The 15 Best Foundations for Oily Skin That Won’t Get Greasy, Per Makeup Artists
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Keep shine at bay with these long-lasting, oil-absorbing formulas.
InStyle / David Hattan
Dewy, radiant skin might be all the rage these days, but anyone with oily skin knows that there is a fine line between a complexion that is glowy and one that is greasy. If you like to wear makeup, excess oil can result in unwanted shine and cause product to move around your face. That includes complexion products, like foundation, but with the right formula and makeup tips for oily skin, you can actually create a base that evens your skin tone and mattifies – without creasing, caking, smudging, or budging.
The best foundation products for oily skin types are not necessarily the same as what someone with a drier complexion would use. “People with oily skin can wear foundation, but it is especially important to choose foundation types that do not clog pores,” says Kristina Collins, MD, double board certified dermatologist in Austin, TX. You’re going to want to look for formulas that are ‘non-comedogenic’ and ‘oil-free’ and perhaps even pull double duty as skincare thanks to extras like niacinamide or salicylic acid.
So, whether you are looking for a velvety matte complexion or want to maintain a bit of radiance (sans greasiness!), we’re rounding up the best foundations for oily skin.
Best Overall: IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40
What We Love: This multitasking CC cream doubles as skincare and sun protection.
What We Don't Love: It can be tricky to find the right shade.
If you are looking for a product that will complement your skincare, sun care, and makeup routines, look no further than this CC cream. Based on your coverage desires, the pigmented fluid can be used as a mattifying moisturizer (thanks to hyaluronic acid, charcoal, Canadian colloidal clay, and Moroccan lava clay), skin-smoothing serum (hi, peptides, niacinamide, tea tree extract, and collagen), mineral sunscreen, concealer, and full-coverage matte foundation.
All of these added benefits are what makes it expert-approved. “I love it because it has skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, so I feel like I am getting full coverage without clogging my pores,” says Brittany Lo, a professional makeup artist and founder of Beia and Beautini. In true dermatologist fashion, Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board certified dermatologist in New York, shouts out the sunscreen element. “I like the CC cream because it is oil-free and also has mineral SPF with zinc and titanium for sun protection.
Price at time of publish: $47
Coverage: Full | Shades: 12 | Type: CC Cream | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.1 ounce
Best Budget: Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation
What We Love: Enjoy all the perks of longwear makeup, at a wallet-friendly price point.
What We Don't Love: The dropper dispenser can be a little messy.
There is a reason this full-coverage fluid has been dubbed a go-to and comparable to its high-end counterparts. “It is ultra-lightweight, sweat-proof, transfer-proof, and waterproof,” says celebrity makeup artist Emily Gray. “It really has everything that oily skin is seeking.” The longwear formula has what Gray describes as a “beautiful matte finish” that keeps unwanted shine under control and is infused with niacinamide to smooth and soothe the complexion.
Price at time of publish: $10
Coverage: Full | Shades: 24 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best Drugstore: CoverGirl Clean Matte Liquid Foundation
What We Love: The water-based formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin.
What We Don't Love: The longwear properties aren’t as strong as some of the other options.
The drugstore foundation option is lightweight, water-based, and easy to blend with a natural matte finish that won’t clog pores or exacerbate breakouts. While it may not be as long-wearing as some of the others on this list, it looks and feels very natural on the skin and does an admirable job at minimizing unwanted shine.
The formula also won’t cling to dry patches or make your face feel tight—it’s a comfortable matte to wear all day. The shade range leaves a bit to be desired but if you find a good match, this is an affordable daily option.
Price at time of publish: $11
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 12 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best Splurge: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Liquid Foundation
What We Love: This fan-favorite formula does not budge, cake, settle, or crease.
What We Don't Love: While the formula is buildable, it is hard to reach full coverage.
When you have not one but two pros singing the praises of a formula, you know it’s worth a look. “If you want a splurge, this is the original stay-in-place foundation that is perfect for oily skin,” Gray shares. “There is a reason oily skinned people have been obsessed with this foundation for years – it is matte, waterproof, and extremely long-lasting.” Celebrity makeup artist Neil Scibelli is also a fan because it lives up to its name – and its hype. “It has 24-hour staying power, with a matte finish and a fragrance-free formula that has had a long-lasting, devoted following,” he says.
