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

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

WHAT CAUSES OILY SKIN?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHEN DO YOU APPLY PRIMER?

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

Here’s a breakdown of the order:

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

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

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

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

CONCLUSION 

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

OUR TOP PICKS

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER

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

HOURGLASS VEIL MINERAL PRIMER

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

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

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

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP SHINE KILLER MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

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

NEUTROGENA SHINE CONTROL PRIMER

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

MAKE UP FOR EVER MINI STEP 1 PRIMER PORE MINIMIZER

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

FENTY BEAUTY PRO FILT’R INSTANT RETOUCH PRIMER

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

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK BABY SKIN INSTANT PORE ERASER

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

TARTE PORELESS MATTIFYING PRIMER

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

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

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

BENEFIT COSMETICS POREFESSIONAL FACE PRIMER

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

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH ILLUMINATE GLOW FACE PRIMER

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

JANE IREDALE SMOOTH AFFAIR MATTIFYING FACE PRIMER

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

NARS SOFT MATTE PRIMER

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

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

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

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PRIMERS FOR OILY SKIN

MATTIFYING FORMULA

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

LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE

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

MINIMIZES PORES

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

HYDRATION (OPTIONAL)

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

FINISH

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

CONCLUSION

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

12 BEST PRODUCTS FOR BRAIDS

Braids are basically the ideal protective hairdo to use on a daily basis. Because they are constantly in style, simple to maintain, and they provide you with a nice respite from everyday hair styling, they minimize the risk of damage. If you’re new to braiding, it’s important to know that there are a few essential hair products and techniques that will maintain the health of your scalp and keep your braids looking great until it’s time to take off your preferred style. These 12 best products for braids can help you maintain the best-looking braids possible all the time.

BED HEAD BY TIGI HAIR WAX STICK

The TIGI Bed Head Wax Stick is the best for frizzy edges, curly hair, and braids. It is enhanced with beeswax and highly nourishing castor oil, which provide your hair definition and moisture retention. This stick repairs flyaways at the edges and securely secures the braids. The formula’s natural oils shield the braids from heat, perspiration, and humidity without causing cakey or sticky layers to build up on the scalp. With a no-mess application that works on all hair kinds and lengths, this semi-matte finish stick guarantees a touchable, silky texture that draws attention. Online reviews for the product have been overwhelmingly favorable, attesting to its effectiveness in keeping hair in place.

PANTENE GOLD SERIES TRIPLE CARE BRAID CREAM

Pantene’s Gold Series Triple Care Braid Cream is a moisture-locking, texture-enhancing braid styling product. Its pure argan oil infusion relieves the tension that braiding causes to build up on the scalp and hair. Provitamin B5 and vitamin E nourish the braids and shield them from drying out and breaking. In addition, this cream gives braids and locs a delicate sheen and manages frizz. While the recipe is thick enough to distribute easily over afro or textured hair, it doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind or accumulate in the cuticles. This is an unbiased assessment and the tester’s firsthand account of the use of the product.

CAROL’S DAUGHTER CURL DEFINING BUTTER

With hydrating and nourishing ingredients including agave, avocado oil, honey, shea butter, and other rich oils, the Carol’s Daughter Curl Defining Butter helps to keep your curls defined for a whole day. The recipe imparts a natural shine to your curly or kinky hair without leaving greasy residue and is free of silicone and parabens. This hair butter is perfect for neat braids since it smooths out knots and gives your hair a silky quality. It also has a clean scent that makes you feel happy all day long. If you are looking for a really good shea butter for hair, we highly recommend this.

BEARD GAINS LION LOCS ROSEWATER SPRAY

The Beard Gains Lion Locs Rosewater Spray is a great hair care product for braiding and healthy hair since it is lightweight, doesn’t flake or leave any residue behind, and doesn’t leave heavy oil stains. In addition to rosewater, this spray is enhanced with glycerin, aloe, vitamins, and essential oils to provide your with dreadlocks restorative treatment and prevent them from drying out. It enters the scalp and promotes the growth of healthy hair in dry and damaged hair. Hair types that are naturally straight or wavy can both benefit from this product. Made from natural components, this gently scented spray will keep your hair smelling good and looking healthy. However, the rose scent can be overpowering for some.

