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15 BEST PRIMERS FOR OILY SKIN THAT GIVE A LONG-LASTING BASE

Struggling with oily skin and makeup meltdown? Fear not! Primers are your secret weapon for a flawless, long-lasting base. These mattifying, oil-free wonders act as a barrier between your skin and makeup, controlling shine, minimizing pores, and keeping your makeup looking fresh for hours. Get ready to ditch the midday touch-ups and embrace a shine-free, picture-perfect complexion!

WHAT CAUSES OILY SKIN?

Dr. Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist, explains that oily skin stems from an overproduction of sebum, a natural oil our skin glands produce. While some sebum is essential for healthy, moisturized skin, too much can lead to problems. Without enough sebum, our skin barrier weakens, causing dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. But an overproduction can cause a greasy T-zone and makeup meltdowns – foundation that pills or slides right off. In short, finding the sebum sweet spot is key for healthy, balanced skin.

IS SILICONE OR WATER-BASED PRIMER BETTER FOR OILY SKIN?

When it comes to primers, water-based and silicone-based options each have their strengths, so the “best” choice depends on your skin type and desired finish.

Water-based primers, as Dr. Idriss explains, feel lighter and absorb quickly, offering a natural look. They’re a good choice for those who prefer a weightless feel.

Silicone-based primers, on the other hand, excel at blurring imperfections and creating a smooth canvas. They’re especially effective for oily skin, thanks to ingredients like dimethicone that control shine and minimize pores. However, Dr. Idriss warns that silicone primers can pill if not applied correctly or layered with too many products.

To avoid pilling, aim to match the base of your primer to your foundation. Silicone with silicone, water with water, for a seamless application.

For oily skin, Dr. Idriss suggests skipping liquid foundations, which can contribute to shine. Opt for a powder foundation instead, as it helps absorb oil while providing coverage.

WHEN DO YOU APPLY PRIMER?

You should apply primer after your skincare routine and before your foundation.

Here’s a breakdown of the order:

Cleanse and Moisturize: Wash your face with a cleanser suitable for your skin type. Then, apply a moisturizer to hydrate your skin. Allow the moisturizer a few minutes to fully absorb before moving on to primer.

Primer: Apply a thin layer of primer evenly to your entire face, focusing on areas where you tend to get oily or where your pores are more noticeable. You can use your fingers, a brush, or a damp sponge to apply primer.

Foundation and Makeup: Once the primer is dry, you can proceed with your foundation and the rest of your makeup routine.

Remember, primer creates a smooth canvas for your makeup and helps it last longer, so it’s an important step for those who want a flawless, long-lasting look.

CONCLUSION 

With so many primers on the market, finding the perfect one for your oily skin can feel overwhelming. But fear not! This guide has explored a range of options, from mattifying powerhouses to hydrating heroes, all formulated to combat shine and keep your makeup looking fresh for hours. Consider your skin’s specific needs and desired finish to choose your champion primer. With the right primer in your beauty arsenal, you can say goodbye to midday meltdowns and hello to a shine-free, flawless complexion that lasts all day long.

OUR TOP PICKS

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER

A cult-favorite for many, the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer is a great option for oily skin. This lightweight, velvety primer minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving your skin feeling smooth and prepped for flawless makeup application. The oil-free formula helps control shine throughout the day, extending the wear of your foundation and keeping you looking photo-ready. Enriched with vitamins A and E, it even offers a touch of nourishment for your skin.

HOURGLASS VEIL MINERAL PRIMER

If you’re looking for a luxurious primer that goes beyond just mattifying, Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is a strong contender. Its silky, cloud-like texture glides onto the skin, blurring imperfections and minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. This primer boasts more than just a smooth canvas though – it also offers SPF 15 protection and subtle color correction to even out redness. The oil-absorbing formula helps control shine, ensuring your makeup stays put for long-lasting wear.

