Image: MomJunction Design Team
Setting or compact powder is our go-to secret weapon for making makeup better at concealing fine lines and wrinkles. However, finding the best powders for oily skin that don’t leave your face greasy and oily might be difficult. If you have oily skin, you may want to use a powder that lasts a long period.
We have compiled a list of the finest powders for oily skin to keep your look fresh throughout the day.
Top Picks
14 Best Powders For Oily Skin That Lasts A Long Period In 2024
1. Best Vegan: Dermablend Loose Setting Powder
Demablend brings you this weightless, translucent loose powder for oily skin that can be used both on the body and face. It blends smoothly by absorbing excess oil and giving a fine matte finish with sheer translucence. It gives a consistent, transfer-resistant, and smudge-free look that lasts up to 16 hours. Moreover, the dermatologist-tested and vegan formula suits all skin conditions, skin tones, and skin types and contains no animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Take a look at this review video to learn more about a tester’s experience with this oil-control powder.
Pros
- Mattifying powder
- Offers shine control
- Makes makeup more long-lasting
- Does not form a cakey layer
- Free of sulfates, phthalates, and triclosan
Cons
- May not be suitable for deeper complexions
- May be darker than you expect
"A dab of this product over my foundation made my makeup last long. Though it didn't come with an applicator, it blends beautifully with my fingers. It has been perfect for my sensitive skin and offers a smooth and non-cakey finish, which I love."
Quick tip2. Best Non-Greasy: Hanalei Matte Bronzer Face Powder
Hanalei matte bronzer is a lightweight, buildable powder that provides natural-looking and sun-kissed color to the face. It is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients and provides a matte finish that will not leave the skin looking shiny or greasy. The powder is easy to apply and blend and can be used to contour and define the cheekbones, temples, and jawlines.
Pros
- Can be used as a standalone product or over the foundation
- Non-greasy, lightweight formula
- Provides a long-lasting natural glow
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
Cons
- Some might find it a little too orangey
"This bronzer does not offer the typical orange hue, which is a big plus for me. Its cool tan shade gives a lovely sun-kissed look, which works for formal and informal settings. The best part is that it's super long-lasting and doubles as a concealer."
3. Best For Oily Skin: Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Invisimatte Blotting Powder
The Invisimatte blotting powder is suited for oily skin and absorbs the greasy shine to make you look fresh. It contains an exclusive pore-diffusing complex and leaves a natural matte finish for a fresh, glowy look. This celebrity-endorsed translucent compact powder does not get cakey on makeup or make its way into fine lines, keeping your makeup a smooth and filtered look. The matte finish, however, does not feel dry and ensures the face is free of shine. This review video will help you know more about a tester’s experience with this makeup artist-approved product.
Pros
- Formulated without parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
- Not tested on animals
- Suitable for all skin types
- Helps extend foundation wear
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might leave a slight white cast
- May not transfer well to the brush
Beauty tip Dermablend Loose Setting Powder Best Vegan | Hanalei Matte Bronzer Face Powder Best Non-Greasy | Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Invisimatte Blotting Powder Best For Oily Skin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | - | - |
| Color | Original Translucent | - | - |
| Dimensions | 4.88 x 8.13 x 2.06 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 7.98 Ounces | 0.18 Ounces | - |
| Package Dimensions | - | 2.4 x 2.4 x 0.67 inches | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,803 | 5 | - |
| Price | $44 | $7.99 | - |
4. Best Mattifying: Milani Make It Last Setting Powder
Lock in your makeup with this long-lasting setting powder formulated with ultra-fine translucent loose powder. The high-performance mattifying powder for oily skin brightens your face while imparting a subtle soft-focus effect. Its matte transparent finish enhances your makeup and extends its wear. If you’re not a matte-person, this Milani setting powder is available in luminous and shimmering finishes as well to suit your preferences. Further, the translucent shade also smoothes fine lines and imperfections, thus giving you a flawless-looking complexion.
