primer and bb cream

12 BEST BB CREAMS FOR OILY SKIN TO BUY

Does oily skin make you shy away from BB creams? Fret no more! BB creams can be your best friend, even with oily skin.  They offer the perfect combination of skincare and makeup, evening out your skin tone while providing hydration and sometimes even sun protection. But with so many options, finding the right one for your oily skin can be tricky. This guide will introduce you to the 12 best BB creams specifically formulated to combat shine and keep your complexion looking fresh all day long. So, get ready to ditch the shine and embrace the flawless, natural-looking coverage of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

OUR TOP PICKS

MISSHA M PERFECT COVER B.B CREAM SPF 42 PA+++ NO. 23

Can’t be missing a classic! The Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++ (in No. 23, Natural Beige) is a long-time favorite for oily skin types. This BB cream offers high coverage to even out skin tone and blemishes, while the lightweight formula controls shine and keeps you matte throughout the day.  It also boasts SPF 42 PA+++ for UVA and UVB protection, making it a great one-step solution for your morning routine.  Just be mindful that the shade No. 23 leans more neutral than yellow, so it might not be the best match for super fair or very warm skin tones.

ERBORIAN SUPER BB AU GINSENG NUDE

In a head-to-head battle for the best BB cream, Erborian emerged victorious.  It impressed with a stellar combination: a full-coverage formula that didn’t look cakey and a list of ingredients that went above and beyond.  This BB cream could easily replace your foundation, providing concealment while working wonders for your skin.  The formula is packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower for deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles blackheads and blemishes.  While an SPF boost would be ideal, this product truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it outperformed all the competition in our tests!

DR. JART+ BB PREMIUM BEAUTY BALM

Dr.Jart+ Premium BB Beauty Balm might be a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch. This BB cream offers light to medium coverage, evening out skin tone while still allowing your natural beauty to show through.  The cushiony-soft, creamy texture blends seamlessly for a natural finish.  While it doesn’t boast the highest SPF rating, it does offer sun protection (check the specific SPF on the product you’re considering, as Dr.Jart+ offers variations).  Like many BB creams, it also contains hydrating ingredients to keep your skin from feeling dry.  This BB cream is a good choice for oily skin types who want a natural-looking complexion with some coverage and a touch of hydration.

HOLIKA HOLIKA MOISTURIZING PETIT BB SPF 30 PA++

Oily skin still needs moisture! For those who prioritize keeping their skin hydrated, the Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream is a great choice. This K-Beauty favorite contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin for a dewy, healthy-looking finish. With nearly 4,000 five-star reviews on iHerb, customers rave about the BB cream’s natural, smooth finish and easy blending. As with any sunscreen product, always check the SPF label on the specific Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream you choose, and remember that sun protection is key. To ensure effective protection, avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply frequently as directed.

ESSENCE HYDRO HERO HYDRATING BB CREAM

Essence strikes again with a budget-friendly BB cream! At just £4, this option prioritizes makeup coverage over extensive skincare benefits.  While it offers fuller coverage than some other BB creams, it provides a more matte finish similar to a foundation.  This makes it a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, affordable foundation alternative.  Keep in mind that a little goes a long way with this product, and for the smoothest application, using a makeup brush or sponge is recommended.

TARTE BB TINTED TREATMENT

Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is like a two-in-one product that does both skincare and makeup jobs. It’s light and feels nice on your skin, acting as a moisturizer with a hint of color to even out your skin tone. Inside, there are good things for your skin like vitamin E, which keeps it healthy, and natural minerals that make your skin look smooth. When you put it on, it gives your skin a nice glow without feeling thick or heavy. It also has sun protection, which helps keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays when you wear it every day. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is great for people who want an easy way to make their skin look nice while also taking care of it.

LA ROCHE-POSAY UVIDEA XL BB CREAM SPF50

Ideal for oily skin types seeking high sun protection, La Roche-Posay’s Uvidea XL BB Cream SPF50+ offers a winning combination of skincare and makeup. This BB cream boasts a powerful SPF 50+ rating with PPD protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.  Its lightweight, oil-free formula helps control shine and mattify the complexion, while still providing buildable coverage to even out skin tone.  La Roche-Posay is a dermatologist-recommended brand, so you can be confident this BB cream is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.

