face oil dry skin

15 BEST FACE OILS FOR DRY SKIN FOR MOISTURE BOOST

Dry skin can feel rough, flaky, and uncomfortable. It can also be more prone to wrinkles and signs of aging. If you’re looking for a way to boost your skin’s hydration and give it a healthy glow, face oil is a great option. Face oils are concentrated sources of nutrients that can help to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier and lock in hydration. They come in a variety of formulas to target different skin concerns, so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs. Here’s a look at 15 of the best face oils for dry skin.

IS USING FACE OIL BENEFICIAL FOR DRY SKIN?

Yes, using face oil is absolutely beneficial for dry skin! Here’s why:

Deep Hydration: Face oils can penetrate deeper into the skin compared to many creams and lotions, providing long-lasting moisture [Source: Benefits of Face Oil for Every Skin Type]. This is crucial for dry skin, which often lacks the natural oils it needs to stay plump and supple.

Strengthens Skin Barrier: Certain face oils are packed with ingredients that mimic and reinforce your skin’s natural barrier. This helps lock in moisture and prevent further dryness.

Nourishment: Many face oils are rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish and soothe dry skin. This can help reduce redness, irritation, and flakiness [Source: The Powerful Benefits of Face Oil for Every Skin Type].

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN FACIAL OILS FOR DRY SKIN?

Dry skin craves moisture and nourishment, and face oils can be a fantastic way to deliver both. But with so many options available, how do you pick the right one? Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider when selecting a face oil for dry skin:

Fatty Acid Powerhouse: Look for oils rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, like rosehip or argan oil. These fatty acids help repair and strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, keeping it plump and hydrated.

Non-Clogging Champions: Dryness doesn’t have to mean clogged pores! Opt for non-comedogenic oils, which won’t block your pores. Sweet almond, grapeseed, and neem oil are all excellent choices.

Vitamin Boost:  Give your skin a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and E with face oils. Moringa oil, for example, is packed with vitamin E, offering antioxidant protection and promoting overall skin health.

Hydration Heroes: Some oils excel at locking in moisture, a lifesaver for dry skin. Jojoba oil, with its close resemblance to the skin’s natural sebum, helps retain moisture effectively.

Soothe and Calm: Dryness can sometimes lead to irritation. Look for oils with anti-inflammatory properties, like moringa oil, to calm and soothe your skin.

Absorption Matters: Consider the absorption rate when choosing your oil. Slower-absorbing oils, like avocado or olive oil, create a protective layer, ideal for dry skin. However, a mix can be beneficial. Sweet almond oil absorbs quickly, providing a good base for slower-absorbing oils.

Texture Preference: Choose an oil that suits your taste! Sweet almond oil offers a lightweight feel, while coconut oil provides a richer experience.

Natural Goodness: Whenever possible, select 100% pure, organic oils. This ensures they’re free from unnecessary fillers, fragrances, preservatives, and pesticides.

15 BEST FACE OILS FOR DRY SKIN

CHARLOTTE TILBURY COLLAGEN SUPERFUSION FACE OIL

The Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil is a product specifically designed to address concerns of dry skin, potentially ranking among the best face oils for dry skin. While the full list of ingredients isn’t publicly available, the brand highlights a “collagen matrix” and “potent plant extracts” as key components. This suggests it might combine ingredients that plump and firm the skin while delivering nourishing botanical extracts to combat dryness. It’s worth noting that Charlotte Tilbury claims this oil is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin. If you have oily skin, you might prefer to use it only at night as the final step in your routine to lock in moisture without adding excess shine.

YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE SUPERBERRY HYDRATE AND GLOW FACE DREAM OIL

Packed with a blend of superfood extracts, Youth To The People’s Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil is a luxurious choice for dry skin. This oil boasts intense hydration thanks to prickly pear and squalane, which work together to lock in moisture. The star of the show is the “Custom Superberry Blend” featuring maqui, acai, and goji berry extracts. These antioxidant-rich berries are believed to  combat free radicals, potentially reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while leaving your skin feeling velvety soft and glowing.  This oil is suitable for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination, and even oily skin, thanks to its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula.

SHEAMOISTURE OVERNIGHT FACE OIL FOR ALL SKIN TYPES 100% VIRGIN COCONUT OIL FOR DAILY HYDRATION 1 OZ

SheaMoisture’s Overnight Face Oil with 100% Virgin Coconut Oil offers a simple yet potentially effective solution for dry skin. While it contains just one key ingredient – coconut oil – this oil boasts some benefits for dry skin. Coconut oil provides hydration and is rich in fatty acids, which can help strengthen the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss. However, it’s important to note that coconut oil can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some people, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. If you have dry skin and are curious about coconut oil’s benefits, SheaMoisture’s Overnight Face Oil might be worth a try, especially considering its affordable price point. 

