12 Best Makeup Artist-Approved Non-Comedogenic Foundations (2024)
Foundations that give you good coverage and a flawless look without clogging the pores.
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
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Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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On the hunt for the best non-comedogenic foundation? Well, you have reached your stop, for we have exactly what your skin needs. Not all skin types are flawless and even, and sometimes we need a foundation to hide the breakouts and pimples that ruin a perfect day. However, not all foundations will cover you without agitating your skin further. Foundations that include comedogenic or pore-clogging ingredients like SLS, lanolin, indigoids, xanthenes, propylene glycol, and C red dyes clog the pores and make your skin irritated (1). Thankfully non-comedogenic makeup products let your skin breathe while covering the uneven tone for you. Here are the 12 highest-rated non-comedogenic foundations to choose from that are perfect for acne-prone and oily skin types.
In This Article
12 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations– Reviews
1. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Maybelline New York Dream Matte Mousse Foundation
Maybelline creates good-quality drugstore makeup products. When it comes to their foundations, they have a wide range of shades and undertones to choose from. This mousse foundation is so well-known for blurring imperfections that it has over 8,024 Amazon reviews confirming it. Several reviewers attest that this weightless formula will last from day to night. The Dream Matte Mousse Foundation is a non-comedogenic, oxygen-whipped formula that melts into the skin and blends seamlessly to create an even tone.
This lightweight foundation has a matte finish and buildable coverage. It is dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested, long-wearing, and does not look cakey. To understand the nuances of the cream foundation in detail, you can check out this review showcasing a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Weightless
- Dermatologist-tested
- Allergy-tested
- Oxygen-whipped formula
- Blends seamlessly
- Buildable coverage
- Non-cakey
- Long-lasting wear
- Affordable
Cons
- Not enough shades available for all skin tones
Pro Tip2. Best Lightweight:L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation
The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation is a 24-hour wear foundation. This liquid foundation is lightweight, breathable, and provides medium to full coverage. Its silky smooth application makes the skin look healthy and even-toned. This cult-favorite foundation does not oxidize and change color. It has gathered 13,733 Amazon reviews owing to its longevity and airbrush look.
The formula is non-comedogenic and controls oil. It is sweat-resistant and water-resistant. The SPF 25 protects the skin from UV rays. While it is suitable for all skin types, it is specifically beneficial for people with oily skin, owing to its oil-absorbing properties. This foundation is your best bet from the drugstore if you are looking for a liquid, long-wearing foundation with a mattifying effect that does not make the skin breakout. Check out this YouTuber’s review to know more about the tester’s experience of using this product.
Also Recommended By:The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation has also made it to the lists by Realbeautyschool.[1]10 Best Drugstore Non-comedogenic Foundations in 2024. Realbeautyschool.
https://realbeautyschool.com/best-drugstore-non-comedogenic-foundations/
Pros
- 24-hour wear time
- Lightweight
- Medium to full coverage
- SPF 25
- Non-cakey
- Pump dispenser
- Affordable
Cons
- Not for a skin-like finish
Pro Tip3. Best Lightweight Tint:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint
If you are looking for a more skin-like finish with a light coverage, try the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint. It is suitable for dry skin as it is formulated with hyaluronic acid that plumps the skin, boosts hydration, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The breathable, water-gel formula is non-comedogenic. Reviews on online forums attest that this does not clog pores or cause breakouts. This lightweight formula wears up to 24 hours, blends easily, is non-streaky, and makes the skin look healthy. You can also check out this video detailing a tester’s experience for a brief review of the product.