MONAT BB CREAM

This Monat BB cream is on the pricier side compared to others. It has a thick and rich texture, making it feel very luxurious, especially because it’s super moisturizing with coconut alkanes, which are great for dry skin. You don’t need to use much of it because a little goes a long way. You can just dab it on with your fingers for a natural look without needing a mirror. It doesn’t cover up blemishes, dark circles, or redness completely, so you might still need concealer for those. Plus, it has SPF 30, which is great for protecting your skin from the sun. Overall, our tester really liked it and plans to keep it in their makeup bag for a while.

ERBORIAN GINSENG BB CRÈME

Erborian’s Ginseng BB Crème emerged as the top contender in our quest for the best BB cream. It impressed with a double threat: exceptional coverage without looking cakey and a superstar ingredient list. This BB cream seamlessly replaces foundation, offering camouflage while working wonders for your skin’s health. Packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower, it delivers deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles pesky blackheads and blemishes.  Although an SPF boost would be a plus, Erborian truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it surpassed all competitors in our tests!

NAPOLEON PERDIS BBB CREAM BEAUTY-BOOSTING BALM SPF 30

Napoleon Perdis’ BBB Cream Beauty-Boosting Balm SPF 30 caters to those who desire a touch of everything in their base product. This multi-tasking balm combines the benefits of a skin-perfecting foundation, a nourishing moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection.  It boasts a lightweight, creamy texture that blends seamlessly for a natural, radiant finish.  While offering sheer to light coverage, the BBB Cream helps to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.  For those with concerns about aging, the formula may include ingredients to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Napoleon Perdis is an Australian brand known for its high-quality cosmetics, so you can expect a luxurious feel and application.

GARNIER OIL-FREE PERFECTING CARE ALL-IN-ONE BB CREAM

If you have oily skin, you might have avoided using BB creams because they can make your skin look too shiny. But Garnier has a solution! Their BB cream is made especially for people with combination to oily skin. It goes on light and instantly evens out your skin tone while reducing shine. It won’t completely cover up dark circles or blemishes, so you might still need concealer for those. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated. However, if your skin is dry, it might make it look a bit thick, so it’s best for people with oily or combination skin.

L’OREAL PARIS AGE PERFECT BB CREAM SPF 50

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50 caters to mature skin types seeking a one-step solution for a flawless complexion. This BB cream combines hydrating coverage with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, making it ideal for daytime wear. The lightweight formula is designed to blend easily and avoid settling into fine lines, while offering buildable coverage to even out skin tone and imperfections.  It may also contain ingredients that address concerns specific to mature skin, such as age spots or loss of elasticity.  If you’re looking for a drugstore-friendly BB cream that provides sun protection, hydration, and a touch of coverage for mature skin, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect is a great option to consider.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A BB CREAM FOR OILY SKIN

When searching for the perfect BB cream for your oily skin, here are some key factors to consider:

Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula: This is crucial to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Look for these terms on the label to ensure the BB cream won’t add extra oil to your skin.

Mattifying properties: Choose a BB cream that contains ingredients like mattifying powders or clay to absorb excess oil and control shine throughout the day.

Lightweight texture: Opt for a lightweight, water-based BB cream that feels comfortable on your skin and won’t weigh it down. Thick, heavy formulas can exacerbate oiliness.

Coverage level:  Consider how much coverage you need. BB creams typically offer light to medium coverage, which is ideal for most oily skin types. If you need more coverage, look for a BB cream with buildable coverage so you can customize it to your needs.

SPF protection:  Sun protection is essential for everyone, regardless of skin type.  Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

Hydration:  While oily skin might seem like it doesn’t need hydration, that’s not quite true.  Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil to compensate. Choose a BB cream that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin balanced.

Ingredients:  For oily skin, it can be beneficial to look for BB creams with ingredients that target specific concerns like niacinamide to minimize pores and blemishes, or salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A BB CREAM?

ALL-IN-ONE CONVENIENCE

BB creams streamline your routine by combining multiple functions. They typically provide light to medium coverage to even out skin tone, often with built-in moisturizer and SPF protection. This saves time in the morning and reduces the number of products you need to apply.

HYDRATION AND NOURISHMENT

Many BB creams are formulated with hydrating ingredients to keep your skin plump and supple. Some may also contain additional skincare benefits like antioxidants to fight free radical damage or ingredients that target specific concerns like blemishes or redness.

