{"id":1766145,"date":"2026-02-09T22:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-02-09T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1766145"},"modified":"2026-02-09T22:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T19:00:00","slug":"we-tested-the-5-best-foundations-for-oily-skin-that-dont-cause-breakouts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1766145","title":{"rendered":"We Tested the 5 Best Foundations for Oily Skin That Don’t Cause Breakouts"},"content":{"rendered":"

[analyse_image type=”featured” src=”https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/5wY4FExUPazw9G1sbpDAqmf2CY0=\/1500×0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/the-best-foundations-for-oily-skin-tout-ff2bd0ad20c74aefa05aa9be1377475d.jpg”]<\/p>\n

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We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

We Tested the 5 Best Foundations for Oily Skin That Don’t Cause Breakouts<\/h1>\n

For seamless coverage sans shine.<\/p>\n

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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Avery Stone<\/p>\n
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\"byrdie\"byrdie<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nAvery Stone\n<\/div>\n
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  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nAvery Stone is a longtime contributor to Byrdie, focusing on testing beauty products and writing “best of” round-ups. She was previously the associate editorial director at Byrdie.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Published on February 09, 2026 05:00PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Leave a Comment<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/h2>\n
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    View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      Top Picks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      What to Look for<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      How We Tested<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Meet Our Experts<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Two\"Two<\/div>\n<\/div>
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      Byrdie<\/p>\n

      <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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      TL;DR<\/p>\n

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      Our favorite foundation for oily skin is Charlotte Tilbury\u2019s Airbrush Flawless Foundation<\/u>, a full-coverage option that feels weightless and imparts a beautifully smooth finish. For a budget-friendly pick, we love Milani\u2019s Conceal + Perfect Blur Out Skin Tint Stick<\/u>, an easy-to-apply formula that keeps excess shine in check without feeling heavy or greasy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      When choosing the right foundation, oily skin<\/u> types have a uniquely demanding checklist. A truly great formula should rein in excess shine without clogging pores, offer long-lasting coverage that won\u2019t slide off by midday, and feel breathable on the skin\u2014never heavy, greasy, or cakey. A formula also needs to play nicely with related concerns like breakouts, all while delivering a seamless, even finish.\n<\/p>\n

      So where should you start? \u201cFirst, look for oil-free or mattifying formulas, since these are designed to help absorb excess oil and keep shine under control,\u201d says Dr. Anetta Reszko<\/u>, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. That said, oil-free alone isn\u2019t the full picture; noncomedogenic formulas are key to minimizing the risk of clogged pores and acne<\/u>. Also, many foundations formulated for oily skin go a step further, incorporating ingredients that help balance oil production, blur the appearance of pores, and maintain a smooth, even finish all day (and night). To help you find the best option for your concerns and budget, we tested foundations for oily skin, including liquid, powder, and swipe-on\u00a0stick formulas<\/u>. These five options were our absolute favorites.\n<\/p>\n

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      Top Picks<\/h2>\n
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      Best Overall:<\/div>\n

      Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation at Amazon<\/span>$52<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best for Mature Skin:<\/div>\n

      Lanc\u00f4me Teint Idole Foundation at Amazon<\/span>$53<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Matte:<\/div>\n

      Anastasia Beverly Hills Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Foundation at Amazon<\/span>$49<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Drugstore:<\/div>\n
      SALE<\/div>\n

      Milani Conceal + Perfect Blur Out Skin Tint Stick at Amazon<\/span>$16<\/s>$13<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Rosacea-Friendly:<\/div>\n

      Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation at Sephora<\/span>$40<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Overall
      \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

      Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Charlotte\"Charlotte<\/div>
      Credit: Sephora<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      $52 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$52 at Sephora<\/span><\/span>$52 at Ulta<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Covers redness and discoloration very well\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Offers enough coverage to be used as a spot concealer or a foundation<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Applies smoothly and evenly<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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        What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Could be a bit too dry for those with dry skin<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          Coverage: <\/strong>Full | Finish:<\/strong> Matte | Shades: <\/strong>44 | Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>Yes\n<\/p>\n

          If full coverage is your goal, this Charlotte Tilbury formula is the gold standard. We\u2019ve tested high-coverage foundations for years, and it consistently stands out for its performance. With 44 shades (spanning fair to deep), the formula feels surprisingly weightless for its category and blends seamlessly\u2014whether applied with a brush or a damp sponge. Once it sets, it leaves behind a softly matte, powder-like finish that delivers a smooth and, yes, airbrushed look.\n<\/p>\n

          Our oily-skinned tester appreciated that this foundation felt matte without tipping into cakey territory. It also held up impressively over a full day of wear, showing no signs of creasing, separation, or settling into fine lines. While it didn\u2019t accentuate texture or cling to dry areas, she noted that its finish is firmly on the matte side, making it best suited for oily or more balanced skin types rather than dry skin.\n<\/p>\n

