The Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundations

Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundations

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While some people filter their options to a matte finish foundation or a dewy finish one, some of us start sifting from the non-comedogenic options. Because if you have oily and acne-prone skin, the first thing your foundation should do is to make sure it doesn’t clog your pores. It’s even better if it doesn’t clog your bank account. Enter drugstore non-comedogenic foundations.

These foundations tend to be affordable and they make things a lot easier for blemish-prone skin types who need to be selective with the makeup products they use.

Before diving in, we’ve got some bad news and some good news. Read on to learn more about what non-comedogenic actually means and how/if you can ensure your foundation is one of those.

What Is Non-Comedogenic Makeup?

Comedones are the fancy name for open or closed pores that are clogged with oil, dirt, or bacteria. The word ‘comedogenic’ refers to ingredients or products that are likely to clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Non-comedogenic, on the other hand, refers to ingredients and products that are the exact opposite. A non-comedogenic foundation doesn’t contain ingredients that will clog your pores or cause acne.

In the meantime, your skin is unique. The way it reacts to ingredients is also unique. Making sure your foundation is non-comedogenic is only one way to ensure it won’t clog your pores. But it’s never a 100% guarantee.

Does the Non-Comedogenic Label Mean Anything?

Short answer, absolutely not! Here’s the long answer. Even though there are some obvious ingredients to avoid, there’s no institution regulating how comedogenic your products are. Going for products labeled ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘non-acnegenic’ is one way to do it.

But as brands do not have to prove it, it all comes down to how much you trust them and if you’re willing to take their word for it. In that sense, the non-comedogenic label doesn’t mean anything!

That’s why you need to do your homework and make sure to check out the ingredients list. I’ve seen a self-proclaimed non-comedogenic foundation that had isopropyl myristate high up on the list. But I’m not naming names.

What Are Some Comedogenic Ingredients?

Ingredients like isopropyl myristate or petroleum jelly are known to be pore-cloggers. But not everything is that black and white.

Other ingredients like silicones have a ton of derivatives, some good and some bad. Plus, the “comedogenic” ones may not be that comedogenic.

The concentration of the ingredient plays an equally important role in determining whether an ingredient is comedogenic or not.

Again, drugstore products don’t have to clarify the concentration of the ingredients. So, you may never know.

Are All Oil-Free Foundations Non-Comedogenic?

Again, there’s no easy answer. An oil-free foundation can still have so many pore-clogging ingredients that it’d make your head spin. Wax, coconut butter, and more.

So oil-free does not always mean non-comedogenic. But in the case of oily skin, it’s a good starting point.

How the Hell Are We Supposed to Keep the Pores Clean, Then?

Here are some obvious facts to keep in mind.

  • Heavier and thicker formulas are much more likely to be pore-clogging. Go for lightweight, liquid foundations with a runny texture, and go for loose powder ones as opposed to compact.
  • Make sure your foundation is oil-free. Remember that it doesn’t guarantee anything, but it’s a start.
  • Try to go for fragrance-free foundations. Fragrances can be irritating for acne-prone skin. Besides, fragrance can mean the presence of essential oils, which can also be comedogenic.
  • The ingredients are usually listed in order of concentration. If the first 5-10 ingredients seem legit, don’t worry too much about the rest.
  • Even non-comedogenic makeup products have the potential to clog pores and cause breakouts if you don’t properly remove them. Learn how to remove makeup properly and always cleanse your skin before bed.

Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundations

Considering the notorious ingredients, and the in-betweeners, below are the best non-comedogenic foundations you can find in your local drugstore.

1. Revlon ColorStay Longwear Makeup For Combination/Oily Skin

Revlon ColorStay Longwear Makeup For Combination Oily Skin - Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundation For Oily Skin

If you have oily and acne-prone skin and actually have acne you want to cover up, this is it. This drugstore oil-free foundation will cover up any skin imperfections. But at the same time, it won’t clog pores or cause further breakouts.

The non-comedogenic liquid foundation is lightweight, has medium but buildable coverage, and has a matte finish. And it comes in various shades and lasts all day. And it also has mineral SPF 15 in it to provide day-long sun protection.

