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BEST PRIMERS FOR OILY SKIN OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST OF THE BEST
Rimmel Stay Matte Primer
Rimmel
Stay Matte Primer
Mattifying Pore Minimizer
Rimmel Stay Matte Primer is designed to control shine and minimize the appearance of pores for up to 8 hours. Its lightweight formula keeps your skin feeling fresh and smooth all day.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Affordable price point
  • Long-lasting matte effect
  • Reduces pore visibility
CONS
  • May not suit very dry skin
  • Scent may not appeal to everyone
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer
e.l.f.
Matte Putty Primer
Oil-Control Gel Primer
E.l.f. Matte Putty Primer is a gel-based primer that absorbs excess oil, blurs imperfections, and creates a smooth, matte canvas for flawless makeup application.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Affordable and effective
  • Lightweight, breathable feel
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
CONS
  • May require touch-ups for extreme oiliness
  • Small container size
Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
Smashbox
Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
Oil-Free Smoothing Primer
Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer is an oil-free formula that mattifies skin, blurs imperfections, and extends makeup wear for up to 12 hours.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Long-lasting oil control
  • Professional-grade performance
  • Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • May feel drying for some skin types
BEST OF THE BEST
Rimmel Stay Matte Primer
Mattifying Pore Minimizer
Size: 1 oz (30 ml)
Skin Type: Oily, Combination
Finish: Matte
Application Area: Face

Rimmel Stay Matte Primer is a cult favorite among those with oily skin. This primer is formulated to create a smooth, matte base that helps foundation last longer while keeping excess oil at bay. The lightweight texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, blurring imperfections and minimizing the look of pores without feeling heavy or greasy.

Ideal for daily use, this primer can be worn alone or under makeup. It helps reduce shine throughout the day, making it perfect for those who struggle with midday oiliness. The formula is non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or cause breakouts, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types as well.

Whether you're heading to work or out for a night on the town, Rimmel Stay Matte Primer ensures your makeup stays put and your skin remains shine-free.

PROS
  • Affordable price point
  • Long-lasting matte effect
  • Reduces pore visibility
CONS
  • May not suit very dry skin
  • Scent may not appeal to everyone
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer
Oil-Control Gel Primer
Size: 0.74 oz (21 g)
Skin Type: Oily, Combination
Finish: Matte
Application Area: Face

e.l.f.Matte Putty Primer is a favorite among beauty enthusiasts for its unique gel texture and impressive oil-absorbing abilities. Infused with kaolin and white charcoal, this primer works to mattify the skin while minimizing the appearance of pores and imperfections.

The formula glides on smoothly, creating a soft-focus effect that helps makeup adhere better and last longer.This primer is especially beneficial for those with oily or combination skin, as it helps control shine throughout the day.

The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula ensures that your skin feels comfortable and breathable, even under layers of makeup. It's also cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great choice for conscious consumers.

With its affordable price and effective performance, e.l.f.Matte Putty Primer is a must-have for anyone seeking a flawless, matte finish.

PROS
  • Affordable and effective
  • Lightweight, breathable feel
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
CONS
  • May require touch-ups for extreme oiliness
  • Small container size
NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer Primer
Long-Lasting Shine Control
Size: 0.67 oz (20 ml)
Skin Type: Oily, Combination
Finish: Matte
Application Area: Face

NYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer Primer is a go-to solution for those who battle persistent shine. This primer is specifically designed to absorb excess oil and provide a matte base for makeup application.

Its lightweight, transparent formula blends seamlessly into the skin, leaving no residue or heavy feeling.The Shine Killer Primer is suitable for all skin tones and can be worn alone or under foundation.

It helps extend the wear of your makeup by preventing oil breakthrough, making it ideal for long days or special occasions. The formula is also free from parabens and is cruelty-free, aligning with ethical beauty standards.

If you're looking for a primer that keeps your skin matte and your makeup flawless, NYX Shine Killer is a reliable choice.

PROS
  • Effective oil control
  • Works for all skin tones
  • No white cast
CONS
  • Small tube size
  • May not fill large pores
Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser
Blurring Matte Primer
Size: 0.67 oz (19 ml)
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive
Finish: Matte
Application Area: Face

Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser is a beloved primer for those seeking a smooth, matte complexion. Its silicone-based formula glides onto the skin, instantly blurring the appearance of pores and fine lines.

