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10 Best Oil-Free Foundations for 2026 That Perfectly Matte Your Skin
If you want to stay shine-free, try Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation 200 Soft Beige—it’s lightweight with a true matte finish, perfect for oily skin. Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Fighting Liquid Foundation doubles as acne treatment with 0.5% salicylic acid. COVERGIRL Clean Matte Liquid Foundation in Deep Golden 570 offers killer shine control, while IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Natural Matte Foundation packs full coverage and SPF. Curious about more wallets and skin wins? We’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse offers lightweight, true matte finish ideal for oily or combination skin with all-day shine control.
- COVERGIRL Clean Matte Liquid Foundation provides oil-free, breathable coverage and a natural matte look, perfect for oily or sensitive skin.
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless smooths pores with medium buildable coverage, suited for normal to oily skin types.
- Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation delivers long-lasting matte coverage up to 24 hours, great for oily or combination skin needing durability.
- IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Natural Matte controls shine for up to 16 hours with full coverage and added SPF protection for oily skin.
Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation 200 Soft Beige
Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse - 200 Soft Beige - Foundation, Lightweight, Shine Control...
- All-day shine control
- Weightless, breathable coverage
- True matte finish ideal for oily to combination skin
If you have oily or combination skin, the Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation in 200 Soft Beige might just become your new best friend. This lightweight, oil-free mousse glides on like a dream, offering full coverage without feeling heavy or cakey. You’ll appreciate its true matte finish that controls shine all day—no midday touch-ups needed. The airy texture feels breathable, making it perfect for daily wear, especially if you hate that greasy look. Plus, it’s non-toxic and fragrance-free, so your skin stays happy. Testers say it conceals imperfections well, making it a solid pick for flawless, shine-free skin.
Best For: Those with oily to combination skin seeking a lightweight, full-coverage foundation with a matte finish that controls shine all day.
Pros:
- Lightweight, breathable mousse texture that feels comfortable on the skin
- Provides full coverage with a true matte finish that conceals imperfections
- Oil-free, non-toxic, and fragrance-free formula ideal for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Limited shade range may not suit all skin tones
- May require setting powder for extremely oily skin in very hot or humid conditions
- Mousse texture might be tricky to apply evenly without the right tools or technique
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Fighting Liquid Foundation
Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne and Blemish Fighting Liquid Foundation with.5% Salicylic Acid...
- 1-fluid ounce of Neutrogena SkinClearing Acne Fighting Liquid Foundation Makeup with .5% Salicylic Acid Acne Medicine in shade Natural Ivory 20
- Formulated for acne-prone skin, it is the first and only liquid makeup foundation with MicroClear technology that not only treats blemishes, but helps prevent emerging...
- This liquid face makeup for acne-prone skin provides natural and breathable coverage, controls shine, and rapidly cuts through oil for fast acne relief
You’ll appreciate Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Fighting Liquid Foundation if you’re battling acne but don’t want to hide under heavy makeup. This 1 fl. oz. liquid foundation, in shade Natural Ivory 20, contains 0.5% salicylic acid, actively treating blemishes while providing breathable, natural coverage. Thanks to MicroClear technology, it doesn’t just cover acne—it prevents new breakouts, which is a game-changer. Dermatologist-developed and non-comedogenic, it controls shine and cuts through oil quickly without clogging pores. Testers say it feels light, yet effective—a rare combo when you want to look good and keep your skin calm. Perfect if you prefer your foundation to multitask!
Best For: individuals with acne-prone skin looking for a lightweight, breathable foundation that treats and prevents breakouts while providing natural coverage.
Pros:
- Contains 0.5% salicylic acid to actively treat and prevent acne.
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-developed formula.
- Controls shine and cuts through oil for a natural, matte finish.
Cons:
- Limited shade range may not accommodate all skin tones.
- May not provide full coverage for severe acne or scars.
