Dealing with acne and breakouts is challenging enough without struggling to find a foundation that won’t make your skin worse. But finding a formula that covers imperfections without causing flare-ups can feel like the holy grail. With the right products and ingredients however, foundation and acne prone skin can coexist.
The key is choosing an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula specifically designed for acneic and oily complexions. Certain foundations now contain proven blemish fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and soothing botanicals to treat breakouts while offering a clear, flawless canvas.
After extensive research into the latest formulas, we’ve curated this list of the 15 best foundations for acne prone skin. Keep reading to discover which ones our experts recommend based on ingredients, texture and real user reviews.
This oil-free liquid foundation from Neutrogena is specially formulated to both cover blemishes and fight acne. It contains maximum-strength salicylic acid acne medicine to help prevent and treat breakouts. The micro-clear technology works to break up oil and control shine for a more even-toned, matte complexion.
This Neutrogena foundation is one of the best for acne-prone skin thanks to the blemish-fighting salicylic acid. We like that it offers medium-to-full adjustable coverage to conceal imperfections without feeling heavy or cakey. The matte, shine-free finish is also great for oily complexions. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores. For the price, ingredients, and effectiveness, we rank this as a top choice.
Almay Clear Complexion is a hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested liquid foundation made specifically for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It contains salicylic acid acne medication plus botanical extracts like ginger root and chamomile to soothe inflammation and redness as it provides buildable medium coverage with a natural finish.
If you have sensitive, breakout-prone skin then this foundation from the Almay Clear Complexion line is a great pick. We like the combination of blemish-fighting salicylic acid with anti-inflammatory botanicals to both prevent acne and reduce redness without irritation. It offers medium, customizable coverage for a flawless yet natural look. The lightweight texture also minimizes clogged pores. For a drugstore option specially formulated for acne-prone skin, this gentle yet effective foundation is a winner.
This multi-use foundation from Flawless Creator offers maximum full coverage that is still lightweight and breathable. It is enriched with vitamin E, jojoba oil, and aloe vera for smoother, softer, more supple skin. The formula is also non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores. It comes in 18 shades for the perfect color match.
For those with blemish-prone skin seeking a foundation with exceptional coverage, this Flawless Creator option tops our list. While most full coverage formulas can feel heavy or cakey, this one somehow achieves flawless coverage while maintaining a lightweight, breathable texture. We also like the added skin care benefits from antioxidant and hydrating ingredients. Vitamin E, jojoba oil, aloe vera and more all work to actively improve skin health as you wear it. If you want full coverage with a second-skin feel, this is a winner.
This Almay foundation provides lightweight, breathable full coverage with a smooth matte finish. It is clinically tested to be hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. The formula contains salicylic acid to prevent breakouts along with ginger root and chamomile to soothe redness and irritation. It is also cruelty-free.
We rank this Almay acne foundation as one of the best for its blemish-fighting ingredients, soothing botanical extracts, and flawless full coverage matte finish. It expertly conceals imperfections like dark spots and redness without feeling heavy or cakey. We also like that salicylic acid helps keep breakouts at bay while anti-inflammatory ginger root and chamomile reduce redness and irritation. It provides makeup and skincare benefits in one. For the price point, formula, and effectiveness, this is hands-down one of our top recommendations for acne-prone skin.
This liquid foundation serum from Neutrogena offers lightweight, buildable coverage designed specifically for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Formulated with pro-vitamin B5, it helps strengthen and smooth the skin barrier while color correcting properties minimize redness and discoloration. It has a semi-matte, pore-minimizing finish that leaves the complexion looking airbrushed.
Those with sensitive, breakout-prone skin can benefit from this foundation serum hybrid from Neutrogena that offers skincare and coverage in one. We like that the lightweight pigment adapts to your unique tone for a more even complexion while the B5 and color correcting properties treat redness and irritation. It smooths over pores for a flawless yet natural look. The serum-like texture also ensures that it won’t clog pores or exacerbate breakouts. For lightly coverage with skincare benefits, we highly recommend.
