7 Best Foundations for Oily Skin — and How to Pick the Right One for You

By: Alanna Martine Kilkeary | Makeup.com by L'Oréal
7 Best Foundations for Oily Skin — and How to Pick the Right One for You

Having oily skin is no joke. Between the myriad of anti-shine makeup and skincare products you may use, to the constant vigilance in avoiding oil-inducing foods and ingredients, life can get downright exhausting. And while some believe that oil is synonymous with sweat (and keeping your face cool and hydrated is key), those of us with oil-centric mugs can attest to the fact that this is certainly not the case. Come rain or shy, humid or dry, oil sometimes cannot be stopped — no matter our efforts.

So it’s time to surrender that beloved foundation and find a coverage option that’s specifically formulated to prevent oily skin. Ahead, we’ve broken down what types of foundation formulas you should be looking for if you suffer from this feat, plus, seven of our favorites you must try.

Oil-Free Foundation Options 

Your skin is already producing an abundance of oil on its own, so do yourself a favor and opt for a foundation that’s not only oil-free, but also has anti-shine properties that dissolve excess oil, leaving you with a naturally matte (but not flat) complexion

Powder Foundation

The right powders have the ability to instantly absorb oil giving your complexion a flawless and airbrushed appearance, sans the cake-y, mask-like finish. Because powders can oxidize when mixed with excess oil, it’s important to test colors in natural light and allow them to settle for a few minutes before finding your perfect match. So, next time you’re in the makeup aisle or at the counter, make sure to step outside and see how the shade shows up on your skin in the natural light before you check out.

Liquid To Powder Foundation

What do you get when you combine the hydrating power of a liquid (yes, even oily skin needs hydration) and the mattifying power of powder? Liquid-to-powder foundation! This groundbreaking formula blends seamlessly to absorb oil for that no-makeup makeup look that’s so lightweight, you’ll forget you’re even wearing it! Pro tip: If you want to add some natural glow to your foundation, mix a little liquid highlighter into it. Then apply and blend as usual. Your face will look radiant, sans the oil.

Three Ways To Fight Oil Crimes
Now that we’ve got your skin sufficiently covered makeup-wise, we thought it would be a good idea to note a few additional tips on how to keep oil at bay prior to (and after) makeup application. Consider these babies the soldiers in your oil-fighting arsenal.

Equip yourself with a clarifying cleanser. Make sure you’re washing your face, morning and night, with an oil-free, clarifying cleanser that will thoroughly remove oil, sebum and other general yuckiness that can perpetuate oily skin issues. Try the Garnier SkinActive The Gentle Sulfate-Free Cleanser.

Use an astringent or toner. Sometimes you have to double your efforts, especially when you’re dealing with oily skin. After cleansing and removing your makeup, pour a gentle astringent or mattifying toner onto a round cotton pad and rub over your skin to remove any impurities or oil that didn’t get washed away while cleansing. Try the Lancôme Tonique Pure Focus Matifying Purifying Toner.

Use a setting powder. Setting powders are ideal for giving your makeup some extra backup and creating a stronger barrier for your skin. We recommend a formula like Dermablend Setting Powder. This handy powder formula serves as insurance for your foundation, no matter what type you go for. It locks in your makeup, and keeps things from slipping and sliding around your face due to oil or creamy makeup formulations. It also promotes increased wearability for up to 16 hours and has smudge- and transfer-resisting properties, so you don’t have to worry about your makeup falling prey to beads of oil and fading into oblivion. Keep one in your purse, or desk, for quick touch-ups throughout the day. You’ll be as matte-free as can be.

Next, find the best foundations for oily skin — these will change your makeup-wearing game and keep you shine free.

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