Struggling with oily skin, especially concerning makeup, can be somewhat challenging. If your primer isn’t efficient, your foundation may easily fade away, leading to a greasy, uneven complexion. Thus, finding the right primer for oily skin is of paramount importance.
The primary goal of a primer is to create a smooth, even base for your makeup. However, when you have oily skin, you need a primer that can also control shine and prevent your makeup from melting off your face. That’s where oil-free and mattifying primers come in.
When shopping for a primer for oily skin, it’s essential to look for products that are oil-free and contain ingredients like salicylic acid or witch hazel that can help control oil production. You’ll also want to consider the finish of the primer. A matte finish will help control shine, while a dewy finish may make oily skin look even oilier.
We spent hours researching and testing various primers to identify the best ones for oily skin. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Primers for Oily Skin
As beauty enthusiasts, we know that finding the perfect primer for oily skin can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve done the research and put together a list of the best primers for oily skin. These primers have been tried and tested by us and have proven to keep oily skin at bay while providing a flawless base for makeup application. Whether you’re looking for a mattifying primer or a pore-minimizing one, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer
If you’re looking for a good primer for oily skin, Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer is definitely worth considering. It’s a high-quality, paraben-free, and cruelty-free primer that’s Leaping Bunny approved. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of this product:
Pros
- This matte primer preps your face after your skin care regimen and before makeup application to ensure your look is locked in. It delivers an immediate smooth effect on your skin.
- Lock in your makeup with the power of this makeup primer. This makeup primer for face leaves a matte finish that protects your makeup throughout the day from oiliness and creasing.
- Besides evening out your skin tone, this formula enlivens the appearance of your skin and balances your complexion. This pore minimizer primer is perfect for layering under makeup as it protects against creasing.
Cons
- The primer may not work well for people with very dry skin.
- Some people may not like the texture of the primer.
- The primer may not last all day for some people.
In our experience, Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer is a great product that helps control oil and keeps makeup looking fresh all day long. The primer goes on smoothly and feels weightless on the skin. It’s also easy to apply and doesn’t leave any residue. Overall, we would definitely recommend this primer to anyone looking for a high-quality, long-lasting primer for oily skin.
2. Maybelline Facestudio Master Prime Primer Makeup, Blur + Pore Minimize
If you’re looking for a primer that can help minimize the appearance of your pores, Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Prime Primer Makeup, Blur + Pore Minimize is a great option.
Pros
- This primer has a weightless, non-oily, and water-soluble formula that melts onto the skin to help camouflage, conceal, and correct.
- It can help to smooth and prime the skin for hydration.
- It can help to reduce the appearance of pores.
Cons
- Packaging may vary, so you may not receive what is reflected on the site.
- The product may not work as well for all skin types.
- It may not be long-lasting enough for some users.
We’ve tried this primer ourselves, and we found that it did a great job of minimizing the appearance of our pores. It has a lightweight feel and doesn’t leave the skin feeling oily or greasy. We also liked that it helped to smooth our skin and make it feel hydrated.
However, we did notice that the product may not work as well for all skin types. It may not be long-lasting enough for some users, and the packaging may vary, so you may not receive what is reflected on the site.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help minimize the appearance of your pores, Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Prime Primer Makeup, Blur + Pore Minimize is definitely worth checking out.
3. BROUYOUE One Step Color Corrector
If you’re looking for a primer that can brighten your skin tone, moisturize your skin, control oil, and conceal blemishes, then BROUYOUE One Step Color Corrector is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The 3 in 1 Makeup Primer contains 3 shades that brighten dullness and evens out skin tone. Light purple can correct yellowish skin tone, green can neutralize reddish skin, flesh pink can cover dark circles, etc.
- The primer is made with a variety of gentle ingredients that moisturize your skin and control oil, leaving your face hydrated and silky smooth.
- Effectively covers the appearance of pores, dark circles, etc. Hydrates the face and brightens dull skin to leave skin silky smooth.
Cons
- The product may not be suitable for all skin types, so be sure to test it on a small area of your skin before applying it all over your face.
- The primer may not provide long-lasting coverage for extremely oily skin types.
- The product may be a bit pricey for some users.
We recently tried BROUYOUE One Step Color Corrector, and we were impressed with the results. The primer texture is light, moisturizing, and non-greasy, making it easy to apply makeup without stress. The primer effectively isolates makeup and protects skin, ensuring that your makeup lasts for hours without any unnecessary meltdowns.