The result is a soft, baby-smooth finish that helps makeup apply more evenly and last longer.This primer is especially effective for oily skin, as it helps control shine without drying out the skin. The lightweight texture feels comfortable and breathable, making it suitable for everyday use.

It can be worn alone for a natural, poreless look or under foundation for a flawless makeup base.Maybelline Baby Skin is dermatologist and allergy tested, making it a safe option for sensitive skin types as well.

PROS
  • Smooths skin texture
  • Affordable and widely available
  • Non-comedogenic
CONS
  • Silicone texture may not suit everyone
  • May require reapplication for very oily skin
Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
Oil-Free Smoothing Primer
Size: 1 oz (30 ml)
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Acne-prone
Finish: Matte
Application Area: Face

Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer is a high-performance primer designed for those who need serious oil control. This oil-free formula is infused with witch hazel, salicylic acid, and zinc to help absorb oil, minimize the appearance of pores, and keep skin looking fresh and matte for up to 12 hours.

The lightweight, gel-to-powder texture glides on smoothly, creating a flawless base for makeup. It helps foundation stay in place and prevents makeup from sliding or melting off throughout the day. The primer is also non-acnegenic, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.

Smashbox is known for its professional-grade products, and this primer is no exception. It’s cruelty-free and free from parabens, phthalates, and fragrance, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.

PROS
  • Long-lasting oil control
  • Professional-grade performance
  • Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • May feel drying for some skin types

How our picks compare

SpecificationRimmel Stay Matte Primere.l.f. Matte Putty PrimerNYX Professional Makeup Shine Killer PrimerMaybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore EraserSmashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
Size1 oz (30 ml)0.74 oz (21 g)0.67 oz (20 ml)0.67 oz (19 ml)1 oz (30 ml)
Skin TypeOily, CombinationOily, CombinationOily, CombinationOily, Combination, SensitiveOily, Combination, Acne-prone
FinishMatteMatteMatteMatteMatte
Application AreaFaceFaceFaceFaceFace

Finding the right primer for oily skin can make a significant difference in how your makeup looks and lasts throughout the day. Oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, which can cause makeup to slide off, look patchy, or become shiny within a few hours. The right primer acts as a barrier between your skin and makeup, helping to control oil, minimize the appearance of pores, and create a smooth canvas for foundation and other products.

When searching for a primer suitable for oily skin, it’s important to focus on formulas that are specifically designed to address oil control and longevity. Look for primers labeled as mattifying, oil-free, or pore-minimizing. These products often contain ingredients like silica, which absorbs excess oil, or dimethicone, which helps to blur imperfections and create a smooth surface. Avoid primers with heavy oils or emollients, as these can exacerbate shine and break down your makeup faster.

Application technique also plays a role in how effective your primer will be. Start with clean, moisturized skin. Even oily skin needs hydration, so opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer before applying your primer. Use a small amount of primer, focusing on areas where you tend to get the most oily, such as the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Gently press the primer into your skin with your fingertips rather than rubbing, which can help it adhere better and fill in pores.

Some of the most popular primers for oily skin include those from brands like Benefit (The POREfessional), Smashbox (Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control), and Rimmel (Stay Matte Primer). These products have been praised for their ability to keep shine at bay and extend the wear of makeup. Drugstore options can be just as effective as high-end ones, so don’t feel pressured to splurge unless you want to.

If you have concerns beyond oiliness, such as sensitivity or acne, look for primers that are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Some primers also contain skincare ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide, which can help manage breakouts and improve skin texture over time.

It’s also worth noting that less is more when it comes to primer. Using too much can cause pilling or make your makeup look cakey. Start with a pea-sized amount and add more only if necessary. Allow the primer to set for a minute or two before applying foundation to ensure it has time to create a proper base.

Finally, remember that finding the perfect primer may require some experimentation. Everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Consider requesting samples or purchasing travel-sized versions to test how a primer performs on your skin before committing to a full-size product. With a bit of patience and attention to your skin’s needs, you’ll be able to find a primer that keeps your makeup looking fresh and shine-free all day.