Makeup-Gripping & Oil-Controlling Primers that Never Break You Out
Growing up with oily skin, there’s nothing more frustrating than slowly watching your makeup melt into a gooey mess as the day goes on.
What's worse, you know the accumulation of makeup and excess sebum leads to blemishes; but you can’t exactly go without it.[1]
Blotting powders, hydrating sprays, and matte foundations are no match for the oil that always breaks through.
And if you have textured skin, large pores, and inflamed acne—the oily sheen that exaggerates them is just the stuff of nightmares.
The key is finding an effective way to prevent your skin’s overproduction of oil, smooth out any texture issues, and improve makeup adherence without congesting your pores.
These are all things a makeup primer can deliver, but it must be non-comedogenic and have a matte finish.
Non-comedogenic means the product is specially formulated not to cause acne or exacerbate breakouts.[2]
Matte finishes don’t reflect light, so they blur imperfections more effectively.
Sometimes primers can even be a hybrid of skincare and makeup, with unique formulations that can benefit your skin with long-term use.
There’s a laundry list of primers out there, but we’ve curated only the best non-comedogenic matte primers based on our experience, efficacy, and other consumer reviews.
Check the “Best For” line to see which is most compatible with your skin.
Related: The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin; The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
Ask the Expert: What are some makeup tips for using primers on oily & acne-prone skin?
BY SAMANTHA WELCH, ESTHETICIAN
When using primers for oily and acne-prone skin, there are a few makeup tips to keep in mind:
- Always use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. – If your skin is dehydrated, it can produce more oil to compensate, leading to more shine and congestion. Well-moisturized, balanced skin will have fewer patches, pores, and fine lines that makeup can settle into.
Related: How to Stop Foundation Settling in Pores, A Makeup Artist’s Foolproof Guide - Avoid heavy creams – Heavy creams and moisturizers can make oily skin feel greasy and suffocating. Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that won't clog pores.
Related: The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin; The Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin - Wait for your moisturizer to absorb before applying makeup – This is to avoid products mixing on your skin and breaking up the formula.
- Apply your primer with a light hand. – Thickly applied primers tend to pill. Use a light hand when patting the product in.
- Use a non-comedogenic, oil-free foundation – To avoid clogging pores and exacerbating oily skin, use an oil-free foundation specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.
Related: The Best Non Comedogenic Foundations for Acne Prone Skin - Blot throughout the day. – To control excess oil and shine, keep blotting papers or mattifying powder on hand to touch up throughout the day. This will prevent makeup from sliding off and keep your skin looking fresh and matte.
By following these makeup tips, you can ensure that your primer works effectively to control oily skin and prevent breakouts. This will create a flawless makeup look that lasts all day.
- Makeup-Gripping & Oil-Controlling Primers that Never Break You Out
- Ask the Expert: What are some makeup tips for using primers on oily & acne-prone skin?
- Buying Cheat Sheet: Our Makeup Artist's Top Choices
- Esthetician's Choice: The Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Primers for Oily Skin & Acne-Prone Skin
- jane iredale – Smooth Affair® Mattifying Face Primer
- Colorescience – Mattifying Face Primer SPF 20
- Murad – Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30 | PA+++
- Elizabeth Arden – Flawless Start Instant Perfecting Primer
- Dermablend – Poresaver™ Matte Makeup Primer
- La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Anti-Aging Primer with SPF 50 Sunscreen
- MILK – Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Primer
- BareMinerals – Blemish Rescue Anti-Redness Mattifying Primer for Acne-Prone Skin
- Ask the Expert: What should I look for in a primer if I have oily & acne-prone skin?
- References:
- The Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Primers for Oily Skin
- Recommended Acne Programs
Buying Cheat Sheet: Our Makeup Artist's Top Choices
jane iredale – Smooth Affair® Mattifying Face Primer
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC PRIMER FOR OILY SKIN
From the brand that pioneered clean beauty. Helps balance oil, delivers antioxidants, & supports skin elasticity. Instantly mattifies for a soft matte finish.
Colorescience – Mattifying Face Primer SPF 20
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC PRIMER FOR ACNE PRONE SKIN
Our esthetician's choice for the #1 non-comedogenic primer. Corrective, perfecting, and protective all in one.
