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.

2024 WINTER MAKEUP TRENDS: FROM FROSTY EYES TO BLURRED LIPS

Now that the holiday festivities have faded, it’s easy to feel a bit lost. But don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits (or your makeup game)! Winter is the perfect time to unleash your inner artist and experiment with bold, beautiful looks.

As J. Brandon Correa, national makeup artist for YSL Beauté, puts it, “Winter beauty is all about playing with textures and making a statement.” So, let’s dive into the hottest winter makeup trends and discover how to create stunning looks that will brighten even the darkest days.

BOLD LIPS

If your winter wardrobe leans heavily on black and gray (guilty as charged), elevate your look with a pop of color on your lips. “A bold lip is a fantastic way to stand out during the winter, when fashion and weather often feel more subdued,” says Lobell. “Bright lips are perfect for the season, as they create a striking contrast against the pale or dull skin tones many experience in colder months. This contrast can enhance the complexion and bring a fresh, lively energy to your appearance.” Think crimson, deep berry, or vibrant Barbie fuchsia, paired with subtle, minimal makeup. “It’s a bold yet refined look, perfect for making a strong style statement during winter.”

SNOWLIT SHINE

Minimal makeup doesn’t have to be dull; it can dazzle just as much as a full face of blush, contour, and liner. “This trend allows your skin to ‘rest’ from heavy makeup routines,” says Correa. “It’s perfect for this season because it combines a snowy, luminous vibe with a radiant glow.” Inspired by the way sunlight reflects off snow, Correa brings that same shimmering brightness to the face. “Think clean, minimalist skin, translucent sparkles on the eyes, full lashes, and glowing lips.”

Since this look emphasizes glowing skin, Correa suggests using the YSL Touche Éclat All-Over Brightening Concealer Pen to conceal and brighten. Skip the contour and bronzer, focusing instead on your eyes by adding a shimmery topper to the center of the lids. “You can either do a light eye contour or let the shimmer stand on its own,” he says. Complete the look with mascara and a sheer, plumping lip balm like Candy Glaze.

STATEMENT EYELINER

Jillian Dempsey, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jillian Dempsey, was recently inspired by the UK’s colder weather and bold color palettes. One standout trend she noticed was statement eyeliner. “Eyes are big this winter. Expect eyeliners to make a major statement,” she shares. “The power of this look comes from lining both the upper and lower lids and creating a shape that suits your eyes.” Dempsey favors shades like blackberry, muted black, and deep mahogany for a fresh twist on classic browns and blacks. Think thick wings, waterlining, and exaggerated cat eyes—anything goes. “My Flyk Trick Mascara doubles as a 2-in-1 mascara and liquid liner, perfect for crafting your bold, personalized eyeliner look to match your winter plans,” says Dempsey.

JEWEL TONED EYES

If frosty finishes aren’t your style, opt for rich, vibrant jewel tones instead. Shades like sapphire, emerald, and ruby complement the icy whites and grays of your winter wardrobe beautifully. “I’m seeing a lot of brands pairing their burgundy collections with emerald and midnight blue mascaras and eyeliners,” says Spickard. “It’s a fun and easy way to add some variety to your makeup during these dark, cold months.” He recommends Lancôme’s colored mascaras, especially the emerald green Noir Malachite, for a subtle pop of unexpected color. For the lids, try the Pat McGrath Dark Star Eye Duo, which Spickard describes as “an opulent blue sapphire shimmer.” Add a gloss topper over the shadow to really enhance the sparkle and make the look shine.

DEWY GOLD

Feeling the winter chill? Warm up your look with glowing shades of gold. “Gold tones bring much-needed warmth to the skin, which can often appear dull in winter due to the lack of sunlight,” says Lobell. “The dewy finish of this trend helps counter the dryness that comes with cold weather, giving your skin a hydrated, healthy glow.” Even if you’re not escaping to a tropical paradise, your makeup can make you feel like you are.

“Think warm, golden hues that create a radiant, sun-kissed glow,” Lobell explains. “This look focuses on dewy skin, using gold-toned highlighters and eyeshadows to enhance your natural luminosity. Be the glowing goddess you’re meant to be.” Her recommendations include Neen’s Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in Metta for the cheekbones, and Pretty Shady Pressed Pigments in Flash, Fade, and Faint—gold and rose gold shades that shimmer beautifully on the eyes. Complete the look with a brown or nude lip for a perfect finish.