Pros
- Oil-absorbing compact powder
- Does not strip away moisture
- Offers a sheer coverage
- Features light-reflecting pigments
- Cruelty-free mattifying transparent powder
Cons
- May cause a chalky appearance for some
- Container might be tiny
"Besides reducing shine, this lightweight and sheer powder also helped me reduce the appearance of redness on my skin. It even keeps my makeup from cracking, and the added hint of shimmer gives a nice final touch. Overall, it is a fantastic product that I would buy again."
5. Best For Sensitive Skin: Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder
The must-have matte pressed powder by Rimmel London is formulated with natural minerals. The oil-control powder feels lightweight and helps neutralize the shine to ensure the matte finish does not feel patchy. It offers a smooth finish and will help maintain your makeup for long. This pressed setting powder keeps your confidence up at any important event or even a fun night out with friends by offering up to five hours of shine control. Check out this review video to learn more about a tester’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Helps minimize pores’ appearances
- Oil-absorbing and non-powdery texture
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologically tested
- Provides buildable coverage
Cons
- Contains a mild fragrance
- May highlight fine lines if applied roughly
"I've been loyal to this product since high school. The powder sets my concealer perfectly and never disappoints me with its pleasing color tone. It does not even feel heavy or dry. And despite the packaging troubles, it's been a worthy addition."
6. Best For All Skin Tones: Nyx Professional Makeup HD Finishing Powder
Here’s a no-color, shine-free pressed powder for oily skin that does not make your face look cakey. It gives a natural matte finish that is invisible and suitable for all skin tones. It can be used as a standalone face powder or over foundation, and it leaves behind a satin finish with a fine, velvety texture. The celebrity-endorsed technologically advanced formula in this pressed powder does not dry your skin or alter the shade of foundation, making it one of the best-pressed powders for oily skin.
Pros
- Offers a blurring effect
- Does not cake
- Can be worn by itself
- Minimizes pores
Cons
- May not be suitable for darker skin tones
- Pad might be a tad thin
"I've recently started using this powder as I noticed changes in my skin due to age. It's elegantly smooth and surprisingly lightweight, giving an almost satin-like feel. Not only has it served well under my eyes, but it also doubles as a commendable setting powder."
7. Best For Controlling Shine: Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder
This mineral-based loose powder for oily skin helps control shine and smoothen the skin’s texture. It is available in several shades, so be sure to pick the one that suits your skin tone perfectly. This finishing powder provides the perfect finishing touch to your makeup base and helps set the foundation, making it one of the best finishing powders for oily skin. It can be used alone or on over foundation. This powder is loved by many, which is evident from the fact that it has over 34,000 positive customer reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Controls shine
- Offers a sheer hint of color
- Makes makeup long-lasting
- Non-comedogenic powder
Cons
- May not be transfer-proof
- May be darker than you expect
"This loose powder blurs my pores and offers a mattifying effect. It also gives a smooth finish, controls oil production, and stays put even when I am out and about. The multiple benefits have made it a constant in my makeup routine."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 3,055 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
8. Best To Treat Acne: Mario Badescu Special Healing Powder
This specially formulated oil control powder helps heal and conceal acne breakouts and reduce irritation from acne. The multi-purpose sulfur-based powder absorbs excess oil and pore-clogging impurities and makes oily, troubled skin look calm and clear. The sulfur purifies the pores, kaolin clay reduces excess oil, zinc-oxide boasts of soothing and oil-absorbing properties, and calcium carbonate helps clarify congested complexions.
Pros
- Highly oil-absorbent
- Paraben-free
- Not tested on animals
- Ideal for all skin types
Cons
- May clog pores for some
- May not be suitable for dry skin
"This powder brilliantly absorbs any excess oil, preventing shine and acne. It blends seamlessly into my skin and offers a visible reduction in redness and blemishes. It's not an instant fix, but making it a part of my daily routine has yielded positive results."
9. Best Fragrance-Free: Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder
Clinique’s pressed setting powder is best suited for combination-oily skin, oily skin, and dry combination skin. It comes in four shade, so ensure you choose the right one according to your skin tone. The ultra-sheer texture gives a perfect matte finish with moderate coverage. It helps maintain a fresh look and feel, even after a few touch-ups. This compact powder can be used all over the face or just on the oily spots. It is 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested.
