Great news for oily skin types: Creating a matte makeup look doesn’t have to require piling on layers of cakey, chalky powder that’ll only slip and slide off before the day is over. Thanks to some pretty genius oil-controlling skin care and foundation formulas, along with a few strategic contouring techniques, here’s how to look naturally matte—not flat—all day.

Step 1: Get matte.
Pep-Start HydroBlur Moisturizer is a lightweight hydrator and makeup primer that controls oil and blurs imperfections (bye-bye lines). Apply to T-Zone, cheeks and anywhere else you tend to get oily.

Step 2: Take cover.
Dot Superbalanced Silk Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15 to any areas that need coverage, then use your fingers or a foundation brush, to blend outwards. This foundation adjusts to your skin’s demands, hydrating and controlling oil where needed, to impart a perfectly balanced, natural matte finish—pretty smart.
Tip: When blending foundation with your fingers, always tap the makeup into the skin. This allows for better coverage and less streaking.

Step 3: Shape it up.
Create a natural, shine-free contour with Chubby Stick Sculpting Contour. Apply to the hollows of your cheeks (just below your cheekbones), hairline (around the temples), jawline and sides of nose. Use your fingers, or an angled makeup brush, to blend.
Tip: Use light pressure when applying your contour. You want it to look natural, not fake (and you can always add more for enhanced definition).

Step 4: Set it all day.  
Pat Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder all over for a long lasting finish. It has micro-sized beads to trap oil so skin stays shine-free. No midday makeup meltdown or shine breakthrough.

Want a hands-on how-to? Stop by any Clinique counter and let our experts treat you to a complimentary You-Time Service makeup or skin care tutorial, just like this one.

Photos: Christine Hahn | Words: Julie Redfern