While the 55 shades run the gamut of fair to deep, the color in the bottle is not necessarily what shows up on the skin. Be sure to let the formula dry down completely before deciding on a shade.
Price at time of publish: $48
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 55 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best Powder: bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 15
What We Love: This product triples as a concealer, foundation, and setting powder.
What We Don't Love: Loose powders can be messy.
If you didn’t personally use this classic powder as one of your first forays into makeup, then you know someone who did. We’re here to tell you that it deserves another look – especially if you have oily skin. “It’s one of my top picks because it’s super clean, has buildable coverage, comes in a large range of colors, and is great for all skin types,” says Jessie Cheung, MD, a board certified dermatologist in Chicago. Because the mineral-based powder can be built from sheer to full coverage, you can use it as foundation, concealer, or setting powder and it is great for touch ups. “It immediately eradicates shine, and the powder formula feels very light and doesn’t clog pores,” Dr. Collins shares.
Price at time of publish: $38
Coverage: Buildable | Shades: 30 | Type: Powder | Finish: Natural | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 0.3 ounces
Best Full Coverage: Make Up For Ever Matte Velvet Skin Full Coverage Foundation
What We Love: This velvety fluid feels really comfortable on the skin.
What We Don't Love: You’ll want to use a hydrating primer if you have any dry or flaky areas on your face.
This velvety foundation will upend everything you think you know about matte, waterproof, full coverage foundations. The brand's flexi-fit complex features oil-absorbing powders that ensure long-lasting shine control and cake-, flake-, and fade-proof wear that feels comfortable and natural on the skin. Michele Koo, MD, a board certified plastic surgeon in St. Louis, MO, is a fan because she finds the oil-free fluid has a “nice texture that applies well.”
Price at time of publish: $40
Coverage: Full | Shades: 38 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream
What We Love: This full-coverage CC cream is formulated with ingredients to soothe redness.
What We Don't Love: Some users find that it settles into fine lines.
Improve skin tone while you conceal it with this multitasking CC cream that was developed with dermatologists and without oil, fragrance, parabens, SLS/SLES sulfates, and phthalates for acne-prone oily skin. “It leaves a flawless, airbrush finish to the skin without being too heavy or drying,” Scibelli shares. “The texture is on the velvety side and is infused with vitamin b3 (niacinamide), which also helps to calm and soothe any breakouts and redness.” The hallmark of the best foundations for acne-prone skin are coverage and formula—and this pick nailed them both.
Price at time of publish: $15
Coverage: Full | Shades: 34 | Type: CC Cream | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Related: The 15 Best Foundations for Acne-Prone Skin of 2023
Best Matte: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
What We Love: You’ll be hard pressed not to find a perfect match among the – count ‘em – 59 shades.
What We Don't Love: It sets quickly, so make sure you are ready to blend.
A little goes a long way with this lightweight liquid foundation that offers buildable medium to full coverage. “It’s great for oily skin because it uses a climate adaptive technology to fight heat, sweat and shine – all while being flexible on the skin and non-drying,” Scibelli shares. Another perk? “It also comes in a great shade range,” he adds. The 59 shades have a soft matte finish that is longwearing and oil-absorbing without settling into the nooks and crannies of the complexion.
Price at time of publish: $40
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 59 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.1 ounce
Best Lightweight: Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup
What We Love: You won’t have to worry about sweating this guy off.
What We Don't Love: The shade range is lacking at the deeper end of the spectrum.
Tested for streaking and fading at 88 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 percent humidity, this ultra-lightweight formula is perfect for when you need your foundation to absorb shine, control oil, and resist sweat (i.e. us all summer). Dr. Koo is a fan of the oil-free liquid foundation for its longwearing matte finish and buildable coverage. Sixteen shades is on the low end for a foundation, but this formula is especially lacking when it goes to tan to deep skin tones.
Price at time of publish: $34
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 16 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best for Mature Skin: RMS Beauty ReEvolve Natural Finish Liquid Foundation
What We Love: The packaging is recyclable and refillable.
What We Don't Love: You may need to touch up shine with powder throughout the day.
