However, like any other makeup product, not all primers are suited for oily skin. That is why it is important to know exactly what to look for in a primer for oily skin. We understand this can be quite a difficult decision. So, we prepared our top 10 recommendations and buying guide to help you choose a primer apt for oily skin. We even asked board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz for some tips and insights!
Quick List - Top Primers for Oily Skin
Happy Skin
Lightweight Tinted Gel Primer Sunscreen for Blurred, Matte Finish
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Primers are meant to fill in pores, fine lines, and bumpy textures on your skin. This results in it looking and feeling smoother. As a result, your skin gets a "blur" effect. It gives your foundation or concealer a smooth surface to glide over; your face makeup won't settle into dry patches of skin and creases, which will make it look a lot better.
That said, primers can also be worn alone for a quick and easy way to minimize the appearance of pores. They also have different benefits for your skin as they can regulate oil, help treat acne, and provide protection from harmful UV rays from the sun, depending on their ingredients.
Primers are meant to 'prime' aka prep the skin. But thing is, all primers weren't created equal. So it's definitely a good idea to find out the ingredients incorporated into the primer so that you can maximize its benefits.
Looking for the right primer for your skin type may be tricky. As a person with oily skin, your primer should not make your skin oil up more and should not cause any blocked pores. There are also other points to remember, which you can read more about below.
It's best not to aggravate your skin's shine by layering an oil-based product over it. This is why you should choose a primer with little or no oil in the ingredients. Try to look for oil-free primers. This means it does not contain petrolatum, lanolin, palm, or coconut oil in its formulation, as these oils tend to clog pores.
Instead, oil-free primers tend to use water or silicone as their base and won't exacerbate your skin's oiliness. Keep in mind that your foundation and primer need to have the same type of formula to blend well together. This means you should also avoid using oil-based foundations.
While the natural oils of our skin are key to our skin's health, people with oily skin types do tend to overproduce them.
The choice of a correct primer can help keep those oils at a healthy level. It would be good to avoid heavy and greasy ingredients such as occlusives (petroleum jelly, plant-based oils). Instead, choose lightweight moisturizing ingredients such as dimethicone or ceramides that can keep your skin hydrated without that greasy feeling.
Like with all other skincare and makeup products, the ingredients that your primer contains can do more harm than good for your skin if they're not beneficial for your skin type. Here's what you should be looking for.
One of the reasons for excess oil production is because our skin lacks moisture. The skin produces more oil to make up for the loss of moisture. Hence, the solution is to hydrate it. Don’t worry! Hydrating your skin won’t make it oilier but make it produce less oil.
Examples of hydrating ingredients include niacinamide, a form of vitamin B-3 that regulates oil. Another is hyaluronic acid. It is a moisturizing molecule that doesn't add to your skin's oil but hydrates it on a deeper level, so it controls the production of sebum.
Propylene glycol is also a great ingredient for moisturizing your skin. It draws water to the surface of your skin and keeps it hydrated. And it doesn't feel sticky too, so you can avoid feeling malagkit.
Niacinamide is a crowd favorite, and with good reason! Dubbed the "jack-of-all-trades," did you know it's not only a great brightening ingredient, but it also strengthens the skin barrier and regulates sebum production?
That’s why we recommend getting a primer with salicylic acid, which helps remove dead skin cells. It soothes the skin, too, with its anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce breakouts. Another well-known ingredient in treating acne is tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial properties and can even prevent and reduce acne scars.
One of the holy grails for acne-prone and oily skin are BHAs which include salicylic acid. The great thing about salicylic acid is that it can penetrate into the pores, slough off dead skin cells, and dissolve sebum. Additional benefits include its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects too.
A damaged skin barrier can bring about moisture loss, which can lead to oily skin. To ensure your skin's barrier stays intact, check your primer for ingredients like vitamin E and soybean extract. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and it can protect your face from environmental stressors like pollution and sun damage.
Soybean extract on the other hand improves your skin's moisture retention as well as reinforces its moisture barrier. They are also great for improving the appearance of your skin and reducing the signs of aging!
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in the skin. It acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. But did you know that it also hydrates the skin by improving its water-binding capacity?
Tip: If you don't know how to find vitamin E in your products, they're usually labeled as alpha-tocopherol or tocopherol acetate in over-the-counter products!
Dimethicone is an excellent example of this. It is great for filling in fine lines and textures while controlling oil production. This gives your skin a velvety-smooth finish that doesn't look chalky.
Silicone gets a bad reputation for clogging pores, but that is not always the case. By itself, silicone is hypoallergenic and non-irritatingーthat is why they are used in medicine sometimes! And they also wash off if you remove your makeup.
Silicones are great moisturizers and smoothing agents hence their inclusion in many skincare products. It's gotten a bad rep as potentially pore-clogging, though. The truth is silicones act as an occlusive, meaning it helps skin retain water by blocking water from escaping - perhaps that's where the notion of it not allowing the skin to breathe or being pore-clogging came about.
Silicones are actually considered large and heavy compounds, so they won't be able to penetrate into the pores. If you look at its structure, silicones are open and have a lot of gaps in their structure, enabling air and water to pass through without suffocating the skin. In terms of comedogenicity, it's unfair to label it as such because, in truth, the term "non-comedogenic" is more marketing than anything else.
When choosing primers, look for ones that are non-comedogenic to avoid clogging your pores. Non-comedogenic means it contains less oil so it will not block pores and aggravate acne. It is also lighter on the skin, thereby allowing it to breathe.
