Best Longwear Foundations for Oily Skin

By Jasmine Torres, Makeup & Artistry | International Institute of Beauty

Let’s talk about oily skin the glowy girl’s double edged sword. Yes, you’ll age more slowly (cheers to natural hydration!), but if you’ve ever spent your morning nailing your base only to see it sliding off your face by lunchtime, you know the struggle is real.

That’s where longwear foundation steps in like your trusty beauty sidekick keeping your complexion matte, smooth, and photo ready from AM to PM. But here’s the rub: not all longwear foundations are created equal. Some go cakey, others oxidise, and too many simply can’t stand up to the oil.

As a professional makeup artist and lifelong oily skin girl myself, I’ve done the hard work (and the very shiny road testing) to bring you the best longwear foundations for oily skin.

Whether you prefer a natural finish or full glam, this list has something that stays no matter how hectic your day (or your T zone) gets.

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What Makes a Foundation Great for Oily Skin?

Before diving into the product list, let’s decode what oily skin actually needs from a foundation:

• Oil control without dryness: You want mattifying ingredients like silica or clay, but not so much they suck the life out of your skin.

• Longwear power: Look for claims like “16 hour wear” or “transfer resistant.”

• Non comedogenic: Oily skin can be acne prone, so make sure it won’t clog pores.

• Buildable coverage: One layer for a fresh face; more for those special events.

• Humidity resistance: Bonus points if it holds up in warm weather or under studio lights.

  
  

Now, let’s get into the top performers.

1. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay in Place Foundation

This cult classic didn’t earn its reputation by accident. Double Wear is the gold standard for longwear foundation and it holds its ground even on the slickest skin types.

Why It Works:

• 24 hour wear (yes, actually)

• Medium to full coverage without looking heavy

• Oil free, sweat proof, and non acnegenic

• Huge shade range (60+ shades!)

2. Maybelline SuperStay Active Wear 30H Foundation

A high street hero! If you’re after serious staying power without the high end price tag, SuperStay delivers a flawless matte finish that won’t budge.

Why It Works:

• Long lasting matte coverage (claims up to 30 hours)

• Transfer resistant and non comedogenic

• Light texture that still gives medium to full coverage

• Great on the go packaging for travel or touch ups

  
  

Best for: Students, busy professionals, or anyone on a budget who wants reliability.

3. NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation

This one’s a dream for oily and acne prone skin. It blurs imperfections beautifully while feeling like you’re wearing nothing at all.

Why It Works:

• Oil absorbing powders control shine

• Blurring technology for smoother looking skin

• Natural matte finish with high coverage

• Oxidation resistant (meaning it won't go orange mid day)

4. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

Created by Rihanna herself, this foundation was made with inclusivity and performance in mind. It’s particularly brilliant on oily skin.

Why It Works:

• Longwear matte formula that controls oil all day

• Lightweight, yet buildable

• Non comedogenic and cruelty free

• Over 50 shades for all undertones

  
  

Vibe: This one gives a soft, airbrushed finish that’s great for events or long nights out.

5. L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Matte Cover Foundation

A drugstore staple that truly competes with the luxury giants. It’s matte but breathable, long wear but lightweight basically, it’s giving balance.

Why It Works:

• High pigment with a soft matte finish

• Waterproof and sweatproof

• Doesn’t cling to dry patches

• Great for combination skin too

  
  

Best used with: A blurring primer for an ultra smooth finish.

6. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation

Yes, it’s bougie but this foundation lives up to the hype. It blurs, mattifies, and holds everything in place like a pro level setting spray wrapped into a foundation.

Why It Works:

• Full coverage with an airbrushed finish

• Sweat, humidity, and transfer proof

• Infused with skincare ingredients like Replexium for anti ageing

• Perfect for bridal or event makeup

Jasmine’s Pro Tips for Making Your Foundation Last Longer

Even the best formula needs the right prep and setting to truly go the distance. Here’s how I make any long wear foundation even better:

1. Prep with a mattifying primer: Focus on the T zone to reduce shine.

2. Blot, don’t build: Instead of adding more foundation, blot with blotting papers or a tissue to keep skin looking fresh.

3. Use a setting powder strategically: Lightly dust the forehead, nose, and chin with a finely milled translucent powder.

4. Finish with setting spray: A matte finish spray will lock everything in place and reduce transfer.

Final Thoughts

Oily skin doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice longwear, confidence, or flawless foundation. With the right product and a touch of savvy application you can achieve a base that looks fresh all day, no matter the weather, workload or dance floor.

These foundations are more than just makeup they’re your allies in looking polished, feeling confident, and embracing your natural glow (on your terms). Whether you’re into full glam realness or prefer a lightweight, everyday beat, there’s something on this list that’ll suit your skin and your lifestyle.

So blot your worries away, prep like a pro, and let your foundation do what it’s meant to: stay put, stay perfect, and stay stunning.