This concealer spot treatment from Almay helps treat acne and blemishes while concealing them with opaque, full coverage pigment. Enriched with maximum-strength salicylic acid and soothing botanicals like ginger root and chamomile, it fights breakouts and redness while providing flawless, natural-looking coverage that blends seamlessly with all skin tones. The formula is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
If you struggle with painful acne and blemishes, then this concealer spot treatment from Almay Clear Complexion is a must-have. We like that it combines opaque coverage with blemish-busting salicylic acid and soothing botanicals to both treat and conceal breakouts. The smooth, blendable formula provides customizable full coverage that looks completely natural on the skin. For on the spot acne treatment with flawless coverage, this takes our top ranking thanks to the ingredients, formula, and effectiveness.
This full coverage foundation and concealer cream from Dermablend offers complete customizable coverage that lasts up to 24 hours. It contains smoothing ceramides and hydrating glycerin for a dewy, second-skin finish that won’t accentuate lines or dryness. The non-comedogenic, dermatologist-tested formula also includes SPF 30 sunscreen.
We highly recommend this Dermablend Cover Crème to those with acne-prone skin seeking flawless full coverage with a creamy yet breathable texture. While most full coverage formulas feel heavy or dry, this one contains ceramides and glycerin for hydration and a supple, natural finish. We also like the mineral SPF 30 for daily UV protection. Even better is that it provides complete customizable coverage of imperfections for up to 24 hours but still feels weightless and comfortable on skin. For unbeatable coverage with a hydrating feel, this takes our top spot.
This oil-free liquid foundation makeup from Clinique’s Acne Solutions line is specially formulated for breakout-prone skin. The medicated formula contains salicylic acid acne treatment plus antioxidants vitamins E and C to calm inflammation. It provides medium, buildable coverage with a natural matte finish that lasts for up to 12 hours.
Those struggling with acne-prone skin should consider this foundation from Clinique’s specialized Acne Solutions line. It contains proven blemish-fighting salicylic acid plus antioxidant vitamins E and C to both prevent breakouts and accelerate healing. We like the balance of skincare and makeup with its buildable medium coverage and natural matte finish. The oil-free formula also ensures it won’t clog pores. For a dermatologist-developed foundation that treats and conceals acne, this Clinique formula is a winner.
This 3-in-1 mineral powder foundation from Loves-You-Back offers lightweight, buildable coverage with a silky smooth finish. Enriched with soothing colloidal oatmeal and oil-absorbing kaolin clay, it helps mattify shine while calming redness and irritation on sensitive, breakout-prone skin. The non-comedogenic formula also protects skin with SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. It is vegan, gluten-free and cruelty-free.
Those with sensitive, acneic skin should consider this soothing mineral powder foundation from Loves-You Back. It provides sheer to buildable coverage with acne-fighting yet gentle ingredients like oil-absorbing kaolin clay and calming colloidal oatmeal extract. We also like the inclusion of mineral SPF 30 for daily sun protection. Even better is that it leaves skin with a smooth, shine-free finish without exacerbating redness or irritation. For natural-looking coverage in a formula specially made for breakout-prone skin, this takes our top ranking thanks to the thoughtful ingredients and effectiveness.
This 3-in-1 liquid foundation from Covergirl’s Outlast line offers breathable medium-to-full coverage with a flawless yet natural finish. The transfer-resistant formula is powered by primer, concealer and foundation in one for smooth application and comfortable all-day wear. It also provides layerable coverage and broad spectrum SPF 18 sun protection.
This Covergirl foundation makes our list for those seeking full coverage that still feels weightless on acne-prone and oily skin. The innovative 3-in-1 technology somehow delivers a flawless, full coverage look that lasts for a comfortable 24 hours without settling into lines or feeling heavy. We also like the addition of SPF for daily sun protection. Even better is the affordable drugstore price point. For customizable full coverage that outlasts the rest, this Covergirl formula tops our list.