NATURAL-LOOKING COVERAGE

Unlike heavy foundations, BB creams offer a more sheer, natural-looking veil of coverage. This is ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight feel or those with already good skin that just needs a little evening out.

SUN PROTECTION

Many BB creams include SPF protection, which is crucial for preventing sun damage and signs of premature aging. Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for daily use.

DO YOU NEED TO USE A PRIMER BEFORE BB CREAM?

You don’t necessarily need to use a primer especially primer before BB cream, but it depends on your goals and skin type. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Skip the primer if:

  • Your BB cream has built-in mattifying properties and your skin isn’t oily.
  • You prefer a lightweight, natural look and don’t need extra coverage or longevity.
  • You’re new to makeup or just starting with BB creams.

Consider a primer if:

  • Your skin is oily and you want to control shine throughout the day.
  • You have large pores or uneven texture you want to smooth out.
  • You need your BB cream to last longer, especially if you have combination or oily skin.
  • You’re using a BB cream for fuller coverage and want a flawless base.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO APPLY A BB CREAM?

Prep your skin: Cleanse and moisturize your face as usual. For oily skin, consider a mattifying moisturizer to further control shine. Let your moisturizer fully absorb before applying BB cream.

Less is more: Squeeze a dime-sized amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand or a makeup palette. This helps avoid using too much product, which can look cakey.

Dot and blend: Use your fingertips or a damp makeup sponge to apply the BB cream. Dab small dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently blend the dots outwards and upwards using tapping or stippling motions for a natural finish.

Build coverage:  If you need more coverage, apply another thin layer of BB cream, focusing on areas that need it most. Be careful not to overdo it, as BB creams are designed for a natural look.

Set it (optional):  For oily skin, you can set your BB cream with a translucent powder to control shine and extend wear time. Apply a light dusting of powder with a fluffy brush, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REMOVE A BB CREAM AT THE END OF THE DAY?

Even though BB creams are lighter than foundations, removing them properly is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Here’s the best way to remove BB cream at the end of the day:

  • Start with a gentle oil-based cleanser or makeup remover. BB creams often contain oils and silicones, and oil-based cleansers are more effective at dissolving them. Apply the cleanser to dry skin and massage gently in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
  • Emulsify and rinse. Add a little water to your face to create a milky emulsion, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  • Double cleanse for stubborn makeup or sunscreen. If you wear heavy makeup or a BB cream with high SPF, you may want to double cleanse. Follow the oil cleanser with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Pat your face dry with a clean towel and follow up with your usual skincare routine. This includes moisturizer and any other nighttime skincare products you use.

CONCLUSION

Oily skin can be tricky to manage, but finding the right primer or BB cream can be a game-changer! With its blend of makeup and skincare benefits, a BB cream can even out your skin tone, provide hydration, and even shield you from the sun – all while keeping shine under control. This guide explored 12 of the best BB creams formulated specifically for oily skin, offering a range of options from high-end splurges to drugstore favorites. We even covered some key factors to consider when making your choice. So, ditch the shine and embrace the natural, flawless look of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

15 BEST PRIMERS FOR DRY SKIN THAT CREATE A HYDRATED BASE 

Dry skin can be a real struggle, especially when it comes to makeup application. Primers are an essential first step in any makeup routine, but finding one that works for dry skin can be tricky. A good primer will hydrate the skin, smooth out rough patches, and create a flawless base for your makeup. Here’s a look at 15 of the best primers for dry skin that will create a hydrated, dewy base for your makeup to last all day long! 

OUR TOP PICKS 

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER

This versatile primer offers a multifaceted approach to skincare, combining hydration, protection, and skin tone correction. Formulated with powerhouse ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it not only promotes plump and supple skin but also addresses dry patches, flaking, and uneven texture. The inclusion of a silkscreen complex, rich in antioxidants and probiotic extract, provides a shield against environmental aggressors like blue light and pollution. The primer’s ability to visibly plump the skin, impart a radiant glow, and ensure long-lasting effects makes it a standout product. However, it’s worth noting that its premium quality comes at a higher price point, making it a luxurious but potentially costly addition to your skincare routine. Additionally, its fragrance-free formula caters to those with sensitivity or preference for unscented products.

BOBBI BROWN VITAMIN ENRICHED FACE BASE

This product serves as both a nourishing day cream and an effective makeup primer, ensuring a long-lasting and hydrated complexion. Infused with key ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, it delivers a substantial dose of moisture, resulting in a well-hydrated and plumped canvas for flawless makeup application. Ideal for a range of skin types, including combination and oily skin, it strikes the perfect balance between skincare and makeup prep.

