11 Best Tinted Moisturizers for Oily Skin That Don’t Clog Your Pores

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on May 02, 2024
 Best Tinted Moisturizers for Oily Skin That Don’t Clog Your Pores
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Skipping extensive makeup routines is a piece of cake with the ultimate tinted moisturizers. As a double-duty product, they repackage the goodness of skincare and makeup in one to provide sheer to light coverage. When compared to overall foundation coverage, tinted moisturizers stand out for being easy on the skin. In tandem, the best tinted moisturizers for oily skin in our list are easy to incorporate into your regimen as they do what a normal foundation would (but much simpler than it) while not being greasy. To be noted further, most of the tinted moisturizers address skin concerns such as dryness, acne, and oiliness, and come with SPF to ensure radiating inner and outer beauty. 

Every tinted moisturizer selected today in the list is composed of hydrating, and skin-enriching ingredients, made just for your specific skin type. With extensive research, our team has brought down the massive selection on the market to the ten best tinted moisturizers you need to upgrade your makeup game!

11 Best Tinted Moisturizers for Oily Skin

This tinted moisturizer by Neutrogena offers blendable sheer coverage packed with the anti-aging properties of retinol. This integrated moisturizer also helps even out skin tone and improve texture while protecting against sun damage. Furthermore, it is perfect for oily skin beauties as it quickly turns invisible when applied without clogging the pores with impurities. The tint also includes titanium dioxide and a broad spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen to shield skin from the sun's harmful UVA/UVB rays.

Customer’s Review: I really like this BB face cream and don't even use any foundation anymore because this is all I need. Thick enough to have smooth coverage.”

Pros
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Budget-saver
  • Creamy formula
  • Deals with fine lines
  • SPF 20
  • Promotes overall skin health
Cons
  • Not ideal for sensitive skin
  • Best for Reducing Wrinkles

    Paula's Choice RESIST Super-Light Daily Tinted Base

    Paula's Choice RESIST Super-Light Daily Tinted Base
  • Paula's Choice promises to deliver a dose of youthfulness and facial radiance by means of this exquisite moisturizer. The incredibly light and smooth product also prepares the skin for makeup application. And, when used in conjunction with other makeup products, the formula with SPF 30 reduces premature skin aging caused by the sun. Addedly, the silky texture nestles into the skin and provides a matte finish to oily and acne-prone skin. All in all, we recommend applying this anecdote at the end of every skincare routine for the best results. 

    Customer’s Review: “I’ve been using this for years. I love how it goes on like a nice light lotion. Doesn’t smell weird or leave any white marks. My makeup always goes on smoothly over it.”

    Pros
    • SPF 30
    • Paraben-free
    • Fragrance-free
    • No white cast
    • Melts into skin
    Cons
    • Not suitable for sensitive skin
  • Non-comedogenic

    Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective

    Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective
  • The lightweight and blendable tinted moisturizer is infused with antioxidant-rich vitamin C, glycerin, mica, propanediol, rosemary, and silica to hydrate and brighten your skin. It's also an ideal option to color-correct any imperfections and diminish the appearance of fine lines, blemishes, and acne spots. When trying out the product, we realized its potent ingredients leave your skin plump and dewy. Plus, with nine shades to choose from, this is the perfect pick for a wide range of skin tones!

    Customer’s Review: “Blends nicely! Stays all day. Feels super healthy on the skin.”

    Pros
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Wide range of shades
    • SPF 30
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Suitable for daily use
    Cons
    • Sheer coverage
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    Perricone MD Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer

    Perricone MD Face Finishing & Firming Tinted Moisturizer
  • Get the 2-in-1 benefit of moisturizing and protecting your skin from UV damage with the tinted moisturizer by Perricone MD. This oil-free moisturizer contains alpha lipoic acid and candeia tree extract that help soothe the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, treat enlarged pores, and add a natural radiance to the skin to make it appear dewy and moist. It absorbs quickly into the skin to provide intense hydration to the skin and make it soft and supple. You don’t have to worry about applying sunscreen over this moisturizer as it comes with an SPF 30 formula that shields the skin against harmful sun rays and deflects the aging process. 

    Customer’s Review: “Love the subtle color. It evens out the skin tone and it smells really good!”

