7 Best Non Toxic Foundation for Oily Skin That Actually Work
This post may contain affiliate links and we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. See full disclosure here.
This post is about the best non toxic foundation for oily skin.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably got a love-hate relationship with this makeup staple. Especially if you’re blessed with the delightful combo of oily AND sensitive skin (lucky us, right?).
I’ve spent way too many years and dollars chasing the holy grail: a foundation that doesn’t make me look like an oil slick by midday, doesn’t clog my pores, and actually matches my skin tone. I mean, remember those thick, cakey foundations from the early 2000s? Shudder.
The good news is, the beauty industry has come a long way. We’re no longer stuck with those heavy, cakey formulas from the past. Instead, we’ve got a whole new world of non-toxic foundations to explore!
These foundations are formulated without all the harsh ingredients that can irritate your skin and clog your pores, like parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. Not only that, but they’re actually good for your skin, often packed with nourishing, oil-controlling ingredients that help to even out your complexion.
In this post, I’m sharing my 7 favorite non toxic foundations that have been lifesavers for my oily, sensitive skin.
So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to the toxic stuff and embrace a healthier, happier complexion, keep reading! Your skin will thank you.
Why Choose Non Toxic Foundation for Oily Skin
Before we dive into my top picks, let’s talk about why choosing a non toxic foundation is a game-changer.
The Benefits of Clean Beauty
- Reduced Irritation: Non-toxic foundations are formulated without harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances, which are known to irritate sensitive skin and trigger breakouts.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Many non-toxic foundations contain skin-loving ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins, and plant extracts that help improve skin health over time.
- Environmental Impact: Clean beauty brands often prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly packaging, making them a better choice for the planet.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re not putting potentially harmful chemicals on your skin can provide a sense of peace and well-being.
Related: 11 Best Affordable Clean Makeup Brands To Try
What to Look for in a Non Toxic Foundation for Oily Skin
Now, let’s talk about what makes a great non toxic foundation for oily skin.
Ingredients to Avoid In Foundation
- Silicones: While they create a smooth finish, they can trap oil and clog pores, leading to breakouts.
- Parabens and Phthalates: These preservatives have been linked to hormone disruption and other health concerns.
- Artificial Fragrances: These can irritate sensitive skin and trigger allergic reactions.
Ingredients to Look For In Foundation
- Mineral-Based Powders: These can help absorb excess oil and create a matte finish.
- Clay: A natural oil-absorber that also helps detoxify the skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Don’t be fooled, oily skin needs hydration too! Hyaluronic acid helps keep skin plump and hydrated without adding extra oil.
- Non-Comedogenic: This means it won’t clog pores, a must-have for breakout-prone skin.
Helpful Tips
- Look for foundations that are labeled as “non-comedogenic,” which means they are less likely to clog pores.
- Choose a foundation that is oil-free and water-based.
- Look for foundations that contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which can help to absorb oil and control shine.
- Be sure to test the foundation on your skin before wearing it for long periods.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your unique skin. And remember, a good skincare routine is the foundation (pun intended!) of a flawless makeup look.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – my 7 best non toxic foundation for oily skin that actually deliver on their promises!
7 Best Non Toxic Foundation for Oily Skin
Alright, without further ado, let’s dive into the foundations that have earned a spot in my makeup collection. These are the ones that have stood the test of time (and my oily, sensitive skin!).
🏆 Best Overall | 💰 Most Affordable | 🌈 Most Shades Available
1. Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation
This foundation has earned a cult following, and for good reason. It’s a true multitasker, blurring the lines between skincare and makeup. The serum-like texture glides onto your skin effortlessly, leaving behind a natural, your-skin-but-better finish.
It’s buildable, so you can go for a sheer, barely-there look or layer it up for more coverage. The real magic lies in the formula though – it’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and aloe vera, which work together to hydrate, soothe, and even out your skin tone.
The finish is dewy but not overly shiny, making it a great option for those with oily skin who still want a bit of a glow. Plus, it’s incredibly lightweight, so you won’t even feel like you’re wearing foundation.
If you’re looking for a foundation that not only looks good but also does good for your skin, this one’s a winner.
Price Range: $54
Free From: Silicones, fragrance, parabens, sulfates
Coverage Level: Light to medium, buildable
Shades Available: 30 shades
Available at: Sephora, Credo Beauty, Ilia Beauty, and other major retailers
2. RMS Beauty ReEvolve Natural Finish Liquid Foundation
This skin-loving formula is like a second skin, blending seamlessly and leaving a natural, satin-matte finish.
It offers buildable medium coverage that blurs imperfections without masking your natural radiance. It’s also incredibly long-wearing, staying put through sweat, humidity, and whatever else your day throws at you.
The real star of the show here is the ingredient list. It’s packed with goodies like Tightenyl™ to improve elasticity, Squalane to deeply hydrate, and RMS Beauty’s signature Adaptogenic Herbal Blend to soothe and protect your skin from environmental stressors.
It’s like skincare and makeup in one bottle. If you’re looking for a foundation that looks good, feels good, and does good for your skin, this one’s worth the splurge.
Free From: Silicones, parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances
Coverage Level: Medium, buildable
Shades Available: 12 shades
Price Range: $55
Available at: RMS Beauty, Sephora, Bluemercury, The Detox Market
3. Kosas Revealer Skin-Improving Foundation SPF 25
This one’s a favorite among those who want their makeup to do more than just cover. Kosas Revealer Foundation is like a skincare-makeup hybrid, offering medium coverage while actively improving your skin over time.
It’s infused with niacinamide (a brightening superstar), hyaluronic acid (for that plump, hydrated look), peptides (to smooth fine lines), and squalane (a hydrating powerhouse).