Shades: 43
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Medium/buildable
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Oil-free, fragrance-free, waterproof

2. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation - Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundation

A true gem that has been a favorite ever since it hit the shelves. It’s light, blends super easily, and gives you medium-buildable coverage. This is a great match for oily skin types and the trick is micro powders.

They absorb excess oil on the skin, which is how it gives you that matte finish. It’s oil-free and it’s great for blurring out enlarged pores and textured skin. It’s an overall amazing foundation for acne-prone skin for an all-day shine-free makeup look.

Shades: 40
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Medium
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Fragrance-free, oil-free

3. Neutrogena Skin Clearing Liquid Makeup

Neutrogena Skin Clearing Liquid Makeup - Best Drugstore Non-Comedogenic Foundation For Acne-Prone Skin

It’s one thing when your foundation covers acne. But it’s another thing when it actually helps treat acne. This makeup skincare hybrid contains salicylic acid, which is the ultimate anti-acne ingredient oily skin types are way too familiar with. It targets active acne and prevents future breakouts.

The non-comedogenic formula is oil-free and fragrance-free. The budget-friendly liquid foundation comes in a variety of shades. It has medium coverage and has a semi-matte finish that smooths out the skin. Pair it with one of these drugstore non-comedogenic concealers and you’re good to go!

Shades: 14
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Medium
Size: 1 oz/30 ml

4. Loreal True Match Super-Blendable Foundation

Loreal True Match Super Blendable Foundation - Best Drugstore Non Comedogenic Foundation

An oil-free and fragrance-free foundation that has 40+ shades. This is a favorite for anyone regardless of skin type. Because it has an amazingly light texture that leaves the skin looking natural, yet airbrushed.

The foundation has medium coverage and blurs out pores, fine lines, and blemishes very well. The affordable drugstore favorite is pretty unlikely to clog your pores.

Shades: 47
Finish: Natural
Coverage: Medium
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Fragrance-free

5. Almay Clear Complexion Makeup Foundation

Almay clear complexion make myself clear makeup

This is another drugstore foundation that’s not only non-comedogenic but also actively fights acne. It contains salicylic acid to keep acne in check.

The liquid foundation has a matte finish and gives medium coverage. It conceals any skin imperfections while effectively treating breakouts and preventing new ones. Consider this one as an extension of your skincare!

Shades: 16
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Medium
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, cruelty-free

6. NYX Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation

NYX Can't Stop Won't Stop Foundation

I was turned on to this after trying the concealer in the same line. This is the dream formula for people with oily, acne-prone skin. It’s full coverage, waterproof, and has a mate finish! So it gives you smooth skin but also ensures it stays that way all day long!

Its lightweight texture is very easy to blend and apply, giving you enough time to cover the entire face without feeling patchy. And the matte finish is not a skin-drying, flaky one, but more like a natural finish that keeps the skin shine-free.

Shades: 45
Finish: Matte
Coverage: Full
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Waterproof, vegan

7. Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation and Concealer

Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation and Concealer - Best Drugstore Non Comedogenic Foundation

This is a foundation that doubles as a concealer but to be honest, it works better as a foundation. It’s an oil-free formula so it’s very unlikely to clog pores and it has a natural finish that doesn’t enhance the visibility of pores.

It’s a liquid foundation and the application is a breeze. Even though it says full coverage, it needs a little bit of layering on your part to get to that smooth finish. But still, it looks incredibly flattering and it’s pretty long-lasting!

Shades: 45
Finish: Natural
Coverage: Full
Size: 1 oz/30 ml
Good To Know: Oil-free, cruelty-free, waterproof

So these are the best drugstore non-comedogenic foundations you can use to create the perfect makeup base without breaking the bank or breaking out. It’s not very easy to find the ideal foundation no matter your skin type, so if you still have trouble finding it, know that there are other options out there. I’ve rounded up some amazing tinted moisturizers for oily skin for when you want some coverage but also skincare benefits. Also consider CC creams for oily skin to get some natural-looking coverage by evening out the skin tone.

Read Next: Best Mineral Foundations

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