Start with Smart Skin Prep
Great makeup begins with great skincare. Before reaching for any cosmetics, cleanse your face to remove excess oil and impurities. Look for a gentle foaming or gel cleanser, which can effectively clean the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture.
Many believe that oily skin doesn't need hydration, but this is a myth. When skin is dehydrated, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. Follow your cleanse with a lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturizer to keep your skin balanced. For an added benefit, seek out products containing ingredients like salicylic acid, which exfoliates within the pores, or niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production over time.
Prime for a Shine-Free Canvas
Primer is a non-negotiable step for oily skin, as it creates a barrier between your skin and your foundation, giving the makeup something to grip onto. Opt for a mattifying or pore-blurring primer specifically designed for oil control. Apply a thin layer, focusing on the areas that tend to get the oiliest, such as your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This will not only help your makeup last longer but also create a smooth, even surface for a seamless application. Some makeup artists even suggest a light dusting of translucent powder after primer and before foundation to provide an extra layer of oil absorption.
Choose Your Base and Concealer Wisely
When it comes to foundation, look for oil-free, long-wearing formulas with a matte or satin finish. Words like "long-lasting," "matte," or "natural finish" are good indicators. Liquid or powder-based foundations tend to work better for oily skin than heavy cream formulas, which may not fully set and can contribute to a greasy look. Apply your foundation in thin, buildable layers using a damp sponge or brush. This approach prevents a heavy, cakey appearance and is less likely to slide around. Use a liquid concealer to cover any blemishes, tapping it gently into the skin to blend without disturbing the foundation underneath.
The Power of Powder and 'Baking'
Setting your liquid and cream products with powder is arguably the most critical step for locking in your look. Use a finely-milled loose translucent powder and a fluffy brush to lightly set your entire face. For extra oil-prone areas like the under-eyes and T-zone, consider the "baking" technique. This involves applying a generous layer of loose powder with a damp sponge, letting it sit for five to ten minutes, and then gently brushing away the excess. The heat from your skin helps the powder meld with your foundation, absorbing excess oil and creating a smooth, crease-proof finish.
Opt for Powder-Based Colour
To add colour and dimension back to your face, it's generally best to stick with powder formulas. Cream blushes, bronzers, and highlighters can be beautiful, but they can also add unwanted shine and may not have the same staying power on oily skin. Powder-based products will adhere better to your set foundation and help maintain a matte finish throughout the day. When choosing a highlighter, a powder formula can still give you a beautiful glow without looking greasy.
Lock It In with a Setting Spray
The final step is to mist your face with a mattifying setting spray. This will lock all your hard work in place, help your makeup withstand humidity, and prevent it from breaking down. A good setting spray can also help all the powder layers melt together, taking away any overly dry or powdery look and leaving a more natural-looking matte finish. For on-the-go touch-ups, keep blotting papers or a pressed powder compact in your bag to gently absorb any shine that may appear during the day without disrupting your makeup.