Pros
- Oil-free formula eliminates excess shine
- Long staying powder
- Available in several shades
- Easy to carry
- Comes with a sponge applicator
Cons
- May have an ashy finish for some
"I've been a loyal user of Clinique matte pressed powder for many years. Its sheerness and natural look make it a favorite of mine. And it even effectively hides my sun spots and freckles, which is a big plus."
10. Best Flash-Friendly: Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder
This makeup setting powder is completely flash-friendly and does not give off a white cast or look ashy in bright lighting. It absorbs oil well, reduces shine, and gives a matte look to your face for hours. The finely milled ingredients fill the fine lines and pores, giving you a smooth and flawless finish. This multi-purpose setting powder can be used as an overall powder or to set your foundation, bake, contour, or highlight. This face powder for oily skin has more than 15,000 glowing reviews on Amazon.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Offers an airbrushed finish
- Has a blurring effect
- Smudge- and transfer-resistant
Cons
- May have a slightly yellow tinge
- May not be ideal for dark skin tones
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 4,718 positive reviews on Amazon.
11. Best Natural Finish: Innisfree Matte Mineral Setting Powder
Control the shine with the Innisfree matte mineral setting powder. This talc-free powder is formulated with a double oil-control formula to control excess shine and oil. It is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and mineral oil-free. The loose powder for oily skin type offers a matte finish and makes you appear natural. It is infused with Jeju minerals and mint to keep your skin smooth and sweat-free.
Pros
- Silky loose formulation
- Softens skin
- Travel-friendly
- Offers invisible finish
Cons
- May have an intense smell
- Small container
12. Best Hypoallergenic: Bareminerals Original Mineral Veil Setting Powder
With a natural finish, this pressed powder for oily skin helps set makeup for long-lasting wear without smudging or caking. You can apply it lightly for a smooth, even skin tone. This setting powder can blur imperfections or fine lines and helps conceal visible pores for a soft, matte look. It is talc-free, making the powder skin-friendly, and clinically-proven to reduce the appearance of pores over time.
Pros
- Offers antioxidant protection
- Conditions and nourishes skin
- Contains shea and cacao butter for moisturization
- Vegan formula
Cons
- Product quantity might seem less
- Texture might feel chalky to some
13. Best For Shine Control: Clinique Stay-Matte Universal Blotting Powder
This blotting face powder for oily skin comes in a shade called Invisible Matte. This invisible blotting powder absorbs oil and controls shine instantly without leaving behind a trace of color. It provides a matte, fresh look to the skin. The 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested formula suits all skin tones and skin types, especially oily skin.
Pros
- Ideal for casual use
- Dermatologist-tested
- Offers good coverage
- Shine-free finish
- Does not add a color to the face
Cons
- Some may find the consistency a bit thick
"I was pleased with the generous size of this product and its blurring, oil-absorbing, and foundation-like features. The applicator was a tad bit rough, but the powder serves its purpose well and removes the hassle of carrying multiple makeup products."
14. Best Lightweight: Covergirl Professional Loose Finishing Powder
This silky, fine loose finishing powder absorbs oil shine to provide a beautiful, flawless finish. This translucent setting powder is one of the best lightweight powders for oily skin that keeps your foundation looking just right. It makes your skin look natural and fresh all day long. The formula is suitable for sensitive skin and has been dermatologically tested. It is available in a wide range of shades. Be sure to choose the one that suits your skin tone the best.
Pros
- Delivers radiance
- Easy to use
- Natural finish
- Can be used on its own without a foundation
Cons
- May contain parabens
- May be darker than you expect
"As a loyal buyer for over a decade, I can vouch for the effectiveness of this powder. Its shade is stunning and the perfect fit for my skin. It even provides the right coverage for my mother's mature yet oily skin. Hence, it's on the verge of becoming a family favorite."
Tips For Using Powder For oily Skin
Here are a few tips for using powder, if you have oily skin or oily T-zone:
- Do not pile on too much powder. This can make your pores push more oil.
- Apply powder on the areas that feel very shiny. For example, the T-zone, which includes your nose forehead and chin.
- Use a no-sebum mineral powder for oily skin.
- Try translucent or mattifying powders for oily skin. This helps to control shine and give an even-looking skin tone.