GHOST DEMOCRACY SOFTGLOW FACIAL OIL

Ghost Democracy’s Softglow Facial Oil is formulated specifically to deliver a healthy, radiant glow to dry skin. This plant-based oil utilizes lightweight, yet softening ingredients to deeply hydrate without feeling greasy.  A key ingredient might be cloudberry oil, which is mentioned on some retailer sites but not confirmed by Ghost Democracy themselves. Cloudberry oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, and omega fatty acids. These nutrients are beneficial for dry skin as they help strengthen the skin’s barrier, retain moisture, and promote a healthy glow. Since Ghost Democracy prioritizes clean ingredients, this oil is free of common irritants like sulfates, silicones, and essential oils, making it a good option for sensitive skin. 

DRUNK ELEPHANT VIRGIN MARULA LUXURY FACIAL OIL

Target plump, hydrated skin with Drunk Elephant’s Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil. This oil is formulated specifically to address dryness and lack of elasticity. The star ingredient is 100% unrefined marula oil, known for its richness in fatty acids and antioxidants. These fatty acids help replenish the skin’s moisture barrier, while antioxidants fight free radicals that can contribute to wrinkles and loss of firmness. Marula oil also absorbs quickly, leaving a lightweight, non-greasy finish. This makes it a good choice for those who don’t love the heavy feel of some facial oils.  Drunk Elephant prioritizes clean, biocompatible ingredients, so this oil is free of harsh chemicals and potentially irritating ingredients like fragrance and essential oils. While Drunk Elephant markets this oil for all skin types, it’s particularly suited for dry and mature skin.

MELE SKINCARE NO SHADE SUNSCREEN OIL SPF 30 BROAD SPECTRUM

Mele Skincare No Shade Sunscreen Oil SPF 30 Broad Spectrum  is a multi-tasking product that offers both sun protection and hydration for dry skin. This oil-based sunscreen provides broad spectrum SPF 30 protection against UVA and UVB rays, helping to shield your skin from sun damage and premature aging. While it is an oil, it’s formulated to be non-comedogenic, so it shouldn’t clog pores. It also contains ingredients like marula oil and sea buckthorn oil, which are both rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that can help nourish and hydrate dry skin. 

OMOROVICZA MIRACLE FACIAL OIL

The Omorovicza Miracle Facial Oil is a luxurious option designed to target multiple concerns of dry skin, promoting a revitalized and youthful appearance. While the complete ingredient list isn’t available, the brand emphasizes Hungarian thermal water as a key component. This mineral-rich water is believed to nourish and hydrate the skin. Omorovicza also highlights a unique blend of vitamins and fruit acids. Vitamins like A, C, and E offer antioxidant protection to combat free radicals and potentially slow signs of aging. Fruit acids may gently exfoliate, encouraging cell turnover and a brighter complexion. This oil is suitable for all skin types, including dry skin. However, due to the potential exfoliating effects of fruit acids, it might be best to start with a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin.

HERBIVORE PHOENIX ROSEHIP ANTI-AGING FACE OIL

Looking to revive dry, mature skin? Herbivore’s Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil might be your hero. Made with rosehip oil (packed with vitamin C and good fats), this oil helps brighten and plump your skin. It also helps keep moisture locked in, which can reduce wrinkles and fine lines.  On top of the rosehip oil, Herbivore adds other goodies like sea buckthorn oil (great for extra moisture) and chia seed oil (rich in another good fat). This all adds up to super hydrated, smoother, and glowing skin that feels younger. Plus, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin since it’s free of fragrances and other harsh ingredients.

JUNO ANTIOXIDANT + SUPERFOOD FACE OIL

Sunday Riley’s Juno Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil is another strong contender for dry skin. This oil is packed with a blend of cold-pressed seed oils derived from superfoods, making it a feast for your skin!  These antioxidant-rich oils, like blackberry seed oil and blueberry seed oil, help fight free radicals and environmental damage, which can contribute to dryness and wrinkles. Juno  oil also boasts a good balance of omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, thanks to ingredients like cranberry seed oil. These fatty acids help replenish your skin’s natural moisture barrier, keeping it plump and hydrated. Overall, this oil is designed to deliver a radiant glow and restore a healthy look to dry skin.

PEACH & LILY PURE BEAM LUXE OIL

Packed with all-natural, plant-powered goodness, Peach & Lily’s Pure Beam Luxe Oil is a great choice for dry skin. This lightweight oil absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel. Key ingredients like squalane, jojoba oil, and sea buckthorn oil work together to deliver a powerful punch of hydration. Squalane mimics your skin’s natural sebum, helping it lock in moisture and prevent dryness. Jojoba oil, another star player, offers similar benefits while also fighting off bacteria. Sea buckthorn oil adds a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, further nourishing and protecting your dry skin. Overall, this oil is designed to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier, leaving it feeling supple, soft, and radiant.

DERMA E VITAMIN C GLOW FACE OIL

Derma E’s Vitamin C Glow Face Oil is great for dry skin that needs a hydrating boost and a radiant glow. It’s like a superhero for your skin because it does two important things at once. Firstly, it has Vitamin C, which helps make your skin brighter and more even. Plus, it has special ingredients that focus on tackling dryness. Imagine seabuckthorn oil and red raspberry oil teaming up to give your skin a big drink of moisture! And even though it’s an oil, it feels light on your skin and soaks in quickly. That means you won’t feel all oily and gross after putting it on. It’s gentle too, so most skin types, even sensitive ones, can use it without any problems.

