3 Best Foundations for Oily Melanated Skin

Finding the perfect foundation when you have oily, melanated skin can feel like a never-ending beauty mission. Too dewy and you’re shiny by noon; too matte and your skin looks flat or ashy. But the beauty industry has come a long way, and thankfully, there are now formulas that cater to deeper skin tones and deliver the oil control we crave.

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Whether you're heading to work, out for the night, or just want to stay snatched all day long, these three foundations have proven to be holy grail status.

Here are the best 3 foundations that beautifully serve oily melanated skin — giving you coverage, control, and confidence.

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3 Best Foundations for Oily Melanated Skin - Let's Go!

1. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Liquid Foundation

Why We Love It: Rihanna changed the foundation game with Fenty Beauty, delivering a formula that truly caters to deeper complexions. The Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation offers buildable medium-to-full coverage with a soft-matte finish that keeps shine in check without making your skin look dull or lifeless. Designed specifically for oily skin, this long-wear formula holds up against humidity, sweat, and all-day wear.

Foundation bottle with "Fenty Beauty" text, against a swatch of light brown makeup. White pump, elegant and modern design.

With 50 inclusive shades, finding your perfect match is easier than ever—whether your undertone is golden, olive, neutral, or somewhere in between.

✔ Oil control? Absolutely.

✔ Coverage? Buildable and seamless.

✔ Does it look like skin? Flawlessly so.

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2. MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Waterproof Natural Matte Foundation

Why We Love It: For those who want their skin to look like skin—even under a 4K lens—MAKE UP FOR EVER’s HD Skin Waterproof Natural Matte Foundation is the ultimate pick. This lightweight, breathable formula delivers a natural matte finish that keeps oil in check without flattening your glow. It’s waterproof, sweat-proof, and transfer-resistant, making it a must-have for long days, hot weather, and special events.

Brown bottle of HD Skin foundation with beige cap. Text: "MAKE UP FOR EVER Professional Paris, HD Skin," on white background.

The shade range is thoughtfully designed for deeper skin tones, embracing a variety of undertones beyond the standard cool/warm options. Whether you're aiming for a barely-there look or full glam, this foundation blends effortlessly for a seamless, camera-ready finish.

✔ Waterproof? Yes.

✔ Transfer-resistant? Definitely.

✔ Doesn’t go ashy? Never.

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3. MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 24HR Matte Foundation + Oil Control

Why We Love It: A true classic, MAC Studio Fix Fluid has been a go-to for oily skin for decades—and for good reason. This long-wearing, high-pigment foundation delivers a matte finish that stays smooth without looking cakey. It controls shine while remaining breathable, making it perfect for everyday wear or full-glam moments.

Foundation bottle with black cap labeled MAC Studio Fix. Text reads Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 15, 24HR Matte Foundation + Oil Control.

With an expansive shade range and strong pigment payoff, MAC has been ahead of the game in catering to melanin-rich skin tones. Plus, it includes SPF 15 for a little extra protection (though you should still layer on your daily sunscreen!).

✔ Oil control? Reliable and consistent.

✔ Longevity? All day and night.

✔ Shade range? Deep, thoughtful, and inclusive.

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Pro Tips for Shade Matching Oily Melanated Skin:

Keep a Seasonal Shade: Your skin tone shifts throughout the year, so it’s normal to have one shade for winter and another for summer to match your complexion perfectly.
Mix for the Perfect Match: Sometimes, the best shade isn’t in one bottle. Blending two shades can help you achieve a seamless, custom tone that adapts to your undertone and depth.
Adjust Based on Your Skin’s Needs: Some days your skin is extra oily, other days it’s more balanced. Switch between formulas or tweak your application method to keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to foundation for oily, melanated skin, the key is finding a formula that balances oil control with rich, flattering undertones, all while ensuring long-lasting wear and comfort. Whether you're going for a bold, full-glam look or a natural, everyday beat, these three foundations deliver on every front. With these in your rotation, your perfect matte match is just a pump away, and your skin will stay flawless all day.

These foundations aren’t just melanin-friendly; they’re also oil-fighting powerhouses that adapt to your skin’s needs. From long-lasting coverage to controlling shine without dulling your glow, these picks have got you covered for any occasion.

What’s your holy grail foundation for oily skin? Drop it in the comments — sharing is caring!