6 Best Setting Powders for Oily Skin in 2026
If you have oily skin, finding a setting powder that genuinely keeps shine at bay can be challenging, but the right formula can make a noticeable difference. Many powders contain silica or kaolin, which are both effective at absorbing excess oil and minimizing the appearance of pores, yet they vary in finish and longevity. Some offer lightweight, breathable coverage, while others boast waterproof or transfer-proof qualities, ensuring your look stays matte longer—though they may sometimes appear cakey if not applied properly. Keep in mind that choosing the best fit depends on your skin’s unique needs, which this list aims to clarify.
Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
- Blurs Pores and Fine Lines for an Airbrushed Look: This translucent setting powder smooths the...
- Innovative Mess-Free Packaging Design: Features a custom gold sifter and cap that dispense the...
If you have oily or combination skin and want a setting powder that makes your skin look soft and glowing, Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder might be a good choice. This powder is very light and breathable. It helps to blur imperfections and gives your face an airbrushed, radiant look. It won’t make your skin look shiny or heavy. Many people like it because it helps makeup stay in place all day and makes skin look smooth and bright.
But if you have very oily areas, this powder can sometimes dry out your skin too much or feel heavy if you use too much. The packaging can also be a bit messier because of how the powder is poured out. Some people notice the texture is slightly thick, which can make it look less natural.
This powder works well for people with dry, mature, or normal skin who want a soft, luminous finish that smooths out fine lines. It can give a naturally radiant glow and make makeup look flawless for hours. Just remember to use a small amount and be careful if you have oily skin to avoid over-drying or a cakey look.
KimChi Chic Micro Pressed Powder for Under Eyes
- Brighten & conceal: Brighten your under eye area and say goodbye to dark circles with our micro...
- Photo ready finish: No more flashback! Our finely milled formula ensures a natural look in photos,...
The KimChi Chic Micro Pressed Powder for Under Eyes is a great choice if you want to brighten your under-eye area and keep your makeup in place. It feels light and blends easily, giving you a natural, glowing look. The fine powder helps hide dark circles and makes your skin look smooth and airbrushed. When you use a fluffy brush, it sets your concealer quickly and adds a soft shine. The powder is lightweight and velvety, so your makeup stays put all day. It also avoids flashback, so your photos look natural in different light. Some people find that the powder can crumble or arrive broken. A few also feel it is slightly creamy, which can make it harder to apply. Those with sensitive skin should be careful, as it might cause irritation or clogging in small lines.
Best For: People who want a light, brightening powder for under their eyes. It works well to hide dark circles and makes photos look good without feeling heavy or cakey.
Pros:
- Fine, velvety texture for a natural look.
- Helps brighten dark circles and stays in place all day.
- Prevents flashback, making selfies and photos look better in any light.
Cons:
- Sometimes the powder crumbles or breaks.
- Can feel a little creamy, not super dry.
- Sensitive skin users might get irritation or clogging in tiny lines.
ETUDE Zero Sebum Drying Powder (23AD)
- ZERO SEBUM POWDER is a loose powder type product that contains 80% mineral that makes skin look...
- SPECIAL SOLUTION FOR OILY SKIN PEOPLE! Control the extra sebum with control powder and make a clear...
ETUDE Zero Sebum Drying Powder (23AD) is a good choice if you have oily or combination skin. It helps control oil for a long time and leaves a matte finish. The powder is made of 80% minerals, along with ingredients like sugar polymer and cotton extract. These ingredients soak up extra sebum and help keep your skin healthy. The powder is light and finely milled. It blends smoothly into the skin and doesn’t leave a white cast or get cakey, even after many hours. You can use it to set your makeup or to touch up your face during the day. It reduces shine around the T-zone and doesn’t cause irritation. Even though the small size may seem like a lot for its price, many people find it worth it because it lasts a long time and gives a smooth, matte finish.
Best for: People with oily or combo skin who want a lightweight powder that lasts long and controls shine well.
Pros:
- Gives a natural matte look.
- Controls oil and shine for up to 12 hours.
- Made with gentle minerals that are good for sensitive skin.
Cons:
- The 4g size is small and may seem less cost-effective.
- The compact and puff are not very durable.
- You might need to reapply during the day for extra shine control.
2.0 Black Magnet Soft Focus Powder, Waterproof Translucent Setting Powder
- 24H Oil Control & Wear: Our translucent setting powder features patented 2nd Gen Black Magnet...
- 2.0 Patent-Certified Tech: This innovative pressed translucent finish powder uses exclusive Black...
Black Magnet Soft Focus Powder is a great choice for people with oily skin. It has a waterproof and translucent formula that keeps your face matte all day. The powder uses Black Magnet Oil-Lock Technology, which helps absorb extra oil quickly. This means your skin stays shine-free for up to 24 hours. Plus, it is resistant to water and sweat, so it won’t smudge during outdoor activities or workouts. The translucent color fits all skin tones, blurs pores, and gives a soft, smooth look without drying your skin.
