If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission. Learn more about our policies and reviews.
Oil-free foundations are a godsend when you regularly or occasionally have temperamental skin. They will take combination/oily skin types, acne-prone, and blemish-burdened skin up a notch with their specially designed formulas.
Below are some of the best oil-free foundations. We have included some cult favorites known for their lightweight, oil-controlling formulas that will also absorb shine and can last for up to 24 hours.
These foundations provide mostly medium buildable coverage with a matte finish that won’t look cakey or wear off too soon. We have also included some options with the all-important SPF and a skin clearing blemish treatment foundation that contains salicylic acid to not only get any current acne or blemishes under control (and covered) but will prevent future ones from forming.
Our Picks of the Hottest Finish Foundation
Maybelline Liquid Foundation — Best Overall
This foundation has a cult following for a reason: it provides an ideal matte and poreless finish that never looks cakey and will last all day. Ideal for normal-to-oily skin types, it provides medium coverage and is formulated with clay and micro-powders to blur pores and stop shine all day. This foundation comes in an amazing 37 shades and applies easily with a brush, beauty blender, or even your fingers for a flawless finish.
Pros
- This foundation is dermatologist, allergy tested and non-comedogenic
Cons
- If you have really dry skin, another option might be better
Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation — Runner Up
Ideal for oily/combination skin types, another cult-favorite liquid foundation option is this one made to control excess oils and shine with its oil-free formula. This foundation dries down to a comfortable matte finish and wears for up to 24 hours no matter your schedule. It also has a medium, buildable coverage that leaves a natural, flawless look that can be applied with your favorite brush, sponge, or even hands.
Pros
- This foundation has SPF 15
Cons
- This foundation sets fast
Clinique Stay Matte Oil-Free Makeup — Honorable Mention
This lightweight, long-wearing foundation is the ultimate oil absorber and controller. Its patent-pending formula will keep you matte all day while absorbing shine, controlling oil, and resisting sweat. It also features a medium, buildable coverage with a natural matte finish and provides up to eight hours of wear.
Pros
- This formula has been tested for streaking and fading to ensure the foundation stays fresh
Cons
- There are minimal color options
Neutrogena Oil-Free Makeup — Editor's Pick
This specially formulated skin clearing makeup contains salicylic acid to provide fast acne relief and help fight emerging acne breakouts. Its proprietary technology also breaks through the oil and unclogs pores to help speed the delivery of the acne medicine for fast results while providing all-natural-looking coverage.
Pros
- This foundation is specially formulated for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Some drying of the skin may occur
Ownest Foundation Cream — Also Consider
Another great oily skin makeup option is this smoothing foundation that provides medium-to-full coverage with a lightweight texture. This moisturizing foundation will help to control the oil while concealing any imperfections including acne scars and dark spots to ultimately smooth out the complexion.
Pros
- This foundation won't crease, crack, or settle into lines
Cons
- This foundation may be hard to remove
Buying Guide: Finish Foundation
Whenever there is a discussion about essential makeup items, foundation is always on top of the list. A foundation acts as a base for your makeup helping you to achieve a dreamy makeup look. You will find foundations of different textures, finishes, and shades. Out of all the available types, the name of a finish foundation seems like the most notable entry in the list. A wrongly-chosen foundation can wreak havoc with your complexion, and that’s the last thing any woman will want. Choosing the finest finish foundations in 2024 shouldn’t be a harrowing experience. And if you know your shade and skin type, it can be the most enjoyable experience. If you are convinced about the benefits of using finish foundations but don’t know how to buy one, our comprehensive buying guide will help you.
What Are the Different Types of a Finish Foundation?
Satin finish
A satin finish foundation is one of the most popular types among women due to its unique nature. It is actually an intermediate option and lies between a dewy and a matte finish. For women who don’t like a shiny or extra matte look, satin finish foundations are the ideal pick for them.
Though it works well on any skin type, if we talk about one skin type that is specifically suitable for a satin finish, then oily skin will be the answer. You can combine this type of foundation with powder to control sebum. Women who have a heavier feel on their skin must avoid using satin finish foundation on a regular basis.
Dewy finish
If you want highly glowing skin that shines from within, you need to get your hands on a dewy foundation. A dewy foundation is the best choice for people with dry skin as they can get the natural glow and radiance that they always crave. It will reflect light from the dry skin types while giving it a softer touch and a much-needed freshness.
However, people with oily skin should avoid a dewy foundation at all costs as it will make your skin more greasy and result in dullness. Dewy foundations are known for giving a moisturized and smooth look that will simply not sit well with oily skin.
Sheer finish
If you don’t like enjoying all the limelight at an event and want to look as natural as ever, you need to buy a sheer finish foundation. It will simply enhance your skin without adding an artificial look.
You can also moisturize your skin by directly applying sheer foundations to your face. As far as the skin types and compatibility of sheer finish foundation is concerned, these will work well on all the skin types. Nevertheless, the results will be the best when applied to dry skin as it will add the much-needed moisturizing effect with the desired radiance.
Matte finish
Unlike a dewy finish that gives a shiny touch, a matte foundation tends to keep your skin drier by controlling the sebum in the T-zone. It is the best option for oily skin types as a touch of matte finish will neutralize the extra skin oil to the maximum extent. It will also help in minimizing the appearance of pores and imperfections. A matte finish foundation is dry in itself, so people with dry skin should avoid it because matte foundations will stick to the dry patches, giving you a cakey look.
What Should You Consider While Buying a Finish Foundation?
Your skin type
To start with, the type of your skin is the most vital thing to consider as it will make or break the deal for your foundations. Always go with the option that suits your skin type well and won’t cause breakouts. If you don’t give enough attention to this aspect, you may end up getting pimples, acne, or allergic reactions.
Reputable brand
Make sure you always buy the foundation from a brand that enjoys a sound reputation in the market. It is extremely important to purchase tried and tested foundations because your face is the most sensitive part of your body and you will never want to mess with it.
Though brands charge a bit more for their brand worth, the investment is worth it. To confirm the authenticity of the product, you can go through the customer reviews section or ask questions in the community section to know if the foundation will work for you or not.
Is the Application of Finish Foundation Any Different Than a Traditional One?
No, it is not. You just need to apply your foundation as usual and the formula will do the magic for you. It’s up to you whether you want to apply it with your finger, sponge, or brush, but be aware that the final results may slightly vary. Take the desired quantity on your fingers and start spreading it evenly on your face. After that, take your sponge or brush to blend it well and set it with a powder to make it stay on for the whole day.