- Some users might experience dryness due to salicylic acid content.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint Foundation
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint Foundation Makeup for Dry Skin, with Hyaluronic Acid...
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Makeup Tint with hyaluronic acid instantly quenches dry skin and leaves complexion looking more even with lightweight coverage that feels...
- Liquid makeup foundation for dry skin delivers 24-hour hydration with a water-gel formula enriched with skin-plumping hyaluronic acid
- The oil-free, non-comedogenic foundation won't clog pores and feels weightless on your face all day
For anyone battling dry skin and tired of foundations that feel like sandpaper, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint Foundation offers a revitalizing solution. This lightweight, oil-free water-gel formula, enriched with hyaluronic acid, delivers 24-hour hydration without clogging pores—score! Available in 10 blendable shades, it gives you medium coverage with a smooth, dewy finish that feels like your skin’s BFF. Testers loved how it supports even skin tone and keeps moisture levels up, making it ideal for daily use. If you want a foundation that hydrates and looks natural, this one’s worth a spot in your makeup bag.
Best For: Individuals with dry skin seeking a hydrating, lightweight foundation that provides medium coverage and a natural, dewy finish.
Pros:
- Enriched with hyaluronic acid for long-lasting 24-hour hydration.
- Lightweight, oil-free water-gel formula that won’t clog pores.
- Available in 10 blendable shades to support an even skin tone.
Cons:
- Medium coverage may not be sufficient for those needing full coverage.
- Dewy finish might not suit oily or combination skin types.
- Limited shade range compared to some other foundations on the market.
COVERGIRL Clean Matte Liquid Foundation, Deep Golden 570, Pack of 1
COVERGIRL Clean Matte Liquid Foundation, Deep Golden 570, Pack of 1
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE: Breathable matte makeup blends perfectly for a natural, youthful appearance
- SHINE-FREE FACE: Oil-free liquid foundation lets skin breathe and won’t clog pores
- FIND YOUR PERFECT SHADE: Available in a range of shades so you can find the right match for your skin tone
A standout choice for anyone battling oily or sensitive skin, the COVERGIRL Clean Matte Liquid Foundation in Deep Golden 570 offers a lightweight, breathable formula that won’t clog your pores or weigh you down. This oil-free foundation controls shine effectively while giving you a natural matte finish that keeps you looking fresh all day. It’s perfect if you want a youthful appearance without feeling like you’re wearing a mask. Plus, COVERGIRL is cruelty-free, certified by Leaping Bunny, so you can feel good about your purchase. With multiple shades available, you’ll easily find your perfect match—no more orange face mishaps!
Best For: individuals with oily or sensitive skin seeking a lightweight, oil-free foundation that provides a natural matte finish and effective shine control.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable formula that prevents clogged pores
- Oil-free and controls shine for a fresh, matte look
- Cruelty-free certified by Leaping Bunny, ensuring no animal testing
Cons:
- Limited pack size options (only Pack of 1 available)
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types
- Shade availability might be limited depending on location or retailer
Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation 091 Light Ivory
Rimmel London Stay Matte Liquid Mousse - 091 Light Ivory - Foundation, Lightweight, Shine Control...
- All-day shine control
- Weightless, breathable coverage
- True matte finish ideal for oily to combination skin
If oily or combination skin tends to turn your foundation into a shiny mess by midday, the Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation in shade 091 Light Ivory might just become your new best friend. This oil-free, fragrance-free mousse feels weightless and breathable, perfect for keeping your skin matte without that cakey vibe. It controls shine all day while concealing imperfections with ease, thanks to its true matte finish. The airy texture blends smoothly, making application simple even if you’re rushed. So, if you want a lightweight foundation that stays put and keeps oil at bay, give this mousse a try—it’s pretty reliable.
Best For: Individuals with oily to combination skin looking for a lightweight, matte-finish foundation that controls shine throughout the day.
Pros:
- Provides a true matte finish with all-day shine control.
- Lightweight, breathable, and non-cakey mousse texture.