And the best part? It has SPF 25 built right in, so you’re getting sun protection along with your flawless complexion.
The formula is lightweight and comfortable to wear, and it blends seamlessly into the skin for a natural, radiant finish.
It doesn’t cling to dry patches or settle into fine lines, making it a great choice for all skin types, even those with sensitive or mature skin.
If you’re looking for a foundation that not only makes you look good but also helps your skin look its best, this is definitely one to consider.
Free From: Parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, talc
Coverage Level: Medium, buildable
Shades Available: 36 shades
Price Range: $42
Available at: Sephora, Ulta, Kosas, and other major retailers
4. Saie Glowy Super Skin Lightweight Foundation
If you’re looking for a foundation that gives you a radiant, healthy-looking complexion and actively nourishes your skin, this is it. Saie’s Glowy Super Skin Lightweight Foundation is a dream for achieving that lit-from-within glow.
It’s lightweight and hydrating, blending seamlessly into the skin for a natural, radiant finish. The buildable formula allows you to customize your coverage from sheer to medium, making it perfect for everyday wear.
But what really sets this foundation apart is its impressive ingredient list. It’s packed with hydrating and skin-loving ingredients like squalane, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and a blend of 8 botanical extracts that work together to brighten, smooth, and firm the skin.
It’s like a green juice for your face, but way more glamorous. If you want a foundation that makes your skin look and feel its best, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Free From: Parabens, phthalates, sulfates, fragrance, mineral oil, talc
Coverage Level: Light to medium, buildable
Shades Available: 36 shades
Price Range: $40
Available at: Sephora, Saie Hello website
5. Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation
If you’re a fan of mineral makeup, this one’s a winner. Alima Pure’s Satin Matte Foundation is a loose powder that delivers a flawless, airbrushed finish without feeling heavy or cakey.
It’s incredibly buildable, so you can go from sheer to full coverage depending on your preference. The formula is packed with oil-absorbing ingredients like silica and zinc oxide, which help to keep shine at bay and control oil production throughout the day.
It also contains skin-loving ingredients like mica and titanium dioxide, which provide a natural sun protection factor.
This is a great option for those who prefer a matte finish and want a foundation that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. Plus, it comes in a wide range of shades to suit all skin tones.
Free From: Talc, parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes
Coverage Level: Sheer to full (buildable)
Shades Available: 45 shades
Price Range: $32
Available at: Amazon, Credo Beauty, The Detox Market, Alima Pure, and other select retailers
6. Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation
This pressed mineral foundation is another great option for oily skin. It offers sheer to medium coverage with a natural, semi-matte finish that looks and feels like your own skin, only better.
The formula is made with micronized minerals that won’t clog pores and will help to soothe and protect your skin. It’s also water-resistant, so it can withstand sweat and humidity.
One of the standout features of this foundation is its inclusion of antioxidants like pine bark extract and pomegranate extract, which help to protect your skin from environmental damage.
It’s also available in a wide range of shades to match every skin tone. If you’re looking for a convenient, easy-to-use mineral foundation that delivers a flawless finish, this one’s worth considering.
Free From: Synthetic fragrances, talc, parabens
Coverage Level: Sheer to medium
Shades Available: 24 shades
Price Range: $46
Available at: Jane Iredale, Sephora, Ulta, and other major retailers
7. 100% PURE Fruit Pigmented 2nd Skin Foundation
This one’s a game-changer for those who want a foundation that does more than just cover.
100% PURE Fruit Pigmented 2nd Skin Foundation is like a healthy smoothie for your face, packed with antioxidants and vitamins from fruits and vegetables. It not only gives you a natural, radiant glow, but it also nourishes and protects your skin while you wear it.
The formula is lightweight and buildable, so you can customize your coverage from sheer to medium. It blends seamlessly into the skin, leaving a natural, your-skin-but-better finish.
The fruit pigments provide a beautiful, subtle glow that makes your skin look healthy and radiant from within. Plus, it’s incredibly long-wearing, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day.
Free From: Artificial colors, fragrances, synthetic chemicals
Coverage Level: Medium
Shades Available: 17 shades
Price Range: $48
Available at: 100% PURE website and select retailers
When it comes to foundation, your skin deserves the best – and that means choosing a non toxic foundation that nourishes and protects, rather than irritates and clogs. The foundations I’ve shared in this post are my personal favorites, and I’m confident that you’ll find one (or more!) that you love too.
So, which of these foundations are you most excited to try? Have you already found a holy grail non toxic foundation for your oily skin? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What foundation is best for oily skin?
Oily skin needs a foundation that controls shine and won’t clog pores. Look for ones that say “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic.” Good choices are mineral powders or lightweight liquids that have ingredients like clay or hyaluronic acid.
Some top picks include:
- Ilia True Skin Serum Foundation: This lightweight, hydrating foundation provides a natural, radiant finish without feeling heavy or greasy.
- RMS Beauty ReEvolve Natural Finish Liquid Foundation: This buildable foundation offers medium coverage with a satin-matte finish that lasts all day.
- Alima Pure Satin Matte Foundation: This mineral powder foundation absorbs excess oil and leaves you with a flawless matte finish.
What is better for oily skin, water-based or silicone-based?
Water-based foundations are usually better for oily skin. They feel lighter and let your skin breathe, so you’re less likely to get clogged pores and breakouts. Silicone can sometimes trap oil, but some newer formulas are made to be lightweight too.
Is liquid or powder foundation better for oily skin?
Both can be great for oily skin, it depends on what you like!
Liquid: Can give you more coverage choices and often have things that are good for your skin, like stuff that adds moisture.
Powder: Soaks up extra oil and makes your skin look less shiny. It usually lasts longer too.
Try both to see which one you like best! Some people even use both – liquid first, then a little powder on top.
