1. Apply a primer very selectively: Oil-absorbing primers like Smashbox Photo Finish Mattify Primer Stick and Estée Lauder The Mattifier Shine Control Perfecting Primer + Finisher are genius. The key is to apply them very lightly only where needed, which is usually the T-zone, and sometimes the cheeks. If you use them all over the face, your makeup will appear mask-like and not sink in to seamlessly look part of the skin (which is what you want).

2. Use both matt and light-reflecting powders: Powder your T-zone with a matt powder, as you normally do. Then, to set the makeup on the rest of your face, use a light-reflecting powder like M.A.C Mineralize Skinfinish to bring brightness to the complexion. You’re now powder-coated, but still radiant.

3. Or else, powder before base: Here’s a pretty genius trick makeup artists use when faced with an oily specimen: they powder the skin before foundation. Use a fluffy brush to set down translucent powder after you’ve used an oil-free serum and moisturizer. Then, apply foundation over the powder, using a brush, sponge or fingers. Lastly, if needed, powder over the T-zone again. This helps keep oil controlled, while not totally masking the sheen from your foundation.

4. Use a setting spray: After you’ve set your makeup with powder using one of the methods above, use a setting spray which is like a film, holding your makeup in place. We love Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water.

5. Use the right products: Powders in compact form are so convenient, but there’s a reason for that: small amounts of waxes are used in the formulation to keep them in solid form, and those waxes make greasy skin oilier in the long run. Use loose powder instead. Also, avoid cream or stick foundations, as those have waxes as well. Liquid bases are your best bet. Feel free to use a dewy foundation if you’re following some of the tips above to control T-zone oiliness. It will make the rest of your face look radiant while the T stays matt.

6. Carry blotting papers for touch-ups: When you want to keep oil in check on the go, it’s tempting to keep pulling out your compact, but over-powdering can make skin look cakey and lifeless. Carry a pack of blotting papers which will just lift the oil from your skin, leaving makeup intact.