Best primers for oily skin
Are you struggling to find the right primer for your oily skin type? It can be frustrating and overwhelming trying to find a product that will help minimize shine and pores, reduce breakouts, and keep makeup in place all day long. Thankfully, there are some amazing primers available on the market specifically designed for those of us with oilier skin tones. So if you’re looking to master the art of applying a flawless finish without worrying about excess oil creeping through, read on as we explore the best primers for oily skin!
When choosing a makeup primer for oily skin, there are a few critical factors to consider. You’ll want to assess the primer’s oil control capabilities, checking for key ingredients like silica and hyaluronic acid which is known to regulate sebum production. The texture and consistency of the primer are also significant, as a lightweight, non-greasy formula will generally be more effective in preventing excess oil production. Finally, whether the primer is compatible with your existing makeup products should also be taken into account, ensuring that it blends seamlessly and doesn’t cause any unwanted reactions.
We dedicated our time and efforts to finding the best makeup primers for oily skin on the market. By thoroughly researching and testing several contenders, we were able to identify the top performers that consistently deliver a mattifying, long-lasting base for your makeup application.
1. Rimmel Stay Matte Primer
Get the flawless London look with the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer for oily skin, offering long-lasting matte finish and minimized pores.
Pros
- Skin perfecting formula
- Ultra lightweight and non-greasy
- Controls shine for up to 8 hours
Cons
- May feel a bit drying initially
- Not an extreme mattifying effect
- Works better on oily patches, less effective on dry areas
The Rimmel Stay Matte Primer, and the ultra lightweight formula is very easy to apply and helps create a velvety base for our makeup. It minimized the appearance of pores and evened out skin tone. While some primers can feel heavy or greasy, we found this one to be comfortable for all-day wear.
However, we noticed that this primer may feel a bit drying at first. If your foundation has moisturizer included, it will help balance the dry skin or combination skin. Applying the primer especially on oily patches or under the eye area can provide more targeted benefits.
As for its shine control, the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer does control shine for up to eight hours, but don’t expect an extreme matte effect. Nonetheless, it works well for reducing shine on oily skin, making it easier to maintain a fresh look throughout the day.
Overall, the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer is an affordable and effective option for those looking to mattify and minimize pores. It may not be perfect, but it certainly makes a difference when used as a base for your makeup routine.
2. NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer Mattifying Primer
Try the NYX Shine Killer Primer for a fresh, flawless and shine-free makeup look that lasts.
Pros
- Controls oiliness for up to 9 hours
- Smooth and silky texture without feeling greasy
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula
Cons
- May not work well for all skin types
- Takes time adjusting to the charcoal base
- Limited long-lasting matte effect for some users
The NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer Mattifying Primer is infused with oil-absorbing charcoal and provides a smooth canvas for makeup application, extending the wear of our makeup and leaving us with an ultra-matte finish.
Although the charcoal-infused formula might seem unusual at first, we quickly got used to it and enjoyed the silky texture it leaves on the skin. Applying this primer is easy – just use clean fingertips, focusing on the T-zone and areas with excessive oil production. It dries down to a translucent finish, suitable as a base for makeup or even wear alone for a naturally matte look. Plus, NYX is a cruelty-free brand, so we feel good about using their products knowing no animal testing is involved.
However, we understand that this primer might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some users reported limited long-lasting matte effects, especially for those with extremely oily skin. Additionally, it might take a while to get accustomed to the charcoal base when applying it to your face. But overall, we believe the NYX Shine Killer Mattifying Primer is worth trying for those seeking a shine-free, fresh and flawless look.
3. E.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer
The e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is a fantastic choice for anyone with oily skin seeking a smooth, long-lasting makeup application.
Pros
- Smooth, long-lasting makeup application
- Hydrating and nourishing formula with grape and vitamins
- Great for oily and acne prone skin
Cons
- Slight chemical odor
- May leave a bit of oiliness on the face
- Smaller size (0.47 Fl Oz)
We have recently tried the e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer and its formula is perfect for oily skin. The product creates an impeccably smooth and flawless canvas, making it ideal for long-lasting makeup application. Infused with grape, vitamin E, A, and C, this primer not only creates an excellent base for cosmetics but also helps to boost complexion and hydrate the skin.
