1. Always prime your skin first.
When you have an oily complexion, using a makeup primer helps everything stay put. You should at least prime oiliest areas (think: the T-Zone — forehead, nose, and chin) with an oil-free, anti-shine primer.
2. Prep your peepers.
To cut down on eye makeup creasing, avoid priming your lids with concealer. Instead, use a primer specifically designed for eyelids..
3. Don’t overdo powder.
It sounds like the right thing to do to pile on the face powder. But going overboard could backfire by making your pores push out more oil. Apply powder just on areas that are shiny. Use a matte translucent formula, which can cut shine on any skin tone.
4. Carry blotting papers.
No matter how flawless and matte your makeup looks in the morning, if you’re prone to oiliness, you’ll spot shine by midday. Some blotting sheets simply lift the oil from your skin.
5. Go oil-free.
Since your skin naturally produces more than enough oil, invest in makeup products (especially foundation and blush) that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means they don’t clog your pores.
6. Look for “long wear.”
Water and oil can do the same things to makeup: make it smear, smudge, or slip. That’s a reason to stick to eye products that are waterproof, water-resistant, or long-wear.
7. Think soft skin, not slick skin.
Those heavy, anti-aging creams are fine for nighttime use, but before you put on your makeup, reach for a lighter moisturizer that hydrates without being greasy. Consider using a serum. It tends to be lighter.
Don’t forget your sunscreen — look for an oil-free formula.
8. Reduce excess oil.
Once or twice a week, use a treatment mask. Those made with kaolin or bentonite clay are best for oily skin types, as they naturally absorb oil and impurities while calming irritation.