How it works:
Share your skin goals and snap selfies
Your dermatology provider prescribes your formula
Apply nightly for happy, healthy skin
How it works:
How it works:
Share your skin goals and snap selfies
Your dermatology provider prescribes your formula
Apply nightly for happy, healthy skin
How it works:
There are plenty of makeup products on the market that promise to control shine and provide that perfect, flawless finish. But which one is best for your skin type? Trying to find the right makeup for your oily skin can start to feel like mission impossible when you see all the options available to you!
Foundation for oily skin, specifically, needs to perform a balancing act—it should camouflage imperfections but also manage excess sebum without clogging your pores.
Here, we’ll take a look at the world of foundations designed for oily skin to help you find your perfect match.
Have you ever wondered why your skin feels so oily? The answer lies in your skin’s natural oil production. Your skin’s oil, called sebum, is created by glands in your skin, and these glands can go into overdrive for many reasons: One of them is hormones.¹ Remember your teenage years or times of stress and how your skin may have seemed oilier? That’s because hormones like androgens ramp up during these times, making your skin produce more oil. But it’s not just about hormones; your genes and environment (like that sticky summer humidity) can also make your skin oilier. Even specific health issues can contribute to your oily skin.²
When you’re on the hunt for a foundation for your oily skin, there are a few features you should look out for. Start by checking out foundations that say “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic” on the label—these products are your allies in the battle against oil and breakouts, as they’re designed not to clog your pores.
You’ll also want to go for lightweight, water-based formulas,³ as they’re less likely to make your skin look greasy or weigh it down. Foundations with a powder or matte finish could be your best friends, too—they’re known for their oil-absorbing powers, which give your skin a matte appearance.
Some foundations might even contain niacinamide or other oil-reducing ingredients. These substances can help control the production of sebum, the oil your skin naturally produces.⁴ Remember, though, everyone’s skin is different. So you might need to try a few different foundations before you find your perfect match.
Dealing with oily skin may feel like a continuous battle, but a foundation designed for oily skin can be a game-changer.
Here are seven foundations that might help you achieve a shine-free look:
This foundation aims to offer a matte finish that minimizes the appearance of pores.
Created with the intention to control excess oil and deliver a soft matte look, this foundation might also be beneficial for oily skin.
This beauty product provides a natural-looking matte finish and is oil-free, which could help reduce unwanted shine.
This foundation claims to provide a long-lasting matte look.
This product offers a matte finish and is waterproof.
Infused with Amazonian clay, this foundation is designed to offer a soft matte finish and contains antioxidant vitamin E.
Offering a long-lasting matte finish, this foundation might help create a smooth, shine-free complexion.
Remember, while these foundations are designed to address the challenges of oily skin, what works best will depend on the specific nature of your skin. Always patch-test new products and consult a dermatology provider if you have any concerns.
Selecting the best foundation for you involves a couple of steps that require some careful thought.
First off, you may need to understand your skin better. Ask yourself, is it oily, dry, or a mix of both? Does your skin react sensitively to certain products? Figuring out your skin type can be a game-changer because different foundations cater to different skin types.
Your skin's undertone matters, too. Is it more on the cool side with bluish veins, or does it lean towards a warm tone? Knowing your skin's undertone will help you pick the most flattering shade of foundation.
The next step involves considering what exactly you want from your foundation. Are you looking to cover up blemishes or skin tone, or are you after a natural, no-makeup look? Your answer will determine whether you need a full-coverage foundation or something more lightweight.
Then, it’s all about trial and error. Test different shades on your jawline—not on your hand—as the color of your hand and face can differ. And remember, reviews and recommendations from others can be helpful, but your skin is unique, so what works for others might not work for you.
Finally, think about your lifestyle. If you’re always on the go, you might want a long-lasting foundation. If you’re exposed to the sun a lot, consider a foundation with SPF. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help, such as from a makeup artist or a beauty consultant at a makeup counter.
Consider taking a personalized approach to skincare with Curology.
With our easy-to-follow online sign up process,* you tell us about your skin concerns and goals. Then, a dermatology provider prescribes a custom skincare mix with ingredients that specifically address your skincare needs. This means you're not getting a one-size-fits-all product; you're getting a skincare solution made just for your concerns!
Choosing a foundation for oily skin requires careful consideration. Look for oil-free or matte foundations to help control excess oil and reduce shine. Opt for lightweight, water-based formulas to prevent pore-clogging and a greasy look. Remember to test foundations, as everyone’s skin reacts differently. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice from makeup artists or dermatologists. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your skin type and concerns, helping you find the right foundation to keep your skin looking its best.
For those with oily skin, matte foundations, whether liquid or powder, are usually the most suitable. They typically help control shine and oil, offering a balanced appearance. Powder foundations also work well, absorbing excess oil and reducing shine. The key is selecting oil-free, lightweight formulas that offer long-lasting wear. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal preference and how a foundation interacts with your unique skin type. Finding the perfect foundation may involve trial and error, but the result is well worth it!
You can use a liquid foundation even if you have oily skin. However, be selective about the kind of liquid foundation you choose. Go for oil-free and non-comedogenic options; these are typically formulated to not clog pores, which is important for oily skin prone to acne and breakouts. Additionally, opt for liquid foundations that promise a matte or semi-matte finish. These products can help absorb excess oil, control shine, and provide a smooth, even complexion.
Remember, while a foundation can help manage the appearance of oiliness, it's also important to follow a regular skincare regimen suitable for oily skin. This will help control oil production at the source and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. A good foundation complements your skincare routine, helping you look your best throughout the day.
Endly, D.C. and Miller, R.A. Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. (August 2017).
Endly, D.C. and Miller, R.A. Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.
American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to Control Oily Skin. (n.d.).
Endly, D.C. and Miller, R.A. Oily Skin: A review of Treatment Options. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.
Erin Pate is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL.
* Subject to consultation. Subscription is required. Results may vary.
Curology Team
Erin Pate, NP-C