BOBBI BROWN VITAMIN ENRICHED FACE BASE MOISTURIZER & PRIMER WITH VITAMIN C + HYALURONIC ACID

Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base Moisturizer & Primer offers a two-in-one solution for those who want a hydrating boost alongside their makeup primer. This multitasking product combines a blend of vitamins B, C, and E to nourish and condition the skin, while hyaluronic acid, squalane, and shea butter provide a surge of hydration for a plump, healthy-looking glow. While it might not be the most mattifying primer on the market, the formula absorbs excess oil throughout the day to help keep makeup in place. This is a great option for those with normal to slightly oily skin who want a primer that prioritizes both hydration and makeup longevity.

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP SHINE KILLER MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

On a budget but still want a shine-controlling primer? NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer Mattifying Face Primer is your answer. This drugstore favorite delivers impressive results for its affordable price tag. Packed with vitamin E, it offers a touch of hydration while the oil-free formula effectively absorbs excess oil, keeping your complexion matte throughout the day. The lightweight, gel texture applies smoothly and creates a perfect canvas for your foundation. NYX Shine Killer Primer is ideal for those with oily skin who prioritize strong oil-control and long-lasting makeup wear, without breaking the bank.

NEUTROGENA SHINE CONTROL PRIMER

For a drugstore option that targets oily skin concerns, Neutrogena Shine Control Primer is a reliable pick. This lightweight, oil-free formula utilizes rice protein technology to absorb excess oil like a sponge, keeping you shine-free for a claimed 8 hours. The mattifying finish helps minimize the appearance of pores, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. Neutrogena’s Shine Control Primer is a great choice for those with oily skin who want a budget-friendly option that effectively controls shine and extends makeup wear.

MAKE UP FOR EVER MINI STEP 1 PRIMER PORE MINIMIZER

Downsize your shine control but not your results with the MAKE UP FOR EVER Mini STEP 1 Primer Pore Minimizer. This travel-friendly version of their bestselling primer offers all the benefits in a compact size, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups or fitting in your makeup bag. The formula, enriched with ginseng and silica, absorbs oil and minimizes the appearance of pores, leaving your skin texture smooth and refined. This mattifying primer provides a flawless base for makeup application and extends wear, keeping you shine-free throughout the day. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just prefer a mini size, this primer is a great option to combat oily skin and achieve a long-lasting makeup look.

FENTY BEAUTY PRO FILT’R INSTANT RETOUCH PRIMER

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna’s Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer is a strong contender for oily skin types seeking a luxurious, long-lasting base. This oil-free formula boasts a unique “universal invisipink” shade that melts invisibly into all skin tones. It acts like a filter, blurring imperfections and minimizing the appearance of pores for a smooth, flawless canvas. Unlike some mattifying primers, Fenty Beauty’s offering has a lightweight, “cushiony” texture that feels comfortable on the skin without a trace of dryness. Shine control is on point, absorbing excess oil throughout the wear to keep your foundation looking fresh and prevent makeup meltdown. This primer is a great choice for those who want a luxurious feel, long-lasting shine control, and a flawless makeup application.

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK BABY SKIN INSTANT PORE ERASER

Maybelline New York’s Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser is a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a lightweight primer that minimizes pores. This drugstore favorite features a gel texture that glides onto the skin, blurring imperfections and leaving a smooth, matte finish. While it may not be the most heavy-duty mattifier, it does absorb excess oil throughout the day to help keep makeup in place. The fragrance-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. If you’re looking for a primer that evens skin texture, provides a subtle mattifying effect, and won’t break the bank, Maybelline’s Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser is a great option to try.

TARTE PORELESS MATTIFYING PRIMER

A popular choice for oily skin, Tarte’s Poreless Mattifying Primer is a vegan formula that tackles shine and minimizes the appearance of pores. This lightweight, mattifying gel applies smoothly, creating a perfect canvas for flawless makeup application. Enriched with maracuja extract (passionfruit) and kaolin clay, it absorbs excess oil throughout the day, keeping you shine-free and your makeup looking fresh for hours on end. While some mattifying primers can feel drying, Tarte’s offering aims to strike a balance, leaving your skin feeling smooth and prepped without sacrificing shine control.

