
21 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in 2025
July 18, 2025
Overview
Navigating the world of foundations can be tricky, especially when dealing with oily skin. This guide brings you the 21 best foundations formulated to combat shine and provide long-lasting coverage in 2025. We've researched and reviewed the top products on the market, considering factors like oil control, coverage level, shade range, and overall finish, to help you find the perfect foundation that will keep your complexion looking flawless all day long. Whether you're looking for a lightweight everyday formula or a full-coverage option for special occasions, this guide has you covered.
Our picks
The Best High-End Foundation for a Luxury Experience: Luminous Silk Foundation, $69.00
The Best Foundation with a Wide Shade Range: wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator, $5.47
The Best Setting Powder to Combat Shine: Double Wear Powder Foundation Refill, $39.00
The Best Foundation for Oily Skin: Overall Winner: Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation, $52.00
Best Lightweight Foundations for Daily Wear
Find foundations that offer natural-looking coverage perfect for everyday use and oily skin.
7
Listful
Score
CC+ Nude Glow Skin Tint SPF 40
$45.50
The CC+ Nude Glow Skin Tint SPF 40 scored 7/10 during our review due to its radiant finish not suiting oily skin perfectly. We found it provides a luminous glow with SPF 40, optimizing for sun protection. Despite its lightweight feel and ease of blending, it may feel too shiny for oily skin, and the fragrance could be irritating for some. Thus, it's a great option for those seeking sun protection and a dewy finish.
The Good
• Provides a natural, radiant glow without appearing greasy.
• Contains SPF 40 for added sun protection.
• Lightweight formula that blends easily into the skin.
The Bad
• May appear too shiny for those with oily skin.
• Fragrance may be noticeable and potentially irritating for sensitive users.
• Higher price point compared to similar products.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: Wide range of shades available / Finish: Natural
7.5
Listful
Score
H2O SkinTint Warm
$24.00
Reviewing the H2O SkinTint Warm, which scored 7.5/10, we loved its breathable texture and hydration qualities. This sheer-coverage tint is perfect for a natural look, though its oil control may not harmonize well with very oily skin. Some users noted shininess by day's end, so it's best for those prioritizing hydration over oil control. With 17 shades, it offers a fresh-faced finish but may not satisfy those needing substantial coverage.
The Good
• Lightweight and breathable texture.
• Hydrating and water-resistant formula.
• Natural-looking, buildable coverage.
The Bad
• Limited oil control, may not suit very oily skin.
• Coverage may be too sheer for some users.
• Some users reported it can look shiny by day's end.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Sheer / Shade Range: 17 shades / Finish: Natural
6.5
Listful
Score
MAC Studio Face and Body Foundation - C2
$35.88
The MAC Studio Face and Body Foundation - C2 scored 6.5/10, making it less ideal for oily skin due to its dewy texture. In practical use, it provides a natural finish and is comfortable for extended wear. Its buildable coverage is versatile, but those seeking robust coverage may need additional layers. Although easy on the skin, users should note that the open nozzle design can lead to product waste and mess.
The Good
• Provides a natural, dewy finish that enhances the skin's appearance.
• Lightweight formula feels comfortable and non-cakey on the skin.
• Buildable coverage allows customization from sheer to light-medium.
The Bad
• May not provide sufficient coverage for those with significant blemishes or redness.
• Dewy finish may not be ideal for individuals with oily skin.
• Packaging can become messy due to the open nozzle design.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Sheer / Shade Range: 13 shades, categorized into C (cool), N (neutral), and W (warm) with numbers indicating depth. / Finish: Dewy
6.5
Listful
Score
wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator
$5.47
During our review, the wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator scored 6.5/10, offering an affordable option for those seeking a natural, dewy look. This lightweight formula includes hydrating ingredients and provides buildable coverage, though it doesn't excel in oil control. Its limited shade range can be less accommodating, yet it's a budget-friendly choice for light daily wear, perfect for those desiring moisture with a hint of tint.
The Good
• Lightweight formula that blends easily for a natural look.
• Contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane.
• Affordable price point under $10.
The Bad
• Limited shade range, especially for deeper skin tones.
• Some shades may oxidize, turning orange on certain skin tones.
• May not provide sufficient oil control for oily skin types.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 12 shades / Finish: Natural
Foundations with Superior Oil Control
Discover foundations specifically formulated to absorb oil and keep your skin shine-free all day.
8.5
Listful
Score
Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation
$40.00
The Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation, scoring an 8.5/10, shines with its impressive 50-shade range and buildable coverage. In our testing, its shine-controlling soft matte finish excels for oily skin, but watch out for a potentially quick-drying texture. The pump applicator could be improved, as some users reported it becoming stuck. Overall, this foundation is excellent for all-day wear, provided you blend swiftly for a flawless look.
The Good
• Offers a wide range of 50 shades, ensuring a match for various skin tones.
• Provides buildable medium to full coverage suitable for different preferences.
• Features a soft matte finish that controls shine throughout the day.
The Bad
• May feel drying and cakey on individuals with dry skin types.