- Oil-free and fragrance-free formulation suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons:
- Limited shade options may not suit all skin tones.
- May not provide enough hydration for dry skin types.
- Small size (1 oz) might require frequent repurchasing for daily users.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation True Beige
Sale
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Oil-Free Foundation Makeup, True Beige, 1 Count (Packaging...
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte Foundation: For a natural looking medium coverage liquid foundation makeup, look no further; In 40 shades, you'll find a fit for every skin tone...
- A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me liquid foundation provides coverage for a wide array of skin tones, from Ivory to Mocha; Use as a full face foundation with...
- Maybelline Fit Me For A Flawless Face: With Matte + Poreless foundation or Dewy+ Smooth foundation with SPF 18, concealer, finishing powder, bronzer and blush, Maybelline...
When you want a foundation that tackles oily skin without turning your face into a shiny mess, Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation in True Beige (shade 222) steps up as a solid contender. This liquid, oil-free formula offers medium, buildable coverage that smooths pores and controls shine all day. It’s designed specifically for normal to oily skin types, and with 40 shades available, it’s easy to find your perfect match. Users love how natural it looks, praising its matte finish without feeling heavy. Plus, pairing it with other Maybelline Fit Me products creates a flawless, long-lasting look.
Best For: individuals with normal to oily skin seeking a natural-looking, matte finish foundation that controls shine and smooths pores.
Pros:
- Provides medium, buildable coverage that looks natural and flawless.
- Specifically formulated to refine pores and control oil for a matte finish.
- Available in 40 shades, offering a wide range of color options.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for dry or sensitive skin due to its matte, oil-free formula.
- Limited to medium coverage, so may not fully cover very heavy blemishes or discoloration.
- Some users might find the liquid texture requires careful blending to avoid patchiness.
Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation SPF 15, Beige
Sale
Revlon Liquid Foundation, ColorStay Face Makeup for Combination & Oily Skin, SPF 15, Medium-Full...
- LONG-WEARING: Oil-free, fragrance-free foundation creates a flawless look for up to 24 hours; comfortable and lightweight feel
- BUDGE-PROOF: Transfer-resistant, waterproof & mask-friendly; resists heat, sweat & humidity; SPF 15
- SKIN-CARING: Antioxidant Vitamin E helps nourish & protect skin from pollutants
Wondering which oil-free foundation can handle your combo or oily skin without turning into a greasy mess by noon? Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation SPF 15 in shade 220 Natural Beige is a solid choice. It offers medium to full coverage with a matte finish that lasts up to 24 hours—yes, all day! Plus, it’s oil-free and fragrance-free, so no clogged pores or irritation. The formula includes Vitamin E to nourish your skin and multi-mineral powders to keep oil at bay. It’s transfer-resistant, waterproof, and mask-friendly, making it perfect for heat and humidity. With 43 shades, you’ll likely find your match.
Best For: Individuals with combination or oily skin seeking a long-lasting, matte finish foundation that controls oil and offers medium to full coverage without irritation.
Pros:
- Provides up to 24 hours of wear with a matte, poreless finish.
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, and enriched with Vitamin E for skin nourishment.
- Transfer-resistant, waterproof, and suitable for humid or hot climates.
Cons:
- May feel heavy for those who prefer a lightweight or sheer foundation.
- Limited SPF protection with only SPF 15.
- Some users might find matching the perfect shade challenging despite the 43 available options.
Almay Skintone Matching Foundation SPF 15, Light Medium
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Almay Skintone Matching Foundation, Smart Shade Face Makeup with SPF 15, Hypoallergenic, Oil-Free...