BIO-OIL SKINCARE OIL

Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is like a Swiss Army knife for your skin, even though it’s not made specifically for dry skin, it can still help a lot. It’s famous for helping scars and stretch marks look better, but it’s also good for hydrating dry skin. How does it work? Well, it’s packed with different oils like sesame seed oil and lavender oil that help keep moisture in your skin. Plus, it’s got vitamins A and E, which are like superfoods for dry skin, helping it stay healthy and strong. But, be careful, because for some people with oily or acne-prone skin, it might clog pores. If you have dry skin, give it a try, but maybe test it out on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t cause any problems.

UMA OILS UMA ABSOLUTE ANTI AGING FACE OIL FOR WRINKLES & DRYNESS | 100% NATURAL, NON-TOXIC, AND FREE FROM ALL SYNTHETICS | DAILY AYURVEDIC MOISTURIZER FOR YOUTHFUL SKIN (1FL OZ | 30ML)

Uma Oils’ Absolute Anti-Aging Face Oil is like a magic potion for dry skin and wrinkles. It’s made from natural stuff and follows Ayurvedic ideas, so it’s gentle and safe for most skin types. This oil has ingredients like frankincense and juniper berry oils that work together to hydrate your skin and make it look younger. It’s like giving your skin a big drink of water while also smoothing out those pesky wrinkles. And because it’s all-natural, it’s perfect for sensitive skin too. So, if you want to tackle dryness and aging without harsh chemicals, this oil could be your new best friend.

ERE PEREZ AUSTRALIAN BLUE CYPRESS FACE NECTAR

Ere Perez Australian Blue Cypress Face Nectar is a special oil for your face. It’s made with natural ingredients, like Australian blue cypress, camellia, and jojoba oils. These oils work together to make your skin feel really hydrated and soft. The best part is, it’s not oily or sticky at all – it soaks right in! And because it’s made without any harsh chemicals, it’s gentle on your skin. So, if you want to give your face a nice, moisturizing treat without any fuss, this nectar is a great choice.

CARTER + JANE THE EVERYTHING OIL

Carter + Jane’s The Everything Oil might not be made specifically for dry skin, but it’s still packed with ingredients that can really help hydrate your skin. It’s got grapeseed oil and apricot kernel oil, which are both great at soaking in fast and giving your skin a big drink of moisture. Plus, it’s all made from natural stuff, so it’s gentle on your skin, especially if it’s sensitive. And the best part? You can use it all over – on your face, your hands, your hair ends, and even to take off your makeup! Just remember, since it’s not made only for dry skin, you might need to use a moisturizer too if your skin is super dry.

HOW SHOULD YOU INCORPORATE FACE OIL IN MY SKINCARE REGIME?

Here’s how to incorporate face oil into your skincare routine for dry skin:

Step 1: Cleanse your face

Begin your routine by washing your face with a gentle cleanser suitable for dry skin. This removes dirt, oil, and makeup, allowing the oil to penetrate better.

Step 2: Apply toner (optional)

Toner can help balance your skin’s pH after cleansing. However, it’s not essential for everyone, especially those with dry skin. If you do use toner, choose an alcohol-free, hydrating formula.

Step 3: Serums and Treatments (optional)

Apply any lightweight serums or treatments you use before your face oil. Since oils can create a barrier, it’s best to layer thinner products first for better absorption.

Step 4: Apply face oil

Here’s where the magic happens! Take 2-3 drops of your chosen face oil and warm it up by gently rubbing it between your fingertips.

Pat or gently press the oil onto your face, focusing on dry areas. Start from the center and move outwards towards your hairline and neck.

Avoid the delicate eye area unless your oil is specifically formulated for that region.

Step 5: Moisturizer (optional)

This step depends on your oil’s consistency and your skin’s needs.

If your face oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly, you might still need a moisturizer for additional hydration, especially for very dry skin.

If your oil is quite rich and leaves your skin feeling well-hydrated, you can skip the moisturizer at night.

Here are some additional tips:

  • Use face oil at night for maximum absorption while you sleep. You can also use it in the morning, but allow it to fully absorb before applying makeup.
  • Apply a light touch. A few drops are usually enough, and more isn’t necessarily better.
  • Patch test on a small area of your skin before applying it all over your face, especially if you have sensitive skin.
  • Be consistent! Regularly using face oil can significantly improve the hydration and overall health of your dry skin.

By following these steps and considering your skin’s specific needs, you can incorporate face oil effectively into your routine for a healthy, glowing complexion.

CONCLUSION

Look for products with good qualities like fatty acids and vitamins. Some are light and good all the time, while others are richer and better when it’s cold. Using a facial oil can make your skin feel really nice and soft, no matter the season. Besides, combine toner for dry skin and moisturizer. Wishing you soon have soft, smooth, shiny skin.

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.