15 Best Cushion Foundations for Oily Skin that Work Wonders

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Mar 21, 2024
Best Cushion Foundations for Oily Skin that Work Wonders
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If your skin is recklessly oily, then you have to start using one of the best cushion foundations for oily skin. These cushion foundations can be your new best friend and can help you achieve that flawless and classy makeup look you have always aimed for. The coverage and comfort make for another feather on this revolutionary makeup product’s cap. 

Our contributor Maya Adivi, a certified makeup artist, says, “The amazing thing about cushion foundations is that many of them have all-in-one benefits so you can often get away with minimal prep. Not only do these offer buildable coverage but can be great for oily skin.  Just applying a mattifying primer on oily skin will help keep the skin smooth and shine-free throughout the day.”

Michelle Phan, Makeup Blogger says, “Choosing the right cushion compact all comes down to selecting the right finish and coverage for your skin tone and type” It is safe to say that if you are trying to find the right cushion foundation for your skin, you need to make an informed decision. To help you in the process, we have brought together the 15 best cushion foundations in one comprehensive list. The list will solve all your queries regarding coverage, formula, texture, compatibility with skin types, the longevity of the product, and many other elements. Later in the article, we will also learn about major factors you must keep in mind while choosing a cushion foundation for yourself, and also understand the best way to apply a cushion foundation.

So, dive right in. It is time to find your next favorite foundation!

15 Best Cushion Foundations for Oily Skin

Everyone wants to own at least one foundation that can help them achieve the perfect no-makeup makeup look, without putting a lot of effort into it. Well, The Baked Balance-N-Brighten Color Correcting Powder Foundation by Laura Geller can definitely be the one for you! A product that gives a natural semi-matte finish to the skin, makes it look radiant, and also offers buildable coverage- it is safe to say that this cushion foundation is a must-have. This creamy product contains ingredients like white tea and Centella Asiatica extract which antioxidants and soothingly hydrate your skin all through the day.

Pros
  • Self-adjusts to the skin tone
  • Semi-matte finish
  • Buildable coverage
  • Contains antioxidants
Cons
  • Contains Talc
  • Best Powder Cushion Foundation

    MISSHA M Magic Cushion

    MISSHA M Magic Cushion
  • One of the best cushion foundations for oily skin, the M Magic Cushion by Missha is the powder foundation of everyone’s dreams. The product contains SPF 50+ that offers superior protection from sun damage to your skin. The formula has moisturizing quality, and adherence which helps it last longer on the skin, once applied. The moisturizing abilities help you achieve the smooth look of a powder foundation without the dryness. It is suitable for acne-prone skin and is incredibly comfortable to wear.

    Pros
    • Includes SPF
    • Suitable for acne-prone skin
    • Lasts long
    • Doesn’t dry the skin out
    Cons
    • Has a limited shade range
  • Best in Coverage

    Dermablend Quick-Fix Body Makeup Full Coverage Foundation Stick

    Dermablend Quick-Fix Body Makeup Full Coverage Foundation Stick
  • The Quick-Fix Body Makeup Full Coverage Foundation Stick is a product that stands out in this crazy crowd of makeup products. The formula is water-resistant and helps you achieve a transfer-proof and smudge-resistant 16-hour stay, once set with the brand’s setting powder. The packaging allows you quick and efficient on-the-go touch-ups. It has a maximum coverage formula that can be built up as you require. The product is pigmented enough to help you conceal tattoos, birthmarks, scars, amongst other skin imperfections.

    Pros
    • Water-proof
    • Offers full coverage
    • Gives a natural finish
    • Well-pigmented
    Cons
    • Not transfer-proof or smudge-proof without Dermablend setting powder
  • Best Liquid Cushion Foundation

    L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation

    L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation
  • Liquid foundation trapped in a cushion- more like a genie trapped in a bottle. We are not exaggerating because that is how magical the L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation feels. The product gives a luminous finish to the skin which makes you look fresh and glowy. Those sleepless nights can’t stop you from shining anymore! The formula is buildable to achieve the desired coverage, and with its compact packaging, you can enjoy all these benefits on the go.

