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

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

WHAT CAUSES OILY SKIN?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHEN DO YOU APPLY PRIMER?

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

Here’s a breakdown of the order:

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

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

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

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

CONCLUSION 

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

OUR TOP PICKS

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER

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

HOURGLASS VEIL MINERAL PRIMER

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

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

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

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP SHINE KILLER MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

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

NEUTROGENA SHINE CONTROL PRIMER

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

MAKE UP FOR EVER MINI STEP 1 PRIMER PORE MINIMIZER

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

FENTY BEAUTY PRO FILT’R INSTANT RETOUCH PRIMER

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

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK BABY SKIN INSTANT PORE ERASER

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

TARTE PORELESS MATTIFYING PRIMER

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

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

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

BENEFIT COSMETICS POREFESSIONAL FACE PRIMER

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

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH ILLUMINATE GLOW FACE PRIMER

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

JANE IREDALE SMOOTH AFFAIR MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

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

NARS SOFT MATTE PRIMER

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

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

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

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PRIMERS FOR OILY SKIN

MATTIFYING FORMULA

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

LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE

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

MINIMIZES PORES

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

HYDRATION (OPTIONAL)

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

FINISH

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

CONCLUSION

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

15 Best Shampoos For Color-Treated Hair

Switching up your hair color is a fantastic way to revamp your appearance and let your personality shine. However, the dyeing process can leave your hair feeling parched, delicate, and the color may lose its luster. To maintain the vibrancy and well-being of your colored locks, choosing the right shampoo is crucial. Pharmacies and salons boast an array of hair care products specially crafted for colored hair. These goodies pledge to moisturize, boost shine, and safeguard your hair hue from the harsh aftermath of potent cleansers. If you’re unsure about which product suits your colored hair best, feel free to contact us as we reveal some of the best shampoos for colored hair below!

Best Shampoo For Color-Treated Hair Overall: Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo

Olaplex shampoo, favored by hairstylists and users alike, not only gently cleanses the hair but also restores damaged hair bonds. This effect contributes to healthier, shinier, and more color-resistant hair. The hair care system comprises Olaplex Shampoo No. 4, Olaplex Conditioner No. 5, and Olaplex Hair Perfector No. 3. Among them, Olaplex Shampoo No. 4 stands out as the most popular choice among consumers. The product helps achieve soft and manageable hair while reducing hair loss during washing. Some people suggest enhancing the product by changing the fragrance for an improved user experience.

Best Drugstore Shampoo : L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo

L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo is infused with the rejuvenating essence of rosemary. Specifically designed for dry hair, this product deeply replenishes moisture, leaving hair irresistibly soft and boasting a luminous shine. Particularly suitable for color-treated hair, immerse yourself in the subtle and delightful scent of rosemary as you care for your hair. Many users have provided highly positive reviews, noting that the product is non-toxic and has been used without harm for several years.

Best Luxury Shampoo: Oribe Shampoo For Beautiful Color

This luxurious shampoo is crafted with a blend of natural oils and extracts to gently cleanse and nourish color-treated hair. The product features extracts from argan, maracuja, and bamboo, balancing both the hair and the scalp to fortify and enhance. It leaves the hair clean and adequately moisturized, restoring its original health with healing oils. Despite its delightful scent, the high price and small bottle size limit the benefits compared to its cost.

Best Shampoo For Fine: Ouai Fine Hair Shampoo

This formula delicately cleanses without causing color fading or weighing down thin hair. It also contains UV protection to prevent color fading. OUAI Fine Shampoo and Conditioner, designed for thin hair, gently clean and nourishing. Biotin and chia seeds enhance thickness, providing a full and voluminous look. OUAI is dedicated to embracing a fulfilled life, accepting imperfections, and creating high-quality hair care products with the best ingredients. While some users reported excessive hair shedding, others found it to be satisfactory.

Best Shampoo For Oily: Sachajuan Colour Protect Shampoo

The Sachajuan product line from Sweden is an ideal choice for cleansing and maintaining moisture in the hair, especially when you want to protect color-treated hair but face the challenge of greasy hair post-shampoo. Despite being sulfate-free, this formula still provides a low-acid cleanser to preserve color. The product utilizes the brand’s exclusive Ocean Silk Technology derived from algae rich in calcium, manganese, zinc, and magnesium. This helps balance the scalp and enhance shine without compromising the natural beauty of the color.

Best Shampoo For Curly:  Virtue Recovery Shampoo

This shampoo is renowned for its ability to tame curly hair and provide easy manageability. Its special formula includes several standout ingredients to protect hair color. Hydrolyzed quinoa enhances shine, pomelo extract restores the scalp, and baobab seed oil softens the hair. The product is also infused with the exclusive Alpha Keratin 60ku, a human keratin protein designed to repair damaged hair. Reviews emphasize that the shampoo effectively addresses stubborn curls, leaving the hair soft, voluminous, and shiny.

Best Shampoo For Highlighted Hair: Kérastase Blond Absolu Hydrating Illuminating Shampoo

Highlighting your hair can enhance its color, but it often leads to dryness and breakage. Kérastase addresses this issue with a shampoo containing hyaluronic acid, a moisturizing agent that binds water molecules to hair strands, preventing dryness. Additionally, edelweiss flower extract promotes thicker, stronger locks. Although it contains sodium laureth sulfate, a cleansing agent approved for preserving color, it’s sulfate-free. In spite of the violet bottle, it’s not a purple shampoo, but it effectively neutralizes brassy tones and enhances shine for a radiant finish.

