19 Best Makeup Artist-Approved Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin (2024)
These lightweight foundations will absorb excess oil and cover your acne effortlessly.
Lorrie Pearson is a professional makeup artist who has been creating her signature natural makeup looks for 20+ years. She began her career working behind the cosmetics counter that helped her strengthen her skills in application.
Ms. Pearson received her esthetics license from the Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics where she taught skincare and makeup.
Read full bio of Lorrie Pearson
Experience: 5 yearsSakshi Bahal is a commerce writer with a master's degree in English Literature from Calcutta University. She was a part of the editorial team of her school magazine. Her love for writing inspired her to take up literature and follow that up with creative writing after completing her education.
Read full bio of Sakshi Bahal
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 3 yearsAsmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.
Read full bio of Asmita De
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
A foundation helps to cover imperfections on your skin and make it look even. But if you are dealing with acne or pimples, some foundations may aggravate acne. This is why you need the best foundation for acne-prone skin to transform your appearance.
Acne is not just a problem for teenagers; adults can also experience it. Acnes can also occur due to some hormonal changes. Some foundations can provide good acne coverage, while some can also hydrate your skin and help resolve your acne issue.
Lorrie Pearson, a professional Makeup Artist, says, “Foundations in the right formula, perfectly applied, help to minimize skin imperfections.”
Finding the right makeup for acne-prone skin can be daunting. So, in this article, we have put together a list of the best foundations for acne-prone skin. These products have garnered rave reviews on online forums owing to their good-quality ingredients and long-lasting finish. Scroll down to check them out!
In This Article
19 Best Foundations For Acne-Prone Skin – Top Picks Of 2024
1. Best Lightweight: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation
The Maybelline Fit Me foundation is a cult classic and certainly one of the best foundations for acne prone skin. If you are struggling with acne or acne scars, you’ve got to give this acne scar-concealing foundation a shot. It is incredibly lightweight and offers light to medium coverage. The dermatologist-tested formula contains micro-powders that absorb excess oil and leave you with a matte finish. It also helps in covering acne scars. This foundation is available in 40 super-saturated shades. This video detailing a tester’s experience with this foundation will give you a better insight into its qualities.
Pros
- Suitable for normal to oily skin
- Buildable coverage
- Blurs pores
- Long-wearing
- Controls oil and shine
- Photographs well
- Dermatologist-tested
- Available in 40 shades
- Affordable
- Non-irritating
Cons
- None
"This one stands out as one of my favorites for its durable and sweat-resistant coverage. It blends in beautifully and creates a natural look, and is my pick for casual days. Overall, it is a commendable product that has quickly become a staple in my makeup routine."
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 13,508 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
2. Best Long-Lasting: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation
The celebrity-endorsed brand L’Oréal Paris’ Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation is a must-have if you are looking for a long-lasting foundation that also acts like a tinted moisturizer. It has an air-light texture and offers medium coverage with a demi-matte finish. This creamy foundation flawlessly covers blemishes including acne and offers a clear and smooth skin. The L’Oreal Paris Foundation is available in 22 gorgeous shades to cater to a wide range of skin tones and complexions. It is the best foundation for oily acne-prone skin that imparts a silky-smooth finish.
Pros
- Suitable for normal to oily skin
- Provides demi-matte finish
- Available in 22 shades
- Lightweight
- Offers medium coverage
- Hides blemishes and dark spots
- Easy to take off
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Long-wearing
- Affordable
Cons
- None
"This foundation does not cause any irritation to my skin. It also blends seamlessly and is ideal for a ‘no-makeup’ makeup look. It gives a natural coverage that stays throughout the day, even when I’m doing sweaty chores. The final matte finish is not heavy and does not look flaky or cracked."
Pro Tip3. Best For Oily And Combination Skin: Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation
Revlon Colorstay is one of the best matte long-wear foundations. It works quite impressively on combination or oily skin and mattifies your skin through the day, preventing midday shine. Its lightweight formula blends seamlessly into your skin and does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles. It is also available in a normal to dry skin version and comes in a wide range of shades for every skin tone and undertone. It imparts an even-toned skin.
Pros
- Suitable for combination and oily skin
- Buildable coverage
- Oil-free formula
- Long-wearing
- Lightweight
- Available in 43 shades
- Offers oil-control
- Contains salicylic acid
- Contains SPF 15
- Affordable
Cons
- May not get absorbed easily.