Murad – Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30 | PA+++
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC FACE PRIMER FOR ALL SKIN TYPES
A 3-in-1 powerhouse makeup primer backed by science: protects, blurs, and primes for 12 hours.
Elizabeth Arden – Flawless Start Instant Perfecting Primer
BEST NON COMEDOGENIC BLURRING PRIMER
This award-winning primer has a triple-blurring complex with light-diffusing technology to create an even-toned, retouched appearance.
Dermablend – Poresaver™ Matte Makeup Primer
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC PRIMER FOR LARGE PORES
Instantly minimizes the appearance of pores & mattifies oily skin. Extends makeup wear up to 24 hours. This lightweight gel never clogs pores. Gives you a soft-to-touch skin feel.
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Anti-Aging Primer with SPF 50 Sunscreen
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC SUNSCREEN PRIMER (SPF)
Formulated with Cell-Ox Shield® technology: broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with antioxidants. Visibly blurs and protects for younger-looking skin.
MILK – Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Primer
BEST NON COMEDOGENIC MATTE PRIMER
Shine control, filtered finish, & clean ingredients that lock your makeup for up to 12 hours. This lightweight water cream primer is 90% natural & has pore-minimizing skincare benefits.
BareMinerals – Blemish Rescue Anti-Redness Mattifying Primer for Acne-Prone Skin
BEST NON-COMEDOGENIC ANTI-REDNESS PRIMER
A vegan face primer that calms & nourishes. Mattifies & purifies pores. Neutralizes visible redness & optimizes the skin’s defenses against bacteria.
Esthetician's Choice:
The Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Primers for Oily Skin & Acne-Prone Skin
We've curated the best non comedogenic matte primers for oily & acne-prone skin.
This award-winning selection is the best-selling and highest-rated in the beauty industry.
All products listed are explicitly labeled non comedogenic.
Make sure to choose the primer that’s best suited for your skin type and skin issues.
Our Review
The newly reformulated Smooth Affair® Mattifying Face Primer is specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin.
It helps balance oil production, mattifies your skin, and reduces the visibility of pores and fine wrinkles for a smooth, flawless base.
The Skincare Makeup
Best known as “the skincare makeup,” Jane Iredale was the first to supply the beauty industry with high-performance makeup infused with topical skincare.
They work with leading plastic surgeons and dermatologists to create skin-loving formulas for all skin tones, skin conditions, and types.
Clean Beauty
The brand features powerful natural ingredients that are non-comedogenic, anti-inflammatory, calming, and soothing for the skin.
The Smooth Affair® Mattifying Face Primer has botanicals that focus on creating a balance of oil and water on your skin to prevent sebum overproduction.
It also has anti-aging properties that promote skin elasticity and antioxidants that protect against UV damage.
Key Ingredients:
- Red Algae Extract – helps regulate sebum production and supports the skin's natural oil-moisture ratio; it gives a smooth and visibly matte appearance.
- Hibiscus Back Extract – Prevents water loss; Promotes skin elasticity and your skin's repair process for a lifted, youthful appearance.
- Rose Geranium Leaf Extract – A powerful antioxidant that protects and repairs UV damage
All in all, it’s an outstanding primer and one of the best non-comedogenic primers under clean beauty for oily and acne-prone skin.
Alternatives: Same product, reformulated for different skin types and conditions
- Smooth Affair® Mattifying Face Primer – best for oily and acne-prone skin. Click here for our in-depth review.
- Smooth Affair® Oily Skin Face Primer – best for oily skin and large pores. Click here for our in-depth review.
- Smooth Affair® Illuminating Glow Face Primer – best for all skin types, especially dry & dull skin. Click here for our in-depth review.
- Smooth Affair® Brightening Face Primer – best for all skin types, especially aging & dull skin. Click here for our in-depth review.
Formulation
Video: Prime Time: Clean Beauty Masterclass
Safety Testing: Noncomedogenic, does not clog pores. Dermatologist-tested. Sensitivity- and Allergy- tested.
Clean Beauty: Vegan & wheat-free. All Jane Iredale products are formulated without talc, mineral oil, synthetic preservatives, synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and artificial dyes.