    Pros
    • Gives a fresh look to the skin
    • Has an illuminating effect
    • Buildable coverage
    • Compact packaging
    Cons
    • Could use a better applicator sponge
  • Suitable for All Skin Types

    Maybelline New York Dream Cushion Liquid Foundation

    Maybelline New York Dream Cushion Liquid Foundation
  • Cushion foundations are the best, but applying them can be a challenge if you aren’t experienced enough. The Dream Cushion Fresh Face Liquid Foundation by Maybelline New York solves this problem, with a formula so easy to apply that even a makeup novice can easily navigate with it. The product helps you achieve full coverage because of its buildable texture. It is fit for all skin types and gives a luminous finish to the skin. So, go grab your cushion!

    Pros
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Builds up to full coverage
    • Easy application
    • Illuminating finish
    Cons
    • May appear a little cakey
  • CATKIN BB Cream Air Cushion Foundation Full Coverage Moisturizing Concealer

    CATKIN BB Cream Air Cushion Foundation Full Coverage Moisturizing Concealer
  • It is always an added advantage when beauty products come in beautiful packaging. The BB Cream Air Cushion Foundation by CATKIN is one such product. But, the elegant exterior is not its only advantage. The formula works for both oily and dry skin types and offers full coverage. It has moisturizing qualities and absorbs sebum and sweat to help you wear it for a long time comfortably. It contains ingredients like golden seaweed extracts and phytosterols that make it all the more lucrative.

    Pros
    • Has moisturizing qualities
    • Full coverage
    • Fit for oily and dry skin
    • Comfortable for long-time wear
    Cons
    • Feels thick on the skin
  • Mushroom Head Air Cushion CC Cream High Coverage Foundation

    Mushroom Head Air Cushion CC Cream High Coverage Foundation
  • The Mushroom Head Air Cushion CC Cream High Coverage Foundation is another magical product on this long list. This waterproof and long-lasting formula is a deserving candidate to become a part of your daily makeup routine. The product offers high coverage and helps you minimize skin imperfections like dark spots, wrinkles, blemishes, and dark circles amongst many others. Another notable feature of this product is its packaging with its soft mushroom puff that eliminates dead angles during makeup application. It also has an elastic bionic membrane that helps it keep the product fresh.

    Pros
    • Water-proof
    • Lasts long
    • Offers high coverage
    • Efficient applicator and packaging
    Cons
    • May feel oily on the skin
  • BB Air Cushion BB Cream CC Cream Concealer Cushion All-Day Flawless Foundation

    BB Air Cushion BB Cream CC Cream Concealer Cushion All-Day Flawless Foundation
  • Nuonove’s BB Air Cushion BB Cream All-Day Flawless Foundation is the answer to your silent prayers if you have been looking for a product that feels comfortable on your skin, is easy-to-apply, and lasts so long that it almost feels like a second skin. The formula gives a natural finish, while also evening out the skin tone. The mushroom head sponge is highly elastic and ensures there is no wastage of the foundation. It helps in making the makeup look more natural and uniform. All these qualities certainly make it one of the best cushion foundations for oily acne-prone skin.

    Pros
    • Suitable for acne-prone skin
    • Long-lasting
    • Leaves a natural finish
    • Soft cushion applicator
    Cons
    • May feel heavy on the skin
  • AGE 20's Signature Intense Foundation Makeup

    AGE 20's Signature Intense Foundation Makeup
  • With its natural and sheer finish and non-greasy formula, AGE 20’s Signature Intense Foundation can be a great addition to any ‘no-makeup’ makeup routine. While the SPF in the formula protects our skin from sun damage, its 71 percent essence latte gives your skin an illuminated and color-corrected look. It’s designed to make one look flawless with the help of its buildable coverage. Its formula is a unique 3-in-1 latte with pigments beige, gold, and white coming together to deliver splendid benefits to your makeup look.