"I love its coverage which hides my imperfections and manages my oily T-zone very well. It is easy to apply and blends well to give me a natural look. The sun protection it offers is a huge plus for me. I make sure to clean my skin at night to remove all my makeup and this foundation gets removed quite easily."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 4,203 great reviews on Amazon.
| Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Best Lightweight | L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Foundation Best Long-Lasting | Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foundation Best For Oily And Combination Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal; OilyColor | OilyColor | CombinationColor |
| Dimensions | 1.16 x 1.16 x 3.92 inches | 0.74 x 1.85 x 4.78 inches | 1.25 x 1.25 x 4.13 inches |
| Weight | 3.99 Ounces | 1.44 Ounces | 4.23 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,508 | 3,067 | 4,203 |
| Price | $6.94 | $9.99 | $9.99 |
4. Best Full Coverage: Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
there’s one camouflage foundation for acne-prone skin that lives up to its hype, it’s definitely this one from Estee Lauder. This formula is fantastic for problematic skin. It offers full coverage and is humidity- and sweat-resistant. It is also super gentle on your skin. As its name suggests, it does “stay in place” all day long and feels very comfortable on the skin. This foundation is available in over 50 shades. Check this video to explore a reviewer’s experience with this foundation for more information.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Ultra-lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Blends like a dream
- Suitable for every skin type
- Buildable coverage
- Waterproof
- Transfer-resistant
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- A little expensive.
"This foundation is ideal for someone like me, who has to bear double shifts and hectic work days. It's a lifesaver for my oily skin and helps me achieve a natural look, even under a mask. It works well with my other makeup products and gives me a subtle glow that stays throughout the day."
5. Best Natural Finish: Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Makeup
The SkinClearing Oil-Free Makeup is an anti-blemish foundation from Neutrogena that offers natural-looking coverage for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. With salicylic acid in its formula, it not only treats acne and blemishes but also prevents breakouts. If you are worried about that midday sheen, this expertly crafted foundation does a great job of keeping it at bay. It is available in 14 shades for different skin tones and is an excellent choice of makeup for acne-prone skin. It is the best Neutrogena foundation for acne. Watch this video review for a thorough understanding of the product.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Natural coverage
- Does not clog pores
- Treats and prevents blemishes
- Available in 14 shades
- Hypoallergenic
- Controls shine
- Oil-free formula
- Value for money
Cons
- May not cover redness.
- May irritate sensitive skin.
6. Best Shade Range:Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation has a matte finish and provides medium to full coverage. It helps cover all blemishes without pore clogging, leaving you with dewy, refreshed-looking, and healthy skin with a smooth texture. It adds life to the skin. The formula for this foundation is specially made using climate-adaptive technology resistant to humidity and sweat that prevents your makeup from slipping off due to excessive sweating.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Buildable coverage
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Expensive
"This foundation has a light feel and gives me great coverage. I use one layer to reduce the appearance of my dark circles and redness. It also blends seamlessly and offers a comfortable matte finish."
7. Best For Sensitive Skin: Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation
Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation has a unique breathable formula that heals and protects your skin as long as you are wearing it. It uses an innovative aloe vera base, making it antibacterial and incredibly soothing for sensitive and irritated skin. This expert-recommended foundation goes on sheer, allowing your natural beauty to shine through. But you can build on the coverage to cover blemishes and achieve the desired finish with healthy skin, which lasts all day.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Available in 14 shades
- Breathable formula
- Offers full coverage
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Expensive
- Dispenser is fragile
Pro Tip8. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: e.l.f. Acne-Fighting Foundation
This lightweight foundation from e.l.f. Cosmetics is a blessing for acne-prone skin. It is infused with wholesome ingredients like camphor, tea tree, witch hazel, aloe, and salicylic acid to fight acne and blemishes. This acne-healing foundation with full coverage helps even out your skin tone and reduces redness. This foundation comes in 10 different shades. What’s more? This foundation is vegan and free of animal testing, ensuring a guilt-free experience.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Good coverage
- Suitable for oily and combination skin types
- Treats blemishes
- Lightweight formula
- Vegan
- Affordable
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong smell
- Shade may be inaccurate.
