If your skin errs on the oily side, reaching for a good powder foundation is second nature by now, but what if we told you the best foundations for oily skin come in all sorts of options? From mattifying and oil-free formulas to full coverage liquids, read on for the best foundations to keep shine and grease at bay in 2022.
Not sure this is what you’re after? Browse over 200 foundations on our digital shelves or explore the best all-round foundations with our handy guide.
25th January 2022
How we choose the best foundations for oily skin
Finding foundations for oily skin that really work is easy with so many stand-out reviews. But to choose the real winners, we look for formulas that grant a smooth, even finish as well as reducing shine and excess oil. Pigmentation, blemishes, pores and fine-lines are no match for these complexion perfecting foundations.
We take advice from our beauty eds too and always check out the price tags, so there’s an option for your makeup bag whether it’s pay day or not.
#Fauxfilter Luminous Matte Liquid Foundation
Best for: Full coverage
New and improved for 2022, Huda's #FauxFilter Foundation lends the same full coverage and long-lasting finish you know and love, but with 24-hour flexible wear, a luminous matte effect and fragrance-free formula. The Insta filter IRL effect blurs the look of pores and conceals anything you may wish to conceal - from angry breakouts to uneven skin tone. With its genius matte-luminous finish, it cuts excess shine without dimming your natural glow. And, thanks to its long-wearing, non-drying, non-comedogenic formula, this one won’t clog your pores and feels practically weightless – it won’t smudge or transfer either, whatever the day throws at you. Basically, this base is the business.
The hype: “Huda Beauty is giving a massive upgrade to one of its best-selling products, the #FauxFilter Foundation. With a more satin-like finish and no fragrances, #FauxFilter Luminous Matte Foundation is the perfect response to years of customer feedback." - Allure
Hyaluronic Hydra Foundation
Best for: Dull skin
Ready to reach luminous heights of glowy skin without the worry of midday greasiness? With a buildable sheer formula, this liquid foundation mattifies shine to reveal healthy radiance only. Bursting with Hyaluronic Acid, skin is not only mega hydrated and plumped-up but, with this level of sun protection, it’ll ward off signs of ageing too. Glide across your skin each morning with your fingertips or a foundation brush for a flawlessly dewy complexion.
The hype: “This is a game changer and my new holy grail. My skin type is normal with an oil prone t-zone and this dries to a perfect satin finish and stays in place all day. Will be repurchasing for sure!” - Customer review
Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation SPF10
Best for: Longevity
Oil-free and sweat, heat and humidity resistant, this foundation is a godsend for oily skin. Apply once and no matter what the day brings it is staying in place, no caking, no shine - and the benefits don’t stop there. Dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic there’s no chance of clogged pores or oily build up so clear skin is a given. For a flawless complexion, go full MUA and prep your skin with the feather-light Double Wear Flawless Primer, then apply foundation from the centre of your face and blend outwards.
The hype: “Best foundation on the planet. Nothing stays in place like this does and although I’ll try something new now and again, it never lives up to the finish and staying power of double wear!” - Samantha, customer review
Matte Foundation SPF15
Best for: No makeup-makeup
Powder foundation does not have to mean dull skin, transforming from petal soft powder to a silky cream this foundation turns oily skin from greasy to glowing with a flawless matte finish. Layering from sheer to full coverage, this foundation is as perfecting as you need it to be - good skin day or bad skin day. Plus, bursting with minerals, totally free from harsh chemicals and with SPF 15, your skin will love it. Swirl a small amount of foundation into the lid with a makeup brush and get buffing in gentle circular motions.
The hype: “Tried the matt version of this foundation as I have an oily t-zone and it's fabulous. Really does help keep the shine at bay!” - Theresa, customer review
Airbrush Flawless Foundation
Best for: Banishing fine lines After that natural matte finish? The perfect balance between full coverage shine-control and showing off your natural radiance is here and with 44 shades to choose from there’s a match for every skin tone. As *the* skin-loving makeup brand, this foundation will live up to your expectations - not only does it disguise pores and imperfections, but lending a boost of hydration it improves skin elasticity for firmer-looking skin and reduced wrinkles. Refreshing and cooling on skin, it’s a treat for your complexion every AM. The hype: “Matte foundations are normally notoriously thick and cakey - not this, though. CT wasn't lying when she said this is weightless, it feels so far from a full-coverage formula, we had to do a double take just to make sure.” - Cosmopolitan
Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup
Best for: Sensitive skin
Packed full of shine absorbers, those trouble areas don’t stand a chance with this foundation - we’re looking at you oily-prone t-zones. Like a trusty gym towel for your face, this whips away grease and resists against sweat and humidity. True to Clinique, it’s dedicated to maximum results without irritation, so it’s sensitive skin friendly. Smooth the gel like cream over your complexion and bask in a full coverage foundation that’s so comfortable it feels like you’re wearing nothing at all.
The hype: “I absolutely love this foundation. Gives all day coverage in a light but full way. Feels amazing with the Clinique primer too. Has massively improved my skin” - Susie, customer review