GUERLAIN 24H HYDRATION PARURE GOLD 24K RADIANCE BOOSTER PERFECTION PRIMER

Formulated with an impressive 98% naturally-derived ingredients, this primer boasts a sumptuous gel texture that not only provides up to 24-hour hydration but also delivers instantly unified skin. Beyond its hydrating properties, the primer actively works to visibly correct imperfections and refine skin texture, offering a flawless canvas for makeup application. A standout feature is its sensorial texture, which imparts an instant skin-blurring effect, enhancing the overall appeal of this luxurious primer. 

E.L.F. HYDRATING FACE PRIMER

Indulge in a natural finish with this sought-after primer, enriched with key ingredients like grapeseed oil, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Compact in size at 0.47 ounces, this cruelty-free formula has earned acclaim for its hydrating properties, efficient pore-blurring effects, and its ability to establish a flawless base for seamless makeup application. Users laud its affordability and the transformative advantages it delivers, as vitamin A ensures hydration, vitamin C imparts a radiant glow, vitamin E nurtures the skin, and grapeseed oil promotes an even skin tone. Going beyond its cosmetic allure, this primer also enhances the staying power of your makeup, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. Embrace this primer for its multifaceted benefits, offering not just cosmetic enhancement but also extended wear for a consistently impeccable look.

REFY FACE PRIMER

Unlike typical primers, this innovative formula doubles as a “gua sha tool” with its smart roller applicator. As it glides over the skin, it not only primes but also effectively smooths and sculpts, aiding in depuffing through a massaging action. The perfected formula features niacinamide, vitamin B5, and polymers, working in tandem to hydrate, minimize pores, and nourish the skin. The result is a radiant complexion and makeup that endures throughout the day. 

BY TERRY CELLULAROSE CC SERUM

Achieve a flawless and radiant complexion with the BY TERRY Cellularose CC Serum, designed to correct, illuminate, and prime your skin before makeup application. With a serum-like consistency that effortlessly absorbs into the skin, this hybrid primer and corrector formula not only provides hydration but also seamlessly blends under your preferred base product. The added bonus lies in its infusion of skin-loving ingredients, contributing to a lit-from-within finish that enhances your natural glow. 

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

This product comes in a 1.52-ounce size and is cruelty-free. It’s great for people whose foundation tends to disappear by midday. The product is a lightweight, water-based gel that does two things at once: it takes care of your skin and works as a primer. It has hydrating hyaluronic acid, pore-minimizing niacinamide, and blue agave extract to keep your skin healthy and prevent makeup from looking cakey or melting off. Even though it might feel a bit sticky when you put it on, users say it doesn’t make their foundation separate or create dry patches. Enjoy the benefits of this long-lasting, fragrance-free primer, but be aware that some people find it sticky, and it could clump if it’s not completely dry.

SAIE GLOWY SUPER GEL

Meet the Saie Glowy Super Gel, our top choice for days when your skin needs a bright boost. Use it alone or under makeup for a radiant look. This gel has good stuff like papaya, squalene, and vitamin C that keeps your skin safe, moisturized, and glowing. Say bye to dull skin and hello to a refreshed, radiant look with the Saie Glowy Super Gel.

ILLAMASQUA HYDRA VEIL PRIMER

The Illamasqua Hydra Veil has a special feel on your skin, making it refreshing. It’s great for getting your skin ready for makeup and helps if your skin is dry. This primer has good things like microalgae, vitamin C, and B, and plant extracts that make your skin feel fresh, balanced, and hydrated. We love it because it moisturizes and helps reduce the appearance of dryness.

KAT BURKI SILK PROTEIN PRIMER

This moisture-packed primer is silicone-free and boasts botanical hyaluronic acid and Irish sea moss, working together to plump and hydrate the skin while keeping essential moisture locked in. The inclusion of silk amino proteins helps smooth out fine lines, and grapefruit seed oil combats skin flare-ups and redness. Its smooth and lightweight texture is a standout feature, delivering an airbrushed effect by blurring pores. Perfect for creating a seamless makeup base, it avoids settling into fine lines or dry areas, catering to those in their mid-40s. Despite its popularity for hydrating benefits, it’s crucial to be aware that the formula does contain fragrance.

