Finding makeup that controls shine and stays matte on oily skin can be challenging. The best options offer long-lasting coverage without clogging pores or adding excess oil. The Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation stands out for its lightweight, matte finish, while the Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation provides reliable coverage that lasts all day. However, tradeoffs often include a tendency for some products to feel drying or require frequent touch-ups. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the top picks and how to choose the best makeup for your oily skin.
Key Takeaways
- Long-wear foundations with matte finishes dominate the lineup, offering all-day control of excess oil.
- Primers that minimize pores and control shine significantly improve foundation longevity for oily skin.
- Setting powders and sprays are essential for locking in makeup and reducing midday shine.
- Choosing lightweight, oil-free formulas helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
- Tradeoffs often include a drier feel or the need for frequent touch-ups; balance your priorities accordingly.
| Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation – 200 Soft Beige |  | Best Overall for Matte, Breathable Coverage | Size: 1oz | Finish: Matte | Texture: Mousse | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation for Combination & Oily Skin, SPF 15, Medium Beige, 1 Fl Oz |  | Best Long-Lasting Matte for All-Day Oil Control | Shade: 240 Medium Beige | Size: 1 Fl Oz | SPF: 15 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Maybelline Super Stay Lumi-Matte Foundation, Lightweight Full Coverage Makeup for Up to 30HR, Shade 120 |  | Best for Long-Lasting Natural Matte with Luminosity | Shade: 120 | Coverage: Full | Finish: Matte with luminosity | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| L’Oreal Paris Infallible Blur-fection Longwear Loose Setting Powder, Brightening Light Pink, 1 Kit |  | Best Brightening, Pore-Blurring Setting Powder | Shade: Brightening Light Pink | Type: Loose setting powder | Wear Time: Up to 24 hours | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Touch in Sol No Poreblem Primer – Pore Minimizing and Mattifying Primer for Oily Skin |  | Best Pore-Minimizing, Hydrating Primer | Volume: 1.01 fl.oz/30ml | Type: Pore Primer | Key Ingredients: Green Tea, Collagen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Revlon ColorStay Blot Face Makeup Setting Powder, Mattifying, Blurring & Oil Absorbing, 0.5 Oz |  | Best Overall for Long-Lasting Matte Finish | Size: 0.5 Oz | Features: Mattifying, Blurring, Oil Absorbing, Long-lasting, Free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil | Protection: Protects against free radicals and pollution | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Oil Control Face Pressed Powder, Matte Finish, Waterproof, Long Lasting, Cruelty-Free, 0.35Oz (#2-NATURAL BEIGE) |  | Best for On-the-Go Oil Control with Full Coverage | Size: 0.35Oz | Shade: #2-NATURAL BEIGE | Finish: Matte | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Finish Setting Spray |  | Best for All-Day Shine Control and Freshness | Finish: Matte | Duration: Up to 16 hours | Vegan: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Smashbox Photo Finish Primer |  | Best Multi-Task Primer with Pore-Minimizing and Nourishing Benefits | Formulation: Hydrating, Pore-Minimizing, Mattifying | Protection: Environmental stressors barrier | Key Ingredients: Vitamins A and E | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer – 003 – Ultra-Lightweight, Controls Shine, 1oz |  | Best Budget-Friendly Primer for Shine Control | Size: 1 oz | Type: Primer | Finish: Matte | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 3-in-1 Face Primer with SPF 50, Color Corrector, and Moisturizer |  | Best All-in-One for Daily Oily Skin Care and Makeup Prep | SPF: 50 | Size: Travel size | Type: Color corrector, moisturizer, sunscreen | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| makeup for oily skin | Size | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Rimmel London Stay Matte Liqui | 1oz | Matte |
| Revlon ColorStay Liquid Founda | 1 Fl Oz | Matte |
| Maybelline Super Stay Lumi-Mat | — | Matte with luminosity |
| L’Oreal Paris Infallible Blur- | — | — |
| Touch in Sol No Poreblem Prime | — | — |
| Revlon ColorStay Blot Face Mak | 0.5 Oz | — |
| Oil Control Face Pressed Powde | 0.35Oz | Matte |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte | — | Matte |
| Smashbox Photo Finish Primer | — | — |
| Rimmel London Stay Matte Prime | 1 oz | Matte |
| 3-in-1 Face Primer with SPF 50 | Travel size | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation – 200 Soft Beige
This foundation stands out for its lightweight, mousse texture that delivers a true matte finish without feeling heavy. Compared with the Revlon ColorStay, it offers a more breathable feel, making it ideal for those who dislike heavy, cakey bases. However, its limited shade range and less hydrating formula may be a drawback for dry or very fair skin tones. It’s perfect for oily skin that needs all-day shine control without sacrificing comfort, especially in warmer weather.
