10 Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin That Actually Stay Put
Let’s be real: finding a foundation that doesn’t turn your oily face into a slip-n-slide by noon feels impossible. I’ve spent years (and way too much money) testing every drugstore foundation claiming to be “long-wearing” or “matte” – only to end up looking like a disco ball by 2 PM.
But after testing 50+ foundations on my stubbornly oily skin, I’ve found the 10 drugstore gems that actually deliver. These aren’t just “okay for the price” – they’re genuinely better than most $50+ high-end options I’ve tried.
- Always apply foundation to moisturized (not dry!) skin
- Set with powder immediately after application
- Use a mattifying primer for extra staying power
- Wait 2-3 minutes between skincare and makeup
How I Tested These Foundations
Each foundation was tested for:
- Oil control: How long before shine breaks through
- Wear time: 8+ hour wear test in real conditions
- Transfer-proof: Does it stay on your face (not your phone)?
- Texture: Does it emphasize pores or texture?
- Shade range: Available for most skin tones?
The 10 Best Drugstore Foundations for Oily Skin
Best for: Pore minimization + matte finish
Key ingredients: Clay, micro-powders
The OG for oily skin. This blurs pores like a filter and keeps shine at bay for 6-8 hours. The shade range (40+ shades!) is impressive for drugstore.
Best for: All-day wear (seriously, 12+ hours)
Key ingredients: Perlite (oil-absorbing mineral)
This foundation does NOT budge. I’ve worn it through 90-degree heat and humidity, and it stayed flawless. Demi-matte finish that looks like skin.
Best for: Acne-prone oily skin
Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, tea tree, witch hazel
A foundation that actually TREATS acne while covering it? Yes please. The salicylic acid keeps breakouts at bay while providing medium-full coverage.
Real Results
Shiny T-zone by 11 AM
Foundation sliding off
Visible pores
Matte finish all day
Foundation stays put
Pores blurred
More Top Picks
Best for: Full coverage without the cake
Key ingredients: Vegan formula, oil-free
This lives up to its name – truly can’t stop, won’t stop. Full coverage but somehow still looks natural. Water-resistant formula is perfect for hot days.
Best for: Sensitive oily skin
Key ingredients: SPF 15, oil-free, fragrance-free
A classic for a reason. The oily skin formula specifically is a game-changer – not the same as the dry skin version. Stays put for 8+ hours without irritation.
Application Tips for Oily Skin
To get the most out of these foundations:
- Prime first: Use a mattifying primer (I love NYX Shine Killer)
- Set with powder: Translucent powder immediately after application
- Use a beauty blender: Press foundation into skin, don’t rub
- Set with spray: Mattifying setting spray locks everything in
- Blot, don’t add: Use blotting papers throughout the day instead of more powder
- Buy during Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty for 50% off
- Check Amazon’s Subscribe & Save for extra discounts
- Sign up for brand emails for exclusive coupons
The Verdict
If I had to pick just one? L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte for maximum staying power, or Maybelline Fit Me for the best balance of price and performance.
But honestly? At these prices, grab 2-3 and find your perfect match. Your oily skin (and wallet) will thank you.
Ready to shop?
All products linked above are available on Amazon with fast shipping. Remember: patch test new foundations on your jawline before full application!
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