Part makeup, part skincare, this creamy foundation is formulated to improve skin tone and texture over time. “The patented ingredient, Tightenyl, helps to hold, firm and tone the skin,” says Rose-Marie Swift, makeup artist and founder of RMS Beauty, while vegetable squalane boosts moisture and organic aloe and adaptogenic herbs soothe and calm the complexion.
The combination is an ideal foundation for mature skin that is still experiencing oiliness. Swift prefers a natural finish to a mattifying one because “matte foundation is super drying, so it cakes up and tends to look built up on the skin.” If shine is a concern, apply a setting powder or spray on top.
Price at time of publish: $52
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 16 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Natural | Oil-Free: No | Size: 0.98 ounce
Related: The 16 Best Foundations for Mature Skin for an Airbrushed Finish
Best for Over 50: Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation
What We Love: It also comes in a travel-sized version for easy touch ups.
What We Don't Love: This offers sheer-er coverage than others on our list.
While you may be wondering why a ‘luminous’ foundation is in a roundup of formulas for oily skin, this second-skin fluid is an industry-favorite for a reason. “I love that it is oil-free but still gives a radiant finish that doesn’t make me feel shiny,” Lo says. As skin ages, there is more of a chance for uneven skin texture concerns (think: fine lines, wrinkles, crepiness), which matte finishes can draw attention to. This glowy – but not shiny – formula has an airbrush effect on the skin and offers buildable medium coverage.
Price at time of publish: $69
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 40 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Satin | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best for Skin with Large Pores: Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Luminous Matte Foundation
What We Love: This blurring formula is an Instagram filter for your face.
What We Don't Love: Very oily skin types will want to use a mattifying primer first.
The brand describes this long-lasting liquid as #lifeproof, and we’d have to agree. The blendable foundation is all the ‘proofs’ – transfer-proof, waterproof, fade-proof, and sweat- and humidity-proof – but it doesn’t dry the skin thanks to a finish that is matte but not flat. For those with large pores, the formula feels flexible on the skin and has a blurring effect that smooths uneven texture.
Price at time of publish: $42
Coverage: Full | Shades: 39 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Luminous Matte | Oil-Free: No | Size: 1.2 ounce
Best for Oily Textured Skin: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
What We Love: This full coverage, matte formula somehow reads as real skin.
What We Don't Love: The added fragrance may be irritating for sensitive skin.
If you have skin texture concerns, the last thing you want to do is draw attention to them. A full-coverage, matte foundation may sound like a no-no, but – as its name suggests – this water- and transfer-proof liquid has an airbrush-like quality that blurs imperfections. “The formulation is non-comedogenic and it has a matte finish that is long lasting,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board certified dermatologist in Philadelphia. “It helps improve the appearance of pores as well.”
Price at time of publish: $49
Coverage: Full | Shades: 44 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Natural Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
Best for Sensitive Skin: The Good Mineral Love You Back 3-in-1 Powder Foundation
What We Love: This featherweight powder does not cake.
What We Don't Love: The shade range is relatively limited.
Designed with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types in mind, this three-in-one loose powder can act as a concealer, foundation, and/or setting powder. The lightweight, buildable coverage blurs breakouts and smooths texture, while oil-absorbing ingredients like sericite and kaolin clay keep shine at bay.
While great for sensitive skin or those who love a powder foundation, the shade range is limited. However, the sheer nature of powder means there is more flexibility in the shade you choose.
Price at time of publish: $39
Coverage: Buildable | Shades: 12 | Type: Powder | Finish: Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 0.35 ounce
Best for Combination Skin: Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Oil-Free Hydra Foundation
What We Love: The hydrating matte finish won’t dry out drier areas of the face.
What We Don't Love: It dries down ASAP, so be ready to blend.
Combination skin can be tricky because some areas may be super oily while others are bone dry. This longwear liquid is infused with hyaluronic acid to help lock moisture into the skin without weighing it down, so it will hydrate dry areas without making shiny spots, well, shinier. The natural matte finish keeps unwanted radiance in check – but not at the expense of a healthy glow – and Dr. Koo is a fan because it’s oil free and offers good buildable coverage.