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

Unlike many primers for oily skin, Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer takes a unique approach. This gel primer boasts a whopping 94% natural formula that hydrates with hyaluronic acid and hemp seed extract, while still keeping shine in check. Niacinamide and aloe water provide additional moisture for a dewy glow, perfect for those who want a balanced, radiant finish. The oil-free, silicone-free formula won’t clog pores and is suitable for all skin types, even those prone to breakouts. While it might not be the most mattifying primer on this list, Milk Makeup Hydro Grip excels at keeping makeup in place for up to 12 hours, all while leaving your skin feeling hydrated and fresh.

BENEFIT COSMETICS POREFESSIONAL FACE PRIMER

Benefit Cosmetics’ POREfessional Face Primer is a cult-classic for a reason. This lightweight, oil-free formula minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving your skin silky smooth and ready for makeup application. Known for its blurring effect, it effectively reduces the look of pores, creating a flawless, airbrushed canvas. Shine control is on point, with the formula absorbing excess oil throughout the day to keep your foundation looking fresh and prevent makeup meltdown. Benefit’s POREfessional Primer is a great all-around choice for those with oily skin who want a long-lasting, shine-free base with a touch of blurring magic.

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH ILLUMINATE GLOW FACE PRIMER

While Smashbox Photo Finish Illuminate Glow Face Primer isn’t specifically designed for oil-control, it can still be a good option for those with oily skin who want a radiant, long-lasting base. This lightweight primer boasts a unique formula that combines mattifying and illuminating properties. It contains ingredients that help absorb excess oil, while also featuring Vitamin C and passion fruit extract to brighten and add a subtle glow to the complexion. The silky texture smooths skin texture and preps it for makeup application, while the breathable, oil-free formula helps extend makeup wear. However, if shine control is your primary concern, there might be more mattifying options on this list that would be a better fit.

JANE IREDALE SMOOTH AFFAIR MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

Jane Iredale’s Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer is a weightless formula specifically designed to combat shine and keep oily skin under control. It mattifies the skin without feeling heavy or drying, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more natural finish. This primer contains skin-nourishing ingredients like red algae extract for enhanced shine control, hibiscus bark extract to support skin elasticity, and rose geranium extract for antioxidant protection. By minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines, it creates a smooth canvas for flawless makeup application that lasts throughout the day. If you’re looking for a mattifying primer that prioritizes both shine control and nourishing your skin, Jane Iredale’s Smooth Affair is a strong contender.

NARS SOFT MATTE PRIMER

Nars Soft Matte Primer is a great choice for those with oily skin seeking a comfortable, long-wearing base. This lightweight primer features a transformative texture that goes on like a water-gel, then dries to a velvety, soft-matte finish. It instantly fills in uneven texture and minimizes the appearance of pores, creating a smooth canvas for foundation application. Nars’ exclusive Climate Balancing Technology helps the primer adapt to your environment, absorbing excess oil in humid weather and preventing makeup meltdown. This oil-free formula won’t clog pores and is dermatologist-tested, making it suitable for even sensitive skin. If you’re looking for a primer that controls shine without feeling heavy or cakey, Nars Soft Matte Primer is a great option to consider.

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer offers a unique twist on oil control for oily skin. This primer goes beyond just mattifying – it hydrates and revives tired-looking complexions. Infused with coconut water, probiotic-based ingredients, and skin rechargers, it aims to boost radiance, promote elasticity, and keep skin hydrated while still locking down makeup. The lightweight formula absorbs excess oil throughout the day, promoting a dewy, healthy-looking finish rather than a flat, matte one. This primer is a good choice for those with oily skin who want a long-lasting base with a touch of hydration and a healthy glow.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PRIMERS FOR OILY SKIN

MATTIFYING FORMULA

Oily skin needs a primer that can control shine throughout the day. Look for primers that are labeled as “mattifying” or “oil-free.” These primers will typically contain ingredients that absorb excess oil, such as silica or dimethicone.

LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE

Oily skin can sometimes feel heavy or greasy, so a lightweight primer is ideal. Avoid thick, cream-based primers that can clog pores and worsen shine.

MINIMIZES PORES

Many primers for oily skin also have pore-minimizing properties. This can help to create a smoother canvas for makeup application and make your pores appear less noticeable.

HYDRATION (OPTIONAL)

While shine control is key, some people with oily skin may still benefit from a touch of hydration. Look for primers that contain hyaluronic acid or other hydrating ingredients, but make sure they are also oil-free and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores).

FINISH

Choose a finish that suits your preference. Mattifying primers offer a shine-free look, while some primers offer a radiant or dewy finish that provides a touch of glow for those who don’t want a completely matte look.

CONCLUSION

With so many primers on the market, finding the perfect one for your oily skin can feel overwhelming. But fear not! This guide has explored a range of options, from mattifying powerhouses to hydrating heroes, all formulated to combat shine and keep your makeup looking fresh for hours. Consider your skin’s specific needs and desired finish to choose your champion primer. With the right primer in your beauty arsenal, you can say goodbye to midday meltdowns and hello to a shine-free, flawless complexion that lasts all day long.

15 BEST PRIMERS FOR DRY SKIN THAT CREATE A HYDRATED BASE 

Dry skin can be a real struggle, especially when it comes to makeup application. Primers are an essential first step in any makeup routine, but finding one that works for dry skin can be tricky. A good primer will hydrate the skin, smooth out rough patches, and create a flawless base for your makeup. Here’s a look at 15 of the best primers for dry skin that will create a hydrated, dewy base for your makeup to last all day long! 

OUR TOP PICKS 

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER

This versatile primer offers a multifaceted approach to skincare, combining hydration, protection, and skin tone correction. Formulated with powerhouse ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it not only promotes plump and supple skin but also addresses dry patches, flaking, and uneven texture. The inclusion of a silkscreen complex, rich in antioxidants and probiotic extract, provides a shield against environmental aggressors like blue light and pollution. The primer’s ability to visibly plump the skin, impart a radiant glow, and ensure long-lasting effects makes it a standout product. However, it’s worth noting that its premium quality comes at a higher price point, making it a luxurious but potentially costly addition to your skincare routine. Additionally, its fragrance-free formula caters to those with sensitivity or preference for unscented products.

BOBBI BROWN VITAMIN ENRICHED FACE BASE

This product serves as both a nourishing day cream and an effective makeup primer, ensuring a long-lasting and hydrated complexion. Infused with key ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, it delivers a substantial dose of moisture, resulting in a well-hydrated and plumped canvas for flawless makeup application. Ideal for a range of skin types, including combination and oily skin, it strikes the perfect balance between skincare and makeup prep.

GUERLAIN 24H HYDRATION PARURE GOLD 24K RADIANCE BOOSTER PERFECTION PRIMER

Formulated with an impressive 98% naturally-derived ingredients, this primer boasts a sumptuous gel texture that not only provides up to 24-hour hydration but also delivers instantly unified skin. Beyond its hydrating properties, the primer actively works to visibly correct imperfections and refine skin texture, offering a flawless canvas for makeup application. A standout feature is its sensorial texture, which imparts an instant skin-blurring effect, enhancing the overall appeal of this luxurious primer. 

