Best Foundation for Combination Skin in 2023

Combination skin can be tricky.  You usually have both dry areas and an oily t-zone, so how do you find a single foundation that works for your whole face!?  We set out to find options for you and compiled a list of the following to help find your best foundation for combination skin!

One tip we have is to put primer on your dry skin before foundation and then after foundation, use setting powder on your oily spots.

1. COVERGIRL Outlast All-Day Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation – $9.47

Our #1 Choice!

This foundation will keep the shine down and keep moisture in the dry areas, all while providing a matte finish and great coverage that will take care of dark circles, blemishes, and redness.  The full coverage will last all day.  A little goes a LONG way with this foundation, so apply a little at a time to avoid a cakey look.  You will likely be able to apply to your whole face with less than one full pump!  If your skin is the type that gets especially oily throughout the day, be sure to set with powder and it doesn’t hurt to keep these blotting papers on hand!

Pro tip – If you have trouble finding the right shade in this foundation, it is a great formula to mix with other foundations!

Purchase Here:

Ulta Amazon

2. Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless and Dewy + Smooth Foundations

Our Choice For:  Drugstore Brand

Yes this is two separate products but hear us out on this one because buying both will only cost around $12 total!  Our recommendation is to start with the Dewy + Smooth and dab it on dry patches with a slightly damp makeup sponge, and let it dry.  Then apply the Matte + Poreless on your entire face with a flat kabuki brush, but be sure to do a dabbing motion on the dry spots rather than a sweeping motion.  Last, blend everything together with either the brush or sponge.  If the two foundations are not the exact same shade, that is okay because they will be blended.  We believe this is the key combo to combo skin!

Pro Tip – For extra shine control, the Fit Me Matte + Poreless Pressed Powder is a great compliment for setting the oily areas.

Purchase Matte+Poreless Here:

Amazon Ulta

Purchase Dewy+Smooth Here:

Amazon Ulta

3. PÜR 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup – $29.50

Our Choice For:  Sensitive Skin

The 4-in-1 refers to foundation, concealer, powder, and SPF 15 all in one product.  This foundation goes on lightly, evens out complexion, and will stay on for as long as you need, even in high temperatures.  It is the most versatile option on our list because it works perfectly with combination skin on either end of the spectrum (more on the oily side or dry side).  We love how it covers well without feeling heavy, doesn’t cake, and won’t cause irritation or breakouts.  When applying, we recommend using a round compact sponge in circular motions.  If you simply want light coverage, though, a powder brush would be best.

Purchase Here

4. Milani Even Touch Powder Foundation – $6-$10

Our favorite thing about this foundation is that it does not look like you are wearing powder (you know that look!).  The natural finish, which almost gives a dewy look, feels very lightweight and does not crack or cake on the skin.  The compact comes with a sponge for application but we found that this foundation works as an amazing tinted setting powder using a powder brush if you are wanting light coverage (this foundation is advertised as medium to full coverage, and while it absolutely works as a great cover up for blemishes, light coverage is definitely achievable with just a thin layer).

Purchase Here

5. Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation – $40.00

Our Choice For:  Neutral Undertones

This foundation has a cult following of people with combination skin!  It gives a satin finish and medium to full coverage (but if applying a little with just your fingers, can be light coverage as well).  Your face will actually look like skin instead of full of makeup.  And if you have that extra oily t-zone, don’t worry because this foundation will stay matte all day long.

Pro Tip – When applying to dry areas, mix the foundation with a little moisturizer!

Purchase Here:

Sephora Dior

6. Maybelline New York Dream Satin Liquid Foundation – $7.98

Another one from Maybelline New York!? Guess they know their stuff when it comes to combination skin!  This foundation is very smooth and gives full coverage without feeling suffocating.  It will cover any red spots and applies beautifully with a damp beauty blender.  We found that this foundation does not oxidize after wearing it for a long period of time, and best of all, it is the ideal combination of not over-hydrating but also not drying.

Purchase Here:

Amazon Walmart