LAURA MERCIER PURE CANVAS PRIMER

Laura Mercier Canvas Primers are renowned for their exceptional quality and effectiveness in creating a flawless base for makeup application. These primers are meticulously crafted to provide a smooth and even canvas, ensuring that your makeup adheres seamlessly and stays in place throughout the day. One notable feature of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers is their diverse range, catering to various skin concerns and preferences. Whether you’re looking to minimize pores, add a luminous glow, or combat redness, there is likely a primer within the collection designed to address your specific needs. The lightweight and breathable formulas of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers make them comfortable to wear, avoiding any heavy or greasy feeling on the skin. 

ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING PRIMER

The Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer stands out as a luxurious and effective addition to any makeup routine, recognized for its ability to create a radiant and flawless complexion. As part of the esteemed Luminous Silk range by Giorgio Armani Beauty, this primer is designed to enhance the application and longevity of makeup while providing essential hydration. Enriched with hydrating ingredients, the Armani Luminous Silk Primer quenches the skin’s thirst, leaving it supple and refreshed. The primer works to minimize the appearance of imperfections and fine lines, creating a luminous and dewy finish that complements the signature Luminous Silk foundation by Armani.

STILA ONE STEP CORRECT

Tailored for those prone to breakouts or redness flare-ups, this primer features color-correcting pigments that work their magic to even out your complexion seamlessly. Additionally, it serves as the ideal solution for combating mid-winter dullness, offering a brightening boost for an energized and fresh-from-vacation appearance. What sets this primer apart is its ability to not only provide a radiant finish but also address common skin concerns. It helps diminish the appearance of spots and circles, improves overall skin texture, and imparts a brightening effect. While its benefits are celebrated, keep in mind that some users have reported concerns about the pump breaking easily. 

CHARLOTTE TILBURY INVISIBLE UV FLAWLESS PORELESS PRIMER

Charlotte Tilbury continues to prove her mastery in the realm of makeup, and her primer is no exception. Beyond its ability to blur imperfections and minimize pores, this versatile primer acts as a protective shield against sun damage, promoting an even skin tone while providing nourishment and hydration. Infused with the brand’s signature airbrush polymers, this primer ensures you’re selfie-ready at all times, delivering a flawless finish without any worry of flashback in your photos. With Charlotte Tilbury’s commitment to quality and innovation, this primer stands as a must-have in any makeup enthusiast’s collection, offering a multi-functional solution for achieving a radiant and perfected complexion.

YVES SAINT LAURENT TOUCHE ÉCLAT BLUR PRIMER

The Blur Primer showcases a revolutionary transparent gel formula that optimizes light diffusion and incorporates advanced blurring technology, achieving the illusion of a matte and illuminated complexion. What makes this primer truly versatile is its adaptability – perfect for wearing under foundation to enhance its longevity and radiance or worn alone as a skin-perfecting base for a naturally flawless look. With its innovative formula and flexibility, this Blur Primer earns admiration for its transformative effects and its ability to effortlessly elevate any makeup routine.

WHAT DOES A PRIMER FOR DRY SKIN DO?

A primer designed specifically for dry skin plays a crucial role in addressing the unique needs and challenges associated with this skin type. Dry skin tends to lack sufficient natural oils and moisture, leading to a parched and sometimes flaky complexion. A primer tailored for dry skin aims to provide essential hydration and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

These primers typically contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or various plant-based oils. Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its ability to attract and retain moisture, helping to replenish the skin’s hydration levels. Glycerin works similarly, drawing moisture from the air to keep the skin supple and moisturized.

Beyond hydration, primers for dry skin often incorporate ingredients that help to smooth out uneven texture and nourish the skin. They may include antioxidants, vitamins, and botanical extracts to promote overall skin health. Some primers for dry skin also feature illuminating properties, adding a subtle glow to counteract any dullness associated with dryness.

By creating a hydrated and smooth base, these primers assist in preventing makeup from clinging to dry patches or settling into fine lines, resulting in a more seamless and comfortable makeup application. Ultimately, a primer for dry skin serves as a preparatory step in the beauty routine, ensuring that makeup not only looks better but also contributes to the overall health and comfort of the skin.

CONCLUSION 

Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, the use of a primer is crucial before applying makeup. Primer plays a significant role, and this article aims to provide valuable information specifically tailored to those with dry skin. Hopefully, the details about primers for dry skin outlined in this article will assist you in discovering your preferred product.