Is NARS Natural Matte Longwear Foundation good for oily and combination skin?

Yes, it is specifically formulated with 24-hour shine control and oil-absorbing powders. Therefore, making it ideal for oily and combination skin types.

What makes this latest NARS launch stand out is its ability to balance matte coverage with a skin-like finish. Rather than flattening the complexion, the formula diffuses light and smooths texture, creating that blurred, almost airbrushed effect — but without looking heavy or overdone.

The texture itself feels lightweight and fluid, blending seamlessly into the skin while offering buildable medium-to-full coverage. Whether you’re evening out redness or creating a more perfected base, it adapts beautifully without caking or settling.

Longwear Performance Without the Dryness

True to its name, this foundation is designed for long-lasting wear, making it ideal for busy days or special occasions. It holds up well against shine while still maintaining comfort — a key detail for those who typically avoid matte formulas due to dryness.

The finish stays fresh throughout the day, controlling excess oil while allowing the skin to breathe. It’s the kind of base that feels reliable yet never rigid — polished, but still natural.

Spotlight on Shades: Vanuatu & Syracuse

One of NARS’ strengths has always been its nuanced shade range, and this formula continues that legacy.

• Vanuatu (M3.5) is described as a medium to medium-deep shade with warm olive undertones. Therefore, making it particularly flattering for those with golden or olive complexions.
• Syracuse (MD1) leans slightly deeper, offering a medium to medium-deep tone with warm undertones. It is ideal for adding warmth and depth without looking overly orange.

Both shades sit beautifully within that versatile mid-range spectrum. Thus making them especially popular for summer skin tones or those who tan easily.

The Final Verdict

If you’ve been searching for a foundation that delivers a modern matte — soft, blurred, and never flat — this new NARS formula is well worth exploring. It combines longwear performance with a comfortable feel, making it perfect for everyday wear as well as more elevated looks.

Paired with a minimal routine or layered into a full glam moment, it’s one of those foundations that quietly elevates your entire makeup look. The result is effortless, refined, and undeniably chic finish.

Quick Q&A

1. Is NARS Natural Matte Longwear Foundation good for oily skin? Yes. It is specifically formulated with oil-absorbing powders and 24-hour shine control. Thus, making it an ideal choice for oily and combination skin types.
2. How does NARS Natural Matte differ from NARS Soft Matte? The Natural Matte version offers a more breathable, skin-like finish with serum-hybrid ingredients. Whereas the Soft Matte Complete Foundation provides a higher, more “full-glam” coverage with a completely flat matte finish.
3. Does NARS Natural Matte Foundation oxidize? Based on our 2026 wear test, the formula remains color-true. However, because it contains high pigment levels, it is recommended to let it dry for 60 seconds to see the final settled shade.
4. Is the NARS Natural Matte Foundation non-comedogenic? Yes, it is non-acnegenic and dermatologically tested, making it safe for acne-prone skin.

Other products I have been enjoying from the brand include Nars The Multiple (review and swatches here), Light Reflecting Luminizing Powder (review and swatches here). Also, the Total Seduction Eyeshadow Sticks (review and swatches here) are so pigmented and provide nice wear time.

Comment below if you have any questions or comments. Also, check my Bloglovin for the latest launches and products. In addition, check out exclusive discount codes for my readers here.

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