Pros
- Skin-like
- Breathable
- Blends easily
- Non-streaky
- Wears up to 24 hours
- Hydrates and plumps
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
- Affordable
Cons
- Not enough shades
Maybelline New York Dream Matte Mousse Foundation Best Dermatologist-Tested | L'Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation Best Lightweight | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint Best Lightweight Tint | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | AllColor | AllColor | Dry |
| Dimensions | 1.31 x 2.06 x 3 inches | 1.18 x 1.18 x 4.61 inches | 1.38 x 1.38 x 4.13 inches |
| Weight | 3.81 Ounces | 3.82 Ounces. | 3.18 Ounces |
| Color | - | - | 030 Buff |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 7,972 | 13,755 | 8,532 |
| Price | $6.5 | $10.89 | $8.75 |
4. Best Hypoallergenic:Almay Clear Complexion Makeup
The Almay Clear Complexion Makeup is a dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic liquid foundation. It is lightweight and formulated with salicylic acid that conceals blemishes, minimizes pores, controls oil, and suppresses acne flare-ups. This non-acnegenic formula has 2,463 Amazon reviews talking about its most potent skin-friendly ingredients that provide a clear and flawless complexion. This dermatologist-tested foundation helps in improving the texture of the skin and gives you healthy skin with regular use It does not exaggerate the skin texture and leaves the skin with a soft, matte finish. This foundation is perfect for oily and combination skin types. It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free. It is available in 14 shades and comes with a pump dispenser.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fights blemishes
- Suppresses acne flare-ups
- Minimizes enlarged pore size
- Breathable
- Controls oil
- Suits oily and combination skin
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Pump dispenser
- Affordable
Cons
- Not enough shades and undertones
5. Best Vegan:Bellapierre Mineral Foundation
The Bellapierre Mineral Foundation is a vegan, non-comedogenic formula. Its SPF 15 protects the skin from UV damage and provides medium to full coverage. The silky texture of this foundation glides smoothly across your skin and provides a flawless close-to-skin finish. It also helps even out the skin tone. You can use it as a foundation, concealer, and setting powder. It makes the skin appear flawless without making your face look cakey. Several reviewers on online forums love how weightless the powder foundation feels on your skin.
Prep your skin with a primer and grab a little bit of this mineral foundation on a brush. Apply it all over your face, using more if you need more coverage. The formula is non-toxic, cruelty-free, and paraben-free.
Pros
- Vegan
- Medium to full coverage
- SPF 15
- Can be used as a concealer and finishing powder as well
- Non-toxic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
6. Best Non-Comedogenic:Marcelle Flawless Foundation
The Marcelle Flawless Foundation is a non-comedogenic foundation that can provide medium to full coverage. This waterproof foundation gives you a natural, flawless finish. This hydrating formula is inspired by cutting-edge color-matching technology (adaptive pigments) that mixes with the skin to provide a natural glow without blocking pores. This composition, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, nourishes and moisturizes your dehydrated skin and gives you a bright complexion. It boasts a 10-hour staying power and is waterproof to keep your makeup in place no matter what. It has been dermatologically tested and is hypoallergenic, making it suited for all skin types.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Stays up to 10 hours
- Lightweight
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
- Waterproof formula
Cons
- Slightly expensive
7. Best Buildable Coverage:ISDINCEUTICS Skin Drops For Face And Body
The ISDINCEUTICS Skin Drops For Face And Body is a non-comedogenic liquid foundation with buildable coverage. It comes with a dropper that makes it convenient to create the desired coverage. In just a few drops, it conceals discoloration, bruising, scars, burns, and even tattoos. It can be used on the face and body. It can also be mixed with a lightweight face cream for use as a BB cream and have a skin-like, “no-makeup” makeup look. It wears up to 12 hours and leaves the skin with a matte finish. Its illuminating and long-lasting coverage has won the hearts of many reviewers.
Pros
- Buildable coverage
- Dropper dispenser
- For face and body
- Can be mixed with face cream
- Wears up to 12 hours
- Matte finish
Cons
- Not enough shades
- Expensive
8. Best Allergy Tested:Dermablend Flawless Creator Liquid Foundation
With just 10 ingredients, the Dermablend Flawless Creator Liquid Foundation helps conceal skin discoloration and scars without aggravating acne flare-ups. There are more than 4,597 amazon reviews for this dermatologist-tested liquid foundation because it can be easily spread and hides all the imperfections. The saturated pigment provides full coverage and leaves off a dewy finish. It is lightweight, blendable, and buildable, and leaves a healthy glow.
