If you have oily skin, you know the struggle of keeping your makeup fresh and shine-free throughout the day. A great setting powder can make all the difference, helping to control oil, blur pores, and extend the wear of your foundation. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best drugstore setting powder for oily skin? We’ve done the research and compiled a list of top-rated, affordable options that truly deliver.
Best Drugstore Setting Powder for Oily Skin
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Ami Colé Skin Melt Talc-Free Loose Setting Powder | Check Price |
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Airspun Loose Powder Translucent | Check Price |
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Wet n Wild Photo Focus Loose Baking Setting Powder | Check Price |
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Maybelline Fit Me Loose Setting Powder | Check Price |
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E.l.f. High Definition Loose Powder | Check Price |
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Morphe Jumbo Bake & Set Soft Focus Setting Powder | Check Price |
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Best Matte: Ami Colé Skin Melt Loose Powder
What We Like:
- Impressive oil absorption
- Melts into the skin
- Doesn’t cling to dry patches
What to Consider:
- Could be more blurring
There’s something satisfying about pressing a mattifying powder over an oily area and watching it coat the skin in a flawless, matte veil. Ami Colé’s Skin Melt Loose Powder does just that. As the name suggests, it magically melts into the skin, absorbing excess oil without settling into fine lines or looking cakey. What sets this powder apart is the infusion of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and baobab seed extract. These ingredients work to prevent your skin from drying out or the powder clinging to any dry patches. It’s the perfect balance of oil control and hydration, which is why Byrdie editor Olivia Hancock swears by it. She loves how it gives her skin a soft radiance thanks to powdered amethyst and rose quartz. While it’s not the most blurring option on the market, it still offers a natural, skin-like finish, leaving you with a beautiful complexion.
Best for Baking: Morphe Bake & Soft-Focus Setting Powder
What We Like:
- Ideal for baking
- Soft-focus finish
- Controls oil without looking cakey
What to Consider:
- Can be a little too mattifying for dry skin
If you’re a fan of baking your makeup, Morphe’s Bake & Set Soft-Focus Setting Powder is a great option. This powder delivers a velvety-soft finish that helps set makeup in place without looking cakey or heavy. It’s specifically designed to lock in moisture while controlling excess oil throughout the day. The formula contains kaolin clay, which works wonders in absorbing oil and reducing shine, making it perfect for those with oily skin. However, it might be a little too mattifying for those with dry skin. The soft-focus finish helps blur imperfections and create a smoother, airbrushed look. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Best Classic: Coty Airspun Loose Powder
What We Like:
- Affordable
- Soft and fine texture
- Long-lasting matte finish
What to Consider:
- Strong fragrance
- Not great for deeper skin tones
Coty’s Airspun Loose Powder is a classic in the drugstore setting powder category, and for good reason. It has a soft, finely milled texture that absorbs excess oil and helps keep your makeup in place all day. The translucent powder works wonders for creating a smooth, matte finish without feeling heavy on the skin. However, the fragrance can be strong, which may not be ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer unscented products. It’s also important to note that the powder can sometimes appear too orange or too pink on deeper skin tones, so it’s best to stick with the translucent shade if you have lighter skin. Despite these considerations, it remains a favorite for its long-lasting oil control and affordable price.
Best for Smoothing: Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder
What We Like:
- Lightweight texture
- Smooth finish that doesn’t emphasize texture
- Good for oily and combination skin
What to Consider:
- May not work well for dry skin
Maybelline’s Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder is one of the best budget-friendly powders for a smooth, matte finish. The finely milled powder helps to set makeup and keep oil in check without leaving a cakey or powdery finish. It’s great for those with oily or combination skin as it prevents shine and keeps makeup intact. While it’s great for smoothing and blurring imperfections, it may not be the best option for those with dry skin, as it could emphasize dry patches. With eight different shades, it’s easy to find a match for a range of skin tones, and the texture is so lightweight that you barely feel it once applied. A go-to option for many who want an affordable powder that performs well.
