19 Best Foundations for Oily Skin: Long-Wear Formulas Makeup Artists Swear By

The line between dewy glow and greasy-to-the-touch is fine, and one that we are constantly toeing. Thankfully, the best foundations for oily skin make falling down that (quite literal) slippery slope avoidable. 

Much like skincare, for those of us in constant battle with acne and oil, there is a list of do’s and don’ts to keep in mind, and that starts with how your canvas is prepped. Pro makeup artist Raul Otero advises to “Always use an oil-controlling moisturizer and mattifying primer before any makeup application.” He says it’s the number one step in making your makeup not only last longer but also keeping your skin shine-free. In other words, a grippy primer helps adhere foundation to your skin so it won’t slip and slide as the day goes on. Makeup artist Jamie Greenberg agrees and says that when it comes to primers, it’s best to avoid cream-, oil-, or silicone-based formulas because “it can get slippery.” (Don’t we know it.)

Next up, get familiar with the ingredients that’ll make your foundation work for you. Makeup artist Andrea Claire says to look out for lookout for formulas that are non-comedogenic (as in, they will not clog pores), have oil-absorbing ingredients like charcoal or colloidal clay, active ingredients like salicylic acid, and SPF to prevent pigmentation and scarring. For those battling extra oily skin, Greenberg adds, “Formulas that contain silica powder, Moroccan lava clay, and Canadian colloidal clay are some of the most beneficial. These ingredients are all mattifying agents that absorb oil and shine giving a matte appearance.” 

“Avoid anything that has a dewy or satin finish,” Otero suggests. “These will enhance [the] shine on your skin giving you an oily look.” Luminous formulas are designed to bounce light with their shimmery ingredients, and will only increase attention to any pre-existing oiliness—the very opposite of your skin goals. To finish strong, Otero and Claire agree that gently blotting your face to absorb excess oils and moisture leftover from products can help the areas that need to be matted or could use a touch-up. Claire adds that if you are using a setting powder, however, try “not [to] powder the skin too often. It tells your sebaceous glands that they need to produce more oil and hydrate the skin. Overproductive oil glands mixed with powder becomes cakey and oxidizes—changing the color [of your foundation].”

Whether you aim for a glowy aesthetic or a mattified glam, makeup brands have responded in kind with foundations specifically formulated for you. Read on to learn more about the best foundations for oily skin. Flash photos? They’re simply no match.