SOFT OMBRÉ LIPS

The ombré lip look has been making waves on TikTok this season, and Carolina Gonzalez, celebrity makeup artist and Armani Beauty Collective member, is a fan of a soft, diffused version that’s easy to achieve with a bit of practice. “Start with the deepest color in the inner part of the lip, then blend it out toward the edges,” she explains. “I love this look because it’s dreamy and gives the lips a full appearance.”

Gonzalez suggests beginning with Armani Beauty’s Lip Power Long-Lasting Matte Lipstick in shade 407. “Pucker your lips and apply the lipstick generously to the center of both the top and bottom lips using the bullet-tip. Then, use a small brush to blend the outer edges slightly beyond the lip line.” For extra drama, add Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Glow Blush in shade 61—a raspberry pink—to the outer lips up to the lip line with a full crease brush. “Avoid touching the inner part where the color is dense,” Gonzalez advises. “This silk powder blush adds a velvet-like finish and makes the lips appear fuller and fluffier.”

PINK FROST

If you embraced the TikTok “I’m cold” blush trend last year, you’ll love this 2024 update. “This trend takes the ‘cold girl’ look to the next level by adding black to define shape and structure,” explains Correa. Start by prepping your skin with foundation, concealer, and contour. Next, apply YSL’s Nu Lip and Cheek Balmy Tint in NuChills to your cheeks for a translucent, balmy finish. Dab any leftover product on the tip of your nose for that frostbitten “just came in from the cold” effect.

For your eyes, Correa suggests using YSL’s Couture Mini Clutch palette in Babylone Roses. “Blend the midtone shade to contour your eye shape, apply the midtone shimmer on the lid, and add depth with the deepest shade along the upper and lower lash lines,” he advises. “Finish with a touch of the topper shade from the top left in the inner corners for an icy pop.” Complete the look with mascara and liner, and finish with a combination of the Balmy Tint and Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick in Sweet Pink.

MOOD MAKEUP

Donni Davy, co-founder of Half Magic and head makeup artist for Euphoria, uses makeup to create her own winter mood despite living in California’s year-round sun. “A dark lip instantly transforms me into a sort of witchier version of myself, and adding sparkle to my eyes brings a joyful balance to the look,” she says. “It’s fun to embrace a darker, more introspective vibe during the winter.”

Her “joyfully moody” look features dewy skin, glittery eyes with plenty of mascara, and a vampy dark lip. To achieve this, Davy recommends using Half-Magic’s Glitterpill Eye Paint + Liner in Holy Goldie or Microcosm for the “perfect winter sparkles.” Apply these on bare lids for a snowy effect, then layer on the Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara to highlight the sparkle. For the lips, Davy favors the Mouth Cloud Soft Matte Lip Cream in Edward’s Fantasy, enhancing the shade with Sculptitude 2-in-1 Longwear Lip Liner in Sugar Plum B*itch.

LADY IN RED

Whether it’s in your wardrobe, accessories, or makeup bag, red remains the top accent color for 2024, especially leading up to Valentine’s Day. Swap out your usual lip gloss for a bold, vibrant red lipstick. “Now is the perfect time to opt for a kissable red,” says celebrity makeup artist Kasey Spickard. He highlights Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl in Red Hot as a standout choice, known for its high shine and warm tone. “It has a vibrant hue and stays put once it dries, giving you long-lasting shine,” he explains. Another favorite of Spickard’s is the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Chili Pepper, a matte red-orange that provides all-day wear.

FROSTY FACE

For makeup inspiration this season, look outside your window and get creative with textures and colors reminiscent of frosty winter mornings. “It’s cold and frosty outside, so embracing themes like snow, ice, and sparkles is perfect,” says Jeanine Lobell, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen. “This trend is all about capturing the cool, crisp tones of winter, with icy colors like silvers, pale blues, and frosty pinks.”

The Frosty Face look centers around highlighter, with Lobell recommending her Neen Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in the aptly named Frosty shade. For cheeks, aim for a “post-blizzard glow” reminiscent of the TikTok “I’m cold” trend—Lobell favors her Get it All Done Cream Cheek & Lip for this effect. “A vibrant pink will give you that ‘caught in a storm’ look,” she says. Add a frosty touch to your eyes with the Side Eye Liner in Minty and finish with Neen’s Glisten Up Lip Gloss in Bye, a shimmering pink, for a perfect winter finish.