It’s Official: These Are the Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin

Foundation is tricky—and by tricky, we mean somewhat overwhelming. Though we’re constantly trying new, complexion-enhancing formulas on our T-zones and cheekbones, we still routinely find ourselves in the middle of a makeup aisle, scratching our heads, throwing up our hands, and slowly backing away toward the door.

After all, there are numerous factors that beg careful consideration. From shade to price to formulation, what works for some won’t necessarily work for others—especially if you have oily skin. For this skin type, you need a formula that won’t act like a Slip ‘n Slide after a few hours of wear, or cause breakouts. To lend a helping hand, we consulted celebrity makeup artist Tobi Henney and narrowed down the selection to the very best drugstore foundation formulas for those prone to oily skin and blemishes.

Keep reading for the best drugstore foundations for oily skin.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:
Neutrogena SkinClearing Liquid Makeup at Amazon

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Best for Acne:
Almay Clear Complexion Makeup with Salicylic Acid at Ulta

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Best for Excess Shine:
Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation at Amazon

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Best Long-Wear:
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation at Amazon

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Best Lightweight:
Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation at Amazon

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Best Shade Range:
Nyx Professional Makeup Full Coverage Foundation at Amazon

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Best for Dark Skin:
Black Opal Crème Powder Foundation SPF 15 at Ulta

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Best for Medium Skin:
Juvia’s Place I Am Magic Foundation at Ulta

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Best for Light Skin:
Makeup Revolution Full Coverage Foundation at Ulta

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Best Full Coverage:
CoverGirl TruBlend Matte Made Liquid Foundation at Amazon

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In This Article

Expand

• Our Picks

• Final Verdict

• What to Look For

• How We Researched

Best Overall:
Neutrogena SkinClearing Liquid Makeup

4.7

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What We Like

• Breathable

• Delivers a very fresh look

• Easy to transport

What We Don’t Like

• Can be a bit streaky

The long-lost (yet equally effective) cousin to its liquid-foundation counterpart, Maybelline’s beloved Fit Me foundation also comes in an easy-to-transport stick formulation we can’t stop tossing into our purse. Yes, it strategically discourages shine, but the medium coverage is also great for blending away redness in a soothing manner that never disrupts our skin’s homeostasis. 

Coverage: Medium | Shade Range: 12 | Finish: Natural Matte | Size: .32 oz. | Cruelty-Free: No | Review2Coupon Clean: Yes

Final Verdict

If you have oily skin, a foundation that tackles excess shine and won’t clog your pores will be your best friend. That’s why we love Neutrogena’s SkinClearing Liquid Makeup, an oil-free, non-comedogenic (aka non-clogging) foundation that features a special microclear technology with salicylic acid to address shine, blemishes, and redness. Plus, it leaves behind a gorgeous natural finish that’s not too dewy or too matte. Next up, L’Oréal’s Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is a fan-favorite for good reason. It leaves behind a flawless matte (read: not flat) finish and prevents oil from building up throughout the day, resisting sweat, heat, and humidity for up to 24 hours. And finally, Undone Beauty’s Matte Tint Foundation is great for achieving an effortless no-makeup makeup look sans greasiness. It offers a hint of coverage with a non-dewy matte finish. Plus, it’s formulated with tea tree oil to keep oil and blemishes at bay.

What to Look for in a Foundation for Oily Skin

An Oil-Free Formula

If you have oily skin, products that contain oil aren’t necessarily the enemy—in fact, there are plenty of facial oils suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. However, when it comes to foundation, Henney says it’s best to leave it behind. Oil-free formulas tend to be lighter in weight and will prevent your skin from looking shiny and greasy as the day goes on. Many foundations do contain oil, so be sure to look for products that specifically indicate they’re free of it. 

A Non-Comedogenic Formula

Another keyword Henney recommends oily types look out for is “non-comedogenic.” Non-comedogenic formulas won’t clog your pores, which helps to prevent breakouts and enlarged pores, keeping your complexion nice and clear. Remember, non-comedogenic and oil-free aren’t necessarily interchangeable terms, so look for products that specify they’re both.

A Matte Finish

Unfortunately, the ever-popular dewy look isn’t suitable for those with oily skin, especially if you’re prone to looking shinier throughout the day. That’s why Henney recommends opting for formulas with matte finishes. “Those with oily skin never want to add more shine to their skin—matte options work much better,” she says. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to opt for the flattest matte out there, demi-matte and natural matte finishes are also good options.