This full coverage liquid foundation from OhMy helps clear and prevent acne breakouts while creating a flawless, natural finish. Enriched with blemish-fighting salicylic acid, soothing tea tree extract and nourishing hyaluronic acid, it combats breakouts, redness and dryness in one. The lightweight, oil-free formula feels like a second skin on the face.
Those struggling with acneic skin will benefit from this blemish-busting foundation serum from OhMy. It combines proven ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and hyaluronic acid to both treat and prevent breakouts while quenching thirsty skin. We like that it offers customizable full coverage for flawless correction with a lightweight, breathable texture. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula also won’t clog pores. For a foundation that actively clears acne while providing a clear complexion, this OhMy formula is hands-down our top pick.
This specialized liquid foundation from Clinique’s Acne Solutions line offers breathable medium-to-full coverage with acne-fighting benefits. Developed by dermatologists, it contains salicylic acid, antioxidants and soothing botanicals to treat breakouts while covering imperfections with a shine-free, natural matte finish. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula is suitable for even very oily and acneic skin types.
Those struggling with recurrent acne breakouts should try this foundation from Clinique’s Acne Solutions range. It couples proven blemish-fighting salicylic acid with antioxidants and bamboo powder to both treat and prevent acne while controlling shine. We like that it offers buildable coverage for customizable correction without exacerbating oil production or clogging pores thanks to the oil-free texture. For a dermatologist-developed formula that heals breakouts while creating a clear, matte complexion, this foundation deserves a top spot.
Specially formulated for skin prone to breakouts, this acne control cream foundation by KISS helps treat blemishes and provide flawless coverage all day. It contains salicylic acid to combat acne breakouts and vitamin E and camellia oil to soothe skin. With buildable coverage and a natural finish, this foundation helps to maintain a clear complexion without clogging pores or causing irritation.
The KISS Cover+Care Acne Control Cream Foundation is a great choice for those dealing with blemishes and breakouts. It tackles problem skin in two ways: with blemish-fighting salicylic acid and nourishing vitamin E and camellia oil. We love how it offers medium-to-full buildable coverage without looking or feeling heavy on the skin. The natural finish flawlessly covers imperfections without accentuating oil or dry patches. Plus, its oil-free and non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores or make matters worse. For a treatment and coverup in one, this gets top marks.
Specially developed for acneic and oily complexions, this cushion foundation from Korean brand Dr. Althea provides full, buildable coverage with skincare benefits and SPF 50+ sun protection. The lightweight, semi-matte formula contains BHA exfoliants plus green tea and centella extracts to treat and prevent breakouts while quenching thirsty skin and controlling shine. It adheres flawlessly to skin for a perfected yet natural look.
This Dr. Althea cushion compact tops our list for acne-prone skin that needs both coverage and correction. We like that BHA and botanical extracts treat and prevent blemishes while providing antioxidant protection against pollution and UV damage. Even better, the lightweight formula blends seamlessly to camouflage existing acne and scars for a filter-like finish. While it feels like nothing on skin, it somehow conceals everything for a clear, confident complexion. For flawless correction with acne-fighting ingredients, we highly recommend.
Formulated specifically for breakout-prone skin, this oil-free liquid foundation contains acne-fighting ingredients to treat blemishes along with buildable coverage to conceal them flawlessly. With salicylic acid to prevent clogged pores and antioxidants to calm redness, it tackles acne while creating an even, natural looking complexion. The shine-controlling formula is suitable for combination to oily skin types.
Clinique’s Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup is our top choice for acneic skin needing both treatment and correction. We like that it couples proven blemish-buster salicylic acid with antioxidants to both clear and prevent future breakouts. It also offers customizable coverage to seamlessly mask imperfections with a natural finish. The oil-free texture ensures it won’t clog pores or worsen oily skin. For a dermatologist-developed formula that fights acne while creating a flawless complexion, this foundation deserves top marks.