"This one gives me comfortable wear without feeling too heavy on my skin. In my experience, the coverage is great and it works well for my sensitive and acne-prone skin type. Also, I love that it stays true to color."
9. Best Buildable Coverage: Wander Beauty Wanderlust Powder Foundation
Wander Beauty Wanderlust Powder Foundation has a silky smooth and lightweight formula that provides sheer to buildable full coverage. This oil-absorbing powder is ultra-fine and minimizes the appearance of pores but it is not cakey. If you are worried about chemicals, worry no more, because the formula is infused with a host of skin-loving and nourishing ingredients, such as aloe leaf, hibiscus flower, and hyaluronic acid. It exhibits a rejuvenating effect on the skin. It is the best mineral powder foundation for acne-prone skin that is not heavy.
Pros
- Available in 12 shades
- Suitable for all skin types
- Paraben-free
- Lightweight formula
- Offers sheer to buildable coverage
- Talc-free
- Cruelty-free
- Mineral-oil-free
Cons
- Expensive
- May not suit mature skin.
- Crumbles easily
"This powder foundation gives me great coverage. It has a lightweight texture that does not weigh my skin down. It is great for the warmer months. It also helps conceal the dark spots and blemishes without smuging or smearing."
10. Best Oil-Free Formula:GIORGIO ARMANI Luminous Silk Foundation
The GIORGIO ARMANI Luminous Silk Foundation is the one for a “no-makeup” makeup look. This skin-balancing foundation for acne-prone skin allows for a satin glow finish that makes your skin appear flawless and radiant. This particular dewy foundation is formulated with micro–fil & trade technology that allows the pigments to lay flat over your skin to blend in and provide an even texture. Many reviewers have testified that this foundation helps brighten the skin, keeps it looking fresh for many hours, and helps hide imperfections while providing a natural dewy look. It reduces the need for touch-ups.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Offers sheer to buildable coverage
- Lightweight formula
- Talc-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- None
"I like this foundation's lightweight texture. It also has buildable coverage that is perfect for my mature skin. The no-makeup look that it provides is ideal for me. Bonus, it doesn't cake or crease at all!"
11.Best Professional: Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Liquid Foundation
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Liquid Foundation is a favorite with professional makeup artists and amateur enthusiasts for its natural finish. It effectively tackles redness. The medium coverage is buildable, and the foundation is intensely hydrating due to the presence of hyaluronic acid. The smart pigments adapt well and adjust to your complexion, creating a flawless finish that looks good both on and off camera. The moisturizing properties of the foundation are amazing.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Offers medium buildable coverage
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Photographs well
- Long-wearing
- Covers redness
- Natural-looking finish
Cons
- Expensive
- Watery consistency
- May not be effective on extremely oily skin.
"This foundation sits so well on my acne-prone skin. It conceals my blemishes and rosacea with ease, blending so subtly that it could be mistaken for a second skin. It has a lightweight feel and the wear time is quite impressive, given its sheer coverage."
12. Best Oil-Free Formula:Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup
Are you looking for a lightweight foundation that looks and feels natural? This one from Clinique is an oil-free formula, and it contains salicylic acid that treats existing breakouts and prevents them from coming back. This salicylic acid-infused foundation is also free of parabens, phthalates, and fragrance. If you have extremely oily skin that is prone to acne, this foundation will work wonders for you. It is available in 16 shades.
Pros
- Available in 16 shades
- Long-wearing
- Does not clog pores
- Allergy-tested
- Good coverage
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Expensive
- May cause breakouts.
- May dry out the skin.
"This product has really helped my sensitive skin. It provides just the right coverage, and the best part? No acne breakouts in sight. I like its lightweight formula that goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly. It settles without clogging my pores."
13. Best For Blemishes:Almay Clear Complexion Makeup
Almay Clear Complexion Makeup contains salicylic acid and is formulated to target oily and combination skin types that are prone to acne. The maximum strength dose of salicylic acid in the dermatologist-tested foundation works to suppress acne flare-ups without irritating your skin. The lightweight formula is fantastic for concealing blemishes, minimizing pores, and controlling shine. It offers a soft matte finish with buildable coverage that looks and feels natural. It is the best drugstore foundation for oily acne prone skin.
Pros
- Available in 14 shades
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Cruelty-free
- Affordable
Cons
- May not be as effective on severe acne.