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          \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          Dominique Hobdy<\/strong>, senior editor with oily skin: <\/strong>\u201cThis foundation went on smoothly and had an almost powdery finish, which I liked. I only needed to use 1.5 pumps for my entire face, and I found it to be really buildable, easily customizable, and I didn’t experience any caking.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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          \nBest for Mature Skin
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          Lanc\u00f4me Teint Idole Foundation<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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          \"Lanc\u00f4me\"Lanc\u00f4me<\/div>
          Credit: Sephora<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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          $53 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$53 at Sephora<\/span><\/span>$53 at Ulta<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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          What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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            Offers a matte, radiant finish<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            Thin, smooth formula\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            Great for oily skin types<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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            What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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              Dries quickly<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

              Coverage: <\/strong>Full | Finish: <\/strong>Natural matte | Shades: <\/strong>55 | Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>No\n<\/p>\n

              When we tested foundations for mature skin, Lanc\u00f4me\u2019s Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation was far and away our favorite of the matte options. Our tester with combination skin found its coverage easy to build and effective at evening out dark spots and discoloration. It layers evenly without feeling heavy or cakey, though be advised that the formula sets quickly, so you\u2019ll likely want to work in sections. Overall, the result is a soft, satin-matte finish that holds up well throughout the day\u2014mattifying yet comfortable and never drying.\n<\/p>\n

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              \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

              Melody, tester with combination skin: <\/strong>\u201cThis product enhanced my skin’s radiance. It blurred fine lines, wrinkles, and pores, leaving a satin finish.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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              \nBest Matte
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              Anastasia Beverly Hills Impeccable Blurring Second-Skin Foundation<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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              \"Anastasia\"Anastasia<\/div>
              Credit: Sephora<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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              $49<\/span><\/div>\n

              $45 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$49 at Sephora<\/span><\/span>$49 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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              What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                Soft matte finish is nice for a variety of skin type<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                Effectively covers discoloration\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                Long-wearing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                  Shade range could be more extensive<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                  Coverage: <\/strong>Medium to full| Finish:<\/strong> Matte| Shades:<\/strong> 25| Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>Yes\n<\/p>\n

                  Our list is full of matte foundations, as they tend to suit oily skin types best, but this liquid option from Anastasia Beverly Hills stood out for its especially beautiful finish. Our tester with very oily skin observed that it applied matte at first, then softened into a more natural-looking finish as it settled and warmed on her skin.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

                  Beyond finish, this formula impressed us with its smooth application and impressive coverage; one to two pumps were enough to blur and even out skin tone, while still feeling lightweight and comfortable. The main drawback to this formula was its shade range: With just 25 shades available, it falls short for a full-coverage foundation where a close color match is especially important.\n<\/p>\n

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                  \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                  Dominique Hobdy, senior editor with oily skin: <\/strong>\u201cIt wasn’t drying at all and left a lot of room for moisture and hydration. Because my skin is extremely oily, it ended up giving me a finish that leaned more natural.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                  \nBest Drugstore
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                  Milani Conceal + Perfect Blur Out Skin Tint Stick<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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                  \"Ulta\"Ulta<\/div>
                  Credit: Ulta<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                  <\/p>\n
                  $16<\/span><\/div>\n

                  $13 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$19 at Ulta<\/span><\/span>$17 at Target<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                  What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                    Under $20\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                    Has a soft matte finish that still looks natural\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                    Silky consistency<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                    What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                      Could be a bit more buildable<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                      Coverage: <\/strong>\u00a0Light to medium| Finish:<\/strong> Natural| Shades:<\/strong> 25| Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>yes\n<\/p>\n

                      Milani is one of our go-to affordable brands, and this foundation delivers especially strong value for oily skin types. For under $20, it offers light, natural-looking coverage that wears comfortably and maintains a balanced finish throughout the day. Our tester found that the formula blended seamlessly into her combination skin and kept excess shine in check without feeling heavy or greasy.\n<\/p>\n

                      While the coverage is only medium, it was still effective at softening discoloration and breakouts, creating a subtly blurred effect. She also noted that it held up for several hours of wear without turning patchy or breaking down, making it a reliable, budget-friendly pick for everyday use.\n<\/p>\n

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                      \"Three\"Three<\/div>\n<\/div>
                      <\/p>\n

                      Byrdie<\/p>\n

                      <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

                      Alyssa Kaplan<\/strong>, editor with combination skin: <\/strong>\u201cThis formula performs as well as some high-end options I’ve tested. I wore it for about six hours, and it looked just as good at the end as it did when I first applied it.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                      \nBest Rosacea-Friendly
                      \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

                      Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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                      \"Fenty\"Fenty<\/div>
                      Credit: Sephora<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                      $40 at Sephora<\/span><\/span>$40 at Ulta<\/span><\/span>$40 at Kohls.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                      What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                        Matte, natural finish<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                        Wide shade range<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                        A little goes a long way<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                        Long-wearing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                        What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                          Our tester didn\u2019t find it to be full coverage<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                          Coverage: <\/strong>Medium to full| Finish:<\/strong> Soft matte| Shades:<\/strong> 44 | Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>Yes\n<\/p>\n