The BROUYOUE One Step Color Corrector is perfect for those who want to improve their oily appearance and cover and prevent excess sebum for long-lasting makeup. The primer is easy to apply and provides excellent coverage, leaving your skin looking flawless and radiant.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a primer that can brighten your skin tone, moisturize your skin, control oil, and conceal blemishes, then the BROUYOUE One Step Color Corrector is the perfect choice for you.
4. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Marshmellow Smoothing Primer
If you’re looking for a vegan primer that will give you a smooth canvas for easy makeup application, then the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Marshmellow Smoothing Primer might be just what you need.
Pros
- Softens skin
- Keeps makeup fresh for up to 16 hours
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Some users report sensitivity to the product
- Can accentuate large pores
We tried out this primer and found that it has a soft whipped texture that dries down transparent, making it suitable for all skin tones. The primer is infused with marshmallow root extract, which helps to smooth, soften, and hydrate the skin. We also noticed that our makeup stayed fresh for up to 16 hours, which was a major plus.
However, we did find that the primer may not work for all skin types. Some users reported sensitivity to the product, and it can accentuate large pores. If you have very oily skin, you may need to use a different primer to control oil and shine.
Overall, we think that the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Marshmellow Smoothing Primer is a great choice for anyone looking for a vegan and cruelty-free primer that will help to keep their makeup looking fresh all day.
5. e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer
If you’re looking for a primer that will help your makeup last all day, e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer is a great choice.
Pros
- This primer creates a smooth, even base for your makeup, minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- Infused with Tea Tree and Vitamins A & E, this restorative formula helps to nourish your skin while you wear it.
- The matte finish of this primer is perfect for oily skin, helping to control shine throughout the day.
Cons
- Some users have reported a strong smell that they find unpleasant.
- This primer may not work as well for those with dry skin, as it can be quite drying.
- While this primer is affordable, some users have found that it doesn’t last as long as more expensive options.
We’ve found that e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer does a great job of creating a smooth, even base for our makeup. It’s easy to apply and blends well, leaving our skin looking flawless. The Tea Tree and Vitamins A & E in the formula help to nourish our skin, and we appreciate that this product is cruelty-free and vegan. However, we do find that the smell can be a bit strong, and it may not be the best choice for those with dry skin. Overall, we’d recommend this primer to anyone with oily skin who’s looking for an affordable option that will help their makeup last all day.
6. Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer
If you want to get a smooth and poreless skin in seconds, Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer is the perfect product for you. It is a mistake-proof primer that helps to visibly blur pores and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.
Pros
- Poreless smooth skin perfection
- One second to smooth, poreless skin
- Visibly pore blurring smooth skin
Cons
- Can cause breakouts for some users
- Not suitable for dry skin
- The tube is small and may not last long
We recently tried this primer and were impressed with the results. It instantly made our skin feel smoother and poreless. The texture of the primer is silky and lightweight, and it blends easily into the skin. It also helped to keep our makeup in place throughout the day.
One of the best things about this primer is that it is affordable and easily accessible. It is a great option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly primer that works well.
However, we did notice that it can cause breakouts for some users, so if you have acne-prone skin, you may want to test it out before committing to it. It also may not be suitable for those with dry skin, as it can accentuate dry patches.
Overall, we would recommend Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer to anyone who is looking for a pore-blurring primer that is affordable and easily accessible. It is a great option for those who want to achieve a smooth and flawless makeup base.
7. e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer
We highly recommend e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, 6 Oz, Clear, 0.811 ml (Pack of 1) Power Grip Primer 24 mL. It is a must-have for anyone with oily skin. This primer is perfect for keeping your makeup in place all day long.
Pros
- The formula grips makeup for all-day wear.
- Goes on clear with a translucent finish for all skin types and skin tones.
- Infused with powerhouse ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid to moisturize and prep skin.
Cons
- The product may cause irritation for some users.
- Some users may find the formula too sticky.
- May not be suitable for very dry skin.
E.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer is a gel-based primer that has the power to grip your makeup while giving skin a natural finish for a smoother complexion. This primer is ideal for all skin types and skin tones. It moisturizes, preps, and smoothes to perfection, improving the look and feel of your skin.