- Go for setting powders for oily skin, like the ones mentioned in this post, which can control oil production and absorb oil, giving you a fresh look all day long.
If, at any point, you feel there is too much powder on your face, use a dampened sponge to blot the over-powdered areas.
How To Choose The Right Powder For Oily Skin?
The first and most important step towards choosing a powder is to determine how you want the powder to work for you. Are you looking for a powder to set your foundation or achieve shine control? Do you want a matte finish or natural-looking translucent finish?
Here’s how you can decide what powders suit your skin the best:
- Setting or finishing powders improve the staying power of your makeup. These all-purpose powders keep the foundation intact and avoid separating. To some extent, these powders even protect the skin from the effects of heat and humidity.
- Blotting, sebum-controlling powders, and oil control powders help in controlling shine. Active ingredients such as sulfur and zinc oxide help prevent oil production, keeping pores clean. It also reduces oil production, thereby contributing to a shine-free appearance.
- Mattifying powders help reduce redness and still give you a shine-free appearance.
- It’s always best to choose a powder that is light since heavy product build-up can lead to acne breakouts.
- Choose long-lasting powders for oily skin that do not leave your skin dry while staying intact all day long.
- Choose powders with high SPF for enhanced sun protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it good to use face powder for oily skin?
Using safe and skin-friendly face powders can help with absorption of excess oil throughout the day, elimination of the shiny look, and with makeup retention for hours.
2. Which setting powder is best for daily use?
Although this depends on factors such as your skin type, skin-sensitivity levels, and the ingredients you prefer, it should have a mattifying effect, minimize pores, and should not contain harsh chemicals.
3. Is setting powder bad for oily skin?
If you opt for a setting powder from an unreliable brand or one with ingredients that don’t suit your skin, setting powders can aggravate your skin conditions. When you over apply even the most compatible powders, they too can cause skin issues, such as clogged pores and excessive oil production.
4. What are the causes of oily skin?
Majority of the times, one or a combination of the following can cause oily skin: an imbalanced diet, hormonal fluctuations, genetics, certain climatic conditions, enlarged pores, using non-compatible skincare products, overusing skincare products.
5. Do setting powders cause pimples?
If over-applied or applied over an unwashed face, setting powders won’t just absorb the oil but also lock in any germs or bacteria present on the skin, thus leading to outbreaks. Also, using powders that are not equitable for your skin can increase the risk of pimples as well.
6. Do I need to apply setting powder after foundation?
Setting powder applied after foundation and concealer can give an instant glow, bestow a blurring effect cum matt finish, and keep your makeup intact for hours on end without the oily sheen.
7. Can I sleep with powder on my face?
As a thumb rule, sleeping at night with any type of makeup product on can clog your pores, which can lead to further sebum buildup, enlarged pores, and maybe even outbreaks and skin irritation.
Why Trust MomJunction?
With her expertise in writing product articles on beauty, fashion, skincare, and haircare, Poulami Nag ensures high-quality content to her readers. After researching and comparing various products online and their user experience, she has compiled a list of the best powders for oily skin that may help you look fresh all day long. Along with the product description, she also added tips on using powders on oily skin and a buying guide that may help you frame your needs to get the right product for your skin.
The Bottom Line
Face powder can give that perfect finished look when stepping out for an important meeting, meeting your friends, or on a date. The ideal face powder can be applied as a standalone product or with foundation, making your makeup last longer. We recommend the Dermablend Loose Setting Powder, as it is dermatologist-tested and free of undesirable additives such as sulfates, phthalates, and triclosan. If you’re seeking a travel-friendly face powder with a built-in mirror, the Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Blotting Powder might be a suitable choice. You can also consider the Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder, which is fragrance-free and helps minimize pores. However, always review the ingredients list before finalizing your purchase.
Infographic: How To Apply Setting Or Compact Powders On Oily Skin
Knowing the right way to apply compact powders is as crucial as choosing a suitable powder for your skin type. And applying compact powder to oily skin can be tricky, and therefore, this infographic shares some simple tips to help you get the desired results. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.
Read full bio of Rosalia Beautie
Read full bio of Poulami Nag
Read full bio of Wedetso Chirhah
Read full bio of Deyasini Biswas