You can take a pea-size drop on the back of your hand. Use your fingertips to dot it all over your face and neck. Use a sponge/blender or a foundation brush to get a flawless, even-toned complexion. The foundation is non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin, allergy-tested, oil-free, and fragrance-free. Ethically-conscious reviewers also favor this product as it is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Dropper dispenser
- Full coverage
- Lightweight
- Blendable
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Allergy-tested
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not enough shades for all skin tones
- Expensive
9. Best Breathable:Too Faced Born This Way Foundation
The Too Faced Born This Way Foundation is a 12-hour wearing, non-comedogenic product. This breathable and lightweight foundation provides a buildable, medium to full coverage. The hyaluronic acid hydrates the dry skin and makes it appear smoother with a youthful glow. This foundation is infused with coconut water. It is the ideal foundation for replenishing the skin’s moisture levels without leaving you with clogged pores or making it look too oily or shiny. The brand does not condone animal testing, making this foundation for ethically-conscious beauty lovers.
Pros
- Wears up to 12 hours
- Breathable and lightweight
- Buildable coverage
- Hydrates dry skin
- Controls oil and shine
Cons
- Expensive
10. Best Oil-Free:NARS Sheer Matte Foundation
If you are looking for a lightweight foundation with sheer coverage that helps cancel discoloration, try the NARS Sheer Matte Foundation. It is non-comedogenic, breathable, and evens out the uneven skin tone. It is an oil-free formula that reduces oil and shine. This dermatologist-tested anti-acne foundation is fragrance-free and brightens the skin while concealing acne scars.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Lightweight and breathable
- Brightening
- Evens out skin tone
- Matte finish
- Controls oil and shine
- Oil-free
Cons
- Not enough shades
- Very expensive
11. Best Long-Wearing:TEMPTU Liquid Foundation
The TEMPTU Liquid Foundation gives you that dewy, natural-looking finish that looks like skin. This non-comedogenic foundation is blendable and has buildable coverage. It can be used on the face and body. It blends seamlessly into the skin, concealing discoloration, and blemishes without leaving you with clogged pores. This long-wearing foundation provides a sheer to full coverage and leaves the skin feeling hydrated and glowing. It is available in 12 custom shades that can be applied using anything, from your fingertips to a brush, an airbrush, or the usual sponge. Additionally, conscious beauty lovers opt for this product as it is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Blends seamlessly
- Sheer to full coverage
Cons
- Not enough shades
- Expensive
12. Best Fragrance-Free Formula: Max Factor X Lasting Performance Foundation
The Max Factor X Lasting Performance Foundation offers sheer to medium coverage. It provides a subtle, radiant, and realistic second skin-like glow that lasts for four hours. This lightweight foundation is suitable for sensitive skin. The foundation helps conceal redness, scars, blemishes, and other skin imperfections without clogging your pores.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Buildable coverage
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Watery formula
These are the 12 best non-comedogenic foundations of 2024 you can buy online to add to your makeup routine. But before you do so, keep the following points in mind.
What To Look For In A Non-Comedogenic Foundation
- Ingredients: Avoid foundations with lanolin, SLS, propylene glycol, D & C red dyes, xanthenes, and indigoids. These are comedogenic and clog pores, leading to acne breakouts. Look for products with acne-friendly ingredients like salicylic acid, titanium dioxide, or natural ingredients like jojoba oil, and squalane.
- Undertone: Along with the right shade, even the right undertone will prevent your foundation from looking ashy. If your veins are green, you have a warm undertone. If they are blue, you have a cool undertone. If your veins look both blue and green depending on the light and time, you have a neutral undertone. Seek help from a makeup expert to decide the right shade and undertone of your foundation.
- Formula: Choose an oil-free, water-based, or gel formula to prevent acne breakouts. If you have sensitive skin, opt for dermatologist-tested or expert-recommended formulas to avoid allergic reactions, especially if you have certain skin issues.