Green & Cruelty-free: Cruelty-free through its Leaping Bunny Program & PETA.
Formulation Base: Water-based primer
Color: Slightly pink tint
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight formula with a smooth, lotion feel; Soft matte finish
Key Benefits + Cons
Key Benefits:
- Instantly smooths and mattifies skin for even makeup application
- Helps balance oil production through the day and with long-term use
- Minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines
- Anchors makeup for improved, extended wear
- More youthful appearance by supporting skin elasticity
- Gives antioxidant protection and repairs UV damage
- A non pore clogging primer that won't leave your skin greasy
Cons:
- Some of the botanicals in this new formula can cause a reaction in sensitized skin. It might be best to strengthen and balance your skin first if you have a compromised skin barrier.
Makeup Artist Tips
Video: How to Apply Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer
Make-up Artist Tips:
- A pea-sized amount is all you need. Apply with your fingers for easier absorption.
- It dries very quickly, so there is no need to set it, unlike some primers. You can immediately apply foundation after.
- You can mix this with any liquid foundation for sheer coverage.
- The primer penetrates on contact, the advantage of a lightweight formula.
- It also works great on the eyelids and can be used as an eyeshadow primer.
- You can also use this as a hand and body moisturizer.
Video Review
Video: Jane Iredale Mattifying Face Primer | Let’s try it!
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Our Review
This new and improved formula from Colorscience performs above and beyond for oily, blemish-prone skin.
Outstanding Results for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
This primer is skin-perfecting upon application. It instantly reduces the appearance of large pores, evens out your skin tone, and leaves a silky finish.
It controls shine with its mattifying base and works gently to correct blemishes. Plant extracts provide antioxidants to soothe and calm your skin.
Gives a Flawless Finish
The Colorescience Mattifying Face Primer has a whipped texture that glides on like a dream. It comes in a universal nude shade that melts into your skin for a seamless finish.
Makeup & Skincare in One
This primer also has a laundry list of skincare benefits that improve your skin the longer you use it.
- Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 — helps improve texture and skin firmness[6]
- Hydrolized Rice Protein — improves moisture and smooths skin
- Salicyclic Acid — helps remove excess oil
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract — calms your skin and protects it against harmful pollutants
- Jojoba Seed Oil & Esters — conditions and hydrates the skin, locks in moisture
- Oat Kernel Protein — smoothens and softens your skin’s texture
- Green Tea Leaf Extract — is an antioxidant that soothes the skin and protects it from environmental aggressors
Anti-aging UV Protection
The Colorescience Mattifying Face Primer also protects your skin from the harmful, photoaging rays of the sun.
Their new formula boosts its non-nano titanium dioxide from 2.8% to 5% for additional protection. The non-nano zinc oxide is also adjusted from 5.3% to 4.5% to improve previous issues with white casting.
Its improved UVA/UVB defense rating of PA+++ broad-spectrum 20 SPF has made the shortlist of recommended sunscreens by the Skin Cancer Foundation. All the brand's primers carry the daily-use seal.
All-Day Defense
The Colorescience Mattifying Face Primer is also water-resistant and sweat-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
You can stay out without worrying about sun damage, oil production, or sweat as you go about your day.
Dermatologist-recommended
This primer is corrective, perfecting, and protective all in one.
Alternatives: Same product line, reformulated for different skin types and conditions
Formulation
Safety Testing: Hypoallergenic. Non-comedogenic. Fragrance-free. Dermatologist-tested.
Clean Beauty: All-mineral (free of chemical-active ingredients). Talc-free (unlike other mattifying primers). Paraben-free.
Green & Cruelty-free: Vegan. Cruelty-free. Reef-safe.
Formulation Base: Silicone-based primer
Color: Universal nude shade to even out skin tone
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, whipped texture that melts and leaves the skin with a smooth and even finish
Key Benefits + Cons
Video: Skin Mattifying Primer – How to Use
Key Benefits:
- Reduces the appearance of large pores, minimizes blemishes, improves skin texture
- Controls oil, corrects blemishes, soothes skin with antioxidants
- It has a unique whipped texture that glides on like silk and melts to an even finish
- Hydrates and nourishes the skin with its hydrolyzed rice protein, oat kernel protein, jojoba seed oil, and esters
- Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen
- UVA/UVB PA+++ broad-spectrum 20 SPF
- 100% mineral protection free from chemical-active ingredients.