Price at time of publish: $43
Coverage: Medium | Shades: 39 | Type: Liquid | Finish: Natural Matte | Oil-Free: Yes | Size: 1.0 ounce
What to Keep in Mind
Non-Comedogenic and Oil-Free
When you have oily skin, the last thing you want to do is make it more oily and potentially clog your pores. Choosing a foundation that works with your skin instead of against it is a good first step, and formulas labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ and ‘oil-free’ should be at the top of your list. “‘Non-comedogenic’ means that the foundation will not contribute to clogged pores,” Dr. Collins explains. “People with oily skin have excess sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. Any product used on oily skin should not contribute to this process and, if anything, should help prevent excessive sebum, as well as keep pores clear.” Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation is a great option that’s full coverage and non-comedogenic.
Not all oils are comedogenic, but there are some – like coconut oil – that are. “Since oily skin already has excess oil in the pores, I recommend avoiding oil-containing foundations that can worsen the problem,” Dr. Kobets shares. Instead, “look for a water-based, matte-finish foundation that is oil controlling,” Dr. Koo notes.
Other Ingredients to Avoid
But it goes beyond that. “While emollient ingredients – like dimethicone and oils – can feel dewy and are great for keeping skin hydrated by locking in moisture, they can also lock in excess oil and dirt in the pores,” Dr. Kobets says. As a result, you may want to patch test these formulas on your skin to see if any breakouts arise. “Silicone-based (containing dimethicone) foundations can come in matte forms and make pores appear smaller, just make sure you are checking the ingredients and product benefits,” she adds.
Our experts say people with oily skin may also want to steer clear of foundations with certain kinds of alcohol, isopropyl myristate, lanolin, mineral oil, paraffin, petrolatum, silicones, sodium chloride, synthetic fragrance, and wax, as they can all exacerbate sebum production, irritate the skin, and/or clog pores. Keep in mind, however, that product development has come a long way. “Don’t get too hung up on ingredients, as the silicones and alcohols in modern makeup formulations tend to be less oily or drying than older products,” Dr. Cheung says.
Ingredients to Look For
While those ingredients may be best avoided, there are plenty of actives that can benefit oilier complexions. “Silica powder, clay, charcoal, and salicylic acid will all help to absorb oil or decrease oil production,” Dr. Cheung notes. “Read the labels and look for a matte finish instead of a dewy or satin finish, which will add shine.” It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte Foundation contains clay as well as is oil-free.
Texture
Powder foundations are ideal for oily skin because they usually have oil-absorbing properties, but liquid and cream foundations can all work just as well for oily skin. “Powder foundations are great for oily skin because they absorb some of the oiliness and help reduce shiny skin,” Dr. Saedi says. Our pick for best powder foundation is BareMinerals Original Powder Foundation thanks to its extensive shade range.
Coverage
Regardless of your skin type, the amount of coverage your foundation offers comes down to your aesthetic goals and concerns. “Some people with oily skin may want sheer coverage to help keep the skin feeling breathable, whereas some people with oily skin may have active breakouts or redness and want that full coverage,” Scibelli explains. “Depending on preference, you can go light, medium, or full.” Our fullest coverage product on the list is Makeup Forever Matte Velvet Skin Liquid Full Coverage Foundation, while our lightest weight is Clinique Stay Matte Oil-Free Foundation.
Oftentimes, people associate oily skin with product caking and migration. One way to avoid this is to be less heavy handed with the application. “I don’t believe in a full face of foundation, as you really only need foundation where you need coverage,” Swift says. “Let your natural skin show wherever possible.” She recommends using a foundation brush to apply product directly to blemishes and imperfections instead of piling on foundation.
“People with oily skin may need to be careful with thick, fuller coverage foundations that can clog pores or lead to acne breakouts,” Dr. Kobets explains. “Heavier foundations can make the skin more oily and lead to breakouts, clogged pores, and blackheads.” Neutrogena Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream is oil and fragrance free and has niacinamide to calm redness and breakouts.
What you ultimately choose should be reflective of your lifestyle. “I think the foundation type will depend most on the level of coverage they are looking for and possibly varies according to what type of event they are going to or what type of work and activities they do in their daily life,” Dr. Collins says.