Pros:- Provides all-day shine control
- Lightweight and breathable coverage
- True matte finish reduces oil shine effectively
Cons:- Limited shade range may not suit all tones
- May not hydrate dry or flaky skin
Best for: Oily skin types seeking a breathable, matte finish with a lightweight feel
Not ideal for: Dry or sensitive skin that needs moisture and richer coverage
- Size:1oz
- Finish:Matte
- Texture:Mousse
- Formulation:Oil-free, Fragrance-free
- Coverage:Lightweight, Breathable
Our verdict“This foundation is best suited for oily skin that prioritizes a matte, breathable finish and is comfortable for all-day wear.”
Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation for Combination & Oily Skin, SPF 15, Medium Beige, 1 Fl Oz
This foundation excels in longevity, offering up to 24 hours of transfer-resistant, matte coverage that resists humidity and sweat. Unlike the Maybelline Lumi-Matte, which provides a luminous matte finish with a more natural look, Revlon’s formula leans toward a more matte, oil-controlling finish that’s ideal for extremely oily skin needing all-day control. Its limited shade range might be an issue for those with deeper or very fair tones, but its waterproof, transfer-resistant qualities make it a solid choice for busy, active days.
Pros:- Lasts up to 24 hours with minimal touch-ups
- Oil-free and lightweight for comfortable wear
- Matte finish effectively controls shine
- SPF 15 adds sun protection
Cons:- Limited shade options for some skin tones
- May require touch-ups in very humid conditions
Best for: People with very oily skin needing long-lasting, transfer-proof coverage
Not ideal for: Those who prefer a dewy or luminous finish or have very dry skin
- Shade:240 Medium Beige
- Size:1 Fl Oz
- SPF:15
- Skin Type:Combination & Oily Skin
- Coverage:Medium-Full
- Finish:Matte
Our verdict“This foundation is ideal for very oily, active skin that demands all-day, transfer-resistant coverage without shine.”
Maybelline Super Stay Lumi-Matte Foundation, Lightweight Full Coverage Makeup for Up to 30HR, Shade 120
This foundation makes a compelling case for those who want full coverage that lasts all day and resists sweat and transfer. It’s more buildable and luminous than the Revlon ColorStay, offering a natural matte finish with a hint of glow. However, it may require careful blending to avoid cakiness, and its limited shade information might not satisfy all skin tones. Its amino acid infusion aims to improve skin resilience, making it suitable for long days needing a flawless look.
Pros:- Lasts up to 30 hours for extreme longevity
- Buildable full coverage with a natural matte finish
- Resists sweat, water, and transfer
- Infused with amino acids for skin resilience
Cons:- May require blending to avoid cakiness
- Limited shade information in description
Best for: Oily skin users who want long-lasting, full coverage with a natural matte finish
Not ideal for: Those with very dry skin or seeking a matte without luminosity
- Shade:120
- Coverage:Full
- Finish:Matte with luminosity
- Wear Duration:Up to 30 hours
- Formulation:Liquid
- Infused With:Amino acids
Our verdict“This foundation suits oily skin users wanting long-lasting, full coverage with a subtle luminosity that endures all day.”
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Blur-fection Longwear Loose Setting Powder, Brightening Light Pink, 1 Kit
This loose powder stands out for its long-lasting, pore-blurring effect combined with subtle brightening, making it a smart choice for oily skin needing to control shine and refine texture. Compared with the Revlon blotting powder, it offers a more luminous, brightening effect, suitable for those who want a more polished look. Its pink tint helps color-correct dull or uneven skin but may not be ideal for darker skin tones. It keeps shine at bay for up to 24 hours, ideal for events or long workdays.
Pros:- Provides up to 24 hours of wear
- Blurs fine lines and pores effectively
- Brightens and color corrects skin tone
- Transfer and flashback resistant
Cons:- May need multiple applications for full coverage
- Pink tint may not match all skin tones
Best for: Oily skin users seeking a brightening, pore-smoothing setting powder with all-day hold
Not ideal for: Deep skin tones or those preferring a translucent setting powder
- Shade:Brightening Light Pink
- Type:Loose setting powder
- Wear Time:Up to 24 hours
- Talc-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This powder is ideal for oily skin aiming for a luminous, poreless finish with long-lasting brightness and shine control.”