- Hypoallergenic. Non-comedogenic. Fragrance-free. Paraben-free.
- Reef-safe. Vegan. Cruelty-free.
- Sweat- and Water-resistant (40 minutes)
Cons:
- It does not offer color coverage; you still need concealer for spots
- It does not match skin tones despite its universal nude shade
Makeup Artist Tips
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Use just half a pump (instead of a while pump) into your fingertips. Dot around the face and blend for even coverage.
- You can wear this alone or under makeup.
- As this has a lot of moisturizing properties, you can replace your moisturizer with this primer except in cases where you have dry or fragile skin.
- As with all SPF products, wait 15 minutes before sun exposure for complete protection.
Video Review
Video: NEW COLORESCIENCE FACE SHIELD FLEX & MATTE TINTED SUNSCREENS | Dr. Dray
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwIZfLpWjZI&t=177s
Video: Colorescience Face Shield Matte Review & Swatching All Colorescience Face Shields (except bronze)
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Murad – Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30 | PA+++
BEST FOR: All skin types, including Sensitive Skin
Our Review
A 3-in-1 powerhouse makeup primer that’s backed by science: it protects, blurs, and primes for 12 hours.
This face primer gives an instant 30% reduction in the appearance of pores*. It goes on the skin to seal fine lines for a smooth finish.
The Murad – Invisiblur Perfecting Shield is a non pore clogging primer has a gel-like texture and applies like velvet. One drop goes a long way. Perfect for those no-makeup days.
That’s not to say it doesn’t compliment your color cosmetics. Blush and eyeshadows wear longer and stay true for 12 hours.
It also has an innovative blend of skin benefits:
- Soft-Focus Complex — blurs imperfections to improve texture and even out skin tone.
- Extracts from Sunflower, Barley, and Cucumber — improve your skin’s ability to preserve hydration.
- Mushroom Peptides — help repair your skin’s resilience and combat visible signs of skin aging.
An invisible SPF technology provides you with sun protection without giving you that infamous white cast.
Video: Invisiblur Perfecting Shield – Murad
The Murad – Invisiblur Perfecting Shield is formulated without: Formaldehyde, Petrolatum/Petroleum, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Animal-Derived Ingredients, Oxybenzone, Gluten.
Formulation
Safety Testing: A non-comedogenic primer that doesn’t clog pores. Safe for sensitive skin.
Clean Beauty: Formulated without Formaldehyde, Petrolatum/Petroleum, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Animal-Derived Ingredients, Oxybenzone, Gluten
Green & Cruelty-free: Cruelty-free.
Formulation Base: Silicon-based primer
Color: Transparent gel
Consistency & Finish: Velvety smooth, lightweight feel
Key Benefits + Cons
Video: Murad Invisiblur Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30.1 oz on QVC
Key Benefits:
- 3-in-1 multi-purpose face primer that has skincare properties
- Invisible SPF sun protection that doesn’t leave a white cast
- Blurs skin pores and fine lines, as well as evens out skin tone
- One of the best pore reducing primers
- Improve the skin’s ability to preserve moisture
- Help rebuild skin firmness and elasticity.
- Great for all skin types, even sensitive skin
- Murad is a cruelty-free brand.
Cons:
- On the higher end of the makeup primer scale
- Tendency to pill on flaky skin
Makeup Artist Tips
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe7ieQhXKZk
Video: Murad Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Pro Tips: Make Your Own CC Cream | Sephora
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Make sure you have exfoliated well, as it tends to pill when put on dry, flaky skin. Use exfoliants regularly and before application to avoid any build-up of dead skin.
- Don’t rub it in—just pat gently. As mentioned, a little goes a long way.
Video Review
Video: Review: MURAD Age Reform Invisiblur Perfecting Shield SPF 30
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Elizabeth Arden – Flawless Start Instant Perfecting Primer
BEST FOR: All skin types; Issues with skin texture
Awards
Winner: IMAGE Beauty Awards
Our Review
A product that you’ll find in most professional make-up artists’ arsenal–and with very good reason.
