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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.

12 BEST BRONZERS FOR FAIR SKIN

Finding the right bronzer for fair skin can be difficult. You want a color that warms your skin without looking muddy or orange. This guide will introduce you to 12 of the best bronzers on the market, all formulated to enhance brighter skin. We’ll cover the best options for your skin type and desired look. Whether you’re looking for a subtle tan or a little definition, get ready to find your new holy grail bronzer!

OUR TOP PICKS 

SAIE SUN MELT BRONZER

Saie Sun Melt Bronzer is a standout in the realm of bronzers, capturing the hearts of many with its creamy, skincare-infused formula. The bronzer effortlessly glides onto the skin, imparting a soft and natural finish that can be built up to achieve the desired level of glow. Its fair bronze shade is particularly praised for its suitability for fair skin tones, providing a subtle radiance without appearing too heavy or artificial. However, one drawback noted by users is the excessively secure lid, which poses a challenge during the opening process. Despite this minor inconvenience, the product’s performance seems to outweigh this issue for many consumers.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY AIRBRUSH BRONZER

Undoubtedly, {Charlotte Tilbury}’s Airbrush Bronzer in the shade fair stands out as the ultimate choice for fair skin tones. Renowned for its exceptionally smooth texture, it effortlessly blends to deliver a matte finish that appears entirely natural. Whether seeking a subtle hint of warmth or precise contouring, this bronzer caters to all preferences. Notably, its compatibility with any foundation further enhances its appeal, ensuring seamless integration into any makeup routine. Enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid, the formula not only imparts a soft-focus glow but also nourishes the skin. For optimal results, a powder brush application promises a beautifully diffused and delicately sun-kissed effect.

RARE BEAUTY WARM WISHES EFFORTLESS BRONZER STICK

This delightful chubby stick offers convenient application, effortlessly gliding onto the skin with ease. Focusing on areas naturally kissed by the sun—such as the forehead, nose, chin, and cheekbones—enhances its effect. Whether blended with warm fingertips or buffed with a brush, its creamy texture transforms into a powdery finish upon application, ensuring longevity throughout the day. This attribute is particularly crucial for fair skin, where any patchiness would be distinctly visible. Overall, its satisfying simplicity and user-friendly nature make it a joy to incorporate into any makeup routine.

UNDONE BEAUTY WATER BRONZER

At first glance, one might question why this deep-toned chubby stick made it onto the list of bronzers for fair skin. However, don’t be deterred by its darker appearance—upon application, a single swipe unveils a subtle tan hue that seamlessly melds with even the fairest of complexions. The Water Bronzer boasts a unique formula: water-based and enriched with coconut water for an amplified radiance. Its lightweight texture feels refreshing on the skin and requires minimal effort to blend seamlessly. Personally, I’ve found that gently tapping it onto the high points of my face with my fingertips yields the most natural-looking results. With four shades available and a compact size of 0.19 oz, this bronzer offers a refreshing take on achieving a sun-kissed glow for fair skin tones.

MILK MAKEUP MATTE BRONZER (6G)

Bringing the essence of summer in a convenient stick form, {Milk Makeup}’s bronzer in the shade baked promises a beach-ready glow without the risk of sunburn. Boasting a velvety smooth texture, it’s enriched with a blend of hydrating ingredients including mango butter, peach nectar, and avocado oils, promoting a healthy and dewy complexion. Simply swipe on and blend effortlessly with fingertips or a complexion brush to achieve an all-over sun-kissed radiance.

ILIA NIGHTLITE BRONZING POWDER

The NightLite Bronzer by ILIA is a great choice for fair skin. It’s easy to use because you can make it lighter or darker depending on how much you apply. This means you can get a nice sun-kissed look without putting on too much, which can happen with fair skin. The texture is smooth and blends well, making it good for making your face look more defined naturally. What’s special about this bronzer is that it gives a little shine without looking too matte. This shine makes your skin look more lively, like when the sun hits it. Overall, it’s a good option for fair skin because it’s easy to use and gives a natural glow.

HOURGLASS COSMETICS AMBIENT LIGHTING BRONZER

Want to know how celebrities get their glowing, bronzed skin? Hourglass Cosmetics Ambient Lighting Bronzer is the key. Celebrity makeup artist Aaron Berry loves this product for its amazing results every time. It’s like a mix of bronzer and highlighter, giving you a beautiful, glowing look. Hourglass uses their famous Ambient Lighting Finishing Powder and adds bronze color to make this special formula. You can use this bronzer like any other, but Berry suggests putting it on your cheekbones and nose bridge for extra shine and dimension. With Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer, getting that stunning celebrity glow is simple and effortless.

PATRICK TA MAJOR SCULPT CRÈME CONTOUR & POWDER BRONZER DUO

The Patrick Ta Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo is a handy product that helps shape and warm up your face all in one. It comes with both cream and powder, made for people who want defined features and a nice glow. The cream contour is smooth and easy to blend, giving natural-looking shadows to different skin tones. It comes in shades with cool undertones, which are good for fair to deep skin tones with cool or neutral preferences.

