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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.

11 Best Foundations for Acne-Prone Skin

When you have acne-prone skin, selecting the perfect foundation may make or break your confidence. While non-comedogenic products that promise not to clog your pores are desirable, the ideal foundation goes well beyond that. The level of coverage, formula texture, finish, and wear are all critical considerations, and achieving the correct balance between finding enough coverage without seeming cakey may be quite difficult.

So we spent time studying the greatest solutions on the market and picking some of the best. Check out our selection of the best foundations for acne-prone skin below.

Clinique Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup Foundation

Acne Solutions Liquid Makeup has a natural, fresh feel to it. This oil-free, non-irritating makeup conceals imperfections and lessens the appearance of redness. The medicinal substances aid in the treatment of current outbreaks as well as their prevention. Customers can choose from a variety of shade ranges to get a match that works well for their skin tone. Many consumers also commend the foundation for its ability to control acne breakouts and give coverage at the same time. They like that it doesn’t aggravate pre-existing acne or clog pores. Though many consumers like this foundation’s lightweight, natural-looking finish, depending on their tastes, others could find it to be too light or unsatisfactory in terms of coverage or finish.

Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15

Its oil-free, lightweight solution feels remarkably breathable on the skin and offers buildable, medium-to-full coverage. It effectively conceals the red and elevated imperfections without making the skin appear thick or heavy. There are numerous benefits to the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation. Its long-wear formula makes sure that the coverage is perfect and lasts all day. It is pleasant and weightless to wear thanks to the foundation’s soft texture. It also provides sun protection with SPF 15. To accommodate different skin tones, the foundation is also available in a large variety of hues, including Warm Sand. On the other hand, the product is more expensive than alternatives and might only be available in certain quantities. 

Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation

A cult favorite, the Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless Foundation comes in over 40 hues to match every skin tone. It is the recommended foundation for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It is a budget-friendly option with a matte finish and pore-blurring effect. Its lightweight formula and wide shade range are praised by users. Additionally, the foundation is oil-free, fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, and non-comedogenic, which means it works well on a variety of skin types and reduces irritation. 

However, some find the coverage to be light, and it may require touch-ups for very oily skin. Potential oxidation and the lack of a pump dispenser are other considerations. Personal preferences and skin type should be taken into account.

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation

Try the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation if you want a foundation that doesn’t move during the day. With a semi-matte finish, the lightweight formula conceals blemishes and provides medium coverage, giving you a faultless and flawless makeup look. Numerous people with oily skin have attested to its oil-free status. Additionally, the foundation offers a durable base, allowing users to go out and about all day without having to worry about their makeup fading. 

Catrice Cosmetics HD Liquid Coverage Foundation

Choose this foundation from Catrice Cosmetics if you want a naturally matte finish with full coverage and minimal weight. It evens out skin tone and efficiently covers up blemishes; it lasts for up to twenty-four hours. You get an airbrushed impression, and it feels almost like a second skin. This cheap foundation is available in 23 hues that cover all complexion tones, from fair to deep and has a simple dropper application. Online forum reviews are very positive about this foundation because of its barely-there, non-shrinking finish. It’s also well-known for its amazing coverage, which has been quite beneficial to a lot of individuals. This product is the ideal option for novices because it is cruelty-free and vegan.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care & Glow Foundation

Foundations for dry, acne-prone skin should aim to give just enough coverage without dehydrating the skin. Its amazing coverage eliminates redness and spots without seeming mask-like. Once it dries down, the finish appears real and slightly radiant, but not excessively glowy. In addition, it has mandelic acid to smooth the skin and hyaluronic acid to provide an extra hydration boost. The product is a well-liked option because of its many advantages. Its long-lasting composition ensures that it won’t fade or cake during the day. The more expensive price point and the smaller shade selection in comparison to other foundations, however, could be disadvantages, making it difficult to find a precise match for all skin tones.

Tarte Face Tape Foundation

The more recent addition, Face Tape Foundation, is the sibling of Tarte’s utterly legendary Shape Tape concealer. With its natural-matte texture, this full-coverage foundation efficiently covers problem areas and gives the appearance that an Instagram filter has been applied, smoothing out wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid, apple fruit extract, and snow mushrooms are skin-loving nutrients that keep skin hydrated. Users were complimented on the appearance of their skin and valued its ability to blend in effortlessly. Some consumers did, however, comment that it smelled bad and that it got stuck in their pores and lines. A few others voiced their displeasure with the narrow variety of shades. Everybody’s experience is different.

Neutrogena SkinClearing Oil-Free Acne and Blemish Fighting Liquid Foundation

Do you want to be certain that you’re managing your breakouts while keeping them hidden? Seek a foundation product with salicylic acid integrated, such as Neutrogena’s SkinClearing foundation, as this will assist in preventing pore blockage rather than exacerbating it. Even if you’re only pretending, this one provides an even skin tone and a natural finish. It is an acne medication with 0.5% salicylic acid that treats and prevents outbreaks. It provides breathable coverage, reduces shine, and gets rid of oil for skin prone to acne. It is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and oil-free, having been developed by dermatologists. The shade selection might not be appropriate for all skin tones, and some users could find the coverage to be thin and transient. It might not conceal blemishes or severe acne well enough.

Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation

This light foundation, designed specifically for acne, sensitive, or post-procedure skin, is a favorite among acne-prone girls and is frequently used on clients who are breaking out. Salicylic acid, a BHA found in it, helps to break down oil and unclog pores to lessen the likelihood of outbreaks. Aloe vera is another ingredient that soothes and keeps the skin from drying out. The item has a light and breezy feel about it. However, in comparison to other items, it is somewhat expensive.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Liquid Foundation

This foundation, which is arguably one of the most famous ever, works wonders for acne-prone skin because of its ability to manage oil, give long-wearing coverage, and achieve a matte finish. There are an amazing 56 hues available, so you’re sure to find the perfect match. The matte-finish, long-lasting Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Liquid Foundation has a long wear time. Different skin tones are catered to by its wide shade range and buildable formula. It may, however, oxidize slightly after application and some users feel that it is thick on the skin. The availability may vary, and the pump dispenser and higher price point may be disadvantages. Before making a purchase, one should take their skin type and preferences into account.

FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

For normal to combination oily skin types, Rihanna’s original foundation works best. It has unique climate-adaptive technology that won’t clog pores and is resistant to perspiration and humidity. It’s a lightweight, oil-free solution, but light doesn’t mean coverage is sparse—it rises from medium to high. A broad shade selection and long-lasting, matte coverage are features of the FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation. Users commend its lightweight feel and buildable recipe. The possibility of mild oxidation and restricted availability, however, are disadvantages. The matte appearance could draw attention to dry skin types. There have been problems with the pump dispenser reported by some users. When selecting this foundation, one should take their skin type and preferences into account.

It’s critical to take into account personal tastes and needs while choosing the best foundations for skin prone to acne. Seek out foundations with the labels non-comedogenic, oil-free, and containing chemicals like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid that help prevent acne. Furthermore, breathable and lightweight products might aid in avoiding breakouts and blocked pores. To guarantee the greatest results for your acne-prone skin, don’t forget to patch-test new foundations and seek the advice of a physician for customized recommendations.