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  4. 10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
  • 10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
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10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

It is no question that the Philippine weather is no friend to people with oily skin. The hot and humid weather all year round causes oiliness and excess sebum production, making the search for the perfect foundation quite a challenge. To keep your face looking fresh and shine-free all day, there are foundations specially made to suit oily skin types.

With the plethora of foundations available, we know that choosing one could be quite daunting. But fret not! We’ve rounded the best foundations for oily skin and prepared some tips and recommendations to help you find that that long-lasting, weather-proof foundation to keep your face shine-free. Also check out what dermatologist, Dr. Meg Sison has to say on how you can get the best product for you!

Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Meg Sison
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.

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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Foundation for Oily Skin - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Get a mattifying foundation to stay shine-free all day.
  2. Light, medium, or full: pick a foundation with the amount of coverage you want.
  3. Choose a formulation based on your intended purpose.
  4. Identify your shade and undertone to get the right match.
  5. Opt for an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula to avoid clogging of pores.
  6. Look for a foundation with at least SPF 30 for more sun protection.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

① Get a Mattifying Foundation to Stay Shine-Free All Day

Get a Mattifying Foundation to Stay Shine-Free All Day

A foundation with a matte finish is a great choice for oily skin as it can get rid of excess shine, making the face less oily. These types of foundation are also known for their long-lasting wearability on the skin, giving you a flawless finish that helps you put your best face forward. 


Not a fan of the flat finish that matte foundations offer? Go for a semi-matte foundation that allows your skin to breathe. If you want your skin to look like it's glowingーnot shinyーtry a dewy or satin finish for a more natural look. Do you want to achieve a 'woke up like this' type of makeup? Try foundations with a sheer finish for that barely-there coverage.

② Light, Medium, or Full: Pick a Foundation With the Amount of Coverage You Want

Light, Medium, or Full: Pick a Foundation With the Amount of Coverage You Want

The three most common coverage levels for foundations are light, medium, and full. If you want to even out your skin tone without fully covering it up, choose a light coverage foundation. These don't clog up your pores and usually have a sheer finish. This works best for those who don't like the heavy feeling of makeup against their face.


If you want an even canvas with a natural skin finish, choose a medium coverage foundation. You can easily build on medium coverage foundations, from thin layers that can still show your freckles to adding another layer that can cover them completely. To achieve completely even-toned skin, go for a full coverage foundation. This is best for those who want to be stage or camera-ready

③ Choose a Formulation Based on Your Intended Purpose

You are not limited to just getting a liquid type or powder type foundation for your oily skin. There are many different options out there that are worth a try. It is also helpful to have different types that you can use, depending on the amount of coverage you want.

Powder Foundation Is Best for Oil Control

Powder Foundation Is Best for Oil Control
Using a powder foundation is a surefire way of getting rid of shine because it absorbs oil from your skin. This type of foundation is long-lasting, even on oily skin. These usually come in compact form, making them easy to slip inside your purse and convenient for retouching throughout the day. 

If you want something that gives fuller coverage, try a dual application powder foundation. These foundations go on just like liquid foundations when applied with a wet sponge. For the sheerest coverage, try loose foundations. Take note to avoid mineral oil foundations as these have been found to be non-comedogenic.

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Face powders are convenient because they can be brought anytime for touch-ups, especially for people on the go. They also provide coverage, oil control, a matte finish, and tactile smoothness, especially for oily skin.


 If you want to use face powder as a foundation, look for those that are labeled as two-way cake. This means that the product can be applied using either a wet or dry sponge. Because it contains a foundation formula, two-way cake foundations provide medium coverage that can be used to cover blemishes and dark spots.

Liquid Foundations Are Buildable and Contain Moisturizing Ingredients to Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Liquid Foundations Are Buildable and Contain Moisturizing Ingredients to Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Not everyone's skin is the same. As we age, our skin also goes through certain changes, and that could include getting dehydrated skin. When you have dehydrated skin, the surface of your skin produces more sebum to compensate for the lack of moisture.

If you have dehydrated skin, you can try liquid foundationsーeven better, essence liquid foundations which contain moisturizing ingredients. Depending on the formula, liquid foundations can generally be used by all skin types. These are also highly favored as they are buildable and can provide the coverage you need.


Cream Foundations Provide Moisturization and High Coverage but Could Easily Slide Off

Cream Foundations Provide Moisturization and High Coverage but Could Easily Slide Off

Cream foundations adhere well to the skin and can provide high coverage and a smooth finish. But, since they’re mostly oil-based, the tendency is that they will combine with the sebum on your skin and slide right off. Depending on the formula, cream foundations could also clog pores, which may cause acne. If you’re prone to breakouts, avoid this type of foundation.

