When it comes to any glam look, outshining the competition is always a major goal. And while shining bright typically has its benefits, when the shine is coming from over-producing oil and greasy foundation finishes caused by acne-prone skin, achieving a matte look can be a major struggle. Finding the right primer is essential for any skin type, but it especially helps to neutralize oil and lock-in foundations for glamazons with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. We recently enlisted our algorithm to help in the search process of finding the perfect makeup primers for those prone to acne flare-ups and oily pores, and the results did not disappoint. Our algorithm, which looks at top-rated and highly-reviewed products from around the web, has rounded up the best of the best picks for you to shop from below. These 10 best primers for acne-prone skin are formulated with hydrating, smoothing, and calming ingredients that leave skin healthier while reducing the appearance of imperfections and keeping your makeup in place all day and all night long. Shop our science-backed list of the best primers for acne-prone skin from prestige makeup brands like Laura Mercier, bareMinerals, Tatcha, Smashbox, and many more to ensure a flawless and even complexion. Opening image: @smashboxcosmetics
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November 19, 2019
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
e.l.f. Cosmetics Blemish Control Primer
BEST FOR: Use this powerful primer as the perfect everyday base for your makeup.
FUN FACT: This product is 100% vegan.
bareMinerals Blemish Rescue Anti-Redness Mattifying Primer For Acne-Prone Skin
USERS SAID: "I am in LOVE!!!! I can definitely tell a difference in my skin since I’ve been using it. It’s been almost 3 weeks and yes I still break out but definitely not as bad and my skin tone looks more even!"
LOVED FOR: The non-drying formula calms and covers imperfections while mattifying any skin type.
Maybelline New York Face Studio Master Prime Primer, Blur + Redness Control
WHAT IT DOES: This affordable primer blurs skin imperfections and smooths fine lines to leave your face ready for any glam look without a greasy finish.
HELPFUL TIP: Embrace versatility! This primer can be worn alone or applied all over the face before foundation.
Tarte Poreless Mattifying Primer
WHY YOU NEED IT: This product features optical matte-blur technology to reduce the look of imperfections. It also features a nutrient-rich formula infused with antioxidants to resurface uneven skin texture and neutralize free radicals even before applying makeup.
FUN FACT: This primer is formulated with Tarte's 12-hour staying power for glam that won't budge.
Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer
BEST FOR: This product is ideal for those with oily, sensitive, and acne-prone sin.
WHY YOU NEED IT: Apply this colorless gel to create an invisible buffer to the outside elements and protects the skin from surface dehydration.
Dr. Brandt Skincare Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer
FUN FACT: This primer contains less than one percent of synthetic fragrances and is also gluten-free.
Cover FX Mattifying Prime with Anti-Acne Treatment
WHAT IT DOES: This weightless gel primer is infused with ingredients that support the body's natural cell renewal to gently exfoliate and leave skin looking fresher while also controlling shine.
USERS SAID: "I have extremely oily skin, which of course, leads to breakouts. This product, however, has completely taken me by surprise. Not only did this product completely clear up my skin, but I am oil-free for a good majority of the day."
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Makeup Primer+
BEST FOR: This makeup prolonging primer is most suitable for those with dry, combination, and oily skin.
LOVED FOR: All day grip technology helps to adhere to makeup, hydrate the skin, and help even the look of all skin tones.
Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer
FROM THE EXPERTS: In a clinical study, 100 percent of subjects who used this primer agreed that their skin felt smoother immediately after application.
Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
USERS SAID: "FINALLY!! After trying almost every single primer for oily skin that you can find in the market, I can say I FOUND THE ONE!! The Photo Finish Oil and Shine Control primer has an amazing texture, it leaves a silky and matte finish without over-drying your skin. It made my makeup last longer than any primer has done before!"
FUN FACT: This primer features time-release technology to control oil for up to 12 hours.
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