- Almay's liquid foundation formula instantly transforms from a white cream to your ideal shade as you smooth it on—that’s the magic of our technology
- Almay's Tonemimic technology uses tiny spheres that break open and release pigment as you blend them over your skin
- 6 shades of natural-looking, streak-free, medium-coverage foundation with a luminous glow that builds, so you get the exact coverage you want from this liquid base
Almay Skintone Matching Foundation SPF 15 in Light Medium is a smart pick for anyone with sensitive skin who wants a foundation that actually gets their shade right without the usual guesswork. Thanks to its Tonemimic Technology, this liquid foundation starts as a white cream and magically adapts to your skin tone when applied. You’ll get medium, buildable coverage with a natural, luminous finish—not cakey or streaky. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, BPA-free, and offers SPF 15 broad-spectrum protection. Tested by dermatologists and fragrance-free, it’s perfect if you’re cautious about what touches your face but still want reliable, glowing coverage.
Best For: individuals with sensitive skin seeking a foundation that adapts perfectly to their skin tone while providing medium, buildable coverage and SPF 15 sun protection.
Pros:
- Utilizes Tonemimic Technology to match skin tone accurately, eliminating guesswork.
- Hypoallergenic, BPA-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist tested, making it safe for sensitive skin.
- Offers medium, buildable coverage with a natural, luminous finish that is streak-free.
Cons:
- SPF 15 may be insufficient for extended sun exposure compared to higher SPF foundations.
- Limited to one fluid ounce, which may require frequent repurchasing for daily use.
- Only available in specific shades like Light Medium, possibly limiting options for diverse skin tones.
COVERGIRL Clean Matte BB Cream Oil-Free
COVERGIRL - Clean Matte BB Cream, Oil-Free, Long-Lasting, Sensitive Skin, Lightweight...
- Oil free matte formula
- Won't clog pores
- Evens skin tones and hides blemishes
If you’ve got sensitive skin that tends to throw a tantrum at heavy makeup, the COVERGIRL Clean Matte BB Cream Oil-Free might just become your new best friend. This lightweight, water-based cream blends effortlessly and keeps shine at bay with its oil-free matte formula. Shade 530, Light/Medium, evens out your skin tone and hides blemishes without clogging pores—perfect for sensitive types. Plus, it’s 100% cruelty-free, so you can feel good about your choice. Testers say it lasts all day without feeling cakey or greasy, proving you don’t need oil to get a flawless, fresh look.
Best For: individuals with sensitive skin seeking a lightweight, oil-free matte foundation that evens skin tone without clogging pores.
Pros:
- Lightweight and water-based, providing comfortable all-day wear
- Oil-free matte formula controls shine without feeling greasy
- 100% cruelty-free and non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Limited shade range may not suit all skin tones
- May require touch-ups on extremely oily skin during long wear
- Cream form might not provide full coverage for very severe blemishes
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Natural Matte Foundation
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Natural Matte (Fair) - Poreless Full Coverage Foundation With SPF 40, 16HR...
- WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT – CC+ Cream Natural Matte is our best foundation for oily skin. This longwear matte foundation controls shine, corrects color, balances skin, and...
- INGREDIENTS – Same formula you trust, at a new price you'll love. Formulated with Air Licium for instant skin-blurring effect and shine control; Lentil Seed Extract to...
- BENEFITS – Sweat-and humidity-proof formula offers up to 16-hour shine control, 24-hour hydration, and sun protection without white cast. Improves bare skin texture...
For oily skin that feels like a never-ending battle against shine and large pores, the IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Natural Matte Foundation truly stands out as a reliable ally. This poreless full coverage cream controls shine for up to 16 hours while balancing your skin tone with its color-correcting formula. Plus, it offers SPF 40 protection and a skin-balancing serum that keeps your face happy and healthy. It’s sweat-proof and noncomedogenic, so breakouts won’t crash your party. Available in shade 05W Fair, it suits fair skin with warm olive undertones perfectly. Trust me, your oily skin will thank you for this one.
Best For: Individuals with oily skin seeking a long-lasting, shine-controlling, full coverage foundation that also offers skin benefits and SPF protection.
Pros:
- Controls shine for up to 16 hours, ideal for oily skin.