The e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is particularly suitable for those with acne prone skin, combination skin, and oily skin types. However, we did notice a slight chemical odor while applying the primer, which might bother some users. Additionally, the product may leave a bit of oiliness on the face. However, these are minor cons compared to the overall performance of the primer.
The size of this primer is smaller (0.47 Fl Oz) compared to some other products on the market, but it delivers an outstanding quality at an affordable price. Paired with e.l.f. Flawless Finish liquid Foundation or Camo Concealer, you’ll be able to achieve an all-day satin finish. The e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is made from skin-loving ingredients, and all e.l.f. products are cruelty-free and vegan.
To wrap it up, the e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is a fantastic pick for folks with oily skin, dry skin texture, or combination skin who are looking for a smooth and long-lasting makeup application. Its nourishing formula and compatibility with various skin types make it a top recommendation.
4. Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum
If you’re looking for a two-in-one hybrid face primer and serum that can help control excess shine , the Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum is worth considering.
Pros
- Infused with rice protein that can help absorb excess oil to reduce shine
- Provides a smooth and mattified finish that preps skin for makeup application
- Can be used alone as a mattifying serum to help leave skin shine-free
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Some users reported an unpleasant texture
- May not provide all-day shine control
We found that the Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum helped control oil and shine, providing a smooth and matte surface for makeup application. The rice protein-infused formula helped absorb excess oil, leaving our skin looking and feeling healthier. We also appreciated the two-in-one hybrid formula that bridged the gap between skincare and makeup.
Nevertheless, a number of users expressed dissatisfaction with the product’s effectiveness on their specific skin type, while others voiced concerns regarding its texture, describing it as unpleasant. Additionally, while the primer helped control oil and shine for several hours, it may not provide all-day shine control.
5. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer
If you want a primer that will help your makeup stay put and keep your skin looking matte all day, this is a great option.
Pros
- Provides an immediate smooth effect on your skin
- Helps protect your makeup throughout the day from oiliness and creasing
- Balances your complexion and enlivens the appearance of your skin
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted the product is small for the price
- Some reviewers have noted the product can crumble and mess with the texture of the foundation if too much is used
- Some reviewers have noted the product is not significantly better than other primers they have tried
We were pleasantly surprised by how well this primer worked. It went on smoothly and helped keep our makeup in place all day. We also appreciated that it is paraben-free and cruelty-free, and that it has skin benefits beyond simply evening out our skin tone.
Some reviewers have noted that it can crumble and mess with the texture of the foundation if too much is used. Additionally, some reviewers have noted that the product is not significantly better than other primers they have tried.
6. Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Face Primer
If you’re looking for a silicone based primer that keeps your makeup in place all day long, then Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Face Primer is the perfect product for you.
Pros
- Keeps makeup locked on for up to 12 hours
- Controls shine for a long-lasting soft matte finish
- Noncomedogenic, formulated with niacinamide and bakuchiol to help minimize the appearance of pores and even skin tones over time
Cons
- Might cause patchy coverage if not applied properly
- Doesn’t compare to some other high-end primers in the market
- The smaller bottle might not last long
This lightweight water cream makeup primer blur pores and controls shine for a long-lasting softfinish. It keeps your makeup locked on for up to 12 hours, so you never have to worry about it slipping during your active days. The lentil extract is included to keep the shine away. This primer is noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. Formulated with niacinamide, salicylic acid, and bakuchiol, it helps minimize the appearance of pores and even skin tone over time.
The Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Face Primer is best for normal, combination skin, and oily skin types for smoother-looking skin and a shine-free mattifying finish that looks like a filter IRL. Milk Makeup has one simple product philosophy – Use good, effective ingredients. Products are made to be easy-to-use and are vegan, oil free, cruelty-free, and paraben-free.
7. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer
If you want a primer that will keep your makeup looking fresh and smooth all day, then the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer is a great choice.
Pros
- Provides a smooth base for makeup application
- Helps makeup to last longer
- Hydrates and nourishes the skin
Cons
- Small bottle size for the price
- Slightly off-putting smell
- May not work as well for extremely oily skin
We love the way that this primer glides on smoothly and creates a perfect base for makeup. It’s also great for hydrating and nourishing the skin, thanks to the inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid, Hemp Seed Extract, and Niacinamide. Plus, the fact that it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free makes it a great choice for those who are conscious about the ingredients in their skincare products.
One downside is that the bottle size is quite small for the price, so you may need to repurchase frequently if you use it regularly. Additionally, some users have reported that the smell of the primer is slightly off-putting.
Overall, we think that the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer is a great choice for anyone looking for a primer that will keep their makeup looking fresh and smooth all day.
8. Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer
We highly recommend the Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer for those with oily skin. This primer is lightweight and breathable, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. It controls shine, blurs pores, and extends the wear of makeup for up to 16 hours.
Pros
- Provides a matte finish that lasts up to 16 hours
- Instantly blurs pores for a flawless, blurred skin look
- Can be worn with or without foundation
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with very large pores
- May not be as effective for those with extremely oily skin
- Some users may not like the sunscreen scent
This primer is perfect for those who want a matte finish that lasts all day. It glides on smoothly and minimizes the look of imperfections, creating a flawless, blurred skin look. The lightweight formula is perfect for those with oily skin, controlling shine and providing a matte finish for up to 16 hours. It can be worn with or without foundation, making it a versatile addition to your makeup routine.
Overall, we highly recommend the Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer for those with oily skin. It provides a matte finish that lasts all day and creates a smooth canvas for makeup application. With its lightweight and breathable formula, it is perfect for those who want to control shine and minimize the look of imperfections.
9. Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer
If you want a primer that can mattify, blurring primer for up to 16 hours with an oil free finish, Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer is worth trying.
Pros
- Mattifies makeup and absorbs excess oil for a matte look that lasts up to 16 hours.
- Infused with a Superfood Detox Blend of Citrus, Aloe & Broccoli that shields skin against daily aggressors including blue light, environmental stress, and pollution.
- Non-greasy, non-tacky, and non-drying formula that works well for all skin types.
Cons
- May require reapplication after a few hours in humid conditions.
- May not work well for those with extremely oily skin.
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin due to the presence of citrus extracts.
We’ve tried Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer and found that it helps to control oil and blur imperfections, giving a matte finish that lasts for hours. The primer has a lightweight and buildable formula that feels comfortable on the skin, and it doesn’t leave a greasy or tacky residue. We also appreciate that it is free from added parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil.
One thing to note is that the primer may require reapplication after a few hours in humid conditions. Also, it may not work well for those with extremely oily skin, as it may not provide enough oil control. Additionally, the presence of citrus extracts may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.
If you’re looking for a primer that can mattify, control oil, and blur imperfections, Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer is a great option to consider.
10. Wet n Wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer – Partners in Prime
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly primer for oily skin, Wet n Wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer is a great option.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Matte finish helps to reduce shine
- Extends makeup wear by preventing cracking, fading, or creasing
Cons
- May not work for extremely oily skin
- Formula is somewhat watery
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
This one of the best primers for oily skin. It has a lightweight texture that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, and it dries down to a matte finish that helps to reduce shine. The primer also helps to extend the wear of our makeup by preventing it from cracking, fading, or creasing.
However, we did notice that the consistency of the formula was a bit watery, making application a tad challenging. Moreover, it may not be suitable for extremely oily skin, as it falls short of delivering a highly matte finish. Lastly, sensitive skin types may want to steer clear due to the inclusion of fragrance.
11. Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer
When it comes to finding the best primer for oily skin, the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is definitely worth considering. This cult-favorite primer not only helps to control excess shine and minimize pores, but also provides broad-spectrum SPF 15 protection. Its lightweight and silky-smooth texture creates a perfect canvas for makeup application, blurring imperfections and evening out skin texture. However, it should be noted that the price point may be higher compared to other primers on the market, and some users with very oily skin may find that it doesn’t provide enough oil control throughout the day. But if you’re looking for a primer that does double duty in protecting your skin and providing a flawless makeup base, the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is definitely worth checking out. shop here
Pros:
- Offers sun protection with SPF 15
- Provides a lightweight and silky-smooth texture
- Helps to control oil and minimize shine throughout the day
Cons:
- The price point may be higher compared to other primers on the market
- Some users with very oily skin may find that it doesn’t provide enough oil control
12. MAC Studio Fix Mattifine 12-Hour Shine Control Primers for oily skin
If you’ve got oily skin, you know that the struggle to keep your makeup looking flawless all day is real. Luckily, MAC’s Studio Fix Mattifying 12-Hour Shine Control Primer is here to help. Recommended by makeup artists, this powerful shine control primer is one of the best primer for oily skin. It mattifies your complexion and keep shine at bay for up to 12 hours. Not only does it provide a smooth skin barrier for foundation, but it also contains nourishing ingredients like silica and sodium hyaluronate to help hydrate your skin without clogging pores. It’s no wonder that this primer consistently ranks as one of the best options for those with oily skin. While it may be a bit pricier than some drugstore options, the benefits are well worth adding to your makeup kit. shop here.
Pros:
- Provides long-lasting oil control and shine control primer
- Extends the wear time of makeup
- Creates a smooth base for seamless makeup application
Cons:
- May feel slightly drying on some skin types
- The packaging may not be travel-friendly
13. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer
If you have oily skin and struggle with finding the best primer to keep your makeup flawless all day long, look no further than Fenty Beauty’s True Matte Pro Filt primer. This luxurious mattifying formula is specifically designed to combat oiliness and keep your makeup in place without drying out your skin. Containing blue agave extract, the light, airy texture allows for easy makeup application and provides a smooth, matte shine free finish. The best part? It lasts all day, even through humidity and sweat. Say goodbye to midday touch-ups and hello to the perfect base for your makeup with Fenty Beauty’s True Matte Pro Filt primer.
Pros:
- Controls oil and shine for a matte finish
- Prolongs the wear time of makeup
- Blurs the appearance of enlarged pores for a smooth complexion
Cons:
- May not provide enough hydration for dry skin types
- The scent may be overpowering for some users
Please note that these pros and cons are based on general feedback from users and individual experiences may vary. It’s always advisable to check the specific product details and consult with a beauty professional before making a purchase. Shop here
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best primers for oily skin in 2023?
In 2023, some of the best primers for oily skin include the NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer, and the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer. These primers are designed to control oil production, prevent shine, and help makeup last longer on oily skin.
How does a mattifying primer help with oily skin?
A mattifying primer helps with oily skin by absorbing excess oil and controlling shine. It creates a smooth, matte base for makeup application, which helps prevent makeup from sliding off or melting away throughout the day.
Is it necessary to use primer on oily skin before makeup?
Using a primer on oily skin before applying makeup is highly recommended. A primer helps to create a smooth base for makeup, control oil production, and prevent makeup from melting away throughout the day. It also helps makeup last longer and look more flawless.
What type of primer is best suited for oily skin?
The best type of primer for oily skin is a mattifying primer. Mattifying primers are designed to control oil production, prevent shine, and create a smooth, matte base for makeup application. They are also lightweight and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
What are some affordable primer options for oily skin?
Some affordable primer options for oily skin include the Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser, the e.l.f. Cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer, and the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Matte-Lock Primer. These primers are all under $15 and are designed to control oil production and create a smooth base for makeup application.
Can primer help control oil production in oily skin?
Yes, primer can help control oil production in oily skin. Primers are designed to absorb excess oil and prevent shine, which helps control oil production throughout the day. By controlling oil production, primer can also help prevent breakouts and keep makeup looking fresh and flawless.