• Dries quickly upon application, requiring swift blending to avoid patchiness.
• Some users report the pump applicator can get stuck, causing product wastage.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 50 shades / Finish: Matte
8
Listful
Score
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
$8.62
With a score of 8/10, the Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation wins on affordability and comfort. This lightweight, oil-free formula controls shine and blurs pores, providing a matte finish ideal for oily skin. However, it’s not recommended for drier skin types and lacks sun protection. Despite its packaging issues, this foundation's quality and price make it a noteworthy contender in everyday makeup staples.
The Good
• Lightweight feel that feels comfortable all day.
The Bad
• Not for dry or mature skin.
• No sun protection.
• Packaging is poor and doesn’t dispense the product well.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 40 shades / Finish: Matte
8.5
Listful
Score
Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation
$42.40
Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation, earning an impressive 8.5/10, stands out for its long-lasting, customizable medium-to-full coverage. During our tests, it excelled in maintaining a flawless, natural matte appearance throughout the day. The wide shade range accommodates a variety of skin tones, though its potential for dryness means it’s better suited for oily rather than combination or dry skin types.
The Good
• Offers buildable coverage, allowing customization from medium to full without looking cakey.
• Provides long-lasting wear, maintaining a smooth appearance throughout the day.
• Features a wide shade range, accommodating various skin tones.
The Bad
• May feel too drying for individuals with combination or dry skin types.
• Contains fragrance, which might be unsuitable for those sensitive to scents.
• The frosted glass bottle may make it challenging to accurately gauge the remaining product.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Full / Shade Range: Available in up to 50 shades / Finish: Matte
9.5
Listful
Score
Double Wear Foundation
$52.00
Double Wear Foundation clinches a high score of 9.5/10 thanks to its exceptional 24-hour wear capability, making it the top choice for oily skin. In our experience, this formula withstands heat, humidity, and sweat, ensuring a flawless finish. While the lack of a pump is a minor inconvenience, its extensive shade range and long-lasting matte coverage justify the higher price, securing its position as a must-have for special occasions.
The Good
• Provides long-lasting wear, staying fresh for up to 24 hours.
• Offers a wide range of shades to suit various skin tones.
• Delivers full coverage with a natural matte finish.
The Bad
• Does not come with a pump, making dispensing less convenient.
• Can feel heavy if over-applied.
• Higher price point compared to other foundations.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Full / Shade Range: Over 30 shades / Finish: Matte
8
Listful
Score
M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
$31.00
M.A.C Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, scoring 8/10, provides excellent oil control and broad shade variety. Our testing found it performs well in maintaining a matte appearance without caking. However, a lack of a pump dispenser makes application less convenient, and potential oxidation may alter the look over time. Despite these drawbacks, its buildable coverage is a definite advantage for any makeup enthusiast seeking a customizable finish.
The Good
• Provides excellent oil control, keeping shine at bay for hours.
• Offers buildable medium to full coverage that conceals imperfections effectively.
• Available in a wide range of 67 shades to suit various skin tones.
The Bad
• May cause breakouts in some users with sensitive skin.
• Can oxidize over time, leading to a slightly darker appearance.
• Does not come with a pump dispenser, making application less convenient.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 67 shades / Finish: Matte
8.5
Listful
Score
Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup
$39.00
Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup, with its 8.5/10 rating, offers reliable oil control and medium coverage, perfect for achieving a natural matte finish. Our experience showed it could oxidize slightly, although this formula effectively combats shine and manages to maintain its appearance throughout wear. While it may emphasize dry patches, its lightweight texture and lasting performance make it a strong contender for oily skin.
The Good
• Effectively controls oil and maintains a matte finish throughout the day.
• Provides medium to full coverage that conceals redness and acne scars.
• Lightweight formula that blends easily without feeling heavy or cakey.
The Bad
• May oxidize and change color after application.
• Can emphasize fine lines and dry patches on the skin.
• Some users report the foundation separating and not adhering well to the skin.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: Available in multiple shades to suit various skin tones. / Finish: Matte
7.5
Listful
Score
Double Wear Powder Foundation Refill
$39.00
Estee Lauder's Double Wear Powder Foundation Refill scores a solid 7.5/10, offering a lightweight formula that excels in controlling oil and providing a smooth, matte finish. While we appreciate its buildable coverage, recent changes in the formula have led to darker shades and uneven application, earning some mixed reviews. Despite these drawbacks, its long-lasting nature and shade variety make it a staple for those prioritizing a shine-free look, though its price might be steep for some users.
The Good
• Lightweight formula provides a smooth, matte finish without feeling heavy or cakey.
• Controls oil and shine effectively, maintaining a matte look throughout the day.
• Offers buildable coverage, allowing customization from sheer to full coverage.
The Bad
• Recent formula changes have resulted in darker shades and less appealing wear.
• Some users report uneven application and difficulty in blending the product.