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Cream foundations contain moisturizing ingredients like petrolatum, mineral oil, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to name a few. They do not necessarily clog the pores but they may tend to slide off for those with oily skin.

④ Identify Your Shade and Undertone to Get the Right Match

Identify Your Shade and Undertone to Get the Right Match

We've always been told to pick the shade closest to our skin. But when it comes to oily skin, the foundation tends to darken over time due to sebum secretion. Check for non-oxidizing formulas that remain true to the shade from the box to your skin. It is best to choose a color that is one shade lighter than your neck. Be careful not to choose a foundation that is too light as this will look too unnatural.


Another thing you should consider is your undertone. If you have a warm undertone and use a cool-toned foundation, your face might look ashy as the shade won't naturally blend with your skin tone. Warm undertones are those with hints of yellow or gold on their skin. Those with cool undertones have reds, blues, and purple shades on their skin. If you have a mix of both, your undertone is neutral.

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Choose a foundation shade based on your undertone. This can be determined by looking at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue, you have cool undertones, but if they appear green, you have warm undertones. 


Filipinos usually have warm undertones. If you have a chance to go to a physical store, you can swatch the shades and see if which one is a perfect match for you. If you cannot go to a physical store, you can ask the brand for assistance on their social media pages to help you find the shade that matches you perfectly.

⑤ Opt for an Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Formula to Avoid Clogging of Pores

Opt for an Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic Formula to Avoid Clogging of Pores

There are two things you should keep an eye out for in looking for a foundation for your oily skin: first, make sure it's oil-free, and second, check if it's non-comedogenic. Oil-free foundations are more lightweight than oil-based foundations, which helps prevent breakouts caused by your makeup. 


Non-comedogenic means the product will not block or clog your pores. Choosing these types of foundations can give you full coverage while at the same time allowing your skin to breathe.

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Oil-free facial foundations do not have animal, vegetable, or mineral oils. They contain other oily substances, such as dimethicone or cyclomethicone. These foundations are usually designed for oily-skinned individuals since they leave the skin with a matte finish. Dimethicone is non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, and hypoallergenic, which makes it a popular ingredient in foundations.

⑥ Look for a Foundation With at Least SPF 30 for More Sun Protection

Look for a Foundation With at Least SPF 30 for More Sun Protection

If you want your foundation to have additional benefits to your skin, why not get one with SPF? It is important to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun as this can cause wrinkles and make your skin age faster. Additionally, this can help simplify your makeup routine by not needing to put a layer of sunscreen before you put on your makeupーjust make sure that it has at least SPF 30 if you're going for this route! 

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10 Best Foundations for Oily Skin to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Estee Lauder

Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup

Estee Lauder  Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup 1枚目

Effective Oil Control With Superior Staying Power

2

Maybelline

Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation 1枚目

A Budget-Friendly and Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation

3

L’Oreal Paris

True Match Even Perfecting Powder Foundation

L’Oreal Paris  True Match Even Perfecting Powder Foundation 1枚目

A Versatile Foundation That Can Prime, Conceal, and Control Oil

4

Revlon

ColorStay 2-Way Powder Foundation

Revlon ColorStay 2-Way Powder Foundation 1枚目

For a Poreless Airbrushed Look

5

Fenty Beauty

Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation 1枚目

Weather-Adapting And Has A Wide Shade Range

6

L’Oreal Paris

Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation

L’Oreal Paris  Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation 1枚目

Stay Oil-Free for 24 Hours

7

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

 MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation 1枚目

Instant Flawless Finish With Great Coverage and Oil-Control

8

Smashbox

Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Foundation

Smashbox  Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Foundation 1枚目

A Transfer-Proof Foundation That Boosts Hydration

9

Make Up Forever

Matte Velvet Skin Compact - Full Coverage Foundation

Make Up Forever Matte Velvet Skin Compact - Full Coverage Foundation 1枚目

Lightweight and Full Coverage Foundation for Everyday Wear

10

Coty

Airspun Loose Powder 2.3oz

Coty  Airspun Loose Powder 2.3oz 1枚目

Super-Fine Powder for Absorbing Excess Oil

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No.1

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup

Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup Image 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
From ₱2,500

Effective Oil Control With Superior Staying Power

When you go to forums talking about the best foundation for oily skin, this one from Estee Lauder will always be mentioned. It is considered one of the best foundations for oily skin with full coverage because it effectively covers your blemishes and flaws without caking or settling.


Reviews loved the wide range of shades availableー56 shades! They also rave about the lightweight feeling of the foundation on the face and its all-day staying power. It is fragrance and paraben-free, so you are at peace that the foundation won't cause any irritation or adverse reactions. 