Touch in Sol No Poreblem Primer – Pore Minimizing and Mattifying Primer for Oily Skin
This primer is notable for its ability to tighten pores and reduce fine lines while controlling oil, making it a strong choice for prepping oily skin for foundation. Unlike the Smashbox Photo Finish, which offers more smoothing but less hydration, this primer balances pore minimization with skin hydration through plant-based ingredients like green tea and collagen. Its main tradeoff is that it may not control oil as long in very oily, humid conditions, and requires a thin, even application for best results. It’s ideal for those who want a matte, smooth base that also hydrates.
Pros:- Reduces the appearance of pores and fine lines
- Controls oil and provides a matte finish
- Hydrates skin and enhances makeup application
- Contains plant-based, chemical-free ingredients
Cons:- May not offer all-day oil control for very oily skin
- Requires a thin, even layer for optimal results
Best for: Oily, sensitive skin users who want a pore-minimizing, hydrating primer that extends makeup wear
Not ideal for: Those with extremely oily skin seeking all-day oil control without reapplication
- Volume:1.01 fl.oz/30ml
- Type:Pore Primer
- Key Ingredients:Green Tea, Collagen
- Features:Mattifying, Hydrating, Pore Minimizing
Our verdict“This primer is best for oily, sensitive skin that benefits from pore refinement and hydration in a single product.”
Revlon ColorStay Blot Face Makeup Setting Powder, Mattifying, Blurring & Oil Absorbing, 0.5 Oz
This setting powder stands out for its ability to deliver a matte finish that lasts up to 16 hours, making it ideal for oily skin that needs control throughout the day. Compared with the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer, it offers more extended oil absorption and a blurring effect that minimizes the appearance of pores, while also providing antioxidant protection from environmental stressors. However, its highly matte finish may be too drying for those with dry skin or sensitive areas. Its non-cakey, non-chalky texture makes it suitable for all skin tones, and free from parabens and mineral oil, adding to its skin-friendly appeal. The tradeoff is that it might feel heavy or mask radiance for some users.
Pros:- Long-lasting matte finish up to 16 hours
- Infused with antioxidants for skin protection
- Suitable for all skin tones and free from harmful chemicals
Cons:- May be too matte and drying for dry skin
- Limited shade options might not suit all tones
Best for: Oily skin types seeking a long-lasting, matte finish that also offers skin protection
Not ideal for: People with dry or sensitive skin who need a more luminous or hydrating product
- Size:0.5 Oz
- Features:Mattifying, Blurring, Oil Absorbing, Long-lasting, Free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil
- Protection:Protects against free radicals and pollution
Our verdict“This powder is perfect for oily skin users who prioritize long wear and pore-blurring, but less ideal for those with dry or sensitive skin.”
Oil Control Face Pressed Powder, Matte Finish, Waterproof, Long Lasting, Cruelty-Free, 0.35Oz (#2-NATURAL BEIGE)
This pressed powder makes sense for those who want reliable oil absorption with a lightweight feel, especially for touch-ups during the day. Unlike the Revlon powder, which emphasizes longevity and skin protection, this option focuses on portability and full coverage, thanks to its waterproof formula and compact size. While it offers effective oil control and a matte finish, it may require reapplication for very oily skin or extended wear beyond a few hours. The limited shade choice might not match all skin tones, but the lightweight texture prevents feeling cakey or heavy.
Pros:- Provides a long-lasting matte finish
- Controls excess oil effectively
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
Cons:- May need multiple touch-ups for very oily skin
- Limited shade options
Best for: Individuals who need a portable, full-coverage powder for quick touch-ups on oily skin
Not ideal for: Those with very oily skin who require all-day, heavy-duty control without frequent reapplication
- Size:0.35Oz
- Shade:#2-NATURAL BEIGE
- Finish:Matte
- Waterproof:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for oily skin users seeking a portable, full-coverage setting powder, though it may need reapplication for prolonged wear.”
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Finish Setting Spray
This setting spray offers an excellent finishing touch for oily skin, locking in makeup while reducing shine for up to 16 hours. Unlike powders, it works well to refresh and maintain a matte appearance without adding texture. It’s best for those who prefer a spray application over powders, especially if they dislike the feel of layered powders or need a quick fix during the day. However, it’s limited to a matte finish only and might feel drying, especially for sensitive or dry skin types. Compared with the powders, it provides a more breathable, less cakey matte effect, but needs regular reapplication to sustain its effect.
