Long-lasting makeup doesn’t always come easily for those with oily skin, and no matter how many 25-hour foundations we try, things just don’t hang around. One of the best ways to keep makeup looking flawless for longer is to add a primer to your makeup routine, and not just any old primer, one designed with oilier complexions in mind.
Primers not only ensure that makeup lasts all day but will also create a smoother base for easy makeup application. They can have a whole heap of other benefits including adding radiance, hydration, color-correcting, and for oily skin, keeping those oil levels under control. So if you want shine-free makeup with an airbrushed finish then using a primer is a wise decision.
Best for a matte finish: BECCA Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector
The best way to combat excess oils is to prep your skin with a mattifying primer to keep shine at bay all day long. The BECCA Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector has been developed with oily and combination skin in mind as it targets oil-prone areas to leave skin with a matte finish for up to 12 hours. It has a sweat and humidity-proof formula and can be used under and above foundation.
Best for acne control: Cover FX Mattifying Primer With Anti-Acne Treatment
Oilier complexions can be prone to breakouts so it’s time to combine skincare and makeup with the Cover FX Mattifying Primer. This lightweight gel primer contains a powerful blend of willowbark extract, salicylic acid, fruit acids, and vitamins to nourish and moisturize skin whilst providing gentle exfoliation to reduce excess oils and calm acne-prone skin. Skin will be left looking and feeling smooth and clear, ready for makeup application.
Best for large pores: Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer – Pore Minimizing
Oily skin often means large pores, and if you want to to keep oils under control whilst minimizing pores and skin texture, the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer in Pore Minimizing is a must in your beauty routine. A targeted iteration of the bestselling original Photo Finish Primer, the Pore Minimizing version creates an even smoother canvas without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The gel formulation leaves skin feeling soft and smooth whilst controlling shine.
Best for a budget: The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer
Adding a primer to your makeup routine doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag and innovative brand. The Ordinary has developed the High-Adherence Silicone Primer for those looking for high-quality ingredients, effective results, and affordable pricing. Designed with all skin types in mind, but particularly great for those with combination or oily skin, the High-Adherence Silicone Primer uses advanced silicones to mattify and hydrate skin whilst blurring imperfections for a flawless finish. Makeup will last longer with this non-greasy, lightweight primer.
Best for an invisible finish: Benefit POREfessional Matte Rescue
Expanding your makeup routine may leave your skin feeling clogged and heavy, especially if you are layering up mattifying base products. If you really want an invisible look and feel to your makeup, look no further than the Benefit POREfessional Matte Rescue. Unlike the original POREfessional, Matte Rescue has a weightless gel formulation which effortlessly absorbs excess oils for a natural matte finish. It delivers a soft-focus finish to skin helping it look and feel clean and smooth.
What is your favorite primer for oily skin?
Sally O'Kelly