If you want something that will stay on your face from day to night, this is it! It has a long-wearing formulation that stays for up to 24 hours, and it stays matte! Although on the pricier side, this foundation has and will continually prove that it is worth the splurge and investment

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No.2

MaybellineFit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation

A Budget-Friendly and Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation

You can't beat the price, quality, and coverage of this foundationーit is definitely one of the best liquid foundations for oily skin out on the market. It gives medium but buildable coverage that covers minor blemishes, but you might need a concealer for dark under-eye circles. 


It can stay up to 12 hours, although if you tend to get really oily around your nose, you might need some in-between touch-ups. Its buildable coverage, matte finish, and long-wearing formula make this one of the top choices for oily skin. It is great for a humid country like ours and works great even on hot summer days!


This foundation has been a hit for people with oily skin, but to make it even better, Maybelline has innovated and improved the formula with mineral oil and SPF 22 PA++! You won't need to worry about your skin excreting sebum since the mineral oil controls oil production and mattifies the skin. 

No.3

L’Oreal Paris True Match Even Perfecting Powder Foundation

A Versatile Foundation That Can Prime, Conceal, and Control Oil

Promising to do the job of six products, the L’Oreal Paris True Match Even Perfecting Powder Foundation is one hard worker. This foundation promises to prime, conceal, protect, mattify, cover, and control oil. Furthermore, it comes with a double-face puff for both light and full coverage application.

This foundation is perfect for those who want the benefits of several products in one. This product will blur your pores, conceal imperfections, protect your skin from sun damage, keep your skin shine-free, provide good coverage, and, most importantly, keep that oiliness at bay.

It also promises 12 hours of lightweight sensation and 8 hours of shine-free glow on your skin. It comes in 10 shades to match the shades and undertones of Filipina skin - get yours now!

No.4

RevlonColorStay 2-Way Powder Foundation

For a Poreless Airbrushed Look

Revlon’s ColorStay line’s professionally designed formula erases flaws even under the harshest light. The Revlon ColorStay Two Way Foundation has a soft texture and is easily blendable on the skin. You can apply this wet or dry, and it provides medium to heavy coverage without feeling or looking cakey.

Just like the name suggests, this foundation is perfect for those who want long-wearing coverage and look good in photos. Its matte finish is also perfect for keeping the oil at bay for a shine-free look. This is the best foundation for oily skin with SPF, boasting the highest on our list with SPF 20 PA+++.
No.5

Fenty BeautyPro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation Image 1
Source:sephora.ph
Reference price
From ₱2,890

Weather-Adapting And Has A Wide Shade Range

As far as inclusivity goes, this foundation takes the cake. The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation has a whooping 50 shades. This way, you can be sure that there is a perfect shade for you. This foundation also has a buildable medium to full coverage to give your skin a smooth and shine-free finish. 


One of our common gripes is that the Philippines can be very humid. So, it's a good thing that this foundation has climate-adaptive technology to fight heat, sweat, and shine. Now you can use this foundation wherever you go and whatever the weather may be!

No.6

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation

Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation Image 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
From ₱799

Stay Oil-Free for 24 Hours

As the name suggests, you can’t go wrong with this liquid foundation from L’Oreal Paris that promises to stay all day long. It is lightweight, creamy, offers full coverage, and has a semi-matte finish that evens out skin tone and keeps oil at bay.

The application will be a breeze with this foundation as it glides on very smoothly and adheres to the skin well, no matter the tool used. This is recommended for those with oily to very oily skin, as it does an amazing job at oil control. If you have some dry patches, this might not be a good option as it has a tendency to emphasize them. 
No.7

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

Instant Flawless Finish With Great Coverage and Oil-Control

MAC Cosmetics is known for its high-quality range of products, and their cult-classic Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation is one of their best. Compact and easy to apply, this powder foundation provides a medium to full coverage and matte finish

It hides your skin's imperfections and keeps you shine-free. A little also goes a long way; that's why, depending on usage, it can last up to six months. It comes in a variety of shades suited for different skin tones, so it won't be difficult to find your perfect shade.


This is perfect for those who prefer quick application without compromising coverage and quality. This product is a little bit on the expensive side, but for a good quality foundation that will last you a long time and will give you the best results, it's definitely worth it.
No.8

Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Full Coverage Foundation

A Transfer-Proof Foundation That Boosts Hydration

This foundation from Smashbox boasts hydration and long-lasting full coverage. Although it's a little bit on the pricier side, we assure you that it's worth the money and you'll be pleased with how good the formula is! It is transfer-proof, sweat-resistant, and smudge-proof. Plus, it has been proven to last up to 24 hours!


