Best Matte Makeup for Oily Skin

I have combination skin with an oily t-zone, so I prefer a matte complexion most days. Over the years I have come to know quite a few products that achieve this for me, so I am sharing my recommendations on the best matte makeup for oily skin. Almost all of these products are super affordable from the drugstore, and they will provide you with a matte finish that will last all day.

Primers

I am starting off the best matte makeup for oily skin the same way that you start your makeup, and that is with primer. An OG is definitely the wet n wild photofocus Matte Face Primer. My tube is so old that it still has the original packaging, but it has since been updated to say “matte” on it. Its clear formula smooths over the face and dries down matte for the perfect base.

Another great option is the elf Cosmetics Matte Putty Primer. While it does not have the pore-filling abilities as the original Poreless Putty Primer, it does mattify your makeup and performs just as well as original.

Foundations

Second, I have both liquid and power foundations. I am sure you guessed both of these! For liquid, I am all about wet n wild’s photofocus Matte Foundation. I recommend working in sections, as this foundation dries down quickly. Also, remember less is more. If you go too heavy with this foundation it will look cakey and thick on the skin. When you find the right balance for your face, it is long wearing and looks like skin while being full coverage.

Sephora’s Matte Perfection Powder Foundation delivers buildable coverage that never looks cakey, heavy, or dry. It also provides a soft blur to the skin while leaving a matte finish.

Concealer

My concealer recommendation is the most matte concealer that I own, which is the elf Cosmetics 16 Hour Camo Concealer. I have a love/hate relationship with it, as I find it to be too matte at times, even though I do not have dry skin. The key is to be mindful of how much you use, because less is more. One dot of this product is enough to cover my entire under-eye in brightening full-coverage. I see so many people going crazy with this concealer, and I do not recommend that, as you may end up looking dry. It is highly long-wearing and less likely to crease.

Setting Sprays

I have two setting spray recommendations for best matte makeup for oily skin. Both the wet n wild photofocus 24 Hour Matte Setting Mist and the Hard Candy Sheer Envy Matte Setting Spray will provide a matte finish to any makeup look, while also setting your makeup. They assist in your makeup staying matte throughout the day, but they may not extend the wear time of your makeup or cause makeup to perform better than it normally does.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best matte makeup for oily skin?

Top picks include wet n wild Matte Primer and Foundation, elf Camo Concealer, and Sephora Matte Perfection Powder Foundation.

What types of products help oily skin stay matte?

Primers, matte foundations, long-wear concealers, and setting sprays work together to control shine and extend wear.

Can drugstore matte makeup work as well as high-end?

Yes. Brands like wet n wild, elf, Hard Candy, and Maybelline offer affordable matte options that rival higher-end products.

How do I stop matte makeup from looking too dry?

Balance is key. Use a lightweight moisturizer or hydrating spray underneath to keep skin fresh while still controlling oil.

Is matte makeup good for combination skin too?

Yes. Matte makeup works well for combination skin, especially in the T-zone, but should be paired with hydration to avoid dryness on other areas.

Shop The Selection

You do not have to spend much money in order to achieve a matte look that lasts all day, virtually lets no oils peek through, and does not look dry or heavy. Sometimes using all of these products together can look dry on my combination skin, so it is all about balance. I like to use moisturizers and sprays that hydrate the skin to combat the dry matte look. Are you more into matte or dewy makeup? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.

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