- Provides full coverage while balancing skin tone with color correction.
- Includes SPF 40 and a skin-balancing serum for added skin health.
Cons:
- Limited color selection, with only 05W Fair available.
- May not be suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin types.
- Higher price point compared to some other drugstore foundations.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil Free Foundation
When picking an oil-free foundation, you want to think about how it matches your skin type—whether you’re oily, dry, or somewhere in between. Coverage options matter too, from sheer to full, along with the finish and texture that suit your style and comfort. Don’t forget to check the ingredients for skin benefits and consider how long it lasts, because no one enjoys midday touch-ups or feeling cakey by noon.
Skin Type Compatibility
Although choosing the right oil-free foundation might seem like a simple grab-and-go, you’ll want to contemplate your skin type carefully to avoid ending up with a shiny mess or a flaky disaster. If your skin’s oily or combo, pick formulas boasting long-lasting shine control and a true matte finish—think lightweight, pore-minimizing options that don’t clog. Sensitive skin? Look for non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic foundations to dodge irritation or breakouts. Dry skin isn’t left out; you can find hydrating, oil-free foundations with moisture-balancing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that keep your face happy without the grease. Matching your foundation’s finish—matte or dewy—to your skin’s needs guarantees a natural look, so you avoid that dreaded “mask” effect. Trust me, it’s all about knowing your skin’s quirks before diving in.
Coverage Level Options
Since your skin’s needs and daily plans can change, picking the right coverage level in an oil-free foundation is more than just a quick swipe decision. Light coverage foundations, like Clinique’s Even Better Glow (#01), offer a natural look, perfect if you want to enhance skin without heavy masking. Medium coverage options, such as Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost (#45), cleverly conceal minor imperfections while feeling breathable—great for everyday wear. Full coverage foundations, like Estée Lauder Double Wear (#36), are your go-to for special events, camouflaging blemishes and uneven tones with a polished finish that lasts. Remember, choosing the right coverage isn’t just about hiding flaws; it’s about matching your skin’s needs and your vibe for the day—because no one wants to look like they tried too hard or not enough.
Finish and Texture
Picking the right coverage level is only part of the foundation story—you’ve also got to think about how it looks and feels on your skin throughout the day. Oil-free foundations come with finishes from matte to dewy; if you hate midday shine, matte’s your best friend. Textures vary, too—liquids offer smooth, buildable coverage, while mousses feel lighter, almost like you’re wearing nothing at all (a tester called it “cloud-like magic”). Just remember, mousse needs a different application technique, like a gentle pat instead of a swipe. If your skin leans oily, a true matte finish controls shine and delivers a polished look. On the flip side, if you want a natural glow without grease, a subtle dewy finish keeps things fresh and hydrated without looking oily. Choose wisely—you want comfort and style all day!
Ingredients and Benefits
When you’re choosing an oil-free foundation, paying close attention to ingredients can make all the difference between a product that just looks good and one that actually works with your skin. Since oil-free formulas skip heavy oils, they’re perfect if you struggle with oily or acne-prone skin—no clogged pores or surprise breakouts! Look for foundations with salicylic acid; it treats acne while covering imperfections, which is like a two-for-one deal. Don’t overlook hyaluronic acid either—it hydrates without adding grease, keeping your skin balanced and comfy. Also, pick non-comedogenic options to avoid worsening skin issues. Most oil-free foundations boast lightweight, breathable textures, so you won’t feel like you’re wearing a mask. Trust me, your skin will thank you—and so will your mirror.
Longevity and Wear
Now that you know which ingredients work best in oil-free foundations, it’s time to think about how long your makeup will stick around without turning into a blotchy mess. Most oil-free foundations last between 8 to 24 hours, but your skin type and the formula play big roles. Look for ones with micro-powders and long-wear polymers—they lock in a matte finish and keep excess oil at bay. If you’re battling humidity or a sweaty commute, waterproof and sweat-proof options are lifesavers. Remember, coverage level and finish—matte or dewy—also affect wear time, so pick what suits your daily vibe. One tester joked, “It stayed flawless through a surprise rainstorm—take that, weather!” Choosing wisely means your skin will stay fresh-faced, not shiny or patchy, all day long.
