The Best Primers and Foundations for Oily Skin
If you're reading this, it's probably because you struggle with the same, too — am I right? You're not alone! I've had oily, acne-prone skin my whole life and I still struggle with it to this day. I am genetically wired to have oily skin (both of my parents and all of my sibs have oily skin) but I would say the majority of it comes from living in Hawaii's humid, tropical climate.
Before I dive into this post, I want to let you in on a little tip: oily skin is annoying, but you should embrace it! Our oil overproduction will keep our skin looking youthful into our yonder years. There is no product that will completely stop the overproduction of our oils. These primers and foundations have been my holy grails for quite some time so I hope you are able to find something that works for you.
Primers
Primers are the best way to temporarily control your oily skin In my current makeup routine I use Mac Prep + Prime Skin Refined Zone serum as a primer. It's oil-free and does a great job at sucking up excess oils before applying foundation. Application is key with this product; I suggest applying a pea-sized amount using a pressing technique starting where you are the most oiliest.
Another longtime favorite is the Benefit Porefessional. This product has a balm-like texture and does an amazing job at hiding large pores (which is the cause of oily skin).
If you're looking for something super mattifying, try the Makeup Forever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Mattifying Primer.
Foundations
Once you've found the best primer for your oily skin, you can pretty much use any foundation you like. I used to like looking super matte and would blot and powder my face throughout the day. Now I don't mind my oils too much because I like having that natural glow. (Unless it's super humid then I don't like having that natural oily glow).
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless has been a new favorite in my current makeup routine. This product isn't matte on its own, but it definitely makes your skin look poreless. Another favorite is the Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation. This is like the sister of the Maybelline Matte + Poreless and works amazing with oily skin.
A lighter formula I thought worked well with my oily skin is the Makeup Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation. So good especially when used with the Makeup Forever Mattifying Primer.