This pore-minimizing primer features a triple-blurring complex with light-diffusing technology that immediately blurs pores and fine lines to create an immaculate canvas for the rest of your makeup.
From experience, this one makes you Insta-ready in a flash.
The Elizabeth Arden's Flawless Start Perfecting Primer works very well for skin with texture issues.
The formulation also contains longwear polymers, which are a balance of emollients to keep your skin moisturized and give you a radiant glow.
Its unique time-released skin-balancing technology helps control shine while locking in moisture throughout the day.
This primer is silky, lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, all essential in keeping any potential breakouts at bay as it doesn’t clog pores.
All the above combined can give you an even-toned, retouched appearance instantly.
Alternatives: Same product, reformulated for different skin types and conditions
Formulation
Safety Testing: Non-comedogenic.
Clean Beauty: Oil-free.
Formulation Base: Silicone-based primer
Color: Nude
Consistency & Finish: Silky, lightweight, universal-tint primer
Key Benefits + Cons
Key Benefits:
- Triple-Blurring Complex – light-diffusing, soft-focus ingredients to instantly perfect your skin’s texture and minimize the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
- Time-Release Skin Balancing Technology – a unique formulation of hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts to hydrate and plump lines, while hollow silica beads help absorb oil throughout the day.
- Longwear Polymers – a balance of emollients that adhere to the skin and extend the wear of your foundation
- Instantly retouched look, very useful for those with skin texture issues
Cons: For those with oily skin, you’ll need to blot after around two hours. From experience, it’s not as oil-controlling as the other primers on this list.
Makeup Artist Tips
Video: Elizabeth Arden’s ‘No Makeup’ Makeup Look | SkinStore
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Apply a thin layer throughout your face and under the jaw. The blurring effect should be instantaneous.
- Allow the primer to set for at least 10 seconds before applying your foundation.
- It’s quite thick before its set, so a little goes a long way
Video Review
Video: GRWM Night Out with Elizabeth Arden || One Brand Tutorial
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Dermablend – Poresaver™ Matte Makeup Primer
BEST FOR: All skin types, Normal to Oily skin with large pores, Acne-prone skin
Our Review
This brand-new release from Dermablend is one of the best mattifying, non comedogenic primers for oily skin.
It instantly reduces the appearance of large pores and gives the skin a matte finish.
This lightweight gel has been formulated with only 6 ingredients to avoid any major irritants. It absorbs excess oil as well without drying the skin.
The Dermablend Poresaver Primer also extends makeup for up to 24 hours, leaving the skin smooth to the touch.
You can apply this the ways: under makeup as usual, alone, or mixed with your favorite foundation.
Formulation
Safety Testing: Non-comedogenic primer that doesn't clog pores. Dermatologist-tested.
Clean Beauty: Formulated without Tricosans, Phthalates, Fragrance, Parabens, or Sodium Laurel Sulfate.
Green & Cruelty-free: Vegan formula, no animal byproducts or derived ingredients from it were used.
Formulation Base: Silicone-based primer
Color: White/transparent gel
Consistency & Finish: Smooth and light, Creamy
Key Benefits + Cons
Video: Poresaver™ Matte Makeup Primer | Makeup Tutorial | Dermablend Professional
Key Benefits:
- Pore minimizing primer
- Absorbs oil and mattifies the skin without drying it out
- Extends makeup wear for up to 24 hours
- Can be applied three ways: mixed with foundation, alone, or under makeup
Formulated with only 6 ingredients
Cons: Can be drying to dehydrated or flaky skin
Makeup Artist Tips
Make-up Artist Tips:
- After applying, allow the primer to settle into the skin for at least 30 seconds.
- Make sure to exfoliate before applying to avoid the primer clinging to dry flakes on the skin. You can use a gentle AHA toner regularly to avoid build-up.
Video Review
Video: WHOA! | DERMABLEND PORESAVER MATTE PRIMER | WTW
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La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Anti-Aging Primer with SPF 50 Sunscreen
BEST FOR: All skin types; Photo-protection from Sun damage; Sensitive skin; Wrinkles, fine lines
Our Review
Our list continues with another multi-purpose primer, this time from dermatologist-favorite La Roche-Posay.
