5 Easy Makeup Tricks for Oily Skin

Spending time creating the perfect makeup look only to have oil take over your skin can be a real bummer. Luckily there are ways to keep oily skin in check and makeup intact. Celebrity makeup artist Robert Sesnek shares his top five tricks to do just that.

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Stick with Serums
Instead of slathering on a heavy moisturizer, which can be heavy for this skin type, Sesnek suggests opting for a serum instead. Skin gets the hydration it needs without feeling heavy or getting clogged pores.

His Pick: La Mer Lifting Contour Serum, $320   

Always Use an Oil-Free Primer
Prepping your skin with a primer is a must for keeping makeup in place, and when it comes to oily skin, oil-free options are the way to go. Sesnek says to look for one that delivers a slight matte finish and keeps shine under control.

His pick: Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Oil-Free, $34

Rethink Foundation
Piling on the foundation to hide excess oil actually does more harm than good. Use it sparingly or just skip it altogether. “The more you use, the more oily your skin will appear and become,” Sesnek says.

His Pick: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, $44

Easy with the Face Powder
Just like foundation, too much powder can only aggravate skin and make it produce even more oil. Apply with a light hand and only where you really need it.

His Pick: YSL Soufflé D'Eclat Finishing Veil, $60

Don’t Forget the Blotting Papers
Be prepared for unwanted shine whenever it shows up with blotting papers. The right ones absorbs oil without leaving any powdery residue behind.

His Pick: Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Beauty Papers, $12