The formula is enriched with beneficial ingredient Hyaluronic Acid to retain moisture for a plump complexion. The gel-based primer goes on clear, making it the ideal makeup application base for all skin types and skin tones. The warmth of your fingers will help the product melt into skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup.
All e.l.f. products are made from skin-loving ingredients you want, minus the toxins you don’t—all at good-for-you prices. All e.l.f. products are 100% cruelty-free and Vegan.
Overall, e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer is a great choice for anyone looking for a primer that will keep their makeup in place all day long. It is easy to apply, feels lightweight on the skin, and is very affordable.
8. Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer
We highly recommend the Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer for those with oily skin who are looking for a long-lasting matte finish.
Pros
- The primer mattifies makeup and absorbs excess oil for up to 16 hours, keeping your skin looking fresh and matte all day long.
- Infused with a powerful blend of antioxidants, including citrus, aloe, and broccoli, the primer helps to neutralize pollutants and free radicals, protecting your skin from daily aggressors.
- The primer reduces the appearance of pores and blurs imperfections, giving your skin a smooth, flawless finish.
Cons
- The primer may not work as well for those with dry skin, as it can be quite mattifying and may accentuate dry patches.
- Some users may find that the primer feels slightly tacky or sticky upon application, although this feeling should dissipate quickly.
- The primer may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin, as it contains fragrance and other potential irritants.
Overall, we were very impressed with the Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer. It kept our oily skin looking matte and fresh all day long, and the antioxidant blend helped to protect our skin from environmental stressors. While it may not be the best choice for those with dry or sensitive skin, we highly recommend it for those with oily skin who are looking for a long-lasting, mattifying primer.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best primer for oily skin, there are several features to consider. We recommend considering the following factors before making a purchase:
Ingredients
Look for a primer that contains oil-free and non-comedogenic ingredients. Ingredients such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, and tea tree oil can help control oil production and reduce the appearance of pores. Avoid primers with heavy oils, silicones, and fragrances, as they can clog pores and exacerbate oily skin.
Texture
Choose a primer with a lightweight, matte texture that can absorb excess oil and create a smooth base for makeup application. Avoid primers with a greasy or sticky texture, as they can make oily skin look shiny and cause makeup to slide off.
Longevity
Look for a primer that can provide long-lasting oil control and help makeup stay put for hours. Primers with a mattifying effect can help reduce shine and prolong the wear of makeup.
Sun Protection
Choose a primer with a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Sun exposure can cause oily skin to produce more oil, so it’s important to protect the skin from the sun’s damaging effects.
Application
Consider the application method of the primer. Some primers come in a tube or pump bottle, while others come in a spray or cushion compact. Choose a primer that is easy to apply and fits your personal preference.
Overall, when choosing a primer for oily skin, it’s important to look for oil-free, non-comedogenic ingredients, a lightweight texture, long-lasting oil control, sun protection, and an easy application method. By considering these factors, you can find the best primer to suit your needs and help control oily skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of primer is best for controlling oil on the skin?
When looking for a primer to control oil on the skin, it’s important to choose a mattifying primer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Look for primers that contain ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, and dimethicone, which help to absorb excess oil and reduce shine.
What are the top-rated drugstore primers for oily skin?
Some of the top-rated drugstore primers for oily skin include the Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser, the NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer, and the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Lock Primer. These primers are affordable and effective at controlling oil and minimizing the appearance of pores.
How does using a primer benefit those with oily skin?
Using a primer before applying makeup can help to control oil on the skin, reduce shine, and improve the longevity of your makeup. Primers also help to smooth out the skin’s texture, making it easier to apply foundation and other makeup products.
Which brand offers the best primer for acne-prone and oily skin?
Brands like Smashbox, Cover FX, and Becca offer some of the best primers for acne-prone and oily skin. Look for primers that are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and contain ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which can help to prevent breakouts.
Can water-based primers be effective for oily skin?
Water-based primers can be effective for oily skin, as they are lightweight and won’t clog pores. Look for water-based primers that are specifically formulated for oily skin, and contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can help to hydrate the skin without adding excess oil.
What are the key ingredients to look for in a primer for oily skin?
When looking for a primer for oily skin, it’s important to look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, dimethicone, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil. These ingredients can help to absorb excess oil, control shine, and prevent breakouts.
