Which is the Best Primers for Acne Prone Skin?
Do you struggle to find primer for acne prone skin? Look no further than the best primer for acne prone skin. Primers provide an invisible barrier between your skin and makeup by filling in pores, smoothing out textured areas, and increasing foundation’s staying power. Whether it’s dealing with blemishes or creating a seamless canvas before applying your concealer or foundation, there is something here for everyone — from drugstore affordables to luxury splurges — that will work wonders on your complexion. With these primers specifically tailored to those battling persistent breakouts and oily shine, we have what it takes to help you mask your imperfections while keeping them under control.
1. e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer
Pros
- The primer is infused with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc, and kaolin to prevent future breakouts and reduce redness.
- The unique, velvety formula applies clear and smooths over imperfections, gripping your makeup for all-day wear or giving you an even, clear bare-faced natural finish.
- The primer is suitable for acne-prone, combination, and oily skin types.
Cons
- The primer may not work for everyone, and some users may experience breakouts or irritation.
- The putty texture may feel heavy or greasy on some skin types.
- The primer may not provide enough coverage for severe acne or scarring.
If you’re looking for a primer that can help you achieve a smooth, flawless complexion while also fighting acne, e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer is definitely worth considering. This primer is formulated with powerful acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc, and kaolin, which can help prevent future breakouts, minimize the appearance of pores, and reduce redness. The unique putty texture of the primer applies clear and smooths over imperfections, providing a velvety finish that grips your makeup for all-day wear or gives you an even, clear bare-faced natural finish.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this primer may not work for everyone. Some users may experience breakouts or irritation, and the putty texture may feel heavy or greasy on some skin types. Additionally, while this primer can help minimize the appearance of pores, it may not provide enough coverage for severe acne or scarring. Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help you achieve a smoother, clearer complexion, e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer is definitely worth trying out.
2. e.l.f. Blemish Control Face Primer
If you want to control breakouts and blemishes while prepping your palette for light powder or a full makeup, e.l.f. Blemish Control Face Primer is the one for you.
Pros
- Combat breakouts and clarify skin
- Infused with Salicylic Acid, Vitamin E, and Tea Tree
- Ideal for oily and irritated skin
Cons
- Has a chemically odor
- Leaves face oily
- May not work for all skin types
This primer works overtime to combat breakouts and clarify skin, making sure your makeup stays put. Infused with Salicylic Acid, Vitamin E, and Tea Tree, this ingredient-driven face primer is great for oily and irritated skin. However, it has a chemically odor, leaves face oily, and may not work for all skin types.
If you’re looking for a primer that controls breakouts and blemishes while prepping your palette for light powder or a full makeup, e.l.f. Blemish Control Face Primer is a great option.
3. Milani Erase Base Blemish Control Primer
If you’re looking for a blemish-fighting primer for acne-prone skin, Milani Erase Base Blemish Control Primer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Formulated to control blemishes and oil while also providing a breakout-friendly base between your skin and makeup
- Lightweight gel texture helps extend makeup wear and control oil throughout the day
- Enhanced with 2% Salicylic Acid, a proven acne fighter that helps fight blemishes
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Some users may experience dryness or irritation
- May not provide enough coverage for severe acne
Milani Erase Base Blemish Control Primer is designed to be worn under your foundation, providing a smooth and even base for your makeup while also controlling oil and fighting blemishes. Its lightweight gel texture helps extend makeup wear and keep your skin looking fresh throughout the day. And with 2% Salicylic Acid, this primer is a powerful tool in the fight against acne.
However, it’s important to note that this primer may not work for all skin types. Some users may experience dryness or irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin. And while this primer can help cover mild to moderate acne, it may not provide enough coverage for severe acne.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help control oil and fight blemishes, Milani Erase Base Blemish Control Primer is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to patch test it first to make sure it’s compatible with your skin.
4. PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer
If you’re looking for a primer that can help reduce redness and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores, PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer might be just what you need.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Can help reduce redness
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
Cons
- May not work for everyone
- Slightly pricey
- Some reviewers found it didn’t hide freckles or other blemishes as well as they had hoped
This primer has a lot going for it. Not only is it lightweight and easy to apply, but it also contains ingredients that can help reduce redness and minimize the appearance of pores. Plus, it’s cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, so you can feel good about using it.
That being said, it might not work for everyone. Some reviewers found that it didn’t hide freckles or other blemishes as well as they had hoped, so if that’s a concern for you, you might want to look elsewhere.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help reduce redness and minimize the appearance of pores, PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer is definitely worth considering.
If you are looking for a primer that hydrates and balances your skin while providing a smooth matte finish, SheaMoisture Mattifying Primer might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The blend of organic Shea Butter, Tea Tree Oil, Kaolin Clay, and vitamins helps hydrate and balance your skin for long-lasting makeup application.
- The specialized formula helps remove excess oil and control shine for a soft matte finish.
- It helps hide pores and blur imperfections for visibly smoother skin.