- Uneven coverage
- May dry out the skin.
14.Best For Matte Finish: Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Matte Foundation
This loose powder foundation from Bare Minerals is a 100% vegan formula that is made with just six ingredients. The even-tone foundation offers broad-spectrum SPF 15 and gives you buildable coverage with a silky matte finish. Many reviewers agree that this weightless mineral formula controls excess oil and shine. It also does not cause breakouts or any sort of pore clogging. This powder foundation is available in a range of 30 shades. It is the best mineral foundation for acne-prone skin.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Available in 30 shades
- Long-wearing
- Lightweight
- Mineral makeup
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Natural finish
Cons
- Not value for money
- Shade may be inaccurate.
- Strong smell
15. Best For All Skin Types: Bellapierre Loose Powder Mineral Foundation
The Bellapierre Loose Powder Mineral Foundation is a multi-functional foundation that can be used as a concealer, finishing powder, and setting powder. This chemical-free formula provides full coverage and a smooth canvas while protecting your skin against UV radiation. It includes delicate mineral components such as mica, zinc oxides, iron oxides, and titanium dioxide. It is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, so it will not clog pores or trigger breakouts. This product will help your skin attain a smooth and even finish, offering a statement-making look.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Talc-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Slightly Expensive
"I've been reaching for this powder foundation lately for its natural and lightweight feel. The best part is that it works both as a foundation and a setting powder. While coverage may require layering, it's become my first pick for full coverage makeup."
16. Best Long Wearing Formula:MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation is extraordinarily long-wearing and is tested to last an impressive 24 hours. It blends comfortably and offers buildable coverage. The broad-spectrum SPF 15 of this everyday foundation protects your skin when you are out and about during the day. The formula from the celebrity-favored brand is designed to go on smooth, spread evenly, and control shine while providing a matte finish. It is one among the best foundations to cover acne scars.
Pros
- Available in 49 shades
- Contains SPF 15
- Non-drying
- Controls oil and shine
- Long-wearing
- Medium buildable coverage
Cons
- Expensive
- May cause breakouts
- Strong smell
"This foundation blends seamlessly and gives me a natural skin-like feel. It lasts throughout the day without any irritation. It does not feel heavy on my skin or make it appear tacking. It controls facial oil without drying the skin out."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 166 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
17. Best Dermatoligally Tested: Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation
The Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation is a matte finish, full-coverage foundation made with ten high-performance ingredients. It contains silica, which regulates oil control to make the skin appear natural and light. It addresses irritation, pigmentation, discoloration, acne, and uneven skin tone. It is an expertly crafted formula that offers smooth application and lasts up to 16 hours. The foundation is allergy-tested, so it is safe for people with sensitive skin. It is also perfect for those dealing with acne-prone skin and congested pores.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Full Coverage
- Dermatologically tested
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben free
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons
- None
"This foundation has a lightweight formula that conceals my blemishes without a heavy feel. It does not make my skin appear cakey or creasy. It offers a smooth coverage and has great staying power, even on my oily skin."
18. Best Waterproof Formula: Catrice HD Liquid Coverage Foundation
The Catrice HD Liquid Coverage Foundation is a lightweight, long-lasting liquid foundation with a natural matte finish. This foundation features a unique dropper applicator and is so light that it creates an airbrushed finish throughout the day and appears to be a second skin. It is formulated with niacinamide that has oil-control properties, making it an excellent addition for those with oily and acne-prone skin. It offers an ample level of coverage that helps you get a flawless matte skin look. The skin is perfectly even and attractive in photos thanks to the very high-definition finish.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Long-wearing
- Covers redness
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben Free
- Gluten-Free
- Oil Free
- Alcohol-Free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 2,228 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
19. Best For Teenagers:Cover FX Natural Finish Foundation
This water-based foundation from Cover FX imparts a radiant finish to your skin. It contains ingredients like vitamins C and E to protect your skin from free radicals. Its lightweight texture delivers exceptional results, as it leaves you with a soft, dewy finish and offers medium to full coverage. It comes in a wide range of 40 shades to choose from. Best makeup for teens.
Pros
- Oil-free formula
- Buildable coverage
- Easy to blend
- Long-wearing
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Expensive
- Shade may be inaccurate.
