Top 5 Drugstore Primers For Oily Skin: Reviews & Buying Guide

Does your makeup slide off your face before lunchtime? Oily skin can be a real challenge. You spend time putting on your makeup, only to have it become a shiny mess. Finding a good primer can be the key to keeping your makeup in place all day. But with so many drugstore primers, how do you choose the best one for oily skin?

The struggle is real! Many primers promise to control oil, but they don’t always work. Some can even make things worse. They might feel heavy or clog your pores. Choosing the wrong primer can lead to breakouts and a less-than-perfect look. It can be frustrating and a waste of money when you buy the wrong product.

Don’t worry! In this post, we will explore the best drugstore primers specifically made for oily skin. We’ll look at what makes a good primer and how to choose the right one for your needs. You’ll learn which products truly fight shine and help your makeup last longer. Get ready to discover your new favorite primer and say goodbye to makeup meltdowns! Let’s dive in and find your perfect match.

Our Top 5 Drugstore Primer For Oily Skin Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Drugstore Primer For Oily Skin Detailed Reviews

1. Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Makeup Primer with Salicylic Acid – An Oil- Controlling Primer for Matte Looking Skin – Travel Size

Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Makeup Primer with Salicylic Acid - An Oil- Controlling Primer for Matte Looking Skin - Travel Size, 0.34 Fl Oz

Rating: 8.9/10

Say goodbye to shiny skin with the Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Makeup Primer! This travel-sized primer helps control oil. It gives you a matte look all day. The primer uses salicylic acid to keep your skin looking fresh. It’s designed to keep your makeup in place, making it a great base. The small size is perfect for travel or to try it out before getting the full size.

What We Like:

  • The primer controls oil right away. It keeps your skin looking matte without drying it out.
  • It helps protect your skin. It fights against things like pollution and blue light.
  • The formula won’t clog your pores. You won’t get new breakouts from it.
  • The travel size is easy to carry. It is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The small size may run out quickly if used daily.
  • The price might be a little high for the amount of product.

This Smashbox primer is a good choice if you have oily skin. It helps you get a matte finish. You will love how it makes your skin feel and look.

2. Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum

Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum, Skin-Mattifying Serum-to-Primer with Rice Protein, Absorbs Excess Oil & Keeps Skin Shine Free, 1.0 fl. oz

Rating: 8.9/10

The Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum is a two-in-one product. It’s a face primer and a serum. It helps control shine and make your skin smooth. This product has rice protein. The rice protein helps soak up extra oil. It makes your skin look matte and feel healthy. You can use it before makeup or on its own.

What We Like:

  • It helps control shine.
  • It can be used as a primer.
  • It can be used as a serum.
  • It has rice protein to absorb oil.
  • It makes skin look matte.
  • It creates a smooth surface for makeup.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Results can vary for different skin types.
  • Some people might prefer a stronger oil-control formula.

This Neutrogena product is a good choice for people who want to reduce shine. It is a simple way to get a matte finish and prep your skin.

3. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer

e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Rating: 9.4/10

Get ready for a smooth, matte finish with the e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer! This gel-based primer is designed to keep your makeup in place all day. It also helps your skin look shine-free. The Power Grip Matte Primer is made for all skin types and won’t clog your pores. It uses ingredients like lemon myrtle to moisturize and prep your skin. It’s simple to use. Just apply it before your makeup. The primer is also vegan and cruelty-free.

What We Like:

  • Creates a smooth, matte finish.
  • Keeps makeup in place all day.
  • Works for all skin types and tones.
  • Moisturizes your skin.
  • Easy to apply.
  • It is vegan and cruelty-free.

What Could Be Improved:

  • May not be suitable for extremely dry skin.

The e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer is a great way to prep your skin. If you want your makeup to last longer, you should try this primer!

4. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini

e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Travel Size

Rating: 9.3/10

Get ready for flawless makeup with the e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini! This travel-sized primer is a game-changer. It’s a gel-based formula designed to smooth your skin and keep your makeup in place all day. It gives your face a natural, shine-free look. This primer moisturizes and preps your skin. It is perfect for any skin type. It’s also a great choice for travel.

What We Like:

  • Grips makeup well and makes it last.
  • Gives a matte finish, perfect for oily skin.
  • Works for all skin types and tones.
  • Is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.
  • Contains moisturizing ingredients like lemon myrtle.
  • Small and easy to take with you.
  • Is vegan and cruelty-free.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Needs 30 seconds to set before applying makeup.

The e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini is a fantastic product for anyone who wants their makeup to stay put. This is a great primer for a smooth, matte look on the go.

5. Milani Make it Last Matte – Matte Finish Charcoal Setting Spray- Cruelty-Free Makeup Primer and Setting Spray for Oily Skin – Long Lasting Finishing Spray (2.03 Fl. Oz.)