     

    Pros
    • Contains antioxidants
    • Lightweight formula
    • Fights the signs of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Protects the skin from environmental stressors
    • Delivers a radiant finish
    Cons
    • Unpleasant scent
    • Might feel greasy on the skin

    Quick Tip:

    Since this tinted moisturizer is quite concentrated, we suggest that you start with a smaller amount and build up as you go. This will keep the product from looking heavy.

  • L'OREAL PARIS SKIN PARADISE WATER-INFUSED Tinted Moisturizer

    L'OREAL PARIS SKIN PARADISE WATER-INFUSED Tinted Moisturizer
  • Those who appreciate hydrating makeup products must invest in the L'Oreal Paris Skin Paradise. Infused with aloe vera and witch hazel extracts, the water-based formula awakens your dull skin, thereby providing youthful radiance. Moreover, the formulation is lightweight and consists of a silky texture that doesn't leave a greasy finish but covers most stubborn dark spots and blemishes. Adding to that, the product boasts of a unique oil-free formula that won’t clog pores and is suitable for oily sensitive skin. Last, but not least, it's available in 14 shades, making it the best top rated tinted moisturizer for oily skin.

    Customer’s Review: “This feels so lightweight on my skin, it’s easy to apply, and it looks great!”

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Blendable formula
    • No pills or cast
    • Not fragrance-free
    Cons
    • Contains PEGs
  • Best Drugstore Tinted Moisturizer

    wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator

    wet n wild Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator
  • Wet n Wild Bare Focus tinted moisturizer is enriched with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane. Also, this product can be applied regularly to achieve a no-makeup makeup look. To note more, this two-in-one product with a semi-matte finish, gives a nourished radiance that doesn't seem cakey on the face. Furthermore, its buildable coverage from sheer to medium ensures a smooth transition from dull to fab. Another plus is the wide range of shades available for you to choose from, making it the best drugstore tinted moisturizer for oily skin!

    Customer’s Review: “It’s the perfect tint and covers what I need it to. I’m older and it covers up my age spots and I don’t have to worry about it coming off.”

    Pros
    • Suitable for daily use
    • Budget-saver
    • Creamy texture
    • Sheer to medium coverage
    • Non-greasy finish
    Cons
    • Shades might appear darker than intended
  • Best for Daily Use

    Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturizer

    Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Moisturizer
  • Juice Beauty SPF 30 tinted mineral moisturizer is the right pick for those looking for a non-sticky, non-pore-clogging composition. Fortified with hydrating minerals like hyaluronic acid, sea algae, white grape, and pomegranate juice, and vitamins C, E, and B5, as well as antioxidants, it guards your skin against free radicals and replenishes it. The moisturizer also prevents breakouts, making it ideal for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. All in all, this is one of the most asked-about spf tinted moisturizers for oily skin on our list!

    Customer’s Review: I use this daily like a foundation! It's awesome!”

    Pros
    • Suitable for daily use
    • Moisturizes the skin
    • Value for money
    • SPF 30
    • Reef-friendly
    Cons
    • Contains fragrances
  • Best for Sun Protection

    LAURA GELLER BEAUTY BETTER THAN BARE Tinted Moisturizer

    LAURA GELLER BEAUTY BETTER THAN BARE Tinted Moisturizer
  • The Better Than Bare tinted moisturizer by Laura Geller provides sheer to medium coverage to create the perfect no-makeup look that you have been wanting for a long. Infused with a blend of vitamins and antioxidants, cucumber, rosemary, grape seed oil, and sunflower seed oil extracts to nourish the skin. It comes equipped with SPF 50 for pro-sports activities or if needing a little extra coverage at the beach. Moreover, with five broad color tone options, the tinted moisturizer further hydrates oily and dry skin, without feeling sticky or leaving a white cast, making it the best tinted moisturizer for combination skin.

    Customer’s Review: “Nice coverage and protection. Didn’t irritate my skin.”

    Pros
    • SPF 50
    • Lightweight
    • Smooth application
    • Satin finish
    Cons
    • Packaging could be better

    Quick Tip:

    To get additional sun protection with this product, mix in a small amount of your sunscreen with the tinted moisturizer before applying it.