• The product is relatively expensive compared to other powder foundations.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Sheer to Full / Shade Range: 41 shades / Finish: Matte
9
Listful
Score
Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
$52.00
Holding a high score of 9/10, Estee Lauder's Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is a powerhouse for oily skin. Boasting impressive oil control and full coverage, it stays put all day. However, it is known to accentuate dry patches if the skin isn't well-prepped. Despite lacking a pump, its extensive shade range and truly long-wearing formula make it an essential choice for those seeking a reliable, picture-perfect complexion.
The Good
• Provides excellent oil control, keeping makeup in place throughout the day.
• Offers full coverage that effectively conceals blemishes and redness.
• Available in a wide range of shades to suit various skin tones.
The Bad
• Can feel drying on the skin with prolonged use.
• May accentuate dry patches if skin is not well-prepped.
• The bottle lacks a pump, making it difficult to control the amount dispensed.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Full / Shade Range: Available in 60 shades / Finish: Matte
Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin
Affordable and effective foundations that work wonders for oily skin without breaking the bank.
8
Listful
Score
L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation
$9.92
The L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation, with its score of 8/10, excels in long-lasting matte coverage and affordability, perfect for those managing oily skin. During our testing, this foundation offered impressive oil control that lasted throughout the day, though some users noted it could feel cakey. Despite its limited shade selection, it provides excellent value for its price and remains a drugstore staple.
The Good
• Provides excellent matte coverage that lasts all day.
• Affordable price point for a high-quality foundation.
• Lightweight and easy to apply smoothly with a kabuki brush.
The Bad
• Limited shade selection for dusky and wheat-ish skin tones.
• May not suit dry skin, as it can cling to dry patches.
• Some users report the new formula is cakey and drying on sensitive skin.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 10 shades available / Finish: Matte
7
Listful
Score
COVERGIRL Clean Matte Foundation
$8.39
COVERGIRL's Clean Matte Foundation, scoring 7/10, is a budget-friendly option ideal for oily skin with its effective matte finish. Our testing reveals that while it offers medium coverage, it can feel cakey if not applied sparingly, and its packaging could use a design update. Compared to costlier counterparts, this foundation holds its ground in controlling shine, making it a viable choice for everyday use without breaking the bank.
The Good
• Provides a matte finish suitable for oily and combination skin.
The Bad
• Some users report the foundation can feel cakey if not applied sparingly.
• The packaging lacks a pump, making it difficult to dispense the product.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: Available in a range of shades to match various skin tones. / Finish: Matte
7
Listful
Score
True Skin Hydrating Foundation
$10.00
The True Skin Hydrating Foundation, with a score of 7/10, is praised for offering medium to full coverage with a skin-like finish. We found it contains hyaluronic acid to combat dryness, making it an excellent option for maintaining hydration. However, its limited shade range might miss very fair or dark skin tones, and users may experience some dryness without proper skin prep. At just $10, it's a great affordable option for those with manageable oil.
The Good
• Provides medium to full coverage that effectively conceals redness and minor imperfections.
• Contains hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated while providing a smooth, even complexion.
• Lightweight formula blends effortlessly into the skin, offering a skin-like finish without looking cakey.
The Bad
• Some users report the foundation feels drying and emphasizes dry patches.
• Limited shade range may not cater to very fair or very dark skin tones.
• Foundation may transfer easily and require setting with powder to prevent movement.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 17 shades / Finish: Natural
Best High-End Foundations for Oily Skin
Luxury foundations that provide exceptional coverage and oil control for a premium experience.
6.5
Listful
Score
Luminous Silk Foundation
$69.00
Giorgio Armani's Luminous Silk Foundation offers indulgence with a natural finish, scoring 6.5/10 in our review. Perfect for a silk-like appearance, it provides medium to full coverage but falls short on oil control for very oily skin. The foundation may oxidize, so make sure it matches your skin tone. Though its luxury price may deter some, the lightweight feel and beautiful finish make it a worthwhile consideration for special occasions.
The Good
• Provides buildable medium to full coverage that feels lightweight.
• Offers a satin finish that looks like real skin.
• Long-wearing formula, even in hot weather.
The Bad
• Color may oxidize slightly, depending on skin chemistry.
• Pricey compared to other foundations.
• May not provide sufficient oil control for very oily skin types.
Oil Control: false / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: 40 shades / Finish: Natural
8
Listful
Score
Power Fabric+ Foundation with SPF 25
$70.00
In our review, the Power Fabric+ Foundation with SPF 25 scored 8/10 for its comprehensive offering of oil control and sun protection. This foundation provides buildable coverage while maintaining a natural matte look, ideal for oily or combination skin. It dries quickly, so blend fast for a flawless finish. While its premium price may be a downside for some, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking enduring, skin-enhancing performance throughout the day.
The Good
• Provides buildable medium to full coverage without feeling heavy on the skin.
• Offers SPF 25 for added sun protection.
• Controls oil effectively, making it suitable for oily and combination skin types.
The Bad
• Some users report that it dries quickly, making blending challenging.
• May not be suitable for extremely dry skin, as it can accentuate dry patches.
• Premium price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Oil Control: true / Coverage Level: Medium / Shade Range: Wide range of shades to suit various skin tones / Finish: Matte
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