skin pilling after skincare

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 Moisturizers for Oily Skin That Derms Love

I hate to break this to you, just because your skin generates more sebum than others doesn’t mean you shouldn’t moisturize. To avoid dehydration, everyone—we stress again—should moisturize every day. This includes people with oily skin. Save the thick creams for your friends with dry skin; instead, choose a mild, mattifying moisturizer that can balance the moisture barrier of the skin and regulate excess oil. If you have been confused with posts telling you the right product for your skin type these 15 best moisturizers for oily skin will help you.

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This lotion is a triple threat because it is XL in size, offers great value, and excels in increasing skin moisture by 48.1% over the course of six hours. It also leaves skin incredibly soft, absorbs rapidly, and isn’t oily. It is found that this moisturizer works well with prescription acne medications and “hydrates skin instantly without feeling heavy or greasy.” Customers have reported, nevertheless, that this lotion doesn’t calm skin as well as other ones. But after all, this is still on top of one of the best moisturizers for oily skin.

Tatcha The Water Cream

This oil-free Tatcha moisturizer is a good option if you tend to let oils take over your face. Made from a combination of non-irritating plant ingredients, this non-comedogenic solution soothes and hydrates your skin while guarding against clogged pores. Water Cream is a great name for this product, which is a really light hybrid of a gel and a cream that feels like it will melt into the skin right away. This face moisturizer is ideal if you’re searching for anything that meets all your needs. But this moisturizer is rather expensive when you compare it to most other products on this list.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel

A product is considered “invisible” because it is so light on the skin that you can hardly feel it, as this Paula’s Choice moisturizer is. Above all, we thought this product felt amazing; it moisturizes, minimizes oil, leaves our face feeling smooth, and can replenish moisture without making our skin look shiny. If cost and moisture are your top priorities, this moisturizer is really decent; nevertheless, people who are prone to breakouts may find the additional algae extract irritating.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

This moisturizer is a little thicker than the other products on our list, but testers reported that it still feels light on the face and absorbs rapidly. It has a mixed consistency that is similar to that of gel and cream. The gel cream spreads quickly, has a pleasant texture and consistency, and, once applied, nearly has a cooling effect. Some people with oily skin may not appreciate the thicker consistency, especially in hot months or humid climates, even if it still feels lightweight.

Kopari Moisture Whipped Ceramide Cream

This whipped cream is a treat for your skin; it uses whipped coconut milk to shield the barrier from damage caused by free radicals while also smoothing and softening the skin with moisturizing elements like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.  Skin appears totally natural after using this moisturizer—there is no tinge or residue. It leaves the face feeling moisturized without being overly glossy, and it works wonders on Black skin without giving the appearance of paleness. Its superb consistency adds to its appeal. All things considered, this is among the best cream moisturizers for oily skin.

Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer

Red algae extract helps both the goals of hydration and softer skin. Other ingredients in this moisturizer include hyaluronic acid, which increases moisture, hydrolyzed collagen, which stimulates skin cell growth and plumps the skin for a more supple appearance. This formula is quite light and milky, and the skin absorbs it right away. It is advised to massage this product into your face and neck using two to four pumps. All in all, it gave us skin that was visibly smoother and gave off a faint glow. It’s advised to use two to four pumps for each application, so you might finish this quite quickly.

BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream

Sometimes oily skin might look lifeless and drab. We suggest attempting the Beautystat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream to counteract this problem. It contains a strong combination of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin F, pomegranate sterols, and a Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex to provide a more hydrated appearance and a glow that looks natural. Users find that a little goes a long way, so even though this product is pricey, it may last for a long time.

Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Moisturizer

It can be annoying to locate products that address texture issues and control oil production if you have oily and uneven skin. This rich solution contains panthenol, which softens skin for a smoother finish, along with a combination of oils and ingredients from green tea. During our tests, users reported that it instantly absorbed into their skin. There may be a little sheen to the feel and look, but it appears more moisturized and fresh than greasy or oily. When applied to the face, the green tea aroma can be a little overpowering at first. Still, the fragrance wanes with wear and the sheer coverage dries soon.

Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer

Regarding texture, the Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer won over the most satisfied customers. The lightweight, frothy texture of this skin cream makes it easy to apply and absorbs quite quickly. Its abundance of hydrating and invigorating ingredients—including some of the biggest names in skincare, like spirulina, matcha, seaweed extracts, peptides, aloe, and hyaluronic acid—not only relieves oily skin but also leaves the skin with a semi-matte appearance after absorption. It might not be the greatest option for people who are more sensitive to scents, nevertheless, due to its powerful aroma.

Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer

This creamy moisturizer will melt into your skin to provide your skin with an intense moisture boost that will prevent the oily sheen. Made without oils or parabens, the consistency is really well received. It absorbs fast and doesn’t leave behind any oily residue, leaving the skin feeling incredibly soft. This moisturizer reduces inflammation and softens skin texture with ingredients like niacinamide. The packaging is heavy, but it should endure for a while. In our opinion, this product receives bonus points because its packaging is reusable and contributes to the reduction of plastic waste. For those who can afford it, this moisturizer is well worth the expenditure even though it is somewhat pricey given its value.

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

Numerous active components found in more expensive moisturizers are also present in this affordable option. A combination of chemicals in Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream works to provide comfort and moisture. Prominent ingredients like glycerin and squalane offer intense moisturizing, while green tea extract and aloe vera calm and shield the skin. This solution delivers value and efficacy in addition to natural hydration from aloe vera and antioxidants like green tea. 

e.l.f. Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream

Thanks to the potent combination of salicylic acid and zinc PCA, this aqueous cream helps reduce excess oil while also soothing and balancing the tone of the skin. It’s also non-comedogenic, dermatologist-designed, and fragrance-free. The cream has a very light, pleasant consistency that is hardly perceptible on our skin. Quick and effective absorption ensures that no residue or pilling is left behind. The most amazing thing about it is how well it keeps you hydrated and moisturized while drastically reducing oiliness. Salicylic acid, which is beneficial for oily skin types prone to acne, may not be appropriate for all skin types, but overall, this is one of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin.

BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

Choosing a lightweight moisturizer is essential if you have oily skin in order to prevent feeling heavy and clogged. Oily skin types benefit greatly from the oil-free, well-balanced moisture provided by the BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream. In spite of its slightly thicker consistency, people adore its silky, lightweight feel. It applies with an airy, refreshing feeling because of its gel-like consistency, which is neither too thick nor too loose. Although there was a little sticky feeling, it quickly goes away and the skin is smooth again. However, when there isn’t much product left in the bottle, using the pump dispenser can be challenging.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream

Dustin Portela, DO, another doctor we spoke with, suggests gel moisturizers like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream for people with oily skin instead of thick creams. Hyaluronic acid, an ingredient in its formulation, gives skin long-lasting moisture without making it feel greasy or heavy. It is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin because of its lightweight texture and non-comedogenic recipe. Even if it doesn’t have as many active ingredients as some of the other moisturizers on our list, it’s still a product that’s worth trying.

Basebutter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer

During the spring and summer, BaseButter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer is a refreshing and antioxidant-rich alternative that is perfect for oily skin types. Because of its lightweight nature, which guarantees that it won’t clog pores or feel heavy on the skin, people with oily skin who want hydration without extra shine can use it. It is ideal for the warmer months due to its cooling effect and gel-like consistency. It leaves our skin feeling nice and calming, with a faint minty aftertaste that, happily, didn’t burn. For individuals who are looking for extreme moisturization, it might not be enough, nevertheless.

Oftentimes, people with oily skin tend to forget to use moisturizer. You may be thinking to yourself, Why add more to my already shiny, oily skin? However, you can be harming your face if you neglect this stage of your skincare regimen. If you’ve been perplexed by articles telling you how to a choose moisturizer for oily skin, these 15 excellent options will undoubtedly help.