  • Best Tinted Moisturizer for Acne-prone Skin

    smashbox HALO HEALTHY GLOW ALL-IN-ONE Tinted Moisturizer

    smashbox HALO HEALTHY GLOW ALL-IN-ONE Tinted Moisturizer
  • This tinted moisturizer by Smashbox primes, protects, and hydrates your skin, all in one go without the need of purchasing other products. Enriched with goji berries, niacinamide, peptides, and zinc oxide for sun protection, it further retains moisture in your skin without making it greasy. To note more, it comes with SPF 25 to protect you from the harmful UV rays and preserve the natural skin tone. Another impressive feature? It provides a dewy finish and a little product goes a long way in achieving the perfect makeup base.

    Customer’s Review: “This is my favorite tinted moisturizer! Never looks cakey”.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Mineral and chemical hybrid
    • Not heavy on the skin
    • Dewy finish
    Cons
    • Might dry out the skin
  • Best for All Skin Types

    laura mercier Tinted Moisturizer

    laura mercier Tinted Moisturizer
  • This tinted moisturizer by Laura Mercier delivers a mattifying finish, making it the best suited for oily and acne-prone skin. It's also the ideal double-duty product for achieving a flawless, no-makeup makeup look. Moreover, with the goodness of SPF 20 in the formulation, you can head out into the sun without worrying about tanning or sunburn. To note further, many reviewers have pointed out that the potent skincare ingredients in the product soothe irritated and sensitive skin, and luckily, the moisturizer is available in 20 shades, so you won't have a tough time finding your perfect match.

    Customer Review: “I’ve used Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer for years. I like that it has sunscreen in it. It goes on smoothly and there are enough colors to get one that matches your skin tone. I use it as a foundation because it provides light coverage. Very good makeup!”

    Pros
    • Offers light coverage
    • Controls sebum production
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Oil-free
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • May dry out the skin
  • Best Cruelty-Free Formula

    jolie Mineral Sheer Tint

    jolie Mineral Sheer Tint
  • Jolie Mineral sheer tint protects and hydrates your skin and covers blemishes all in one for every woman out there. To be noted, for treating and protecting the skin, it contains vitamin A and E, as well as antioxidants, ginseng root, and ginkgo biloba leaf extracts to bring about a glistening glow. When we tested this product, we found out that its water-resistant formula, SPF protection, and portable design make it pro-sports and travel-friendly for athletes. Furthermore, the non-comedogenic formula is available in 7 shades, making it the best versatile matte-tinted moisturizer for oily skin!

    Customer’s Review: “Great coverage and goes on so easily. This is by far, my favorite tinted moisturizer.”

    Pros
    • Free of parabens and phthalates
    • Cruelty-free
    • SPF 20
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Offers a natural glow
    Cons
    • Very less quantity

    Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best tinted moisturizers for oily skin, glance through our buying guide to make an informed purchasing decision. 

    How to Choose the Best Tinted Moisturizer for Oily Skin?

    Here are a few aspects to consider before vouching for the best tinted moisturizers for oily skin:

    • Ingredients: A good tinted moisturizer for oily skin must contain a healthy amount of minerals and humectants for keeping the skin glowing and refreshed. Humectants, such as hyaluronic acid, aloe, and glycerin that moisturize the skin, are among the must-have components to deal with oily skin. Furthermore, avoiding occlusive substances in moisturizers, such as paraffin, mineral oil, lanolin, and petroleum, is a must as they can clog your pores. 
    • Coverage level: When it pertains to tinted moisturizers, keep in mind that they won't give the same level of coverage as a traditional foundation and are less likely to conceal any visible flaws or defects. So those trying to even out their skin tone should opt for medium coverage, while someone looking to merely enhance their natural complexion should invest in a product offering sheer to light coverage. 
    • Formula: Added fragrances and other chemicals tend to irritate sensitive and oily skin, making it a big no-no on our checklist for healthy formulas. Mineral and natural plant-based formulas are much kinder on the skin and tend to be non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic due to their healthy composition. Ideally, oily skin individuals must look for a creamy texture that feels like a moisturizer (for a weightless application and feel), say our beauty team experts. Creamy and sheer formulas are lightweight solutions that quickly absorb into your oily skin without clogging the pores.
    • Sun Protection: Lastly, when a product strikes the balance between skincare and makeup, it is a plus point in our books as you get the best of two products in one. SPF protection (SPF 20 or above) is included in many of the best oil-control formulations listed above, preventing sun damage and wrinkles. Opt for mineral sunscreens as they are safer for your skin.