If matte foundations tend to dry your skin, then the hydrating formula enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E is perfect for you. Want to be camera-ready and be able to take Instagram-worthy selfies at any time? This foundation ensures that your skin looks flawless with its soft matte blurring effect and that you'll look good in any light!
No.9

Make Up ForeverMatte Velvet Skin Compact - Full Coverage Foundation

Lightweight and Full Coverage Foundation for Everyday Wear

If you're the type of person who thinks that for foundation, full coverage is the way to go, then here is what we have for you. This Matte Velvet Skin Compact provides long-lasting, lightweight coverage that doesn't look chalky, cakey, or "fake." It also has a Flexi-Fit Puzzle Complex Innovation that makes the powder move and bend with your skin.


This compact comes with a double-sided sponge with different textures on either side, so you can adjust your application depending on the look you're going for. You can use the black side if you want full coverage and the white side if you just want a subtle veil of powder or for setting makeup.

No.10

Coty Airspun Loose Powder 2.3oz

Super-Fine Powder for Absorbing Excess Oil

This finely milled powder hides fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes while providing a long-wearing, flawless, and natural finish. Depending on how much coverage you want, it can be used to set makeup or as a foundation.

It doesn’t provide much coverage, so it performs best as a setting powder, as it absorbs excess oils to help your makeup last longer. But it does have a strong fragrance, so for those who are sensitive to smells, it might be better to try something else.

3 Tips to Help Makeup Last Longer

Let’s face it, sometimes finding the right foundation might not be enough to keep your skin from oiling up. So we’ve prepared a few tips to help keep your makeup from sliding off.

1. Re-adjust Your Skincare Routine

1. Re-adjust Your Skincare Routine
The three basic steps for good skin include cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen. Make sure to always cleanse your skin to get rid of oil and dirt. Toners are optional, but remember that moisturizing and putting on sunscreen in the AM are a must for an effective skincare routine! Different formulas mean different benefits, so paying attention to the ingredients is also essential.
Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

The perfect canvas for makeup is healthy skin. Always use a gentle cleanser, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and moisturizer for your skin type. For those with oily skin, lightweight moisturizers in gel or lotion format are best to avoid the heavy and greasy feeling with cream moisturizers. Look for moisturizers with more humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid as compared to occlusives.

2. Use a Primer to Create a Base for Better Staying Power

2. Use a Primer to Create a Base for Better Staying Power

Another trick to make your foundation last longer is by using a primer. Just make sure to choose one suitable for oily skin. Also, if your skin is acne-prone, make sure to check whether the ingredients are non-comedogenic

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Primers are used to make the foundation last longer. Mattifying primers are recommended for those with oily skin. Nowadays, sunscreens and moisturizers can be used as a good makeup base so using a primer is just optional.

3. Use a Finishing Powder to Set Your Makeup

3. Use a Finishing Powder to Set Your Makeup

Finishing powders can absorb excess oils that a simple foundation can’t control. That means they can also tamp down on shine and help your makeup stay on longer

Dr. Meg Sison
DermatologistDr. Meg Sison

Finishing powders do not contain pigment, unlike powder foundations. They also have sheer coverage. They are used to set the foundation in place and to absorb excess sebum, especially on the T-zone.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Meg Sison

We compiled all your most asked questions about choosing a foundation for oily skin. Here are the answers from dermatologist, Dr. Meg Sison.

What Are the Best Skincare Products or Ingredients to Control Oily Skin?

Products with salicylic acid are great for those with oily skin because they can also unclog pores and minimize their appearance. Retinoids are also recommended because they help with acne, have anti-aging benefits, can also unclog pores. Niacinamide, alpha hydroxy acids, and green tea can also help keep oiliness at bay. Caution is advised not to use all of these at once to avoid stripping the skin barrier.

How to Prevent Acne When Layering Skincare Products and Foundation?

Use only the essential products in your skincare routine: gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid layering so many skincare products because this can lead to irritation and more breakouts. Consult a board-certified dermatologist if you have acne for personalized treatment and for guidance in your skincare regimen.

What Causes OiIy Skin and Does Oily Skin Cause Acne?

There are a lot of factors that contribute to oily skin. These are genetics, hormones, gender, ethnicity, and certain medical conditions. Acne has a complex pathogenesis and having oily skin does not always lead to having more acne.

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Foundations for Oily Skin

No. 1: Estee Lauder | Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup

No. 2: Maybelline | Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation

No. 3: L’Oreal Paris | True Match Even Perfecting Powder Foundation

No. 4: Revlon | ColorStay 2-Way Powder Foundation

No. 5: Fenty Beauty | Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

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When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.

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