The Best Foundation for Oily Skin

Balance is everything when it comes to finding the perfect foundation for oily skin types. The formula has to be light enough that it won’t contribute to shine, but powerful enough to stay in place all day long. If you’re on the hunt for the best foundation for oily skin, we’ve got you covered.

What are the Qualities of Oily Skin?

Those with oily skin tend to produce more sebum than the skin really needs. Sebum isthe natural oil that the sebaceous glands in our skin produces, and itplays an important role in keeping the skin protected, moisturized, and healthy.

In excess, this oil is what makes skin look shiny, rather than glowy, and increases the risk of clogged pores, which can lead to breakouts and enlarged pores. Too much can also break down makeup or foundation if you’re not wearing a formula that works with your skin type. 

With all that said, it’s possible to find makeup that actually supports oily skin types and we know exactly what to look for. 

Key Features to Look For in Your Foundation

There are a few key features that you should keep in mind when choosing your foundation. First, seek out a lightweight formula. Richer foundations can feel greasy on oily skin, so it’s important to go with a comfortable, super light option. 

Crème foundations are great for oily skin, as they feel lightweight, yet offer buildable coverage. Powder foundations are another option. They are lightweight and can help manage extra sebum. Keep in mind that powders tend to offer less coverage compared to crème formulas, but you can get the best of both worlds by setting your crème foundation with powder. This will control excess oil and keep shine at bay. 

Don’t forget about the finish. Since oily skin already has a dewy sheen, you can go with a more matte or natural formula to help counteract shine. 

Last but certainly not least, you are going to want a foundation that is built to last. A long-wear foundation will withstand the extra oil on the skin, ensuring your makeup stays in place all day. 

Our Favorite Foundations for Oily Skin 

Patrick Ta’s Major Skin Hydra‑Luxe Luminous Skin Perfecting Foundation is a lightweight, buildable liquid formula infused with triple hyaluronic acid, squalane, and kombucha for long‑lasting hydration. It delivers natural, dewy skin‑like coverage that blurs imperfections without feeling heavy—ideal for oily skin when set with light powder for shine control.

If you have oily skin, the Major Skin Crème Foundation and Finishing Powder Duo should be considered. It’s designed to strike that perfect balance between glow and oil control, giving you a natural matte finish. The crème foundation is lightweight and buildable, so you can get just the right amount of coverage for a fresh look without feeling heavy or greasy. And when paired with the finishing powder? The magic really happens. 

It’s an effortless way to manage oily skin and get that healthy, radiant glow—without the worry of constant touch-ups.

3 Tips for Effortless Application 

Ready to add this oily skin-friendly foundation to your beauty routine? Here are our expert tips and techniques for applying your foundation like a pro:

Prep Your Skin with a Primer: A primer is a must for oily skin, as it will dramatically improve longevity by giving your foundation something to grip onto. Those with oily skin will especially benefit from a mattifying primer. It will not only make your makeup last all day long, but will also help keep oil under control to reduce shine. 

Use the Right Tools: Application tools help seamlessly blend foundation into your complexion for a natural, skin-like finish. Reach for either a beauty sponge or a complexion brush for an even, flawless application. 

Set with Powder: As the finishing touch, set your look with a translucent setting powder. It will help manage shine while locking your makeup in place. 

Finding a foundation that works with oily skin (rather than against it) is key for achieving the most flawless base.