E.L.F. HYDRATING FACE PRIMER

Indulge in a natural finish with this sought-after primer, enriched with key ingredients like grapeseed oil, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Compact in size at 0.47 ounces, this cruelty-free formula has earned acclaim for its hydrating properties, efficient pore-blurring effects, and its ability to establish a flawless base for seamless makeup application. Users laud its affordability and the transformative advantages it delivers, as vitamin A ensures hydration, vitamin C imparts a radiant glow, vitamin E nurtures the skin, and grapeseed oil promotes an even skin tone. Going beyond its cosmetic allure, this primer also enhances the staying power of your makeup, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. Embrace this primer for its multifaceted benefits, offering not just cosmetic enhancement but also extended wear for a consistently impeccable look.

REFY FACE PRIMER

Unlike typical primers, this innovative formula doubles as a “gua sha tool” with its smart roller applicator. As it glides over the skin, it not only primes but also effectively smooths and sculpts, aiding in depuffing through a massaging action. The perfected formula features niacinamide, vitamin B5, and polymers, working in tandem to hydrate, minimize pores, and nourish the skin. The result is a radiant complexion and makeup that endures throughout the day. 

BY TERRY CELLULAROSE CC SERUM

Achieve a flawless and radiant complexion with the BY TERRY Cellularose CC Serum, designed to correct, illuminate, and prime your skin before makeup application. With a serum-like consistency that effortlessly absorbs into the skin, this hybrid primer and corrector formula not only provides hydration but also seamlessly blends under your preferred base product. The added bonus lies in its infusion of skin-loving ingredients, contributing to a lit-from-within finish that enhances your natural glow. 

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

This product comes in a 1.52-ounce size and is cruelty-free. It’s great for people whose foundation tends to disappear by midday. The product is a lightweight, water-based gel that does two things at once: it takes care of your skin and works as a primer. It has hydrating hyaluronic acid, pore-minimizing niacinamide, and blue agave extract to keep your skin healthy and prevent makeup from looking cakey or melting off. Even though it might feel a bit sticky when you put it on, users say it doesn’t make their foundation separate or create dry patches. Enjoy the benefits of this long-lasting, fragrance-free primer, but be aware that some people find it sticky, and it could clump if it’s not completely dry.

SAIE GLOWY SUPER GEL

Meet the Saie Glowy Super Gel, our top choice for days when your skin needs a bright boost. Use it alone or under makeup for a radiant look. This gel has good stuff like papaya, squalene, and vitamin C that keeps your skin safe, moisturized, and glowing. Say bye to dull skin and hello to a refreshed, radiant look with the Saie Glowy Super Gel.

ILLAMASQUA HYDRA VEIL PRIMER

The Illamasqua Hydra Veil has a special feel on your skin, making it refreshing. It’s great for getting your skin ready for makeup and helps if your skin is dry. This primer has good things like microalgae, vitamin C, and B, and plant extracts that make your skin feel fresh, balanced, and hydrated. We love it because it moisturizes and helps reduce the appearance of dryness.

KAT BURKI SILK PROTEIN PRIMER

This moisture-packed primer is silicone-free and boasts botanical hyaluronic acid and Irish sea moss, working together to plump and hydrate the skin while keeping essential moisture locked in. The inclusion of silk amino proteins helps smooth out fine lines, and grapefruit seed oil combats skin flare-ups and redness. Its smooth and lightweight texture is a standout feature, delivering an airbrushed effect by blurring pores. Perfect for creating a seamless makeup base, it avoids settling into fine lines or dry areas, catering to those in their mid-40s. Despite its popularity for hydrating benefits, it’s crucial to be aware that the formula does contain fragrance.

LAURA MERCIER PURE CANVAS PRIMER

Laura Mercier Canvas Primers are renowned for their exceptional quality and effectiveness in creating a flawless base for makeup application. These primers are meticulously crafted to provide a smooth and even canvas, ensuring that your makeup adheres seamlessly and stays in place throughout the day. One notable feature of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers is their diverse range, catering to various skin concerns and preferences. Whether you’re looking to minimize pores, add a luminous glow, or combat redness, there is likely a primer within the collection designed to address your specific needs. The lightweight and breathable formulas of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers make them comfortable to wear, avoiding any heavy or greasy feeling on the skin. 

ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING PRIMER

The Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer stands out as a luxurious and effective addition to any makeup routine, recognized for its ability to create a radiant and flawless complexion. As part of the esteemed Luminous Silk range by Giorgio Armani Beauty, this primer is designed to enhance the application and longevity of makeup while providing essential hydration. Enriched with hydrating ingredients, the Armani Luminous Silk Primer quenches the skin’s thirst, leaving it supple and refreshed. The primer works to minimize the appearance of imperfections and fine lines, creating a luminous and dewy finish that complements the signature Luminous Silk foundation by Armani.

STILA ONE STEP CORRECT

Tailored for those prone to breakouts or redness flare-ups, this primer features color-correcting pigments that work their magic to even out your complexion seamlessly. Additionally, it serves as the ideal solution for combating mid-winter dullness, offering a brightening boost for an energized and fresh-from-vacation appearance. What sets this primer apart is its ability to not only provide a radiant finish but also address common skin concerns. It helps diminish the appearance of spots and circles, improves overall skin texture, and imparts a brightening effect. While its benefits are celebrated, keep in mind that some users have reported concerns about the pump breaking easily. 

CHARLOTTE TILBURY INVISIBLE UV FLAWLESS PORELESS PRIMER

Charlotte Tilbury continues to prove her mastery in the realm of makeup, and her primer is no exception. Beyond its ability to blur imperfections and minimize pores, this versatile primer acts as a protective shield against sun damage, promoting an even skin tone while providing nourishment and hydration. Infused with the brand’s signature airbrush polymers, this primer ensures you’re selfie-ready at all times, delivering a flawless finish without any worry of flashback in your photos. With Charlotte Tilbury’s commitment to quality and innovation, this primer stands as a must-have in any makeup enthusiast’s collection, offering a multi-functional solution for achieving a radiant and perfected complexion.

YVES SAINT LAURENT TOUCHE ÉCLAT BLUR PRIMER

The Blur Primer showcases a revolutionary transparent gel formula that optimizes light diffusion and incorporates advanced blurring technology, achieving the illusion of a matte and illuminated complexion. What makes this primer truly versatile is its adaptability – perfect for wearing under foundation to enhance its longevity and radiance or worn alone as a skin-perfecting base for a naturally flawless look. With its innovative formula and flexibility, this Blur Primer earns admiration for its transformative effects and its ability to effortlessly elevate any makeup routine.

WHAT DOES A PRIMER FOR DRY SKIN DO?

A primer designed specifically for dry skin plays a crucial role in addressing the unique needs and challenges associated with this skin type. Dry skin tends to lack sufficient natural oils and moisture, leading to a parched and sometimes flaky complexion. A primer tailored for dry skin aims to provide essential hydration and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

These primers typically contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or various plant-based oils. Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its ability to attract and retain moisture, helping to replenish the skin’s hydration levels. Glycerin works similarly, drawing moisture from the air to keep the skin supple and moisturized.

Beyond hydration, primers for dry skin often incorporate ingredients that help to smooth out uneven texture and nourish the skin. They may include antioxidants, vitamins, and botanical extracts to promote overall skin health. Some primers for dry skin also feature illuminating properties, adding a subtle glow to counteract any dullness associated with dryness.

By creating a hydrated and smooth base, these primers assist in preventing makeup from clinging to dry patches or settling into fine lines, resulting in a more seamless and comfortable makeup application. Ultimately, a primer for dry skin serves as a preparatory step in the beauty routine, ensuring that makeup not only looks better but also contributes to the overall health and comfort of the skin.

CONCLUSION 

Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, the use of a primer is crucial before applying makeup. Primer plays a significant role, and this article aims to provide valuable information specifically tailored to those with dry skin. Hopefully, the details about primers for dry skin outlined in this article will assist you in discovering your preferred product.