Can your foundation survive a Manila summer day? We found tried and tested formulas that will control oil, gives decent coverage, and won’t clog pores. If you’re looking for melt-proof foundation for oily skin, start here!
NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation
It gives really great coverage, and comes in a wide range of shades from porcelain to a deep morena. The oil-free and water-based formula feels light and won’t clog pores.
This foundation is also very buildable. We recommend starting with a light coat (use a sponge or kabuki brush) and then just apply more where you need it.
It does have a matte finish so if you want a dewy youthful glow, use cream blush and luminizer.
CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation
This formula does give good coverage, and will last the whole day. However, it can oxidize and turn a bit orangey. Test it out before buying a bottle, and try going a shade lighter than you usually do. Ask the counter girl to apply it, then go out of the mall and check it in natural light. You can also squirt some of the tester into a tiny pill box and check it at home!
This is best if you have a light to medium skin tone. Anyone who is very pale or very morena may have a hard time finding a matching shade.
MAC Pro Longwear Foundation
It lasts for 12 hours, is water resistant, doesn’t clog pores and is dermatologist-tested. We also love the very thin formula, which won’t cake in lines and is so easy to blend out with a brush. (Don’t use a sponge — it will soak up too much product.)
“I actually use this for brides who have outdoor weddings,” says professional makeup artist Tisha Gomez. It photographs really well and has a natural finish.” If you’re very oily and have large pores, she recommends using a primer first. “With a primer, you can use less foundation .And the trick to applying long-lasting foundation on a hot day is to actually use less product and blend it in very well.”
Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream
Klara Vega is a working mom with a newborn, so she doesn’t have much time to fuss over makeup in the morning. She swears by this product. “I apply this just where a need. It looks a bit gray at first but the color settles and by the time I leave the house it looks flawless.”
She loves this product because it combines SPF with skincare and coverage. “I don’t like putting a lot of products in the morning. First, I don’t have time. Second, I have oily skin so layering creams makes me feel more greasy. I like this all-in-one product.” She just uses blotting paper on her nose in the middle of the day. “Other than that it lasts until I get home!”
L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte 24Hr Foundation
This is waterproof, sweat proof, and the velvety finish manages to stay on forever without caking. Tracy Oribiana, a pre-school teacher who spends most of her day chasing toddlers, says this is the only foundation that works for her. “I have tried BB creams, CC creams and long wear brands. This one looks really natural and doesn’t cake.”
She also likes the no-make up finish, because she’s not really the type who’ll wear a lot of product at work. “Most days I just use this and a lip and cheek tint.” But this also gives her good coverage when she gets all dolled up for her dates with her boyfriend.