- Form: The form can be liquid, mineral, or mousse. However, it must be breathable, lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic.
Infographic: Buying Guide And Tips To Use Non-Comedogenic Foundation
People with acne-prone skin deal with breakouts and stubborn blemishes. So, picking foundations that suit their skin types takes a lot of work. Non-comedogenic formulas are ideal for acne-prone or oily skin as they do not clog the pores. Check out the below infographic to learn about all the factors and ingredients that you can consider when buying a non-comedogenic foundation. It also mentions the steps to use a foundation for flawless skin. Keep scrolling! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Non-comedogenic foundations are best for acne-prone skin. They offer an enhanced beauty by helping in minimizing breakouts and pimples while unclogging the pores on your face. Non-comedogenic foundations offer exceptional results by providing a spotless skin, as they blend seamlessly while providing good coverage. The Maybelline New York Dream Matte Mousse Foundation is a great choice for people looking for lightweight and affordable formulas, while the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Foundation is a long-wearing formula that is suitable for all skin types. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. These expertly crafted foundations are non-greasy, weightless and do not look cakey. Moreover, some brands create non-comedogenic foundations that have the ability to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. However, some of the brands listed might not have enough foundation shades as per different skin colors and undertones. Cha Cha Woska, a certified makeup artist, says, “Acne-prone skin does best when the foundation is applied with a brush or an airbrush. Using fingertips can leave dirt and oils on the skin, potentially creating more breakouts.” Remember to perform a patch test before applying these foundations to check for skin irritations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are non-comedogenic foundations good for oily skin?
Non-comedogenic foundations are good for oily skin type as they help control oil, reduce shine, and prevent breakouts.
Are oil-free products non-comedogenic?
Not all oil-free products are non-comedogenic. Watch out for comedogenic ingredients like lanolin, SLS, propylene glycol, D & C red dyes, xanthenes, and indigoids.
How do you know if your makeup is non-comedogenic?
Check the ingredients list of your makeup product before buying it. Steer clear of product that contains ingredients like isopropyl palmitate, decyl oleate, and isocetyl stearate. They clog your pores and worsen the condition of your acne. Additionally, brands rate their products on a 5-point scale. If they rank it between 0-2, the product is non-comedogenic, and a ranking above 2 indicates that it is comedogenic. So, check the label thoroughly before purchasing a makeup product.
What does non-comedogenic mean?
Non-comedogenic determines if an ingredient or a substance (comedones) is devoid of the potential to clog your pores. These substances do not cause breakouts and are safe for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
What ingredients are comedogenic in makeup?
Ingredients that are comedogenic in makeup are beeswax, cocoa butter, dimethicone, isopropyl myristate, coconut oil, decyl oleate, and red pigments. They sit under your skin and may cause breakouts.
What foundation won’t make you break out?
An oil-free hypoallergenic foundation that is free from comedogenic ingredients will not make you break out. All the mentioned foundations in the article are great for your acne-prone skin.
Why does every foundation break me out?
The foundations that you have used might have plenty of comedogenic ingredients that are leading you to break out often. Plus, ingredients like mica, silica, and talc are known to irritate and dehydrate the skin. These ingredients if present in your foundations can also contribute to your increased acne problems.
How do you prevent acne when wearing foundation?
• Cleanse your face with an oil-balancing, anti-acne cleanser.
• Apply a thin layer of water-based hydrating moisturizer.
• Use a makeup-friendly acne patch over your active acne, if any.
• Clean your makeup brushes and sponges before using them on your acne-prone skin.
• Apply a thin layer of oil-free, non-comedogenic foundation to your face. Mineral foundations are the best as they are formulated with fewer chemical actives and are safe for acne-prone skin.
How do you prevent breakouts after makeup?
Remove your makeup completely at night to prevent the makeup particles from settling in your pores. Use skincare products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic or mandelic acid to cleanse away the harsh makeup particles from your pores. They gently exfoliate your skin and prevent acne.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
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