Milani Make it Last Matte - Matte Finish Charcoal Setting Spray- Cruelty-Free Makeup Primer and Setting Spray for Oily Skin - Long Lasting Finishing Spray (2.03 Fl. Oz.)

Rating: 9.5/10

The Milani Make it Last Matte Charcoal Setting Spray is a makeup must-have! It’s designed to prep your face, correct imperfections, and set your makeup for all-day wear. This setting spray uses micro-fine charcoal powder and silica. It promises a matte finish and helps control shine. The spray is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great choice for anyone who loves makeup.

What We Like:

  • Sets makeup for up to 16 hours.
  • Helps reduce the appearance of imperfections.
  • Provides a matte finish.
  • It’s cruelty-free and vegan.
  • Can be used before or after makeup, or even on its own.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The spray nozzle can be a bit uneven.
  • Some people may find the charcoal scent strong.

Overall, the Milani Make it Last Matte Setting Spray is a great product. It works well for those with oily skin. You can keep your makeup looking fresh all day long!

Conquering Shine: Your Guide to Drugstore Primers for Oily Skin

Are you tired of your makeup melting off your face? Oily skin can be a real challenge. Luckily, a good drugstore primer can save the day! This guide will help you find the best primer to keep your makeup looking fresh all day.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a primer for oily skin, look for these important features:

  • Oil Control: This is the most important! Look for primers that say “oil-control,” “matte,” or “shine-reducing” on the label.
  • Pore Minimizing: Primers that blur pores will make your skin look smoother. Your makeup will also go on better.
  • Long-lasting Hold: Choose a primer that promises to keep your makeup in place for many hours.
  • Non-Comedogenic: This means the primer won’t clog your pores and cause breakouts. Always check for this!
  • Hydration (Balance): Even oily skin needs some moisture! Look for primers that hydrate without making your skin greasy.

Important Materials

What’s inside the primer matters! Here are some ingredients to look for (and avoid):

  • Look For:
    • Silica: Silica is a great ingredient. It absorbs oil and gives a matte finish.
    • Dimethicone: This silicone helps smooth skin and create a base for makeup.
    • Salicylic Acid: This can help control oil production.
    • Hyaluronic Acid: It hydrates without making your skin oily.
  • Avoid:
    • Mineral Oil: This can clog pores.
    • Heavy Oils: These can make your skin look even oilier.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all primers are created equal. Some things make a primer great, while others can ruin it:

  • Good Quality Boosters:
    • Lightweight Formula: A light primer is best. It won’t feel heavy on your skin.
    • Smooth Texture: The primer should feel smooth and easy to apply.
    • Good Reviews: Read what other people say about the primer. This is always helpful.
  • Quality Killers:
    • Heavy or Greasy Feel: This will make your skin look oily fast.
    • Strong Fragrance: Added fragrances can irritate sensitive skin.
    • Too Much Silicone: While some silicone is okay, too much can cause pilling or make your makeup slide around.

User Experience and Use Cases

How do you actually use a primer? And where does it fit into your routine?

  • How to Use:
    1. Wash and moisturize your face. Wait a few minutes for the moisturizer to sink in.
    2. Apply a small amount of primer to your face. Focus on areas that get oily, like your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).
    3. Let the primer dry for a minute or two.
    4. Apply your foundation, concealer, and other makeup.
  • Use Cases:
    • Everyday Wear: A good primer keeps your makeup looking fresh all day at work or school.
    • Special Events: For weddings or parties, a primer is essential to prevent makeup meltdown.
    • Hot Weather: Primers are a lifesaver on hot, humid days.
    • Long Days: If you need your makeup to last all day and night, use a primer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about drugstore primers for oily skin:

Q: What is a primer?

A: A primer is a product you put on your face before makeup. It helps your makeup last longer and look better.

Q: Why do I need a primer for oily skin?

A: Primers help control oil production and keep your makeup from sliding off.

Q: How do I choose the right primer?

A: Look for primers that are oil-control, matte, and non-comedogenic.

Q: Can I use primer every day?

A: Yes, you can use primer every day if it works well with your skin.

Q: Does primer clog pores?

A: Some primers can clog pores. Choose a non-comedogenic primer to avoid this.

Q: Can I use primer without makeup?

A: Yes, you can. Primers can help smooth your skin even without makeup.

Q: How much primer should I use?

A: Use a small amount. A little goes a long way.

Q: Where should I apply primer?

A: Apply primer to your entire face or just the areas that get oily.

Q: What if a primer makes my skin feel worse?

A: Stop using the primer. It might not be the right one for your skin.

Q: Are expensive primers better than drugstore primers?

A: Not always! Many drugstore primers work just as well as expensive ones.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.