The powder bronzer is talc-free and adds warmth and depth to your face. It comes in a bunch of shades with both cool and warm undertones, so you can find the perfect match. This duo is great because it combines cream contour and powder bronzer, saving you from buying separate products. Plus, both the cream and powder can be built up for a subtle or more dramatic look.

FENTY BEAUTY CHEEKS OUT FREESTYLE CREAM BRONZER

Fenty Beauty has made a big impact by offering makeup shades for all skin tones, from deep to very pale. Their Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer works well for everyone, no matter their skin type. It comes in a wide range of shades to match all skin tones. If you have fair skin, this cream bronzer is a great choice because it’s easy to blend and gives a nice glow. What’s great is that it’s sheer and glossy, but still has strong color, so you only need a little bit. You can choose your shade based on your skin tone (fair or light) and also your undertone (cool, neutral, or warm). If you’re not sure about your undertone, try holding gold and silver jewelry next to your skin. If gold makes your skin look brighter, you’re warm-toned, and if silver does, you’re cool-toned.

CHANEL GLOW BRONZING CREAM

The Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream stands out as a luxurious option for achieving a natural and radiant complexion. Its cream-gel texture is lightweight and blends seamlessly into the skin, offering a smooth and effortless application. Unlike some powder bronzers that can look cakey, this formula ensures a flawless finish.

This bronzer focuses on imparting a subtle, sun-kissed glow rather than heavy contouring, thanks to its very subtle golden shimmer. It adds warmth and dimension to the skin, enhancing its natural radiance without appearing overly dramatic. Moreover, the formula is lightweight and buildable, allowing users to customize the intensity according to their preferences. Whether aiming for a subtle glow or a more defined sculpted look, this bronzer adapts easily to individual needs.

TOO FACED SOLEIL BRONZER – MILK CHOCOLATE 8G

Too Faced Soleil Bronzer in Milk Chocolate is a great option for fair to light skin tones looking for a natural-looking bronzer. This matte bronzer, infused with real cocoa powder (you might even catch a yummy scent!), delivers a hint of warmth that mimics a subtle sun-kissed glow. The formula is smooth and blends easily, allowing for buildable coverage so you can control the intensity.  Whether you want a light dusting for a barely-there tan or a touch more definition, the Milk Chocolate shade avoids looking muddy or orange on fair skin. Plus, the bronzer comes in a handy 8g size, perfect for tossing in your makeup bag for on-the-go touch-ups.

BENEFIT HOOLA MATTE BRONZER

Benefit’s Hoola Matte Bronzer is a cult-favorite for a reason. This award-winning powder bronzer delivers a universally flattering, matte finish that’s ideal for fair to deep skin tones. The shade leans cool-toned, which helps to avoid any unwanted orange cast, and the silky-soft formula blends beautifully for a natural, sculpted look.  Hoola Bronzer comes in four shades, allowing you to find your perfect match: Hoola for light to medium skin tones, Hoola Lite for the fairest complexions, Hoola Toasted for medium to deep skin tones, and Hoola Caramel for deeper complexions.  Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer is a great choice for beginners and makeup veterans alike, offering a buildable formula that lets you achieve a subtle sun-kissed glow or a more defined contour.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SHADE OF BRONZER FOR FAIR SKIN

Choosing the right bronzer shade for fair skin can be tricky, but with a few key considerations, you can find the perfect match to enhance your natural beauty! Here’s what to keep in mind:

Undertone: This is crucial. Fair skin can have cool, warm, or neutral undertones. Look for your veins on your wrist. Cool undertones will have bluish veins, warm undertones will have greenish veins, and neutral will be a mix of both or difficult to distinguish.

Shade Depth: Go for a bronzer only one to two shades darker than your actual skin tone. Avoid anything too dark or orange, as it can look unnatural on fair skin.

Formula: Consider your skin type and desired finish. Powder bronzers are great for beginners and offer a matte finish. Cream bronzers are more blendable and ideal for dry skin, while gel-based formulas offer a sheer, dewy finish.

Here’s a quick guide to choosing a bronzer shade based on your undertone:

Cool Undertone: Opt for bronzers with cool or taupe undertones to avoid appearing muddy. Think ash brown or shades with a hint of pink.

Warm Undertone: Look for bronzers with golden or peachy undertones to complement your warm complexion.

Neutral Undertone: You have the most flexibility! You can choose cool, warm, or even neutral-toned bronzers depending on the look you’re going for.

CONCLUSION

With the abundance of bronzers available, choosing the right one for fair skin may seem daunting. However, fear not! This guide has examined a range of options, including luxurious cream formulas and versatile powder duos. Remember to add a touch of blush for a flawless finish, and you’ll achieve the perfect look effortlessly.