Some people find the powder a little dusty or feel it on their skin. The packaging might become harder to open over time. But overall, it lasts long and keeps your face matte no matter what.
This powder is perfect for anyone with oily skin who wants a long-lasting, matte look that stays put even in heat or humidity.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Face Powder Makeup & Setting Powder
- Matte And Poreless Powder Face Makeup: Ideal for normal to oily skin, this long-lasting powder...
- A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me finishing powder provides coverage for a wide array of skin...
If you want a powder that helps control oily skin all day, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Pressed Powder is a good choice. It gives your face a smooth, matte look that reduces shine and makes pores look smaller. This powder is oil-free and won’t clog your pores. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, and you can build up the coverage if you need more. You can use it alone or over your foundation. It lasts up to 12 hours, keeping your skin looking fresh. The compact has a mirror and sponge, so it’s easy to carry and use when you need a quick touch-up. Keep in mind, shades may look different on the website, so it’s best to try them in person. Sometimes, darker shades can make your skin look a bit darker, so choose carefully. This powder works best for normal to oily skin. It may not be the best for very dry or mature skin types.
Best For: People with normal to oily skin who want a long-lasting matte look that controls shine and reduces pore size every day.
Pros:
- Keeps shine away for up to 12 hours.
- Looks natural and makes pores seem smaller.
- Oil-free and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Easy to carry with a mirror and sponge inside.
Cons:
- Shades can look different online, so try them in person.
- Some shades can make skin look darker.
- Not ideal for very dry or aging skin, as it’s made for normal to oily skin.
ETUDE Zero Sebum Drying Powder 4g
- ZERO SEBUM POWDER is a loose powder type product that contains 80% mineral that makes skin look...
- SPECIAL SOLUTION FOR OILY SKIN PEOPLE! Control the extra sebum with control powder and make a clear...
The ETUDE Zero Sebum Drying Powder 4g is perfect if you have oily or combination skin. It is a light powder that helps to control extra oil and keep your skin matte. With 80% mineral ingredients, it quickly absorbs oil without making your skin look cakey or getting white spots. It leaves your skin soft and matte for up to 12 hours. The silky texture spreads easily and doesn’t leave a white cast. Ingredients like cotton extract and sugar polymers work to stop shine and keep oil under control. You can use it on just your bare face or with makeup. It’s in a small compact, so it’s easy to carry around, but some people might find it runs out fast if they use it often. Overall, it’s a good budget option for long-lasting oil control.
Best For: People with oily or combination skin who want a cheap, long-lasting powder to control shine and set makeup.
Pros:
- Quickly absorbs oil and keeps skin matte for 12 hours
- Smooth texture melts into skin without white spots
- Mineral ingredients and gentle for sensitive skin
Cons:
- The small 4g size may need frequent reapplications
- Some users find it creates dust or makes a mess
- Not enough product for frequent touch-ups all day
Factors to Consider When Choosing Setting Powders for Oily Skin
When choosing a setting powder for oily skin, you’ll want to take into account how well it controls sebum without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin. The longevity and wear of the product are essential, as some powders last longer but may require touch-ups, while others might not hold up through a busy day. Additionally, your skin’s sensitivity, the desired finish—matte or natural—and the texture of the powder, whether finely milled or more textured, all influence how comfortable and effective it’ll be for your daily use.
Sebum Control Power
Choosing the right setting powder for oily skin can help keep your face matte and shine-free all day. Look for ingredients like talc, silica, or minerals. These ingredients soak up extra oil and stop your skin from looking shiny too quickly. Some powders have special oil-lock technology, like magnet or polymer formulas. These trap sebum, which is the oil your skin makes, so your face stays matte longer.
Translucent powders with a matte finish are a good choice. They hide shine without changing your skin tone. This gives you a natural look. Reapplying powder during the day helps control oil, especially in hot, humid weather.
It’s also important to choose a powder that is non-comedogenic and gentle. This means it won’t clog your pores or cause irritation. Find a powder that balances oil absorption and pore safety. Not every powder works the same for everyone. Try different options to see what feels best for your skin.
Longevity and Wear
To keep oil under control for a long time, you need a good setting powder. Look for powders that last 8 to 12 hours without making your face shiny. These often have ingredients like silica or minerals that soak up extra oil and keep your skin matte. Some powders have special ingredients like oil-lock or sweat-proof formulas. These help the powder stay put, especially on humid days or when you’re active.
Applying the powder carefully at first also helps. A matte base makes your makeup last longer. If you want it to stay even longer, reapply the powder during the day. Many powders are transfer-proof or waterproof, so they won’t smudge or come off easily.