    Contributor: Dr. Zeeshan Afzal, MD, Welzo Medical Officer

    How to Apply Tinted Moisturizer for Oily Skin Type?

    Follow these steps to effectively wear a tinted moisturizer on oily skin:

    1. Start off by cleansing your face with an oil-free cleanser.

    2. Next, apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to your clean face.

    3. Use a mattifying primer to ensure that the tinted moisturizers last longer on your face.

    4. Select a matte-finish tinted moisturizer that's formulated for oily skin Types.

    5. Use a brush or a makeup sponge to apply the tinted moisturizer – this will give it an even, natural finish.

    6. If you require more coverage, build it up with more product, When doing this, apply the product in layers to avoid a thick and cakey finish.

    7. Set the tinted moisturizer with a translucent power – pay attention to your T-zone as this are gets oily the fastest.

    8. Whenever you feel oil coming through, use blotting paper for touch-ups.

    Conclusion

    Tinted moisturizers are a 2-in-1 product that embodies the goodness of both a foundation and a moisturizer. After trying and testing different products in the market, we realized that creamy and lightweight formulas are the best choice for oily skin. Choose the ones that improve your skin’s texture and melt quickly as they provide instant radiance instead of leaving behind any greasy residue. If you’re looking for a tinted moisturizer that also offers SPF protection, then we suggest you try out the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-aging Perfector. Search for the ideal and best tinted moisturizers for oily skin from our list, match them with your preferences, and grab them before it's too late. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    Is a tinted moisturizer better than a foundation?
    Yes, you may invest in a tinted moisturizer for light coverage, but if full coverage is what you desire, then we suggest opting for a foundation.
    Do I use a primer before tinted moisturizer?
    Yes, you should. Applying a moisturizer after primer will prevent the former from penetrating the skin and clogging the pores.
    Will a tinted moisturizer replace my sunscreen?
    Not necessarily, as many products aren't able to mimic the professional quality of sunscreens. Tinted moisturizers are a budget-friendly way to get the best of makeup and sunscreen in one.
    Can a tinted moisturizer control oil throughout the day?
    Yes, this depends on the formulation whether it is meant for oily skin or not. If searching for something for oily skin, dry opting for a non-comedogenic semi-matte finish tinted moisturizer that controls sebum production.
    Can a tinted moisturizer replace a foundation for oily skin?
    A tinted moisturizer is a lighter alternative to foundation – it offers hydration and a light coverage.
    How do I choose the right shade of tinted moisturizer for my skin tone?
    Test a few shades on your wrist or jawline and choose the one that most closely matches your skin color.
    Are there tinted moisturizers with SPF suitable for oily skin?
    Yes, there are many tinted moisturizers that also contain SPF that are suitable for oily skin too.
    Can tinted moisturizer cause breakouts on oily skin?
    While tinted moisturizers are much lighter than foundations, some of them may contain ingredients that can cause an oily-skinned person to break out. Opt for non-comedogenic and oil-free formulas to avoid this risk.
    How often should I reapply tinted moisturizer throughout the day?
    It is generally not necessary for one to reapply, but they can do it once the applied product wears off.
    Are there matte-finish tinted moisturizers for oily skin?
    Yes, there are matte-finish tinted moisturizers that are available for oily skin.
    Can men with oily skin use tinted moisturizer?
    Yes, of course. Men with oily skin can use a tinted moisturizer too.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Tinted moisturizers are one of the favorite makeup products of our makeup expert, Sayantani. These moisturizers even out the complexion and boost skin moisturization. Finding the right moisturizer for oily skin is quite a task. Keeping this in mind, Sayantani has come up with the ten best tinted moisturizers that are a boon for oily skin — they are infused with gentle ingredients, provide excellent coverage, and have a mild formula. Sayantani would any day pick Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-aging Perfector because it has an SPF 20 formula that shields the skin from UV rays. Plus, it has a creamy formula that blends easily into the skin and is budget-friendly. 

    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 Select 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