Product | Features |
---|---|
Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne | Salicylic acid, oil-free, non-comedogenic |
Almay Clear Complexion Acne Foundation | Salicylic acid, lightweight, medium coverage, hypoallergenic |
Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation | Full coverage, lightweight, natural finish, non-comedogenic |
Almay Foundation, Acne Face Makeup | Salicylic acid, full coverage matte finish, hypoallergenic |
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Sensitive Skin Serum Foundation | Lightweight serum foundation with pro-vitamin B5 |
Almay Clear Complexion Concealer Spot Treatment | Maximum strength salicylic acid, full coverage, lightweight |
Dermablend Cover Crème | Full coverage, up to 24hr wear, hydrating, SPF 30 |
Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup | Salicylic acid, medium coverage, oil-free |
Loves-You-Back 3in1 Mineral Powder Foundation | Natural coverage mineral powder, vegan & cruelty-free |
Covergirl Outlast Extreme Wear Liquid Foundation | Full coverage, lightweight, up to 24hr wear, SPF 18 |
OhMy Clear Face Full Coverage Foundation | Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, full coverage, lightweight |
Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup Foundation | Salicylic acid, medium-full coverage, oil-free |
KISS Cover+Care Acne Control Cream Foundation | Salicylic acid, buildable coverage, non-comedogenic |
Dr.Althea Aurora Cover Cushion | BHA exfoliants, SPF 50+, full coverage |
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup | Maximum strength salicylic acid, medium coverage |
When choosing a foundation for acne-prone skin, consider the following factors:
Testing products before committing to them is key to finding your perfect acne-fighting foundation match without flare-ups.
There are various foundation formulas suitable for breakout-prone complexions:
Oil-free, lightweight liquid formulas offer buildable coverage without clogging pores
Hydrating creams with oil-controlling ingredients provide coverage while soothing dry patches
Gentle mineral powders with clay mattify shine without exacerbating irritation
Sheer-coverage tinted creams with skincare benefits camouflage while treating acne
Buildable, lightweight cushions control oil and flaws with acne-calming botanicals
Using and caring for foundations properly helps prevent them from worsening breakouts:
A. Some top liquid foundations specially formulated for acne prone skin include Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne Foundation, Almay Clear Complexion Acne Foundation, Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup and Covergirl Outlast Extreme Wear 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation. These provide coverage while fighting breakouts.
A. The best foundations for combination acne prone skin are oil-free liquid or powder formulas that provide coverage while controlling shine in oily areas. Top options include Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne Foundation, Almay Clear Complexion Acne Foundation and Dermablend Smooth Liquid Foundation.
A. Not necessarily, as long as the formula is non-comedogenic and oil-free. Many foundations now contain acne-fighting ingredients that can actually improve breakouts while providing flawless coverage. However, removing makeup properly at the end of the day is key to avoid clogging pores.
A. Dermatologists typically recommend using a matte finish foundation for oily and acneic skin. Matte formulas best control excess shine while lightweight liquids or oil-free creams won’t clog pores.
A. It’s best to start with a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide acne spot treatment over any active breakouts. Let it soak in before applying an oil-free, non-comedogenic foundation formula with clean fingertips, brush or sponge. Use light, buildable coverage just on areas that need it rather than all over the face.
A. While you can wear non-comedogenic foundation daily, it’s still important to give skin a break at least once or twice a week. Going completely makeup-free ensures pores remain clear and lets acne treatments work most effectively. Just be sure to use oil-controlling products on makeup-free days to prevent excess shine.
A. Some top foundation brands for acne-fighting coverage include Neutrogena, Clinique, La Roche Posay, BareMinerals and Dermablend. All offer oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas catered to breakout-prone complexions with ingredients that combat acne.
When struggling with recurrent acne, wearing foundation seems risky. However the right products and formulas can actually help cover and calm breakouts. Our top 15 recommendations contain oil-free, pore-clogging and proven acne-calming ingredients to improve skin as they perfect it.
While trial and error comes with the territory, reference this guide to determine which foundation texture, coverage and finish best suits your unique breakout-prone needs. With the formulas above rated by experts and users – you can confidently conceal imperfections without fear of flare-ups or exacerbated issues using our insight. Remember to double cleanse for removal while giving skin makeup-free days once or twice a week as well.
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