Pros:- Reduces shine and keeps makeup looking fresh for 16 hours
- Lightweight and easy to apply
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons:- May feel dry or tight on dry skin
- Limited to matte finish only
Best for: Oily skin individuals looking for a lightweight, long-lasting matte setting spray to keep shine at bay
Not ideal for: Dry or sensitive skin users who might find the spray drying or irritating
- Finish:Matte
- Duration:Up to 16 hours
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This spray is great for oily skin users who want a breathable, long-lasting matte finish without the heaviness of powders, but less suited for dry skin.”
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer
This primer excels at creating a smooth, poreless canvas for foundation, similar to the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer but with added skincare benefits from vitamins A and E. It prepares skin for long-lasting makeup, especially for oily skin that needs control and a flawless base. Unlike powders that absorb oil after application, this primer acts as a barrier, reducing shine before makeup even goes on. Its hydrating qualities might be less appealing to those who prefer a completely matte, oil-free feel, but its nourishing ingredients make it suitable for skin that needs some extra care. The tradeoff is that it requires a separate foundation or powder to finish the look.
Pros:- Smooths and blurs pores instantly
- Prepares skin for longer-lasting makeup
- Enriched with vitamins A and E for nourishment
Cons:- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin
- Needs to be used with foundation or powder for best results
Best for: Oily skin users who want a versatile primer that minimizes pores and provides a nourishing base
Not ideal for: Very dry skin users who need extra hydration or a dewy finish
- Formulation:Hydrating, Pore-Minimizing, Mattifying
- Protection:Environmental stressors barrier
- Key Ingredients:Vitamins A and E
Our verdict“This primer is ideal for oily skin that needs pore-blurring and a nourishing base, but less suitable for dry or overly sensitive skin.”
Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer – 003 – Ultra-Lightweight, Controls Shine, 1oz
This primer offers a lightweight, matte base that controls shine up to 8 hours, making it a practical choice for oily skin on a budget. Compared to the Smashbox primer, it provides slightly shorter shine control but is more accessible and easier to layer under daily makeup routines. Its non-clogging formula makes it suitable for all skin types, though some users with very oily skin may find it less effective for all-day control. Its lightweight feel is appealing, but it might not suffice for those who need extended oil control or a more hydrating base, especially in humid conditions.
Pros:- Controls shine for up to 8 hours
- Blurs pores without clogging
- Lightweight and suitable for all skin types
Cons:- May not last as long as heavier primers
- Less effective for very oily skin in high humidity
Best for: Budget-conscious oily skin users who need a light, everyday primer with decent shine control
Not ideal for: Those with very oily skin requiring all-day control or dry skin needing hydration
- Size:1 oz
- Type:Primer
- Finish:Matte
- Controls Shine:Up to 8 hours
- Skin Type:Suitable for all skin types
Our verdict“This primer suits oily skin users seeking a budget-friendly, lightweight base for daytime wear, though it may need touch-ups for extended hours.”
3-in-1 Face Primer with SPF 50, Color Corrector, and Moisturizer
This 3-in-1 primer stands out for its versatility, combining color correction, sun protection, and hydration in a single lightweight formula. Compared with dedicated primers like the Touch in Sol No Poreblem Primer, which focuses solely on pore minimizing and mattifying, this product offers broader skincare benefits, making it ideal for those who want simplicity without sacrificing skin health. However, it may fall short in controlling oil throughout the day, often requiring a separate mattifying product for prolonged shine control. Its SPF 50 is a major plus for daytime wear, especially for those sensitive to sun exposure, but users seeking full coverage or matte finish might find it insufficient on its own. It’s perfect for oily skin users who prioritize multi-tasking and light, breathable comfort over prolonged oil control.
Pros:- Combines skincare and makeup benefits in one lightweight formula
- SPF 50 offers high sun protection for daily use
- Suitable for sensitive skin and all skin types
- Travel-friendly size perfect for on-the-go
Cons:- May require additional foundation for full coverage or matte look
- Limited information on long-term skin effects or oil control
Best for: Oily skin users seeking a multi-purpose product that combines sun protection, hydration, and a smooth base for makeup
Not ideal for: Those needing intense oil control or a matte finish that lasts all day without touch-ups
- SPF:50
- Size:Travel size
- Type:Color corrector, moisturizer, sunscreen
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for oily skin users who want a multi-tasking primer that offers sun protection and a natural finish without feeling heavy.”