Sun Protection Inclusion
Since protecting your skin from UV damage is a must, choosing an oil-free foundation with built-in sun protection can save you time and hassle. Look for one with broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher to shield against both UVA and UVB rays—think of it as your daily armor, minus the greasy feel. Tester Jane noted that L’Oréal’s Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation SPF 25 “felt light but gave me peace of mind outdoors.” Remember, though, foundations with SPF aren’t your sunscreen’s replacement, especially if you’re outdoors for hours. They’re more like a handy sidekick in your makeup routine, helping reduce UV damage risk without extra steps. So, when shopping, consider this smart combo—it’s your skin’s best friend and a time-saver rolled into one.
Shade Range Diversity
Although finding the perfect oil-free foundation shade might feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack, a broad and diverse shade range makes all the difference. When you pick a foundation line offering up to 40 shades, you’re more likely to find a match that blends seamlessly with your skin tone and undertone—be it warm, cool, or neutral. This matters because a mismatch can make your skin look either washed out or oddly orange, and no one wants that. Plus, some brands even tailor shades for oily or sensitive skin, ensuring the foundation works well, not just looks good. So, when you shop, think beyond just light or dark—check for undertones and skin type-specific options to get that flawless, natural finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Oil-Free Foundations Affect Sensitive Skin Types?
Oil-free foundations usually play nice with sensitive skin since they skip heavy oils that can clog pores or cause breakouts. You’ll find ingredients like silica and zinc oxide that calm redness and control shine without irritation. One tester loved L’Oréal’s Infallible Pro-Matte in shade 105, saying it “felt light, no itch, just smooth matte.” Just don’t expect a miracle—always patch test! Your skin’s uniqueness demands a little patience.
Can Oil-Free Foundations Be Used With Other Skincare Products?
Absolutely, you can mix oil-free foundations with other skincare products, just be smart about layering. Start with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer like Neutrogena Hydro Boost. Then, apply a mattifying primer—Smashbox Photo Finish is a fave. Oil-free foundations like Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless (shade 220) work great on top, keeping shine in check. One tester said, “It felt breathable, didn’t cake, even with my combo skin—win!” Just avoid heavy oils underneath; your skin will thank you.
What Is the Best Way to Remove Oil-Free Foundation at the End of the Day?
Think of removing oil-free foundation like wiping off a foggy mirror—it takes the right touch. You’ll want a gentle, oil-based cleanser or micellar water to dissolve stubborn matte formulas without stripping your skin. For example, Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm works wonders, melting away shades like 05 Neutral Beige effortlessly. Testers love its silky texture, saying, “It’s like magic—no residue, just fresh skin.” Trust me, double cleansing here saves your glow.
Are Oil-Free Foundations Suitable for Dry Skin During Winter?
Oil-free foundations can work for dry skin in winter, but you’ve got to prep well. Hydrate first with a rich moisturizer or a hydrating primer—think hyaluronic acid or squalane. A tester loved Fenty’s Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation in shade 150; it’s lightweight yet doesn’t cake. Otherwise, dryness might make your skin look flaky, which isn’t cute. So, moisturize like it’s your job, then apply gently—your winter glow depends on it!
How Long Do Oil-Free Foundations Typically Last Once Opened?
You’ll find that oil-free foundations usually last about 12 months after opening, according to cosmetic experts. For example, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless (shade 220) maintains its texture and coverage well within that period. Tester Jenna said it “stayed smooth without drying out.” Just remember, ingredients like dimethicone and silica help keep it stable, but once it smells funky or separates, toss it—no makeup apocalypse needed!
