Getting your skin to a good place can take time; while my own complexion feels healthy now, I recently suffered with a bout of adult acne that reminded me just how difficult wearing makeup with any kind of skin ‘issue’ can be. Those of us with oily or acne-prone skin often feel conflicted when it comes to face makeup; we know it’s important to let the skin breathe to clear up, but the need to cover up and feel confident often overrides everything else.
I’m here to tell you that if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you absolutely can wear foundation, and should not feel ashamed for doing so. It’s just important that you stick to a few tips and tricks, and opt for a specific type of product that works best for your skin health as well as your self-esteem.
What is the best type of foundation for oily skin?
Try if you can to opt for lightweight foundation for oily skin formulations, rather than full coverage ones. I totally understand how tempting it is to reach for a full, matte base to hide shine or spots, but this is super counter-productive in the long run. In fact, “these formulas will clog your pores and make matters worse,” explains Doctor Nyla Raja, Dermatologist and Cosmetic Doctor.
As well as feeling lightweight on the skin, Consultant Dermatologist Dr Ophelia Veraitch says it’s the make-up of the product that’s also crucial to consider: “Water-based, oil-free foundations are best.”
“It is also important to check on the packaging that the foundation is classified as being ‘non-comedogenic,’ which means that it has undergone tests to ensure that it won’t clog your pores.”
These days, modern formulations are much more appropriate for skin that’s suffering, and there are more skincare-makeup hybrids than ever before. So which ingredients should you be looking for in a foundation for oily skin that can actually aid the complexion, rather than clog it?
Which ingredients should I look for when choosing a foundation for oily skin?
“Foundations with active ingredients such as zinc oxide and salicylic acid can actually help to clear acne,” notes Dr Veraitch, while Dr Raja adds:
“Exfoliating AHAs (such as lactic acid) are great, because they work to essentially ‘break the glue’ that holds dead skin and debris together. Hyaluronic acid [a super hydrating ingredient] is also becoming more prevalent in foundation formulas.”
Best foundations for oily, acne-prone skin to shop now
I spoke to several dermatologists and skincare experts to find six of the best foundation for oily skin formulas you can trust:
L’Oreal Paris True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum, 1% Hyaluronic Acid, £11.99
As recommended by: Consultant Dermatologist Dr Ophelia Veraitch
“True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum 1% Pure Hyaluronic Acid is my current favourite foundation for acne or congestion-prone skin. It is light in weight and has a non-comedogenic formulation that won’t clog your pores. It also has the added benefit of containing hyaluronic acid, so it will leave your skin looking glowy and revitalised.”
Oxygenetix Acne Control foundation, £55
As recommended by: Dr Stefanie Williams, Dermatologist & Medical Director at Eudelo Clinic
“I recommend Oxygenetix Acne Control foundation, as it is breathable and contains salicylic acid.”
Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream, £39.95
As recommended by: Jennifer Rock, dermal facialist and founder of Skingredients
“Even those with oily skin need hydration – in fact dehydrated skin can be a cause of excess oil! Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream is great for those who don’t like the completely matte look.
Don’t be put off by the word ‘glow;’ it does give a dewy finish, but it doesn’t leave the skin looking over-glowy. It’s also non-comedogenic and high coverage enough to cover up post-acne scars.”
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup, £28.50
As recommended by: Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav
“Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup has salicylic acid built into the formula to help clear existing blemishes and prevent new ones from forming, while concealing any active breakouts.”
Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturiser, £36
As recommended by: Gia Mills, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Founder of Skin in Motion
“I’d recommend the Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturiser; although not technically a ‘foundation,’ this has really good coverage yet gives a matte finish and reduces propensity to shine.”
Chantecaille Future Skin Oil-Free Foundation, £75
As recommended by: Megan Felton, co-founder of lion/ne skincare consultancy
“Chantecaille is amazing for sensitive skin and they offer some incredible coverage. I love their gel-based foundation as it has some skincare benefits in there too and is quite calming.”
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