My top 5 (yes there's 6 in the photo but it's because I have the Clean&Clear foundation in two shades!) mattifying foundations to suit all budgets. These are my favourite foundations for ensuring that my oily skin is kept under control throughout the day.
From L-R.
I swore by this product during my recent trip to New York as my skin decided to break out from a combination of jet lag and too many mimosas (when in Rome!/NYC..) SO I needed something that would even out my skin-tone and conceal those pesky blemishes, but was oil free and non-comedogenic (non pore-blocking) to combat the annoying break out. Super easy to apply (I used a Real Techniques Stippling Brush and then blended with my fingers) this provided me with the perfect amount of coverage and, thanks to the oil free formula, left me looking nice and matte and meant that I could wear makeup without further angering my not-very-happy skin. This product is hard to find so a great dupe is the Bobbi Brown Oil Free Long Wear Even Finish Foundation
I purchased these recently on a whim due to the aforementioned break-out as I wanted something that would provide coverage but actually help to fight the blemishes. At just over £5 each these are a nice wont-break-the-bank-budget-option and ideal as summer rolls round for something to lazily slap on with your fingers on those warmer days that won’t leave you looking like an oil slick once it hits midday. The shade range isn't great which is why I picked up both the light and medium shades (currently mixing them together) as the medium is really rather dark! This product also works well as a foundation primer if you're looking for a full-face, matte look for an evening out.
Non-drying and super easy to apply (I use a beauty blender). It's enriched with 'mattifying micronized powders' and despite having no idea what that really means, I do find it leaves me shine-free longer than most other foundations, The coverage is buildable so one layer gives medium coverage whilst still feeling lightweight enough so your skin doesn't feel caked or tight and it doesn't look completely one dimensional. My shade is 03 Light Beige which is a perfect match for me when I'm using gradual tan - I'd compare it to MAC NC25. If I was fake tanning or had seen some sun this year (sob I need a holiday!) I'd definitely need the 04 Beige. (For my full face makeup routine including the Air Mat foundation click here)
'24hr Matte without the flat' this is true, but you do need to apply sparingly and work the product into your skin FAST using a good Stippling brush or Beauty Blender. L'oreal claims it offers 'perfect coverage, no cakey effect' and out of all the foundations above this is definitely the most full-coverage option and gives you that 'fully made up face' / 'doll' look so do make sure if you're using this in the daytime that you apply in natural light. I've also found it can oxidise on the skin slightly, so go a shade lighter than you usually would. 'Clinically proven; waterproof, steamproof' - this is absolutely true; this bad-boy is staying put all day! If you like to wear makeup to work out then this is a really good one for gym bunnies. Enriched with perlite technology, and reduces the appearance of shine up to 24 hours this is a must-have for gals who like a full coverage, matte look.
An oldie but a goodie - this is my go to foundation for when I want a seriously flawless finish. I wore this years ago when I was a bridesmaid for my best friend’s wedding and I have yet to find anything that is as good as this. The problem is that my skin is really not a fan so I have to keep it as my 'special occasion foundation'. It provides medium-heavy coverage and needs to be blended in properly and quickly (like the L'oreal Paris Matte foundation) to avoid any cakiness. MAC describes this foundation as 'An oil-controlling formula that offers a natural matte finish with medium to full coverage.' and they've pretty much summed it up - an absolute winner for oily skin this is a fantastic option for those wanting a medium to full coverage matte finish.
Jennifer Rosellen x