This French brand is known for their medical-grade products created specifically for skin concerns like sensitivity, acne, dryness, and rosacea.
They've reformulated their signature Anthelios sunscreen into a face primer that instantly blurs visible signs of aging and provides long-term skin protection.
Video: Anthelios 50 Daily Anti-Aging Primer with Sunscreen
Key Ingredients:
- Cell-Ox Shield® Technology – A core antioxidant technology in the Anthelios sun care line. It combines photostable UVA/UVB filters to provide broad-spectrum protection and potent antioxidant defense.
- Senna Alata – An extract from a tropical herb that protects skin cells in the epidermis from the sun's harmful free radicals.
- La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water – A unique natural antioxidant rich in selenium
- Ceramide-3 – A skin-identical lipid that helps retain moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier
- Niacinamide – A soothing water-soluble vitamin known for its restorative properties
- Glycerin – An excellent humectant derived from vegetable sources. It hydrates the skin by absorbing water from its surroundings.
- Dimethicone – A silicone-based polymer applied to the skin as a moisturizer to prevent water loss.
- Silica – A powder containing spherical beads that gives a smooth feel and a soft-focus effect. It is lightweight and absorbs a considerable amount of oil from the skin.
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Aging Primer has the weight of a night cream but is easily absorbed and doesn’t leave a white cast.
This dermatologist recommended primer is cosmetically elegant, especially for a sunscreen with five active ingredients.
Formulation
Safety Testing: Dermatologist-Tested. Allergy-Tested. Suitable for sensitive skin. Fragrance-Free. Non-Comedogenic.
Clean Beauty: Oil-Free.
Formulation Base: Silicone-based primer
Color: Translucent white
Consistency & Finish: Thick and smooth with a mousse texture, Matte finish
Key Benefits + Cons
Key Benefits:
- SPF 50 broad spectrum photoprotection
- Mattifying, oil-absorbing texture
- A potent antioxidant complex that helps protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays.
- Fine lines, wrinkles, and pores are visibly smoothed and blurred for an even complexion and younger-looking skin.
- Created and rigorously tested for skin tolerance, especially on sensitive skin
Cons:
- This can feel heavy if you have very oily skin
- The product starts to pill if applied too quickly before makeup. Make sure to wait until the primer is set before applying your foundation.
Makeup Artist Tips
Video: Anthelios 50 Daily Anti-Aging Primer with Application Tips
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Use as you would sunscreen–apply liberally 15 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply every 2 hours.
- Instead of a sponge, use the warmth of your fingers to help it meld into your skin.
- When swimming or sweating, use a water-resistant sunscreen.
- If used with other skincare products, use it as the final step in the regimen. Use as is or with makeup.
Video Review
Video: PRIMER with SPF 50 – Anthelios 50 Sunscreen Primer Hides Wrinkles – Review Tutorial
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Our Review
MILK Makeup is a cruelty-free, clean brand that made waves on social media with their award-winning Hydro Grip Primer.
Their latest release controls shine, hydrates, locks your makeup for up to 12 hours, and blurs pores.
The Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Primer is a 90% natural water cream primer that is a makeup-skincare hybrid.
It’s formulated with ingredients that have long-term skincare benefits.
This is great for oily skin and anyone who wants to achieve more even-looking skin in the long run.
Video: MILK MAKEUP | MEET: PORE ECLIPSE MATTIFYING PRIMER
Key Ingredients:
- Niacinamide – a hero ingredient that helps minimize the appearance of pores, provides additional moisture and helps improve skin texture.
- Bakuchiol – a popular natural alternative to retinol, a topical vitamin A that helps smooth skin texture, treat acne, and minimize fine lines
- Lentil extract – helps control shine and acts like microfine particles that soak up oil all day long.
- Moonstone – helps calm the skin.
- Blurring microspheres – gives a natural soft-focus, matte finish throughout the day without causing a harsh drying effect.
Additionally, this can smooth out any healing blemishes or dry patches and fill in pores without clogging them.
This silicone-free makeup primer uses a formula that feels incredibly breathable, light, and refreshingly cool when applied.