    Pros
    • Has a dewy finish
    • Protects from Sun damage
    • Doesn’t feel greasy
    • Unique 3-in-1 latte formulation
    Cons
    • Doesn’t last very long
  • [JUNGSAEMMOOL OFFICIAL] Essential Skin Nuder Cushion (Fair)

    [JUNGSAEMMOOL OFFICIAL] Essential Skin Nuder Cushion (Fair)
  • When talking about the best cushion foundations for combination skin, you can’t possibly ignore The Essential Skin Nuder Cushion by Jungsaemmool Official. Its formula helps you achieve that natural finish that you might have only dreamt about. With its complexion brightening qualities and buildable qualities, it is an incredible addition to any makeup kit. The product doesn’t fade through the day, feels light on the skin, doesn’t get cakey, and despite providing full coverage, only forms a thin layer on the skin.

    Pros
    • Natural finish
    • Buildable coverage
    • Suitable for combination skin type
    • Forms a thin lightweight layer on the skin
    Cons
    • Comparatively expensive
  • CLIO Kill Cover Fixer Cushion

    CLIO Kill Cover Fixer Cushion
  • The CLIO Kill Cover Fixer Cushion is one of the best matte cushion foundations for oily skin. With its minimal transfer formula and matte finish, the product manages to stand out in a market flooded with other cushion foundations. The product is in liquid form and feels lightweight on the skin. All these qualities and its long-lasting formulation make it perfect for comfortable all-day wear. If you are looking to try a new cushion foundation, this CLIO product is definitely worth a try.

    Pros
    • Lasts long
    • Leaves matte finish
    • Offers full coverage
    • Minimal transfer
    Cons
    • May feel dry on dry and combination skin types
  • AMOREPACIFIC Color Control Cushion

    AMOREPACIFIC Color Control Cushion
  • If I told you about a cream cushion foundation that blends like magic, then the AMOREPACIFIC Color Control Cushion is the pick for you. It contains SPF 50+ which protects your skin from Sun damage. The lightweight formula is also known to give a lustrous finish to your skin. The buildable product makes it easy to achieve the coverage of your dreams and the Asian botanicals hydrate your skin, giving your skin the gift of care benefits and glamor at the same time.

    Pros
    • Contains SPF
    • Gives a radiant finish
    • Feels lightweight
    • Contains hydrating ingredients
    Cons
    • Comparatively expensive
  • ETUDE HOUSE Double Lasting Cushion Glow

    ETUDE HOUSE Double Lasting Cushion Glow
  • A product that is known for its long-lasting, moisturizing, and illuminating formula the ETUDE HOUSE Double Lasting Cushion Glow is obviously a part of this list. The best-selling feature of this foundation is that even multiple layers of it will not make your makeup look cakey. This allows you to build the coverage you desire. The foundation lasts for as long as 24 hours. That means you get an entire day of a natural-looking glow. Just amazing!

    Pros
    • Can last all-day
    • Gives natural radiance to the skin
    • Moisturizes the skin
    • Buildable
    Cons
    • May feel a little heavy on the skin
  • TROIAREUKE A+ Cushion Foundation

    TROIAREUKE A+ Cushion Foundation
  • This one is especially for combination-skinned makeup enthusiasts. The TROIAREUKE A+ Cushion Foundation works great with combination skin. The SPF 50+ in the formula provides superior protection from sun damage and it is also known to help with oil and sebum control. The product also has brightening and illuminating qualities. The quantity is sufficient enough to last you a long time. If you are a combination or sensitive-skinned person, struggling to find the right cushion foundation, then this product is the pick for you.

    Pros
    • Dewy finish
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Radiant and natural finish
    • Helps in oil control
    Cons
    • Not suitable for dry skin
  • Hera Black Cushion

    Hera Black Cushion
  • Korean cushion foundations for oily skin have been picking up on the buzz for quite some time now. The Hera Black Cushion foundation is another product on this list that fits the description of K-beauty. It feels lightweight on the skin and offers full coverage. The foundation is buildable and protects the skin from sun damage with its humble SPF 34. You can’t miss this Korean beauty makeup gem when looking for the best Korean cushion foundation for oily skin.