Cons
- The primer might clog pores for some users.
- The chemical scent might be unpleasant for some users.
- The primer might not work well for all skin types.
SheaMoisture Mattifying Primer is an ultra-lightweight formula that primes your skin for makeup application that lasts. It can also be worn alone for a natural, shine-free finish. The primer is formulated with Fair Trade & Organic Shea Butter, Tea Tree Oil, Kaolin Clay, and a blend of vitamins and antioxidants to hydrate and balance your skin. The Shea Butter nourishes your skin while the Tea Tree Oil balances and the Kaolin Clay smooths your skin for a final matte finish.
The primer helps absorb excess oil, control shine, and provide a soft matte finish. It looks invisible on the skin and primes your skin for long-lasting makeup application. The primer is suitable for all skin types, including combination skin, oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, and dermatologist-tested.
SheaMoisture Mattifying Primer is made with organic and fair trade ingredients and is cruelty-free. The primer is free from toxins, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, DEA, formaldehyde, petroleum, synthetic fragrance, talc, and pesticides. The primer is safe and uncompromising beauty that you can trust.
5. Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer for acne prone skin
If you’re looking for a primer that can also help with your acne-prone skin, Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Instantly mattifies skin and absorbs excess oil
- Helps reduce the appearance of pores and imperfections
- Can be used alone or as a makeup base
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with very dry skin
- Some users report a strong scent
- Slightly more expensive than other primers on the market
Its oil-absorbing spheres help to mattify the skin, while a derivative of salicylic acid gently exfoliates dead skin cells and oil build-up to smooth the skin texture.
This primer is that it can be used alone for a natural look, or under makeup as a primer to instantly absorb and erase shine. Plus, it can also be applied throughout the day for a quick fix.
However, if you have very dry skin, this primer may not be the best option for you. Some users also report that it has a strong scent, which may be a turn-off for some.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help control shine and reduce the appearance of visible pores, Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer is definitely worth considering.
6. Vue De Pulang Korean Makeup Blur Stick Face Primer
Pros
- Soothing six percent calamine content
- High-quality pore minimizer
- Compact and convenient for travel
Cons
- May not provide full coverage
- May cause itchiness for some users
- Not recommended for super dry skin
Vue De Pulang Korean Makeup Blur Stick Face Primer is a great option for people who want to minimize pores and reduce acne. This professional pore reducer is easy to apply and saves you time and product. With a few quick dabs of your poreless primer, you’re ready to apply your face makeup. Plus, the compact size makes it perfect for travel.
The six percent calamine content in the makeup primer stick makes it ideal for oily skin, sensitive skin, and people who suffer from acne. Say goodbye to makeup primer for faces that cause skin irritation and treat yourself to Vue De Pulang.
Each face primer stick has undergone stringent quality inspection and many hours of development with leading makeup artists. This pore minimizer is crafted to the highest standards.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a primer that’s perfect for oily skin, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, Vue De Pulang Korean Makeup Blur Stick Face Primer is an excellent choice. It’s soothing, high-quality, and compact, making it perfect for travel.
7. Frilliance Clear Skin Primer & Serum
If you’re looking for a primer for acne-prone skin, Frilliance Clear Skin Primer & Serum is a great option.
Pros
- Contains acne-fighting ingredients like niacinamide & mandelic acid
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, great for sensitive skin
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not work as well as a primer for makeup application
- Some users may find the consistency too sticky
- Some users may not see significant results in acne reduction
Frilliance Clear Skin Primer & Serum is super easy to use. Simply apply 1-2 pumps of the primer serum on the back of your hand and smooth gently over your face with a light, rubbing motion. For daytime use, let it dry and apply makeup if you wish. As a night treatment, first, apply the Refreshing Facial Mist to lock in extra hydration.
This primer serum combo is formulated with powerful acne-fighters like niacinamide and mandelic acid, as well as hydrating, skin-soothing ingredients like aloe. It’s ideal to help stop breakouts and can be used under your makeup or as a soothing night treatment for your skin.
Frilliance Clear Skin Primer & Serum is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel beautiful and help save the environment too! It’s also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, so it works great on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Plus, it’s free of parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, mineral oil, and petroleum.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer for acne-prone skin that’s easy to use and contains powerful acne fighting ingredients, Frilliance Clear Skin Primer & Serum is definitely worth a try.
8. Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer
Pros
- Instantly erases pores
- Creates a velvety-smooth canvas for makeup
- Leaves the skin looking matte and poreless
Cons
- Can feel greasy
- May not work for all skin types
- Some users report that it doesn’t last all day
Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer is a pore-blurring makeup primer that goes on like a moisturizer to help create a smooth canvas over which to apply foundation, and leaves the skin looking matte and poreless. It can be worn alone or under a foundation for a mistake-proof poreless smooth skin.