THE MANE CHOICE TROPICAL MORINGA PEARLY BRAID OUT GLAZE

Flyaways, twists, and braids are defined and supplely held in place by the Tropical Moringa Pearly Braid Out Glaze. It locks in all the excess moisture and gives the hair back its luster and smoothness. Botanical ingredients, moringa seed oil, and vitamins A, D, and E are added to this braid glaze, which thoroughly penetrates the hair shafts to replace and restore nutrient balance. Strength, elasticity, and shine are all increased, and style is made to last longer. This glaze offers comprehensive restorative treatment by swiftly penetrating into your scalp and hair strands and notably reducing breakage and shedding. It is among the greatest wash-and-go choices because it is simple to rinse off.

SULFUR8 LOC TWIST AND BRAID OIL

This unique mix of sunflower seed, olive, sweet almond, tea tree, and wheat germ oils is used to make this braid oil, which works like a magic bullet for hair that is braided. The braids, twists, and locs are nourished and moisturized by this rich and nutritious oil combination. It encourages healthy development and gives hair shafts their original gloss and smoothness again. The special combination of oils releases built-up tension and leaves the scalp and cuticles feeling cool and comforting. It spreads and seeps easily due to its weightless nature, leaving the scalp free of residue.

SHEAMOISTURE TRACK TENSION & ITCH RELIEF SERUM

What your braids need is Shea Moisture’s Jojoba Oil and Ucuuba Butter Track Tension and Itch Relief Serum. The jojoba seed, ucuuba nut, carrot seed, and peppermint oils in this shea butter-based serum rapidly ease scalp tension and irritation brought on by tightly braided styles and sewn-in weaves. In order to lessen breakage and hair loss, it deeply hydrates the hair shafts.  Regular use of the oil combination gives textured hair its original strength, gloss, and smoothness back. If you have been wondering “Is shea butter good for hair”, this product will give you the answer.

MURRAY SPRAY UNLOCK

Braids and weaves may be easily and safely removed using Murray’s Spray UnlockTM without causing any damage to the hair. It includes a unique combination of herbs and oils that are incorporated into a foundation of castor oil. As a result, this spray works wonders as a conditioning and preparation tool. Additionally, salicylic acid is included, which helps treat conditions including seborrheic dermatitis and dry scalp. By shielding and feeding individual hair strands, these substances stop breakage and hair loss. Both synthetic and natural hair can use this spray because of its chemical-free, weightless formula.

KUZA BEESWAX HAIR & BRAID CONDITIONER

Under braids or weaves, Kuza’s conditioner provides an amazing grip and deeply hydrates the hair and scalp. It is enhanced with paraffin and natural beeswax, which provide dry, stressed-out textured hair with  the necessary fats and emollients. This conditioner relieves the stress caused by braiding in the scalp and returns the proper balance of moisture. Additionally, it may be used as a pomade to kinky and coily hair to seal twists, locs, braids, and other styles. No doubt, this is one of the best deep conditioners for curly hair and braids.

ESHA SLICK N SLAY BRAIDING GEL

The Esha Slick N Slay Braiding Gel is an essential item for any hairstyle need including intense grip. It helps your hair stay in place all day by providing just the proper amount of control and nutrition without the frizz. The lotion is safe to use on braids and the scalp because of its non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and nutritious components. Its formula is flake-free, light, and leaves no residue behind. All hair types may use this simple-to-use gel, which encourages healthy hair development.

BEACHWAVER CO. BRAID BALM PRE-BRAID GEL

An inventive solution called Beachwaver Co. Braid Balm Pre-Braid Prep can help you create gorgeous braided hairstyles. The foam ensures that your braids look perfect and last all day thanks to its easy application and sturdy grip design. Its ionic + alpha bond multiplier formulation fortifies and nourishes the internal structure of hair up to three times, all the while giving each strand more shine. This mess-free application product offers many style options.

THE MORE CRAZY BRAIDING GEL

With The MORE Crazy Braiding Gel, you may style your hair as you choose. Without having to worry about drying alcohol, flakiness, or waxy residue, get an extra-extreme grip. Rich ingredients like argan oil and black castor oil are included in the product’s formulation to feed the scalp, encourage hair development, and give perfect hold. Because this clear gel doesn’t change the color of your hair, you may easily obtain the look you want. However, it might be challenging to wash off.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Prepare to be enthralled as we unveil a collection that combines luxury, innovation, and enticing flair. These top braid-enhancing hair products aren’t your average haircare picks; rather, they’re revolutionary items designed specifically to draw attention to your braids. These necessities provide nourishment and additional shine while preventing frizziness and flyaways, which may cause braids to become uncomfortable and frizzy after a few days.