natural skin care products for men

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.

13 BEST FOUNDATION FOR FAIR SKIN

If you’re looking for a foundation that will blend in flawlessly with your fair, pale skin, you should get your hands on the best foundation for fair skin on the market. These tried-and-true creams are capable of concealing all of your faults and leaving your skin with an even complexion. It sounds fantastic, right? As a result, in this post, we’ve compiled a list of the 13 best foundations for fairskin, with either a warm or cool undertone. So go ahead and check it out; it’s time for immaculate makeup!

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation

The Tarte Foundation contains micronized zinc and titanium, resulting in long-lasting buildable coverage with a smooth finish. It is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and contains Amazonian clay, which is breathable and does not cake. The vegan foundation effectively conceals skin breakouts and shapes face features. It contains vitamin E, which naturally nourishes and protects the skin. It provides up to 12 hours of optimum coverage while also protecting your skin from damaging UV rays with its broad-spectrum SPF 15. 

The foundation provides a flawless finish and matte coverage while hiding flaws and discoloration. It’s ideal for oily and mixed skin. Multiple reviews have commended this product for its faultless coverage and outstanding outcomes.

Covergirl+Olay Simply Ageless 3-In-1 Foundation

Covergirl+Olay’s Simply Ageless 3-In-1 Foundation gives your face a young charm. This lightweight foundation contains a hyaluronic complex and vitamin C, which rapidly decrease the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, and other defects. It provides medium coverage and enhances skin tone. The hyaluronic compound binds moisture, revealing glowing, healthy-looking skin. Vitamin C protects the skin with its powerful antioxidant qualities and removes harmful free radicals. It also helps to keep collagen levels stable, which reduces skin outbreaks, acne, and pimples.

The Fair Ivory shade contains niacinamide and vitamin B3 and is suitable for all skin types. The brand does not use animal testing, making it an excellent choice for anyone concerned about their fur.

Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation

It has a lightweight liquid consistency that glides on and integrates into the skin with ease. It provides medium coverage that wonderfully conceals redness and blemishes while allowing a touch of your skin to show through for a natural look. If you add a second layer, the formula becomes more buildable, but you won’t be able to get full coverage.

The polish is what sets it apart from the others. It looks just like your natural skin on a perfect day, complete with a dash of radiance. We also like how it blends in with cream, powder, or liquid makeup. 

Maybelline New York Fit Me 

Maybelline New York’s dermatologically certified, lightweight foundation gives the skin a dewy look while leaving it smooth and flawless. The composition is rich in vitamin E and contains SPF 18, which protects the skin from sun damage. The foundation’s delicate consistency melts into the skin, hydrating it and providing a radiant finish.

You can apply the foundation alone or as a base to obtain the ideal cosmetic look. It is designed and innovatively manufactured to remain fresh on the skin for numerous hours. Furthermore, it moisturizes the skin without getting cakey. This product has not been tested on animals and has received numerous positive Amazon reviews for its ability to integrate effortlessly into the skin.

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation

The performance of this drugstore formula is comparable to that of higher-end products. There are 40 hues available, which is a large range compared to other drugstore options, and they are evenly distributed across skin tones and undertones, so there is something for almost everyone. We liked how the liquid consistency felt light on the skin, was buildable, and budge-proof.

One light layer provides smooth, medium coverage, while another layer can be applied for a fuller-coverage look with a natural finish. We liked how easily we could build it up without it looking cakey. The solution is sweat, water, and transfer-resistant, with a bonus of SPF 25. 

Nyx Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop

Nyx Professional’s Can’t Stop Won’t Stop foundation provides maximum coverage and ensures that your makeup looks exactly how you want it. Its matte finish lasts up to 24 hours and reduces shine. The product is highly pigmented for a long-lasting finish that will not fade or come off due to its water- and sweat-resistant properties. This cream foundation mattifies the makeup and completely conceals blemishes and dark spots. Nyx does not test on animals and provides the best makeup artistry to users all around the world.