The primer is specifically formulated to instantly erase pores and create a velvety-smooth canvas for makeup. It is lightweight and breathable, allowing makeup to glide on and blend beautifully for professional results. The Baby Skin blur cream can be worn alone or under a foundation for a low maintenance look that’s smooth, matte, and moisturized all day.
Some users report that the primer can feel greasy, and it may not work for all skin types. Additionally, some users report that it doesn’t last all day. However, if you’re looking to minimize pores and create a smooth canvas for your makeup, Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer is definitely worth a try.
9. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer
If you’re looking for a primer for acne-prone skin that delivers a matte finish and protects your makeup from oiliness and creasing, Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer is worth considering.
Pros
- Preps and smooths your skin for makeup application
- Provides a matte finish that lasts all day
- Balances your complexion and minimizes the appearance of pores
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- May cause breakouts for some users
- Some users find the product to be too small for the price
This primer is easy to use. After applying skincare and sunscreen, you can apply a nickel-sized amount of the primer in circular motions. Wait for the primer to dry for 30 seconds before applying makeup. The formula contains high-quality ingredients such as pearl powder, and it’s paraben-free and cruelty-free.
Some users have reported that the primer works well to control oiliness and prolong the wear of their makeup. However, others have found that it doesn’t work for their skin type or causes breakouts. The product is also relatively small for the price, so it may not be the best value for everyone.
10. Neutrogena Prep + Correct Primer for Redness Correcting
If you want to reduce the appearance of redness and even out your skin tone, you should consider purchasing Neutrogena Prep + Correct Primer for Redness Correcting.
Pros
- Helps reduce redness
- Smooths skin’s surface
- Lightweight and non-greasy formula
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Some reviewers reported difficulty with makeup application over the primer
- Small tube size
This green-toned, matte primer is designed to color-correct redness, blur the look of pores, and even skin tone. It is formulated with seaweed extract and has a gentle, non-greasy formula that won’t weigh you down. This primer can be worn alone or under makeup, extending the life of your makeup and helping it glide on more easily.
According to reviewers, this primer is effective in reducing redness and improving the texture and tone of dull-looking skin. It also helps minimize the look of pores for a softer, even complexion. However, some reviewers reported difficulty with makeup application over the primer, and some found that it did not work for their specific skin type.
Primer for acne prone skin Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a primer for acne-prone skin, there are a few factors that you should consider ensuring that you choose the best product for your skin. In this section, we will discuss the most important features to look for when selecting the best primer for acne-prone skin.
Ingredients
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a primer for acne-prone skin is the key ingredients. Look for skin loving ingredients that are beneficial for acne-prone skin. Some of the best ingredients to look for include salicylic acid, green tea, niacinamide, aloe vera, vitamin c, and tea tree oil. These skin loving ingredients can help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, smooth uneven skin tone and prevent breakouts.
Texture
The texture of the primer is also an important factor to consider. Look for a primer that has a lightweight primer with no pore clogging ingredients. Heavy, oily primers can clog pores and exacerbate acne breakouts. A lightweight, oil-free primer will help to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh and clean.
Coverage
The level of coverage provided by the primer is another important factor to consider. Look for a primer that provides light to medium coverage. Heavy, full-coverage primers can clog pores and exacerbate acne breakouts. A light to medium coverage primer will help to even out your skin tone without causing clogged pores.
Sun Protection
Finally, consider a primer that contains sun protection. Sun damage can exacerbate acne breakouts and cause further skin damage. Look for a primer that contains at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
In summary, when choosing a primer for acne-prone skin, look for a product that contains beneficial ingredients, has a lightweight texture, provides light to medium coverage, and includes sun protection. By considering these factors, you can select the best primer for your skin type and achieve a flawless, acne-free complexion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best primers for oily, acne-prone skin?
Some of the best primers for oily, acne-prone skin are the ones that contain salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can help fight acne and control oil production. Some good options include the Cover FX Mattifying Primer with Anti-Acne Treatment, and the Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser.
What is the difference between a sunscreen primer and a regular primer for acne-prone skin?
A sunscreen primer is a type of primer that contains SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. A regular primer for acne-prone skin, on the other hand, is designed to control excess oil and prevent breakouts. While some primers may contain both sunscreen and acne-fighting ingredients, it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs.
Does E.l.f. have a primer specifically for acne-prone skin?
Yes, E.l.f. has a primer specifically for acne-prone skin called the E.l.f. Acne Fighting Foundation Primer. This primer contains salicylic acid to help fight acne and excess oil production.
Which green primer is the best for acne-prone skin?
One of the best green primers for acne-prone skin is the NYX Professional Makeup Studio Perfect Primer in Green. This primer helps to neutralize redness and even out your skin tone, making it a great option for those with acne-prone skin.
Can primers help cover up acne or acne scars?
While primers are not designed to cover up acne or acne scars, they can help to smooth out your skin’s texture and create a more even base for your makeup. If you’re looking to cover up acne or acne scars, it’s best to use a concealer or foundation specifically designed for that purpose.