How We Picked
The products were selected based on performance in oil control, longevity, and compatibility with oily skin. We prioritized formulas that are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and have a proven track record of reducing shine without causing breakouts. Ease of use, finish, and value also played key roles in ranking, alongside user reviews and expert recommendations. Our goal was to identify options that deliver a matte, long-lasting look while considering broader skin health and application convenience.Factors to Consider When Choosing Makeup For Oily Skin
When choosing makeup for oily skin, understanding key factors can help you avoid products that exacerbate shine or clog pores. The right combination of primer, foundation, and setting products creates a seamless, matte finish that lasts. Consider your skin’s specific needs, budget, and application preferences to make informed decisions that enhance your makeup routine.Oil-Free Formulas and Non-Comedogenic Products
Oily skin benefits most from oil-free and non-comedogenic makeup, which helps prevent pore clogging and breakouts. These formulas allow your skin to breathe and reduce the risk of increased oil production over time. Always check product labels for these attributes, especially if you’re prone to acne or congestion. Investing in oil-free products often means sacrificing some hydration, so balance with appropriate moisturizers if needed.
Primer Selection for Oil Control
Primers tailored for oily skin are game-changers, minimizing pores and absorbing excess oil before foundation application. Look for mattifying primers with ingredients like silica or kaolin clay. Applying a good primer can significantly extend the wear of your makeup and reduce midday shine. However, some primers can be drying or cause slight irritation, so choose one that suits your skin’s sensitivity and moisture needs.
Foundation Finish and Coverage
Opt for matte or semi-matte foundations that offer full coverage without a greasy feel. Lightweight formulas are preferable to avoid a cakey look, especially if you need long wear. While full coverage is appealing, it can sometimes look heavy on oily skin if not properly set. Consider layering with a blotting powder if you prefer a more natural finish that still controls shine.
Setting Products and Maintenance
Setting powders and sprays are essential for locking in the look and absorbing residual oil throughout the day. Translucent powders with a matte finish help reduce shine without adding weight or color. Sprays with oil-control properties refresh your makeup and extend its lifespan. Be cautious with over-application, which can lead to a dry or cakey appearance, especially if you choose powders that are too heavy.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Many oily skin wearers over-apply powder, leading to a chalky or cakey appearance. Conversely, skipping primer or setting products can cause makeup to slide or fade quickly. It’s vital to prep skin with a good primer, apply foundation sparingly, and set only where needed. Also, choosing products with SPF might seem beneficial, but some formulations can cause flashback or shine in photos, so test under different lighting conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my makeup matte all day on oily skin?
Achieving all-day matte skin involves a combination of good prep, choice of products, and proper setting. Start with a mattifying primer that minimizes pores and absorbs oil. Use an oil-free, matte finish foundation and apply a translucent setting powder to set your base. Throughout the day, blot excess oil with oil-absorbing sheets and reapply setting spray if needed to refresh the finish without adding weight.
Can I use powder foundation instead of liquid for oily skin?
Powder foundations are often a good choice for oily skin because they typically absorb excess oil better than liquids. They provide a matte finish and are easier to touch up during the day. However, powders can sometimes look cakey if applied excessively or if the skin isn’t properly prepped. For best results, choose a finely milled, oil-free powder and apply with a fluffy brush for a natural, matte look.
Should I avoid using moisturizer with oily skin makeup?
Oily skin still needs hydration, but it’s important to choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t add excess shine. Proper moisturization helps create a smooth base for makeup and prevents your skin from overproducing oil as a response to dryness. Look for gel-based or water-based formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrate without clogging pores.
Are setting sprays necessary for oily skin?
While not absolutely necessary, setting sprays designed for oil control can significantly extend the wear of your makeup and reduce midday shine. They help meld powders and foundations into a seamless finish, preventing cakiness or patchiness. For oily skin, choose a matte or oil-absorbing spray and apply lightly after completing your makeup routine for best results.
How often should I touch up my makeup during the day?
Oily skin tends to require more frequent touch-ups, especially in hot or humid conditions. Blotting papers should be your first tool for removing excess oil without disturbing your makeup. Reapplying a light layer of translucent powder or a setting spray can also help maintain a matte appearance. Typically, a midday touch-up every 4-6 hours is sufficient, but this varies based on individual skin and environment.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall performance, the Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation offers reliable, long-lasting coverage suited for daily wear. Budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate the Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation for its matte finish at an affordable price. Beginners should consider the Maybelline Super Stay Lumi-Matte Foundation for ease of application and forgiving coverage. For those with specific concerns like pore minimization, the Touch in Sol No Poreblem Primer combined with a good foundation can deliver impressive results. Finally, if you’re willing to invest in premium options, a quality primer like the Smashbox Photo Finish paired with a high-performance foundation can elevate your makeup routine to professional levels.