- May feel greasy on the skin.
Here are some tips to help you choose your holy grail foundation and make the most of it while protecting your delicate skin.
Tips: How To Choose And Use Foundation For Acne-Prone Skin
- Ingredients: Acne-fighting skin care ingredients like salicylic acid are a bonus that goes a long way in healing your skin while making it look flawless. A liquid formula for acne with a low concentration of salicylic acid is a safe bet.
- Formula: It is critical to avoid formulas that contain silicones, mica, alcohol, and fragrance if you do not want to worsen your acne. If you are worried about clogged pores making your acne worse, consider switching to powder-based foundations for acne. If you’d prefer to stick with liquid foundations, opt for oil-free and matte products over those with a dewy finish. A cream or stick foundation formula works best for dry, acne-prone skin.
- Application: The way you apply your makeup plays a significant role in the well-being of your skin. If you have sensitive skin and active acne, always use a light hand and apply your foundation as gently as possible. If you struggle with large pores, apply a mattifying primer gel before you go in with your foundation. Use a clear, water-based primer that will not clog pores and will keep your face shine-free. Remember, less is more. Don’t make the mistake of applying too much makeup as it does not flatter any skin type.
- Cleansing: Take off all your makeup at the end of the day. The way you remove it also makes a difference. Use micellar water and a mild cleanser to get rid of every last bit of your makeup.
Infographic: Tips For Choosing The Best Foundation For Acne-Prone Skin
A single ingredient in your regular foundation can trigger a reaction and aggravate your acne. Therefore, only invest in foundations suitable for your acne-prone skin type. Some foundations provide good coverage, while others contain ingredients that help treat acne. Check out the infographic below to learn important factors to consider when buying a foundation for your acne-prone skin. Scroll down.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
That was our round-up of the 19 best foundations of 2024 for acne-prone skin. With these options, you can confidently embrace makeup without worrying about exacerbating breakouts. The Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation is a good budget-friendly choice for people seeking matte finish that minimizes visible pores. The Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup guarantees long-lasting coverage, ideal for those long busy days. The Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup not only works as a foundation but also helps conceal blemishes and is a great choice if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Although bare skin is amazing, there are times when you may want to cover up a little. It can be challenging to apply makeup for acne-prone skin. Here is how to cover acne with foundation. But all it takes is the right foundation formula and a tad bit of practice to hone your makeup skills. You can check how a celebrity makeup artist works with the products to brace your skills. Read the reviews and choose the product that best suits your skin needs. It is also recommended to test the foundation on the back of your palm to check for allergic reactions before applying it to your face. Additionally, you can seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist to get your hands on the most suitable one!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you wear foundations for acne-prone skin?
People with acne-prone skin can wear non-comedogenic foundations with gentle formulas regularly. Choose foundations containing salicylic acid to prevent the growth of spots and blemishes. Some foundations absorb excess oil, which is great for acne-prone skin. However, make sure to remove the foundation properly before sleeping.
How do you apply foundation for acne-prone skin?
It is better to apply a matte foundation on acne-prone skin to conceal spots, blemishes, and stubborn pimples. Remember to cleanse, tone, and prep your skin before putting on a foundation. Apply your foundation with a beauty blender to achieve a natural look. Finally, use a setting spray to seal the foundation.
I have acne! Is it okay to wear makeup?
Yes, it is absolutely alright to wear makeup even if you have acne-prone skin. While choosing makeup products, steer clear of formulas that are too oily and tend to clog pores. Look out for non-comedogenic cosmetics enriched with salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and other oil-free ingredients that do not cause breakouts.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Sakshi Bahal, is a makeup and skincare enthusiast, and her interests motivate her to experiment with a wide range of products of the two mentioned domains. Understanding the challenges in finding the right foundation for acne-prone skin, Sakshi has done extensive research and gone through many forums to gain insights from customer feedback and curate a list of the best foundations that are designed for the particular skin type. The listed products can give you the desired coverage without causing any harm to the skin.
Recommended:
- 15 Best Waterproof Foundations For Women
- Top 10 Water Based Foundations
- 10 Best Foundations For Asian Skin Tone
- Top 10 Natural Foundations Available In India
- Top 10 Acne Control Products
Read full bio of Lorrie Pearson
Read full bio of Sakshi Bahal
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Asmita De
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