Finish
Here’s the thing, there are no rules in makeup. If you have oily skin and want to lean into dewy skin, go for it. With that said, a lot of times the goal of wearing foundation when you have oily skin is to cut down on excess shine. That is usually best achieved with a matte finish. “Matte foundation can be a great option for oily skin because it will help absorb some of the oil and prevent looking shiny,” Lo says.
It all comes down to wearability. “Matte foundations just tend to look and wear better throughout the day for people with oily skin,” Gray explains. “Dewy foundations really just make dry skin look like oily skin. Oily skin already has built-in dew and radiance.”
“Radiant or dewy finishes can make the skin look shiny, but you can always set them with a matte finishing powder,” Lo notes. You can also mix and match. “A way to still use these is to use a mattifying foundation in your oily areas like the t-zone, and then you can add some of your radiant foundation above the cheek bones for a highlighting effect,” Scibelli says. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a great pick if you’d like to maintain radiance without going full disco ball.
Your Questions, Answered
Should I wear foundation if I have oily skin?
Whether or not you wear complexion products is up to you, but there is no reason for people with oily skin to shy away from foundation – especially if you are looking to even out your skin tone. “People with oily skin can still have skin pigmentation or redness that they may want to cover up and that requires foundation,” Dr. Kobets explains. It’s all about choosing the right formula. “Oily skin and acne prone skin types need to use caution because certain formulas can cause skin clogging,” she cautions.
“If you have truly oily skin, most oil is going to break down any makeup on top of it.” This usually affects base makeup products like concealer, powder, and foundation, but it doesn’t have to. “I have learned that, if skin is properly prepped and we are using the right foundation for the skin type, we can avoid any oily makeup breakdown,” Gray says.
Is stick or liquid foundation better for oily skin?
There are times when cream vs. liquid vs. powder foundations should be used. If you have oily skin, liquid and powder formulas are going to be your best bet. “The best foundations for oily skin are going to be liquid with a matte or demi-matte finish – basically, a foundation that will dry down – or a powder foundation,” Gray explains. Both of these help control oil throughout the day because they tend to use less waxes and oils, which can help minimize excess sebum on the skin, Swift adds.
Also be sure to avoid excess oils in the ingredients. “If the ingredient is at the top of the ingredient list that means it is present in higher concentrations,” Dr Korbet explained. For those reasons, she is a fan of light liquid and powder foundations for her patients with oily skin.
How do I make my foundation not slide around?
During your skincare and sun care application, Dr. Koo suggests using a hydrating toner or serum (she’s a fan of products with hyaluronic acid) to properly hydrate the complexion, which, in turn, will calm oil production. From there, you’ll want to start your makeup routine with a grippy base. “I recommend that oily skin types apply a mattifying primer to absorb excess oil and extend the wear of their foundation,” Dr. Cheung notes.
Next up: foundation. All of our experts recommend using a brush or sponge. “Oily skin does not have the same texture issues as people with dry skin tend to have, so you can really apply foundation by either brush or sponge,” Gray shares. “I would shy away from using my fingers, as that may add more oil to the skin.”
For additional protection against shine and migration, a setting powder and spray can help keep everything in place. “Apply powder just in the t-zone,” Swift explains. “A little bit of glow on the skin goes a long way for reflecting light and making the skin look beautiful, so you never want to be totally matted down.”
Last but not least, it’s all about the spritz. “If you have oily skin, mists help set foundation nicely and can even give you a subtle glow without looking shiny,” Lo notes. “Plus, it will keep your makeup in place all day and night.”
Why Shop With Us
Meg Storm is a freelance writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience covering the beauty industry. As someone with combination-oily skin, she is always on the lookout for foundations that even out the skin while minimizing shine and has tested many formulas on this list herself.
For this piece, she interviewed board certified plastic surgeon Michelle Koo, MD, board certified dermatologists Jessie Cheung, MD, Kristina Collins, MD, Kseniya Kobets, MD, and Nazanin Saedi, MD, and celebrity makeup artists Emily Gray, Brittany Lo, Neil Scibelli, and Rose-Marie Swift.
Related: We Tested 27 of the Best Liquid Foundations, These 6 Make Your Skin Look Flawless
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