8 Liquid and Powder Foundations That Won’t Irritate Acne-Prone Skin

If you have finicky, acne-prone skin, finding a foundation that doesn’t irritate your already sensitive complexion can be daunting. The answer is to use oil-free, non-comedogenic solutions that won’t lead to breakouts. According to NYC-based board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, it also helps to use face makeup made with zinc, sulfur, and salicylic acid to absorb oil, unclog pores, and create a long-lasting mattified finish. Once you find the best fit, remember that the way you apply it matters too. "Make sure that your makeup brushes are clean before you use them," Engelman advises. "So much acne-causing bacteria can hide in the bristles, so clean your brushes at least weekly." Click through for eight liquid and powder products for acne-prone skin.

bareMinerals Blemish Rescue Skin-Clearing Loose Powder Foundation ($29): According to Engelman, this powder formula helps break up sebum within pores thanks to a combination of salicylic acid, sulfur, and zinc. "Together these ingredients absorb oil and give an all-day matte finish," she says.

Almay Clear Complexion Make Myself Clear Makeup ($15): Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, this creamy, salicylic acid-infused foundation is a drugstore go-to for shoppers who regularly break out.

Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation ($55): Formulated with aloe, hyaluronic acid, and squalene, this foundation locks in hydration while blocking out acne-causing bacteria. "And since it's made with vitamin C, it also helps reduce hyperpigmention from scars," Engelman adds.

Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil Free Makeup ($14): This foundation's ingredient list includes salicylic acid and vitamin A, making it a top pick of Engelman. "The down side is it has parabens and a limited shade range (only three)," she points out.

CLOVE + HALLOW Pressed Mineral Foundation ($22): Those searching for all the coverage without any of the toxic ingredients should scoop up this option. "It has salicylic acid to gently breakdown sebum and jojoba oil to replenish moisture," Engelman says.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Acne Fighting Foundation ($6): Engelman recommends this drugstore beauty buy for its witch hazel and tea tree oil formula. "Both ingredients are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, meaning they help to destroy bacteria on the skin and keep it from spreading, while also calming the complexion and reducing redness," she says.

Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation ($70): Free of parabens, sulfates, fragrance, and phthalates, this foundation is as non-irritating as it gets. Plus, according to Engelman, water-based foundations are a great option for those that have oily skin.

Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup ($29): This lightweight foundation is designed to control oil production and banish breakouts — and it’s made with one of Engelman’s top-recommended acne-erasing ingredients, salicylic acid.