Read Full Review: Maybelline Pressed Powder Fit Me Matte + Poreless
Best for No Fragrance: Wet n Wild Photofocus Loose Powder
What We Like:
- No fragrance
- Lightweight and non-cakey
- Great for setting makeup
What to Consider:
- Can look a bit powdery if too much is applied
Wet n Wild’s Photofocus Loose Powder is a great affordable option for those looking for a setting powder without the strong fragrance. It helps absorb oil and keep makeup in place, and it doesn’t look cakey or heavy on the skin. The texture is lightweight, and it’s perfect for setting your foundation without creating a powdery appearance. The powder works best when applied sparingly to avoid any over-powdering, which can make the skin look dry. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those with oily skin who want a fragrance-free option at a great price.
Best for Blurring: E.L.F. HD Powder
What We Like:
- Great for blurring imperfections
- Sets makeup without looking heavy
- Affordable and high-quality
What to Consider:
- Might not be mattifying enough for very oily skin
E.L.F. HD Powder is an incredible affordable option if you’re looking for a powder that blurs imperfections and creates a flawless, airbrushed look. The fine texture helps smooth out the skin’s surface while setting makeup without leaving a heavy layer of product. It’s great for those who want a more natural finish but still need the oil control and shine reduction. Although it works well for most skin types, those with extremely oily skin might want to opt for something with a more mattifying formula. Regardless, it’s a great option for those on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Why Setting Powder is Essential for Oily Skin
Setting powder is a must-have if you want your makeup to last, especially if you have an oily T-zone. It helps to:
- Absorb excess oil and reduce shine
- Set foundation and concealer for long wear
- Blur imperfections and pores
- Prevent creasing and settling into fine lines
Pressed Powder vs. Loose Powder – Which is Better?
If you’re unsure whether to choose pressed vs loose powder, here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pressed Powder: Best for touch-ups, travel-friendly, and provides a natural finish.
- Loose Powder: Ideal for setting makeup, controls oil better, and often gives a smoother, airbrushed look.
For oily skin, loose powders tend to offer better oil control, but pressed powders are great for convenience.
How to Apply Setting Powder for a Flawless Finish
Face powder is an essential tool in any makeup routine, whether you’re setting your makeup, controlling shine, or achieving a flawless finish. However, to get the best results, it’s important to apply it correctly.
Step 1: Pour Powder into the Lid
Pour a small amount of powder into the lid of the container. Swirl your brush lightly in the powder to pick it up.
Step 2: Tap Off Excess
Before applying, tap the brush against the side of the container to remove excess powder. This prevents you from over-applying, which can accentuate fine lines or dry patches.
Step 3: Choose the Right Brush
Your brush choice will also affect your results. We recommends a dense, large brush, like the e.l.f. Flawless Face Brush, which provides even, gentle coverage.
Step 4: Apply to Your T-Zone
Start with your forehead, nose, and chin—the areas that are most prone to oil buildup. Powdering these areas first helps control shine and ensures your makeup stays in place.
Step 5: Powder Your Chin
Continue applying powder down to your chin, covering your nose in the process. This will help to set your makeup evenly across your face.
Step 6: Powder Your Cheeks (If Needed)
If you have oily skin, powder your cheeks lightly to lock in blush and contour. However, if you have dry or combination skin, you may find that your makeup holds up fine without additional powder.
Step 7: Final Look
To maintain your look, avoid reapplying powder throughout the day. Instead, opt for blotting papers to absorb excess oil. Only touch up with powder when necessary. For touch-ups, Rimmel Stay Matte is a great choice.
Additional Tips for Different Skin Types
- Oily Skin: Choose a translucent, oil-absorbing powder and avoid powders with too much shimmer. Blotting papers will help maintain a matte look throughout the day.
- Dry Skin: Opt for hydrating powders without talc, and be sure to moisturize before application to avoid accentuating dry patches.
- Combination Skin: Focus on the T-zone, applying a light dusting of powder to control shine while leaving the rest of your face without powder for a natural finish.
Final Thoughts
The best drugstore setting powder for oily skin depends on your specific needs. If you want all-day wear, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless is a top pick. And if you need maximum oil control, Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder is unbeatable. No matter which one you choose, these affordable setting powders will keep your makeup looking fresh and shine-free throughout the day.
Have a Favorite Setting Powder?
Drop a comment below and let us know which one works best for you!
