily or sensitive skin seeking a natural, lightweight foundation with long-lasting, luminous coverage that matches a variety of undertones.
Pros:
- Seamless blend and natural luminous finish
- Wide shade range with precise undertone matching
- Long-lasting wear of approximately five hours
Cons:
- Pump may dry out or clog if not kept clean
- May appear lighter once dry compared to application
- Some users find coverage less effective if not applied carefully
e.l.f. Soft Glam Foundation, Medium Coverage, Long-Lasting & Buildable Foundation
For those with oily skin seeking a reliable foundation, e.l.f. Soft Glam Foundation is a great option. It delivers long-lasting, medium buildable coverage with a satin finish that looks fresh without feeling heavy. Infused with hydrating hibiscus complex and fruit extracts, it promotes breathable, smooth skin that resists caking. Available in 36 shades, it suits a variety of skin tones and undertones. The lightweight formula applies easily with fingers, brushes, or sponges, providing a natural glow that lasts over six hours. Best of all, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and budget-friendly, making it perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Best For: those with oily skin seeking a long-lasting, medium coverage foundation that provides a natural, satin finish and a breathable, lightweight feel.
Pros:
- Long-lasting wear that maintains a fresh appearance for over six hours
- Buildable medium coverage with a satin, slightly dewy finish
- Infused with hydrating hibiscus complex and fruit extracts for smooth, breathable skin
Cons:
- May require concealer for blemishes or discoloration due to medium coverage
- Some shades might oxidize or appear slightly different after application
- Packaging preferences vary, with some users preferring previous versions
Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation with SPF 25
Clinique Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation with SPF 25 is an excellent choice for those with oily skin who want a natural-looking, long-lasting finish. It offers medium to full coverage, effectively hiding imperfections, redness, and uneven skin tone. Its serum-like formula includes skincare ingredients like vitamin C, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid, which brighten, hydrate, and improve skin texture over time. The lightweight feel, combined with a natural, radiant finish that isn’t dewy, helps control oil and stay fresh all day. Resistant to sweat and humidity, it’s perfect for daily wear, with impressive wear time and minimal touch-ups needed.
Best For: individuals with oily skin seeking a natural, long-lasting foundation that provides medium to full coverage and controls shine throughout the day.
Pros:
- Offers buildable medium to full coverage that effectively conceals imperfections and redness
- Serum-like formula with skincare ingredients that brighten, hydrate, and improve skin texture over time
- Long-lasting, resistant to sweat and humidity, requiring minimal touch-ups
Cons:
- Some users find shade matching challenging due to undertone variations
- The price may be considered high compared to other foundations
- Might have a matte finish that some may perceive as less dewy or luminous
Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer (1oz)
If you struggle with excess shine and greasy skin, Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer (1oz) could be a game-changer. I’ve found it’s lightweight and easy to apply, creating a smooth, matte base that lasts up to 8 hours. It effectively blurs pores, reduces shine, and helps my makeup stay fresh throughout the day. I love that it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy—just a comfortable, oil-control boost. Plus, it’s versatile enough to wear alone for a shine-free look or as a primer under foundation. Its affordable price makes it a reliable staple for oily skin, keeping my face matte and polished all day.
Best For: individuals with oily, combination, or sensitive skin seeking a lightweight primer that controls shine and extends makeup wear throughout the day.
Pros:
- Provides a matte finish that lasts up to 8 hours
- Blurs pores and reduces shine effectively
- Lightweight, non-greasy, and comfortable to wear
Cons:
- May not provide as much hydration for very dry skin
- Some users might need to reapply in extremely humid conditions
- Limited to 1oz size, which may require frequent repurchasing for heavy users
Factors to Consider When Choosing Foundations for Oily Skin
When choosing a foundation for oily skin, I look for oil control formulas that keep shine at bay all day. A matte finish helps reduce reflections, while long-lasting wear guarantees I don’t have to retouch constantly. I also consider how easy it is to find a shade that matches my skin and how the texture feels when I apply it.
Oil Control Formulas
Are you looking for a foundation that keeps shine at bay all day? Then, focus on oil control formulas designed specifically for oily skin. These foundations often contain oil-absorbing ingredients like micro-powders, silica, or clay, which help manage excess sebum. They typically feature matte or semi-matte finishes that reduce shine and create a smooth, non-greasy look. Many are formulated with long-wear, transfer-resistant, and waterproof properties to stay put even in humid or sweaty conditions. Also, look for oil-free and non-comedogenic options to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. By choosing foundations with these oil control formulas, you’ll enjoy a matte, shine-free complexion with minimal touch-ups and confidence that your look stays fresh all day.