Best Shampoo For Red Hair: Love Beauty And Planet Blooming Color Shampoo

Love Beauty And Planet’s color-safe shampoo is made up of 93% naturally-derived ingredients, featuring ultra-nourishing murumuru butter and hydrating Bulgarian rose. Infused with coconut oil, it effectively seals in moisture, resulting in bouncy and soft locks. The brand prioritizes sustainability by using recycled plastic bottles and adhering to cruelty-free testing practices, while the ethically sourced extracts provide a delightful fragrance to their shampoos.

Best Shampoo For Blondes: Matrix Unbreak My Blonde Shampoo

For those dealing with overprocessed, straw-like hair, Matrix offers a solution to reduce breakage and rejuvenate strands. The pH-balancing formula, enriched with citric acid, strengthens weakened bonds and provides much-needed moisture. Buyers highlight its pleasant lathering, effective cleansing, and appealing scent.

Best Sulfate -Free Color Safe Shampoo: TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Color Shampoo

This budget-friendly shampoo by TRESemmé features keratin for smooth and frizz-free hair while protecting color. The Keratin Smooth System with Lamellar-Discipline transforms unruly hair into a sleek look for up to 72 hours. The Pro Style Technology, enriched with amino acids and ceramide, enhances hair strength and manageability with continuous use. Enjoy a frizz-free, silky look for 72 hours. Trusted ingredients include a cruelty-free, PETA-certified formula, free from Parabens, Mineral Oil, and DMDM Hydantoin.

Best Shampoo For Brunettes: DpHue Color Fresh Shampoo

Maintaining a vibrant brunette shade between salon visits can be challenging, whether you’re covering grays or enhancing your color. DpHue’s color-safe shampoo, co-founded by celebrity colorist Justin Anderson, is known for its gentle formula that helps preserve color intensity. Infused with kumquat extract for added shine and sunflower seed extract to protect from UV damage, this shampoo is a go-to for keeping your color fresh between appointments.

Best Lightweight Feel: Fekkai Technician Color Shampoo

For an eco-friendly choice, consider using this shampoo that bears the Leaping Bunny certification. Enriched with an antioxidant elixir and Pro Vitamin B5, it provides protection against heat, sun damage, and color fading. This high-quality salon-grade shampoo features the special Mirabelle plum seed oil, known for extending the vibrancy of hair color. Whether you fancy bold or subtle hues, this shampoo guarantees a prolonged and radiant color experience.

Best For Fighting Frizz: Smoothing Anti-Frizz  Shampoo

This shampoo distinguishes itself by addressing the negative impact of humidity on hair, particularly color-treated strands that are susceptible to heightened breakage. Its superior moisturizing and nourishing properties effectively combat frizz, leaving hair silkier and smoother. Notably, the results endure for up to 72 hours post-wash, delivering prolonged relief from frizz. Beyond enhancing color vibrancy, the specialized formula acts as a protective shield, reducing the risk of damage from environmental factors. Embrace the confidence that comes with consistently maintaining sleek and resilient hair through the enduring effects of this moisture-rich shampoo.

Best For Frequent Washers: R+Co Gemstone Color Shampoo

R+Co Gemstone Color Shampoo is designed to counteract the detrimental effects of humidity on hair, especially color-treated strands that are prone to increased breakage. The color-protecting complex formula is crafted not only to enhance the gloss of the pigment but also to address issues of tangling, making the hair strands shiny, smooth, and easily manageable. This not only helps preserve the desired color but also maintains the best hair dyeing experience for you.

How We Chose The Best Shampoos For Color-Treated Hair

In our quest for the top shampoos for color-treated hair, we focused on key ingredients that effectively cleanse, nourish, and strengthen dyed strands. Our carefully curated selection caters to diverse hair types, from curly to fine and dry textures, while considering various shades such as blonde, brunette, or auburn. Drawing on insights from our experts with in-salon experience and analyzing customer reviews, we identified standout product characteristics. To guide your choice, prioritize color-safe ingredients with humectants like glycerin, avoid harmful agents, opt for sulfate-free formulations, and use clarifying shampoos sparingly to prevent accelerated color fading, particularly in the initial weeks post-coloring. We’ve curated options to suit different budgets, ensuring choices that blend affordability with luxury.

How Do You Protect Color-Treated Hair?

To maintain freshly colored hair, it’s advisable to wait at least 24 hours before washing to minimize color fading. Washing color-treated hair two to three times a week is ideal, with rinsing and conditioning suggested on non-shampoo days. Choose dry shampoos without alcohol and avoid sulfates, as they can strip color. To extend color life, reduce heated styling tool use, especially high-temperature flat irons, and always use a heat protectant with UV protection to shield hair from damage and sun-induced fading.

Conclusion

In the list of hair care products, shampoo plays a crucial role, especially when used for colored hair. Choosing the right shampoo can significantly impact both maintaining the color and the health of the hair. Effective shampoo for colored hair not only helps remove dirt but also prevents the fading process. After considering the aforementioned products and following our advice, if your choice aligns with your hair type, you’ll undoubtedly not only help maintain the color and health of your colored hair but also ensure that your hair remains fresh and attractive. Additionally, you can also explore various hair vitamins.