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Searching for a foundation that actually works on oily skin is tricky. You want coverage that covers, a matte finish that lasts, and something gentle on your pores. Luckily, the matte foundation scene has never been better, there are now lots of lightweight, buildable options that actually perform.

Here are nine of my favorite matte foundations for oily skin. The list isn’t ranked, each one has its own strengths depending on what you’re looking for.

Why Matte Foundation for Oily Skin?

Before I get into my top picks, let’s quickly go over why matte foundations work so well for oily skin, especially if you’re new to makeup. If your skin is on the oily side, matte foundation is for you.

It helps control excess oil and prevents that greasy shine that can show up a few hours after applying makeup. Matte foundations also help blur the look of pores, which are usually more noticeable on oilier skin. That said, no foundation can completely hide pores on its own.

What to Look for in Your Next Matte Foundation

Not all matte foundations work the same on oily skin. Choosing the right formula is just as important as the finish. Always check the back of your foundation, it should say oil-free and non-comedogenic. While that’s no 100% guarantee, it does help reduce the risk of unnecessary breakouts, especially if you wear makeup regularly.

Some matte foundations even include acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. For example, Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions has it. You can use these occasionally, but wearing them every day may damage your skin barrier.

For oily skin, I usually recommend a lightweight, buildable liquid foundation with light to medium coverage, as it sits better on oily skin without settling into fine lines. If your skin is extremely oily and liquid foundations aren’t your thing, consider a powder foundation. Some contain kaolin, which helps absorb excess oil.

The 9 Best Matte Foundations for Oily Skin

1. Oxygenetix Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation

This foundation has good coverage and does not trigger flare-ups. I really like how the skin can breathe after application. Dermatologists often recommend it after laser treatments or chemical peels, thanks to its Ceravitae Complex, which is said to increase oxygen uptake and promote healing.

The shade range is fairly limited, offering only 14 shades, and the price is around $75 to $80. However, the cost is justified for those with severe skin conditions. The longevity is excellent, so you won’t need frequent touch-ups.

2. Dior Forever Matte Foundation

Dior Forever Matte Foundation has a natural-looking finish rather than a heavy, flat matte. Despite that softer finish, it holds up well on oily skin without breaking apart or turning patchy throughout the day. It is on the pricier side, but the performance and wear make it a reliable option if you want oil control without an overly matte look.

3. L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation

L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is a good option if you prefer a liquid formula with a semi-matte finish. I’d say it lasts pretty well throughout the day and doesn’t break down too quickly. I wouldn’t claim it’s completely transfer-proof, but using a primer underneath and a lightweight moisturizer can really help it stay put. It’s a great option if you want a reliable matte foundation without spending too much. At under $15, it works perfectly for everyday wear.

4. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

Estée Lauder Double Wear is a go-to for anyone who wants a foundation that lasts all day. It stays in place even on hot, humid days, and the medium-to-full coverage blends smoothly without feeling heavy. The matte finish looks natural rather than flat. However, one downside is that the lack of a pump applicator feels dated and can lead to product waste.

5. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless foundation is a reliable everyday foundation if you want medium coverage without spending too much. The clay and micro-powder formula helps smooth out pores, and the 40-shade range makes finding your match much easier. It wears well throughout the day and feels comfortable on oily skin.

6. Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup

Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Foundation Makeup works well for oily, acne-prone skin. It feels lightweight and blends easily, with buildable coverage that doesn’t look heavy. The 0.5% salicylic acid can help with breakouts, but I wouldn’t use it every day if your skin is already sensitive. The finish sits nicely between matte and natural.

7. Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation SPF 20

It’s lightweight and buildable, which is one of the foundation’s standout features. The mineral formula is genuinely non-comedogenic, and while SPF 20 is a nice bonus, it’s not enough to rely on for full sun protection. You’ll probably notice fewer breakouts, if any at all, compared to other liquid foundations. That said, at around $46, the compact does not have a built-in mirror, making midday touch-ups a bit inconvenient. It covers most imperfections, but it might struggle with more stubborn inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

8. Anastasia Beverly Hills Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Matte Foundation

If you want a foundation that blurs texture while still looking natural, Anastasia Beverly Hills Impeccable Blurring Matte Foundation could be a good option. It’s lightweight, buildable, and wears for 9–10 hours with a soft matte finish. The hyaluronic acid in the formula provides light hydration. I would recommend this one for mature, oily skin.

9. Revlon ColorStay Makeup for Combination/Oily Skin

If you want a medium-coverage foundation you can build, Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation is a solid choice. The finish is somewhere between matte and natural, and it wears well all day. It’s best for mild to moderate blemishes and works nicely on oily skin without feeling heavy.

Why does my foundation oxidize and turn orange?

If your foundation oxidizes and turns orange after application, it’s usually because certain ingredients react with your skin’s natural oils and the air. This is a common issue for people with oily skin. If that’s the case, using an oil-control primer or setting your foundation with translucent powder immediately after application can help prevent oxidation.

Common Mistakes When Using Matte Foundation on Oily Skin

Sometimes a foundation just doesn’t vibe with your skin, even if it’s matte. If it feels too dry, the first thing I suggest is checking your skincare routine. No matter how much primer you apply, your foundation will look off if your skin isn’t properly prepped.

If your routine is solid and the matte still feels too dry, try mixing in a drop of a dewy foundation of the same shade. This way, you can customize the formula and make it work for your skin.
Another common mistake is using too much product, thinking it will build coverage. It might look fine at first, but too many layers can quickly turn cakey. Stick to one or two layers max, and keep things natural.

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