Tom Ford Traceless Foundation Stick

Foundation stick Tom Ford is a really good one that needs to be tried for once. Its non-comedogenic foundation stick is an absolute delight. It’s creamy, has an ultra-smooth finish, and seems natural on the skin. The recipe is also changeable, so you may achieve light, medium, or complete coverage with it.

The color match is ideal for all skin types. It blends flawlessly, does not sink into fine wrinkles, and leaves the skin looking fresh and awake. This foundation stick is water-based, therefore mix it with other water-based products to avoid a cakey base. 

Catrice True Skin Hydrating Foundation

Catrice True Skin Foundation provides some of the best drugstore foundation products on the market. Hyaluronic acid is the standout ingredient in the brand’s True Skin Hydrating Foundation, which also includes watermelon-seed extract for a smooth, radiant finish. This foundation is simply great. True Skin lives up to its name—it’s so light that it feels and seems to be skin. Regardless of how you apply it, the result is the same: stunning. According to a client with oily skin, this foundation is genuinely glowing, healthy-looking, and moisturizing.

Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Foundation

This ultra-blendable soft matte foundation is Tom Ford’s interpretation of a modern matte finish. It offers buildable medium-full coverage and contains soft-focus microsphere particles that blur and disperse light on the face. Its silky texture glides over the skin effortlessly, leaving you with a smooth complexion. This foundation provides complete coverage, is non-cakey, and blurs pores. It can last for up to 8 hours every day. This product works well with powder complexion products.

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation

The skincare-infused solution contains hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and revitalizes the skin; a rose complex, which helps reduce visible indications of weariness; and Bix’Activ, which reduces shine and blurs the appearance of pores. That means the following for you: You’ve come across a tube of magic.

In general, the Charlotte Tilbury Foundation reviews are positive. It is described as providing medium coverage, being simple to wear, and having a luminous finish. It conceals discoloration and blurs texture with a gentle touch.

Rimmel London Stay Matte Foundation

Rimmel London’s Stay Matte Foundation provides a long-lasting matte look. Its liquid mousse texture merges seamlessly, leaving your skin with a natural appearance. It conceals facial flaws and minimizes pores while giving a natural, almost ‘no makeup’ appearance. The pigmented mixture is silky and rich, leaving your skin feeling baby-soft. It contains advanced gel emulsifiers that control shine throughout the day. The composition is lightweight and provides 24 hours of fresh, naturally matte skin. This Leaping Bunny-approved brand does not do animal testing on its goods.

N°1 De Chanel Revitalizing Foundation

There’s no doubt that this liquid foundation is quite expensive, but if it meets your needs and fits within your budget, we strongly recommend it. The first thing we noticed about this one was its consistency. It’s just the correct consistency—not too thick or runny—and blends easily with a damp makeup sponge or foundation brush. One layer provides light to medium coverage, while the second layer provides fuller medium coverage that conceals redness and flaws. Once combined, it feels lightweight and hydrating, and it dries to a natural radiant finish.

Clinique Even Better Makeup

Clinique Even Better Makeup evens out skin tone and provides an ideal canvas for statement-making looks. It contains SPF 15, which protects the skin from damaging UV radiation. The potent mixture visibly reduces fine lines, wrinkles, spots, blemishes, and other flaws, aiding in the battle against premature aging. It may also assist in hiding symptoms of aging on elderly skin. This full-coverage foundation is ideal for normal, dry, combo, and oily skin types, providing 24-hour coverage. It brightens and enhances skin texture with each use.

Conclusion

The foundation serves as the base for your makeup. They help to conceal blemishes and dark spots, making you appear faultless. Fair skin requires a foundation that exactly matches the skin tone while remaining true to the skin’s original shade. So here are some small tips to find the best foundation for fair skin. Fair or fair ivory colors make the best foundation for fair skin. Foundations made without harsh chemicals that are long-lasting, blendable, and crease-proof make your skin appear youthful and perfect. Avoid foundations that are not your shade and will make your face bland or yellow.