Matte Finish Options
Choosing a matte finish for your foundation can be a game-changer in managing oily skin. Matte formulas are designed to absorb excess oil, keeping your skin shine-free throughout the day. They often contain micro-powders or silica that help control sebum and minimize the appearance of pores. The velvety or powdery texture of matte foundations helps reduce reflection, creating a smooth, non-glossy surface. These finishes are especially beneficial in hot or humid conditions, as they resist slipping or becoming greasy. Plus, a matte finish can extend the wear of your makeup, meaning fewer touch-ups. When selecting a foundation, look for one labeled as matte or oil-free, and consider formulas with oil-absorbing ingredients to keep your skin looking fresh and matte all day long.
Long-lasting Wear
To guarantee your makeup stays put all day, it’s essential to contemplate the formulation’s ability to resist oil breakthrough and environmental factors. Foundations with oil-free formulas tend to last longer because they prevent excess shine and reduce slipping. Many long-lasting options incorporate setting agents like silicone or polymers that form a protective barrier, resisting sweat, humidity, and oil. Proper skin prep, including mattifying primers and oil-control powders, can further boost wear time by keeping your skin matte and fresh. Look for buildable coverage formulas that can be layered without caking or sliding, maintaining their durability even after multiple applications. Additionally, choosing foundations with a matte or demi-matte finish, along with transfer-resistant or waterproof properties, ensures your makeup endures hours without fading or needing constant touch-ups.
Shade Matching Ease
When selecting a foundation for oily skin, ease of shade matching can make the process much smoother and more accurate. A wide shade range with clear undertone descriptions helps me find my perfect match quickly, reducing guesswork. Foundations that offer customizable or adaptive shades, like color-changing formulas, make it easier to achieve a seamless look without multiple tests. Packaging features such as transparent bottles or shades displayed on the container help me visualize the color precisely, especially when shopping online or in-store. Consistent color payoff across batches ensures I won’t face unexpected shade discrepancies over time. Additionally, shade matching tools or virtual try-on apps are invaluable for fine-tuning my choice, particularly if I have warm, cool, or neutral undertones.
Texture and Application
Since foundation texture directly impacts oil control, I prefer formulas with matte or semi-matte finishes that help keep shine at bay throughout the day. These textures tend to be less greasy and more absorbent, making them ideal for oily skin. I look for foundations with a smooth, lightweight consistency that evenly blends without caking or settling into pores. A good application technique also matters—using a dense brush or damp sponge ensures a seamless, matte finish. I avoid thick, creamy foundations that can feel heavy or cause excess oil buildup. Instead, I choose liquid or powder formulas designed for oily skin, as they tend to stay put longer. Ultimately, the right texture and application method make a significant difference in achieving a shine-free, matte look that lasts all day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prevent Foundation From Oxidizing on Oily Skin?
To prevent foundation from oxidizing on oily skin, I always start with a matte primer to control shine. I choose oil-free, long-wear formulas and set my makeup with a translucent powder. I avoid touching my face throughout the day and use a setting spray for extra staying power. Regularly blot away excess oil, and I make sure to match my foundation perfectly to my skin tone for a natural look.
What Ingredients Should I Avoid in Oily Skin Foundations?
You should avoid foundations with heavy oils, alcohol, and fragrance, as these can clog pores and increase oiliness. Look out for ingredients like mineral oil, lanolin, and artificial fragrances, which might cause breakouts or make your skin shine faster. Instead, choose oil-free, mattifying formulas with ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, or salicylic acid. These help control oil and keep your skin matte without irritation.
How Often Should I Reapply Matte Foundation During the Day?
I usually reapply my matte foundation every 4 to 6 hours, especially if I have a busy day or sweat a lot. I keep blotting papers handy to absorb excess oil without disturbing my makeup, then add a light layer of foundation if needed. This way, my skin stays matte and fresh all day, and I avoid that cakey or greasy look.
Are There Specific Application Techniques for Oily Skin?
Yes, there are specific techniques I recommend for oily skin. I start by cleansing and applying a mattifying primer to control shine. Then, I use a damp beauty sponge to press foundation into my skin, focusing on oily areas. I avoid rubbing and use a light, stippling motion. Finishing with a translucent powder helps set the look and keeps my skin matte all day.
Can Primers Enhance the Longevity of Matte Foundations?
Absolutely, primers can dramatically boost the staying power of matte foundations. Imagine a smooth, invisible barrier that grips your skin, controlling oil and minimizing shine all day. I swear by a pore-filling or mattifying primer underneath—it’s like giving your foundation a secret weapon. When you prep your skin right, your makeup stays flawless, fresh, and matte, no matter how hot or hectic your day gets.
Conclusion
Choosing the right foundation is like finding the perfect partner—once you do, everything feels balanced and effortless. With these top picks, you’ll stay matte and confident all day long, no matter how oily your skin gets. Remember, the right foundation acts as a shield, keeping shine at bay while enhancing your natural glow. So go ahead, pick one that suits you, and let your flawless skin shine through like a beacon!