                          Designed for oily skin, this Fenty Beauty foundation features sweat-resistant technology that helps it grip the skin and stay put in heat and humidity. The formula includes oil-absorbing silica alongside antioxidant-rich papaya and pineapple extracts, which our tester appreciated for keeping shine under control throughout the day.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

                          Our tester found the texture surprisingly creamy for a matte foundation, noting that it applied smoothly before setting into a true soft-matte finish. During wear testing, it kept her T-zone matte without powder or touch-ups\u2014even in extreme Georgia humidity\u2014while evening out her complexion with just two pumps. While she noticed that the finish made skin texture slightly more apparent, she felt it excelled for long days, special events, or photo-heavy moments where staying power is extra key. We also love that it\u2019s available in 44 shades.\n<\/p>\n

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                          \"Photos\"Photos<\/div>\n<\/div>
                          <\/p>\n

                          Byrdie<\/p>\n

                          <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

                          Bianca Lambert<\/strong>, contributing writer with combination skin: <\/strong>\u201cNot only did the oil-free formula keep my T-zone matte without any powder or touch-ups, but it also evened my skin tone with just two pumps of product and matched my skin seamlessly.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                          What to Look for in a Foundation for Oily Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n
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                          • Finish: <\/strong>By and large, if you’re looking for a foundation that helps prevent shine, a matte-finish foundation would be the best option, says New York City-based makeup artist Ashley Rebecca<\/u>. Soft-matte or velvet-matte formulas are also solid options, depending on personal preference.<\/li>\n
                          • Formula: <\/strong>While formula type\u2014powder, liquid, or stick\u2014is ultimately a matter of personal preference, there are a few things that those with oily skin types should seek out in a formula. If the goal is to avoid more oil in your products, opt for a water-based (oil-free) foundation, says Rebecca, as well as one with a noncomedogenic<\/u> formula. Choosing a formula with a lightweight texture is also important, adds Dr. Reszko. \u201cHeavy or creamy foundations can feel uncomfortable and tend to break down more quickly on oily skin,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            How We Tested Foundations for Oily Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n

                            We\u2019ve been consistently testing foundations for years to bring you the best (and most updated) recommendations. Below are the features that Team Byrdie and our testers evaluated to determine our top picks for oily skin.\n<\/p>\n

                              \n
                            • Number of Foundations Tested Overall:<\/strong> 100+\u00a0<\/li>\n
                            • Methodology:<\/strong> We tested these foundations at home in our real lives. Our reviewers first moisturized and primed their skin, then applied each foundation with their preferred applicator and went about their days. Each tester wore their foundation at least four times over the testing period.\u00a0<\/li>\n
                            • Factors Considered:<\/strong> Ease of application, coverage level, wear\/staying power, and finish.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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                              FAQ<\/div>\n
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                                What is the absolute best foundation type for oily skin to prevent shine?<\/span><\/div>\n
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                                Generally, matte or soft-matte foundations are the best option for oily skin if shine is a concern, says Dr. Reszko. \u201cThese formulas help absorb oil throughout the day and tend to last longer without slipping or separating as the skin produces oil,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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                                Should I choose a powder, liquid, or stick foundation for my oily skin?<\/span><\/div>\n
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                                According to Dr. Reszko, both powder and liquid foundations can work particularly well for oily skin. \u201cPowders are a great option because they immediately absorb oil and give a more matte finish,\u201d she says. \u201cOil-free liquid foundations with a matte or semi-matte finish can also be a good choice,\u201d she adds, especially for those seeking coverage without a heavy, cake-like feel. On the other hand, stick foundations are usually more emollient-based, which can make them less ideal for oily skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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                                What does noncomedogenic mean, and why is it important for oily, acne-prone skin?<\/span><\/div>\n
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                                Noncomedogenic simply means that a product is formulated to avoid clogging pores. \u201cThis is especially important for oily and acne-prone skin because clogged pores can trap oil and bacteria and increase the risk of breakouts,\u201d says Dr. Reszko. Essentially, a noncomedogenic formula will help provide coverage while minimizing congestion (and related acne flare-ups).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

                                Meet Our Experts <\/span><\/h2>\n

                                We consulted with the following experts to learn more about what to keep in mind when shopping for your perfect foundation for oily skin:\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

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                                • Ashley Rebecca is a New York City-based makeup artist who specializes in makeup for editorial, print, commercial, and lifestyle advertising, television, and celebrity.<\/li>\n
                                • Dr. Anetta Reszko, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                  Why Trust Byrdie <\/span><\/h3>\n

                                  Avery Stone<\/u> was previously Byrdie’s editorial director and currently covers all things beauty and culture as a freelancer. She compiled insights from testing at Team Byrdie, thoroughly reviewing their experiences and noting any standout results.\u00a0From the above, she is a personal fan of Charlotte Tilbury\u2019s Airbrush Flawless Foundation.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                                  Read more:<\/div>\n
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                                  • Makeup<\/span><\/li>\n
                                  • Face<\/span><\/li>\n
                                  • Foundations & Primers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n
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                                    \nComments\n<\/div>\n
                                    \nConversations are opinions of our readers and are subject to our Community Guidelines.\n<\/div>\n