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The 8 Best Foundations For Oily Skin And How To Apply Them Correctly
For radiant skin that doesn't go greasy, these have you covered
You don't have to tell me how tricky it can be to find the perfect foundation for oily skin. While there seems to be plenty of foundation options for drier skin types, my complexion has always erred on the 'dewier' side of the spectrum, which does have its merits. Despite being prone to breakouts, fine lines take much longer to develop, and there is still a noticeable plumpness - something that can deplete on thirstier complexions.
The best foundations for oily skin
How to find the right foundation for oily skin
My own oily complexion comes with textural scars leftover from adult acne (something I've only just managed to control since finishing a course of isotretinoin) and occasional blemishes caused by heavier, acne-triggering ingredients, stress and hormones. I use foundation as a means to even out the scars and redness, all while maintaining a freshness. In essence, my base should never look caked-on.
As a beauty editor, I'm lucky enough to trial every foundation that comes my way - and the winning formula came from an unlikely source: Lady Gaga. Her make-up line, Haus Labs, launched with noticeably quieter fanfare than other celebrity beauty brands (think Rare Beauty and Rhode), but it is certainly one of the best ones out there.
The Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech foundation checks all the right boxes: it lasts for hours on end (presumably hardy enough to withstand Gaga's stage performances), imparts a buildable coverage, has a radiant effect that doesn't look greasy and blends out seamlessly. The creamy liquid formula is also powered by arnica, a plant that helps to soothe redness and calm any irritation. I don't recommend relying on your make-up for skincare benefits, but in this case, it certainly doesn't hurt, especially as my skin is prone to flare-ups. It feels comfortable on the skin, and doesn't slide off or appear at all cakey - with or without powder.
Even better, it comes in 51 well-considered shades.
What to look for in a foundation for oily skin
Ideally, your foundation formula should be free-from rich plant oils or butters, which can risk clogged pores and blemishes. It's a myth, however, that oily skin doesn't require any nourishment. In air-conditioned spaces and in colder months, my own skin can feel tight and uncomfortable, yet appear shiny around the nose and forehead. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid will deliver hydration without feeling heavy.
Historically, foundations targeted for acne-prone skin types are often matte and flat, with ingredients that relinquishes all moisture, rather than rebalancing excess sebum. Formulas with niacinamide and salicylic acid are also excellent for tackling this issue.
How to apply foundation on oily skin
I always start with a tiny amount to avoid overloading the skin. Make-up artist Aarti Pal echoes this, sharing: 'Applying foundation in thin, even layers is key for oily skin. I usually start with a small amount and build up coverage where needed.' She's a fan of using a damp beauty sponge, while I prefer a soft, dense brush to buff in product.
How to prep oily skin for foundation
I keep my skincare simple, finishing with SPF for oily skin in the morning or light moisturiser in the evening. If your skin tends to get especially shiny throughout the day, Pal recommends using a 'mattifying primer, especially in the T-zone, to control oil production and create a smooth canvas.'
How to set foundation on oily skin
Those with oily skin are often told to use powder generously, but this can lead to that mask-like effect. Instead, use it tactically. 'I prefer blotting papers or a setting spray for touch-ups throughout the day. A good setting spray can control shine and keep everything in place without that heavy feeling,' Pal tells me.
If pictures are on the cards, I opt for a finely-milled setting powder (I like Laura Mercier's classic Translucent Loose Setting Powder) applied sparingly around the lower areas of the cheeks to help make it look less puffy and on the centre of the forehead. Don't dust it on with a large fluffy brush; use either a smaller one or opt for a powder puff. Press product into skin and roll; it'll lock in your foundation and maintain a polished finish.
How we test
While I adore Haus Labs, there are plenty of excellent options out there for every type of oily skin - whether you want something fresh for the weekend, a more full-coverage option for special occasions or a nourishing option for mature complexions. To find the very best foundation for oil-prone skin, we look at the ingredients, finish, lasting power and shade range.
Ahead, the best foundation for oily skin types
Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation
This fluid foundation is perfect for the winter months, when even the oiliest skin can feel a little tight and uncomfortable. It provides ample nourishment, without leaving the complexion feeling heavy. The coverage is easily buildable, with a long-wearing, radiant finish that looks polished - not greasy.
| Shade range: | 51 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural |
| Coverage: | Medium to full |
Make-up artist Lisa Eldridge formulated her Seamless Skin foundation to suit not only a wide range of complexion tones, but an array of skin types, too. A small amount goes a long way in providing coverage to even out redness, pigmentation and scarring. The clever formula has a true to life skin finish, which means it's neither too glossy nor too matte, and it photographs perfectly.
| Shade range: | 43 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Soft, natural matte |
| Coverage: | Medium to full |
This reformulated foundation goes on matte, but thanks to a cocktail of skin hydrators - hyaluronic acid, honey and glycerin - it still keeps skin looking velvety plush and healthy. It does wonders to disguise inflamed spots, dark circles and hyperpigmentation while re-balancing excess oils.
| Shade range: | 53 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural matte |
| Coverage: | Medium |
If you're seeking that glazed doughnut effect, this is the one for you. There's a healthy glow to the formula thanks to light-diffusing pigments but it remains weightless on oilier skin types.
| Shade range: | 32 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural radiant |
| Coverage: | Medium to full |
Known for its elegant texture, Shiseido's foundation blends out seamlessly to cover any blemishes or uneven patches. The formula is made with ActiGel Polymer, which promises to protect the skin from humidity and heat. It leaves skin feeling plumped and hydrated, without separating throughout the day. The shade range is great for those with yellow and golden undertones, too.
| Shade range: | 30 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Radiant |
| Coverage: | Medium |
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation
The celebrity circuit loves Charlotte Tilbury. This truly delivers that impeccable, glamorous effect that stays put through long days. The natural matte finish refuses to budge through rain or tears, making it the ideal choice for weddings.
| Shade range: | 44 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural-matte |
| Coverage: | Full |
Here at ELLE, we're big fans of the ultra-chic beauty brand Merit. This concealer-foundation hybrid lives permanently in my everyday make-up bag as it provides enough coverage to disguise redness and pigmentation, but feels like invisible on skin. The oil-free uses fatty acids to keep skin feeling soft through all seasons. It's my go-to for travel, although just be mindful to open the cap right side up (otherwise the product has a habit of falling out). If your oily skin feels a little drier in winter, Dior's Forever Skin Perfect imparts a similar effect, albeit with a little more moisture and dewiness.
| Shade range: | 30 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural matte |
| Coverage: | Medium |
Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint
Sheer foundations are often designed to work best for dry complexions but Fenty's version imparts a lightweight finish that plays well on naturally dewy skin types. If it's simply a blurred-out skin effect you're after, this is it. It has a tighter shade range but the sheer pigments are adaptable to cover an array of skin tones.
| Shade range: | 25 |
|---|---|
| Finish: | Natural |
| Coverage: | Light |
Medina Azaldin is the beauty editor of ELLE and Harper's Bazaar UK, working across print and digital features. She has more than seven years journalism experience and has previously written for Red and Good Hoousekeeping. When she's not demystifying the latest skincare ingredient, sniffing out the next big perfume trend or uncovering the science behind wellness practices, you'll most likely find her in Hatchards Piccadilly or watching a crime series with her cats. Oh, and she's a competitive cheerleader, too.
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