It’s infused with natural orange blossom and chamomile for a subtle, soothing scent.
There are two primers in their current line. They all grip makeup and smoothen the skin at their core but are reformulated to address different skin concerns.
Formulation
Clean Beauty: All MILK products are free from Talc, Mineral Oil or Petrolatum, Resorcinol, Urea, Hydroquinone, Synthetic fragrances, Alcohol Denat, and Retinyl Palmitate. Non-comedogenic.
Green & Cruelty-free: 100% Vegan and Cruelty-free Leaping Bunny Certified. No animal testing and no animal-derived ingredients, including fats, oils, or musk.
Formulation Base: Water-based primer
Color: Translucent, leaving an invisible finish on all skin tones
Consistency & Finish: Water cream formulation to a soft-focus, matte finish
Key Benefits + Cons
Key Benefits:
- Keeps makeup in place for up to 12 hours
- Blurred pores thanks to a soft-focus filter
- Help minimize the slide and cracking of your foundation due to sebum and oils
- Reduce the appearance of pores over time
- Skin-calming properties
- It improves skin texture and keeps you looking fresh for hours
- Maintain a natural matte finish
Cons:
- It may not work for excessively oily skin on its own
- It has fragrance, which can bother those who prefer scent-free products.
Makeup Artist Tips
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Before applying your makeup, wait one minute for it to dry to a translucent finish.
- Works well in the T-zone areas for combination skin
- It blends well with liquid, powder, cream, and stick foundations.
- It doesn't leave your skin looking chalky. Using it with highlighters, creams, and glowy makeup will give you that controlled, dewy finish.
Video Review
Video: NEW🔥 MILK MAKEUP MATTIFYING + BLURRING MAKEUP PRIMER || REVIEW & WEAR TEST ON OILY SKIN
Video: *new* MILK MAKEUP PORE ECLIPSE MATTE BLURRING PRIMER + ALL DAY WEAR *oily skin* | MagdalineJanet
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BareMinerals – Blemish Rescue Anti-Redness Mattifying Primer for Acne-Prone Skin
BEST FOR: Oily & Acne-prone skin, Redness, Large pores, Dry Flakes
Our Review
Makeup and skincare in one. This mattifying primer is specially formulated for calming, covering, and preventing adult acne.
It’s part of a skin-clearing clean makeup regimen that is the first of its kind.
It's where a makeup routine resolves to contain current breakouts, prevent future ones, and maintain the skin’s essential moisture (something that we lose as we grow older).
This lightweight gel-lotion is clinically proven to improve skin hydration both instantly and after 12 hours.*
Key Ingredients:
- Green mineral pigments help neutralize any redness**, while chamomile & arnica help calm and nourish the skin.
- An anti-blemish mineral blend of zinc, sulfur, and kaolin clay synergize to purify the pores. It’s also clinically proven to mattify the skin both instantly and over time.*
- Phytosphingosine fortifies the skin’s defenses against bacteria.[4]
All this while providing an effective canvas for even makeup application.
bareMineral’s skin-clearing makeup routine includes:
Alternatives: Reformulated to address different skin concerns.
- bareMinerals – Good Hydrations Silky Face Primer – For dry, flaky skin & Winter use
- bareMinerals – PRIME TIME® Foundation Primer – Vegan & oil-free for all skin types
- bareMinerals – COMBO CONTROL™ Milky Face Primer – For Combination Skin
- bareMinerals – PRIME TIME® Brightening Foundation Primer – For dry, rough, dull skin with uneven skin tone or excess oil
Formulation
Safety Testing: Dermatologist tested. Non-drying, Non-comedogenic, Non-acnegenic. Formulated for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Clean Beauty: Free of parabens, sulfates, fragrance, talc, and gluten.
Green & Cruelty-free: Vegan. Not tested on animals.
Formulation Base: Silicone-based primer
Color: Green mineral pigments
Consistency & Finish: Lightweight, Matte-finish, Gel-lotion
Key Benefits + Cons
Video: Acne Makeup Routine with Blemish Remedy Face Primer from bareMinerals
Key Benefits:
- Formulated specifically for adult acne as coverage and prevention
- Clinically proven to improve skin hydration both instantly and after 12 hours*
- Clinically proven to mattify the skin both instantly and over time.*
- Green mineral pigments neutralize any redness.
