If you ask somebody with oily skin what their biggest beauty wish is, they might respond that their face doesn’t shine after lunch. While blotting sheets and setting powders might assist, the true game changer for oily skin is a good primer. “A primer preps your skin by creating a smooth and hydrated surface to help your makeup stay in place,” says Brittany Lo, professional makeup artist and Beia creator. “A good primer for oily skin will absorb excess oil, blur pores, and help keep your makeup looking fresh throughout the day without the need for constant touch-ups or blot pads.” What was the result? Smooth skin with a lit-from-within (read: non-greasy) glow.
However, with so many primers targeted for the smooth-skinned among us, it can be difficult to know where to start. To distinguish the good from the exceptional, we sifted through the finest primers for oily skin, grading each based on blendability, performance, and finish, and supplemented our research and testing with comments from professional makeup artists. Continue reading to learn about the finest primers for oily skin that will leave your face looking matte and gorgeous.
Why We Love It: A small amount of this low-cost face primer makes a significant impact in makeup application. While this variant is officially intended to blur and decrease pores, it also excels at mattifying any excess oil. Though the recipe is technically water-based, it also contains silicone, which results in a smooth and velvety texture when worn alone or under makeup. Natalya, an InStyle tester, says the primer feels like it protects her skin from dirt and other outside pollutants.
Worth noting: Natalya noticed shine after 10 hours of wear, so keep this in mind for day-to-night planning.
Natalya, a tester with mixed complexion, said, “This primer even blurred out my small, fine lines.” It also minimized pores even after applying a small coating.”
Why We Love It: Fun fact: The idea that oily skin does not require moisture is a complete misconception. Fortunately, this water-based primer offers the necessary hydration without increasing slickness. A blend of botanical and adaptogenic actives helps to soothe skin, leaving it smooth and comfortable.
Worth noting: According to InStyle tester Alexa, the mixture goes on thickly, so two to three pea-sized “drops” would suffice.
Alexa, a tester with combination skin, stated, “After using this product, my skin felt and looked exceptionally smooth and soft. It felt really comfy and light all day.”
Why We Love It: Many of our makeup looks call for a smooth, texture-free canvas, and this Tatcha primer delivers on all fronts. According to InStyle tester Kristin, the silk powder-infused emulsion feels “supersoft and lotion-like” and leaves no pilling when used before water- or silicone-based products. Long story short, if you want to conceal texture concerns, this smoothing primer is a surefire approach to get the finish you desire.
It’s worth noting that this luminous primer provides a dewier finish (while still controlling oil).
