The 14 Best Non-Comedogenic Foundations for Gorgeous, Clear Skin

What are Non-Comedogenic Foundations?

When it comes to non-comedogenic formulas, there’s a common misconception that they’re all oil-free, but this isn’t always the case. Non-comedogenic foundations "contain ingredients that do not clog pores and therefore reduce the chance of causing pimples or acne. These products are typically used for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin." says Angela Boswell. 

One thing you can look out for in the ingredient list is for oils. Some oils can be beneficial for acne-prone skin while others can further congest your skin. “It's wise to double-check any oils mentioned on the label to determine whether the product may be comedogenic,” says Boswell. There are some oils, like avocado oil and coconut oil, that are comedogenic, whereas other oils, such as argan oil, are hydrating and will not clog pores.” It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the best facial oils for your skin type so you know what to look for and what to avoid.

A few non-comedogenic ingredients Boswell loves to find in her foundation formulas are aloe vera, shea butter, and salicylic acid. Aloe and shea butter are great for keeping the skin soothed and hydrated while salicylic acid can actively treat breakouts.

1. Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundation:

L'ORÉAL PARIS True Match Super-Blendable Foundation

Loved for its ability to even out all skin tones and mask imperfections, this blendable foundation is one of the best drugstore options available. Utilizing the brand's signature shade-matching technology, there's a foundation that works for every skin tone and undertone. It’s formulated with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E, so your complexion will appear radiant, healthy, and hydrated. It's even fragrance-free, so sensitive skin types will appreciate this foundation.

2. Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Foundation:

BAREMINERALS Original Matte Loose Mineral Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15

Only clean, vegan ingredients are used in this talc-free and cruelty-free mineral powder foundation so you know it won't irritate your complexion. Able to minimize the appearance of pores and imperfections, while also reducing shine and absorbing excess oil, this full coverage foundation really does it all. Even though it is powder, it clog pores, cause breakouts, or settle into fine lines. But the biggest skincare benefit of them all is that this makeup product actually promotes clearer-looking skin over time. That's right, the more you use it, the healthier your complexion will appear. Oh, and this loose powder also offers sun protection—what more could you want?

3. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation to Minimize Pores:

MAYBELLINE Fit Me!® Matte + Poreless Foundation

Want a foundation that blurs the appearance of your pores? This is the one for you. Dermatologist-tested and approved, this matte foundation utilizes the power of micro-powders to minimize pores without clogging them. They rest on the surface of your skin to give you an airbrushed finish for a fraction of the cost. There's a reason so many of us swear by this foundation.

4. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Acne-Prone Skin:

NEUTROGENA SkinClearing Liquid Makeup

Not only is this an excellent oil-free foundation, it also functions as an acne treatment. Salicylic acid works to minimize the appearance of the breakouts you already have and it even stops new ones from popping up. Your acne-prone skin will thank you for using this preventative foundation. Able to soak up oil, your complexion will remain matte throughout the day. No need to touch up your makeup every hour on the hour so long as you use this foundation as your base.

5. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Redness:

CLINIQUE Acne Solutions™ Liquid Makeup

Salicylic acid is also the star ingredient of this liquid foundation. Able to cover, clear, and prevent blemishes, the medicated formula still offers a matte, natural finish that is pretty tough to beat. Other than blurring away blemishes, the way it neutralizes redness to mask any pimples or irritation is unlike any other. Your skin will look flawless instantly and will eventually become clear with regular use of this foundation.

6. Best Lightweight Non-Comedogenic Foundation:

GLOSSIER Perfecting Skin Tint

Looking for a lightweight foundation that's breathable, smoothing, refining, and enhancing? Consider your quest complete, for we've found it for you. This breathable tint is filled with exclusive diamond powder pigments that brighten, offer a soft-focus effect, and minimize the appearance of pores. With this foundation, you're able to achieve smooth skin without too much coverage. Think of it like a more powerful concealer that allows the real you to still shine through.

7. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Combination Skin:

TARTE Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Foundation

This full-coverage, matte finish foundation is an oil-free formula that will stay put for up to 12 hours. The hero ingredient here is Amazonian clay, which helps to control the skin’s oil production. This is a great foundation choice if you tend to get a shiny, mid-day T-zone. The vegan formula skips all the commonly comedogenic ingredients like mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. Instead, it features an ultra-light, triple-whipped mousse texture that feels good, stays put, and won’t crease or cake throughout wear. It serves as the perfect base for the rest of your face makeup.

8. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Oily Skin:

M·A·C Studio Fix Powder Foundation

If you have oil-prone skin, powder foundations are a great go-to. Unlike liquid formulas, which can slide around on the face when mixed with excess sebum (the skin’s oil), powders can absorb and help to control oil, helping you to stay matte for longer. This classic pressed powder combines that coveted ultra-matte finish with a velvety texture that’s breathable and comfortable to wear. This foundation also offers the best buildable coverage. Dust it on with a fluffy powder brush for light coverage or use the sponge applicator for medium to full coverage.

9. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Dry Skin:

SMASHBOX COSMETICS Studio Skin Foundation

Go ahead and breeze right past those midday touch-ups with this non-comedogenic formula that provides full, matte coverage for up to 24 hours. Breathable polymers help this oil-free longwear formula feel weightless on the skin while hyaluronic acid and vitamin E keep the skin hydrated, plump, and glowing. With a buildable, matte finish, you can quickly create full coverage. For something lighter, mix a few drops with your daily moisturizer to create a custom tinted moisturizer.

10. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Sensitive Skin:

DERMADOCTOR DD Cream

This innovative cream goes beyond BB and CC cream to provide a whopping 15 benefits in one convenient formula. In one fell swoop, this miracle product hydrates, mattifies, minimizes the appearance of large pores, provides anti-aging benefits, reduces redness, and provides SPF protection. Because it’s hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and oil-free, it’s a great pick for anyone with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin. The best part? You don’t need to stress about finding the perfect shade. This formula features a white sapphire complex that’s self-adjusting, which means it will match and enhance your natural skin tone.

11. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation for Normal Skin:

MAKE UP FOR EVER Ultra HD Liquid Foundation

There’s a reason this foundation formula is a classic. The longwear formula (expect it to last for up to 24 hours) is an ideal pick for those looking for a super smooth, natural finish. This formula blends into the skin so well you might just forget you're wearing any at all. Never heavy or cakey, this lightweight liquid foundation is breathable, buildable, and even hydrating thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid. Offering a dewy finish, your skin will look so stunning after blending this foundation onto your complexion that you might not need anything else. Nor would anyone suspect you have foundation on—they may very well believe your skin looks that good. Don't worry, we won't tell them your secret.

12. Best Longwear Non-Comedogenic Foundation for All Skin Types:

LAURA MERCIER Flawless Fusion Ultra-Longwear Foundation

This liquid, longwear formula can provide up to 15 hours of medium coverage—no touch-ups needed. It’s an ideal pick for all skin types, including those with oily skin. Fine powders work to control oil immediately and continuously throughout the day while also making skin appear practically poreless. Unlike some other longwear foundations, this one is famous for its smooth, second-skin texture. No need to worry about the matte finish eventually turning cakey and dull later in the day.

13. Best Non-Comedogenic Skin Tint:

CALIRAY Free Dreaming Skin Wellness Tint

If you’ve been longing for a skin tint, look no further than this one. Imagine if you could apply an Instagram filter to your skin in real life—that is what this skin tint does! This light and super-fluid formula is not only insanely blendable, it is hydrating, keeps oil under control, and looks good all day long. It’s a bit sheer, yet it covers the big things like redness and blemishes. You can even add a setting powder on top of it.

14. Best Non-Comedogenic Foundation with SPF:

TOWER28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen

When TOWER28 launched this product, the waitlist was INSANE—and for good reason. This blendable tinted sunscreen is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin types. It provides a light-to-medium coverage with a natural finish. It is alcohol free, fragrance free, and accepted by the national eczema foundation. 

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