- It contains chamomile and arnica to nourish and calm the skin.
- It contains phytosphingosine, which fortifies the skin’s defenses against bacteria.
Cons:
- Has a light scent to it, for those who might mind it
- Commands a higher price tag than most primers, with all the benefits it comes along
- It doesn’t really help with the longevity of makeup, from what we’ve seen
- From experience, not enough to cover intense redness from rosacea
Makeup Artist Tips
Make-up Artist Tips:
- Apply a pearl-sized amount on your index and middle finger. Press and roll the primer in areas with bumps, flakes, large pores, and redness. Repeat until the texture looks even.
- It may be helpful for textured acne scars if paired with a non-comedogenic powder.
Video Reviews
Video: bareMinerals BLEMISH RESCUE Collection Tutorial from bareMinerals
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Recommended Acne Programs
If you're suffering from severe acne, it's best to undergo a program that will help you get to the root of the problem and address the causes.
- The Acne No More System by Mike Walden – Restores hormonal balance to achieve permanent clear skin for life.
- The “Trifecta Glow” System – A highly potent brightening treatment guaranteed to reduce the appearance of dark spots & acne scars within 4 weeks.
- La Roche-Posay – Effaclar Dermatological 3 Step Acne Treatment System
- Murad – Acne Control Kit – Breakout Skin Care Kit
- Mario Badescu – Acne Starter/Control/Repair Kit
- Dermalogica – Clear Start Breakout Clearing Kit
Ask the Expert: What should I look for in a primer if I have oily & acne-prone skin?
BY SAMANTHA WELCH, ESTHETICIAN
When choosing a primer for oily and acne-prone skin, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Non-comedogenic – Choose a primer labeled non-comedogenic to prevent pore blockages and breakouts.
- Mattifying – A mattifying primer can control excess oil and shine throughout the day.
- Lightweight – Avoid heavy, greasy formulas that suffocate oily skin.
- Blurring properties – This helps conceal blemishes, pores, and other imperfections.
- Oil-free – Look for an oil-free primer to avoid exacerbating oily skin and clogging pores.
- SPF – While not necessary for a primer, it's always a good idea to opt for products with SPF to protect the skin from damaging UV rays.
- Antioxidants – Protect the skin from environmental stressors, like pollution and UV rays, and can also brighten skin tone.
Keep in mind that not all primers work for everyone. If you have particularly sensitive or acne-prone skin, it's best to patch-test a product before incorporating it into your routine.
Related:
References:
- Humbert, Philippe. “Induced acne.” La Revue du Praticien 52.8 (2002): 838-840.
- Fulton Jr, J. E., et al. “Non-comedogenic cosmetics.” Cutis 17.2 (1976): 344-5.
- Januário, Adriana P., et al. “Red Seaweed-Derived Compounds as a Potential New Approach for Acne Vulgaris Care.” Pharmaceutics 13.11 (2021): 1930.
- In-Ja, R. Y. O. O., et al. “Anti-Skin Aging Effect of Syriacusins from Hibiscus Syriacuson Ultraviolet-Irradiated Human Dermal Fibroblast Cells.” Biomolecules & Therapeutics 18.3 (2010): 300-307.
- Dimitrova, Maria, et al. “Phenolic profile, antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Pelargonium graveolens leaves’ extracts.” Scientific Bulletin. Series F. Biotech 19 (2015): 130-135.
- Schneider, Anita Louise. Evaluation of the penetration and efficacy of topical anti-aging compounds. Diss. Monash University.
- Zamil, Dina H., et al. “Dermatological uses of rice products: trend or true?.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
- Rhein, Linda, et al. “Targeted delivery of salicylic acid from acne treatment products into and through skin: role of solution and ingredient properties and relationships to irritation.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 26.4 (2004): 218-219.
The Best Non-Comedogenic Matte Primers for Oily Skin
Summary
Our choices for the best non-comedogenic matte primers for oily skin are based on our experience, formulation, claims, value for money, and consumer reviews. All products listed are explicitly labeled noncomedogenic.