Keep in mind, not all powders work the same for everyone. Some work better on certain skin types. So, trying out different options can help you find the one that sticks with you.
Choosing a powder that lasts a long time makes your makeup look fresh and shine-free all day.
Skin Compatibility
Choosing the right setting powder for oily skin means picking products that match your skin type. Look for powders labeled non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic. These help prevent clogged pores and irritation. Mineral powders that contain silica or kaolin are good choices. They soak up extra oil without making your skin feel dry or tight. Stay away from powders with heavy oils, artificial fragrances, or alcohol. These ingredients can make your skin more oily or cause breakouts.
Pick powders with oil-absorbing ingredients like silica microspheres or sugar polymers. These help control shine and keep your skin looking fresh. Before using a new powder, do a patch test. Put a small amount on your skin to see if it causes any irritation or extra shine. This is especially helpful if your skin is sensitive or tends to break out.
Finishing Effect
When choosing a finishing powder for oily skin, look for one that helps keep your face matte or semi-matte. This means it reduces shine and makes your skin look smoother. Good powders have ingredients like silica or kaolin. These ingredients soak up extra oil and control grease throughout the day.
A translucent powder that feels light on your skin works best. It blends easily and makes your skin look natural without changing your skin tone. The goal is to hide small imperfections and make pores less noticeable. This helps give your skin a soft, even look.
A good finishing powder also stays put for a long time. Pick one that works for at least 8 to 12 hours. Avoid powders that look heavy or cakey. These can make your skin look worse over time. Instead, choose a powder that works well and keeps your skin looking fresh all day.
Texture and Feel
Choosing a setting powder with the right texture and feel is super important if you have oily skin. The right powder can make your makeup look great all day. Look for a powder that’s finely milled, so it feels light and breathable on your skin. It shouldn’t be heavy or thick. Many mattifying powders have a soft, velvety or silky feel, which helps control oil and shine. A good choice is translucent powder because it blends in easily and doesn’t leave a chalky or cakey look. Ingredients like silica or talc help soak up excess oil fast and give a dry, matte feeling. Some powders also have moisturizing ingredients so your skin doesn’t feel dry or tight. The texture of the powder makes it easier to apply and helps your makeup stay fresh without feeling sticky or heavy.
Packaging Practicality
Have you ever spilled powder all over your bag or lost your mirror when you’re rushing out? Good packaging makes these problems easier to handle. Look for containers that screw on tight or have airtight seals. These help keep your makeup fresh and stop messes. Small, light containers are better because they fit in your purse and are easy to carry. Some come with mirrors or small brushes built in, so you don’t need to carry extra things. Shaker tops or sifter caps help control how much powder you use. This keeps your product tidy and prevents waste. Clear packaging is helpful because you can see how much is left. Strong, spill-proof materials protect your makeup when you toss your bag around. Easy-to-use packaging makes touch-ups simple and less stressful.
Price and Value
The price of setting powders for oily skin doesn’t always show how good they are. But it does affect what you choose and what you expect. Cheaper powders can work just as well as expensive ones. Often, the more costly powders have special ingredients like silica or tiny minerals. These help soak up oil better and make your skin look smooth. On a budget? Look for powders with high mineral content or formulas made to reduce shine. To see if a powder is good value, check how much you get, how long it lasts, and how often you need to reapply. Some powders are waterproof or sweatproof. These kinds might cost more but can last longer outside. To get the best deal, think about the quality of ingredients, how long it lasts, and what your skin needs every day. That way, you can find a powder that works well without paying too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Mineral-Based Setting Powders Suitable for Oily Skin?
Yes, you’ll find mineral-based setting powders suitable for oily skin. They often absorb excess oil, reduce shine, and won’t clog pores. Look for matte finishes and non-comedogenic formulas to keep your skin fresh throughout the day.
How Long Does a Typical Setting Powder Control Oil?
A typical setting powder controls oil for about 4 to 6 hours, depending on your skin type and activity level. You might need to reapply or touch up during the day to maintain a shine-free look.
Can Setting Powders Cause Breakouts on Sensitive Skin?
Setting powders can cause breakouts on sensitive skin if they clog pores or contain irritating ingredients. You might experience this if you don’t choose non-comedogenic options and don’t properly remove the powder at day’s end.
Are There Setting Powders With Added Skincare Benefits for Oil Control?
You’ll find some setting powders with added skincare benefits, like ingredients that control oil and mattify your skin. Look for products with antioxidants or magnesium, which help minimize shine and improve your skin over time.
What’s the Best Way to Apply Setting Powder for Long-Lasting Matte Finish?
To get a long-lasting matte finish, you should start by applying a small amount of setting powder using a fluffy brush, focusing on oily areas. Lightly tap off excess and use a puff for extra staying power.
Last update on 2026-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API