    Pros
    • Protects from Sun damage
    • Full coverage
    • Lightweight
    • Buildable
    Cons
    • Comparatively expensive

    How to Select Cushion Foundation for Oily Skin

    Choosing the right foundation for oily skin can be a tricky task. When skimming through options, look for a product that leaves a matte finish, is lightweight, and has an oil-free formula. 

    The best cushion foundation for oily skin would not block pores, offer oil control, and would have a long-lasting formula. Here is a list of things you should look for when trying to choose a cushion foundation for yourself:

    1. Shade Match

    As obvious as it is, you need to look for a product that matches your skin tone, or else your makeup will do the exact opposite of what you want it to. People use cushion foundations for their natural finish, and there is nothing natural about a poorly matched shade. So, whatever shade card matches your complexion, go for that – nothing less or more. 

    2. Cushion Quality

    Cushion foundations depend heavily on their applicator. This is because of two reasons- if your applicator is of average quality, you won’t be able to achieve consistent application. Secondly, a subpar cushion may lead you to compromise on hygiene. Keep an eye on the quality of the applicator.

    3. Type of Finish

    Whether you are looking for a radiant finish that helps you grow like a star or a matte finish that keeps you fresh all day long, make your choice wisely. Clarity on this is going to influence your decision when picking the right cushion foundation for your skin to get the desired look.

    4. Required Coverage

    Another important aspect to consider is the kind of coverage you are looking for. If you are a fan of the natural, ‘no-makeup’ look, you might want to go for a light coverage. But, if you are into all-glam aesthetics, then high or full coverage is the pick for you. 

    How to Apply Cushion Foundation on Oily Skin

    If you do not apply cushion foundation the right way, your makeup may end up looking cakey. Here are a few mandatory things to keep in mind, and the steps you need to follow while applying cushion foundation:

    1. Do not squeeze a whole lot of product out of the cushion

    It might feel very satisfying to take your applicator puff and press the cushion foundation as strongly as you can. But, no matter how much you want to, take this advice from us and don’t! If you squeeze out a lot of the product, you might end up wasting your foundation and may also make it difficult for yourself to achieve the consistent application you are looking for. 

    2. No swiping, no matter how tempting it feels to do so
    Swiping is the first instinct, we understand that. You just take a little bit of the foundation on your puff and swipe it across your skin- fast, easy, simple, and quite convincing. But, in doing so, you will be compromising the smoothness of application of the product. Always tap the product onto your skin with a light dabbing motion to achieve the consistency you desire.

    3. Consistency is not just the product’s responsibility 

    It is not just up to the formula to help you achieve the even application you are hoping for. A lot depends on your technique. So, before you choose to pick up your cushion foundation for a major event in your life, make sure you have mastered the art of applying it. 

    Buying the best cushion foundation for oily skin can be a tricky task because there are so many alternatives in the market. Every skin is different and has different demands. It is important to look for a product that suits your skin. Before choosing a foundation, ensure that the formula is compatible with your skin type, and test it before applying it on your face to avoid any unwanted reactions.

    Contributor: Maya Adivi, Certified Makeup artist, Click here for blog

    FAQ's

    Which cushion foundation is best for oily skin?
    We have found the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Baked Balance-N-Brighten Color Correcting Powder Foundation to be the best cushion foundation for oily skin.
    Are cushion foundations good for acne-prone skin?
    Yes, it is a good idea to use the best cushion foundation for oily acne-prone skin because they are lightweight and their formula doesn’t clog pores.
    What should I apply before the cushion foundation?
    Yes, prep your skin the same way you do before applying other types of foundation.
    How long does a cushion foundation last?
    It is recommended to replace your cushion foundation every few months for hygiene reasons. But the product may run out before that, depending upon your usage.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Makeup aficionado Sayantani says that cushion foundations for oily skin are the best way to achieve a long-lasting and matte-finish makeup look. They merge the convenience of a compact with a lightweight foundation formula that can control excess oil and shine all through the day. After putting the products to the test, she was able to pick out one of them that deserved the top spot. Etude House’s Double Lasting Cushion Glow lasted throughout the day, giving her the matte look that she desired. Additionally, it is also buildable and moisturizes the skin.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More