Top 10 Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin: Matte, Long-Wear & Affordable Picks
If you’ve got oily skin, you know the struggle—shiny T-zone, foundation slipping off by lunch, and the ever-looming fear of looking like a grease ball by the end of the day. But fear not! I’ve rounded up the best drugstore foundations for oily skin that will keep your face matte, flawless, and affordable. Because who says great skin has to come with a luxury price tag?
Whether you’re trying to stop your makeup from melting in the summer heat or need a foundation that’ll last through a long workday, these picks are here to help. Let’s dive into the 10 best drugstore foundations for oily skin and where you can get them!
What Makes a Good Foundation for Oily Skin?
Before we jump into the foundations, let’s quickly go over what you should look for when choosing the right one for oily skin.
- Oil Control: You want a formula that won’t add extra shine. Look for words like “mattifying,” “oil-free,” or “long-wear.”
- Non-Comedogenic: This means it won’t clog your pores (goodbye breakouts!).
- Full to Medium Coverage: You need a foundation that can handle shine without breaking down.
- Long-Lasting: You need something that stays put all day, not just until your lunch break.
Now that we know what we’re looking for, let’s get into the good stuff—your new favorite foundations!
1. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation
Price: ~$12
Shade Range: 20 shades
L’Oréal’s Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation is a cult favorite for a reason. It provides a velvety matte finish that stays put for up to 24 hours (yes, 24 hours—you can sleep with this on, but we don’t recommend it). The formula is lightweight but offers full coverage, which means you can tackle those oily patches without worrying about touch-ups.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Oil-absorbing powders keep shine at bay.
- Super long-wear—ideal for a full day of work or a night out.
- Not too heavy—your skin will still breathe while looking flawless.
Pro Tip: A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it!
2. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
Price: ~$7
Shade Range: 40 shades
If you’re looking for something budget-friendly that delivers solid performance, Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation is a must-try. It’s lightweight, feels breathable on the skin, and does an excellent job at minimizing pores and controlling shine. Plus, the shade range is amazing, so you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Pore-blurring formula—bye-bye, visible pores!
- Oil-absorbing minerals help keep you matte all day.
- A great option for medium coverage.
Pro Tip: Apply with a brush for a more polished finish, or use a sponge for a more natural, dewy look (yes, we said dewy—but you control the oil with this one).
3. Revlon ColorStay Foundation for Combination/Oily Skin
Price: ~$14
Shade Range: 40 shades
Revlon ColorStay has been around forever, and for good reason! This one’s got an oil-free formula that controls shine without drying you out. It also lasts up to 24 hours, so you won’t have to worry about blotting every couple of hours.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Long-wear formula with a matte finish.
- Controls oil and provides buildable coverage.
- Won’t oxidize (so you won’t end up looking like an Oompa Loompa by 3 p.m.).
Pro Tip: For a more natural look, mix with a moisturizer or hydrating primer to avoid looking cakey.
4. CoverGirl Clean Matte BB Cream
Price: ~$7
Shade Range: 10 shades
Okay, hear us out. BB creams aren’t always the first thing that comes to mind when you think of oily skin, but CoverGirl’s Clean Matte BB Cream is an exception. It’s got that light, breathable texture that’s perfect for those no-makeup makeup days, but it still keeps the shine under control.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Matte finish that doesn’t look flat.
- Lightweight, oil-free formula that evens out skin tone.
- Ideal for light to medium coverage.
Pro Tip: If you prefer full coverage, you might need to layer this up or mix it with a more heavy-duty foundation. But for a quick, easy, and affordable option, this is a winner.
5. e.l.f. Cosmetics Flawless Finish Foundation
Price: ~$6
Shade Range: 40 shades
We’re always here for a product that’s ridiculously affordable and delivers results. The e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation is a dream for oily skin. It gives a satin matte finish and works wonderfully for a smooth, even complexion.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Controls shine without feeling dry.
- Buildable coverage—perfect for custom coverage.
- Long-lasting and lightweight.
Pro Tip: Set with a light dusting of powder to keep things matte and fresh throughout the day.
6. NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation
Price: ~$15
Shade Range: 45 shades
If you’ve ever wanted a foundation that really won’t stop, this is it. NYX’s Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation is one of the best full-coverage foundations for oily skin that doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a mask. It controls oil and shine like a pro and is known for its long-wear formula.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Oil-absorbing formula with a matte finish.
- Sweat-proof—great for hot and humid days.
- Full coverage that stays matte all day.
Pro Tip: A little goes a long way, so use sparingly to avoid cake face.
7. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer
Price: ~$11
Shade Range: 45 shades
Milani’s 2-in-1 foundation and concealer is a total multitasker. It’s got full coverage and long-wear, plus it controls oil while hiding imperfections. Bonus: you can skip the concealer since this bad boy covers everything!
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Long-wearing formula that stays matte and flawless.
- Full coverage that conceals everything, including redness and acne.
- Great for oily and combination skin types.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a mattifying primer for extra staying power.
8. Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation
Price: ~$6
Shade Range: 20 shades
Wet n Wild’s Photo Focus Foundation is another budget-friendly gem that works wonders for oily skin. It’s designed with photo shoots in mind, so it won’t flash back or leave you looking greasy in photos.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Matte finish that controls oil and shine.
- No flashback in photos—great for selfies or events.
- Affordable with good coverage.
Pro Tip: Make sure to shake the bottle before use—this one can separate, but it’s worth the shake!
9. Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation
Price: ~$15
Shade Range: 16 shades
While this foundation might be a little pricier than the others on this list, it’s a clean beauty favorite that’s still pretty affordable for what it offers. It’s designed for oily skin but also contains skincare ingredients to nourish your complexion, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Oil-free formula with a natural matte finish.
- Contains SPF for sun protection.
- Lightweight and buildable coverage.
Pro Tip: Use with a pore-filling primer for a smooth finish.
10. Almay Clear Complexion 2-in-1 Acne Foundation + Treatment
Price: ~$14
Shade Range: 12 shades
If you’re dealing with acne and oily skin, Almay’s Clear Complexion Foundation is a two-in-one solution. It provides coverage while also helping to treat breakouts, thanks to its salicylic acid formula.
Why It’s Perfect for Oily Skin:
- Oil-free formula that helps reduce acne flare-ups.
- Matte finish that stays all day.
- Medium to full coverage without looking cakey
Pro Tip: If you have sensitive skin, be sure to patch test this one, as the acne treatment can sometimes be a bit strong for some skin types.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Drugstore Foundation for Oily Skin
There you have it—10 of the best drugstore foundations for oily skin in 2025! Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, something with long-lasting wear, or a product that can handle the occasional breakout, there’s a perfect match on this list for your oily skin needs.
The best part? You don’t have to splurge to get that flawless, matte finish. With the right formula, you can find a foundation that works all day without breaking the bank.
Remember, when shopping for a foundation, always choose one that not only matches your skin type but also fits your personal preferences—whether that’s more coverage, more hydration, or a super-matte finish. If you’re ready to take the plunge, click on the links above to grab your new favorite foundation and say goodbye to oily skin troubles!
Have a favorite foundation that didn’t make the list? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear what works for you! And don’t forget to share this guide with your oily-skinned friends who need a little help in the foundation department.
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Happy shopping, and may your foundation be as flawless as your skin!
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last updated on: 1/12/25