However, there is no universal standard for non-comedogenic and it can vary across brands. This can make it quite difficult to determine if a primer is actually non-comedogenic. In this regard, take a look at the ingredients list and try to avoid ones that contain isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, butyl stearate, as well as beeswax and cocoa butter.
Choosing the right primer with the right texture is especially important for oily skin. You'd want to choose something generally lightweight and won't add that greasy feeling. In general, primers in gel form work great for oily skin types.
So, select a primer with at least SPF30 as it can filter 96.7% of UV rays while it is 98% for SPF50. Also, take a look if it has a broad spectrum rating. This means it doesn't just protect against UVB radiation, which is associated with skin burning but also UVA, which is responsible for skin aging.
Don’t forget to check for ingredients such as titanium dioxide. It is responsible for blocking UV rays as well as brightening skin and hiding blemishes. Another helpful ingredient is zinc oxide. It helps control excess oil production, combat acne, and protect against UVA and UVB rays.
Primers with SPF are great at hitting two birds with one stone. However, one problem is that people who use moisturizers with SPF or primers with SPF usually only apply a small amount of product, which ultimately means that you might not be getting the necessary protection. Remember that sunscreen is key! And it is also important to apply the correct amount to get enough sun protection.
Color correction is a technique that involves cancelling out discoloration in your skin tone. It makes use of opposite colors in the color wheel to neutralize certain colors. For instance, green is the opposite of red, so a green primer is great for dealing with redness from acne or rosacea.
If you are dealing with yellow undertones like under-eye circles or dull skin a purple primer can help with that. Conversely, if you have prominent purplish or bluish veins or bruises, a yellow primer would be best. And pink and red primers can correct dark circles and give you a bit of luminosity. Remember, it’s all about balancing your complexion.
A lot of primers are tinted. Hence, they provide some form of coverage. It's good to choose one based on your skin's undertones to make sure that it complements your skin.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Notable Ingredients | Oil-Free | Mattifying | Silicone-Based | Non-Comedogenic | SPF | Color Correcting | Net Content | |||||
1 | Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer | ![]() | Mattifying, Pore-Blurring Primer with SPF 20 | Silica, Glycerin, Kaolin, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Isododecane | unknown | 20 | No | 30 mL | ||||
2 | Happy Skin Rescue Me Tinted Matte Sun Gel Primer | ![]() | Lightweight Tinted Gel Primer Sunscreen for Blurred, Matte Finish | Zinc Oxide, Octyl Methoxy Cinnamate, Titanium Dioxide, Photolyase, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides | Yes | 40 | Yes | 40 mL | ||||
3 | INNISFREE No Sebum Blur Primer | ![]() | Silicone-Based Blur Primer with Oil Control and Soft-Focus Finish | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Silica, Mentha arvensis leaf extract, Jeju green persimmon extract | unknown | No | 25 mL | |||||
4 | BANILA CO Prime Primer Classic | ![]() | Silky Silicone Blur Primer for Smooth, Matte Makeup Base | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymers, Silica, Nylon-12, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer | unknown | No | 30 mL | |||||
5 | Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Primer | ![]() | Velvety Pore-Blurring Primer That Smooths, Mattifies & Extends Makeup Wear | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Silica, Vitamin E Acetate, Isododecane | Yes | No | 44 mL | |||||
6 | Careline Instant Filter Pore‑Refining Primer | ![]() | Oil‑Free Pore‑Blurring Primer with BHA & Tea Tree for Smooth, Matte Skin | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, PEG‑8, Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root, Olive Fruit Oil | unknown | No | 26 mL | |||||
7 | GRWM Cosmetics Makeup Prep Squad Primer | ![]() | Vegan Blurmatte Primer with Pore-Blurring and Oil Control | Aqua, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Isododecane, Silica, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Niacinamide | unknown | No | 30 mL | |||||
8 | Dr.Leo Multi-Effect Isolation Cream | ![]() | 2‑in‑1 Isolation Cream Primer & Moisturizer for Brightened, Even Skin | Niacinamide, Hibiscus Esculentus Extract, Tremella Fuciformis Extract, 4D Sodium Hyaluronate | unknown | unknown | Yes | 50 g | ||||
9 | Revlon ColorStay GRIP Matte Primer | ![]() | Oil-Control Mattifying Primer with Blue-Light Defense & Superfood Extracts | Dimethicone, Silica, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica Extract, Citrus Fruit Extract | unknown | No | 30 mL | |||||
10 | e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer 4% Niacinamide | ![]() | Sticky Gel Primer with Brightening Niacinamide for Long-Lasting Makeup Hold | Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosemary Leaf Water, Peppermint Leaf Water | Yes | No | 24 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users like how this primer keeps their makeup looking fresh even in hot or humid weather. It’s often praised for giving a blurred, smooth finish without feeling greasy. Some say it works especially well when paired with the Fit Me foundation, though a few note it doesn’t fully hide texture for very oily skin.
Notable Ingredients | Silica, Glycerin, Kaolin, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Isododecane |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | 20 |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users praise its soft-focus finish and protective benefits, saying it primes well for makeup and blends effortlessly without white cast. Many appreciate its non-sticky feel and blue-light protection. A few mention packaging isn’t very sturdy, but most agree it’s a great product for oily or screen-exposed skin.
Notable Ingredients | Zinc Oxide, Octyl Methoxy Cinnamate, Titanium Dioxide, Photolyase, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | Yes |
SPF | 40 |
Color Correcting | Yes |
Net Content | 40 mL |
Features and benefits:
Shoppers say this primer effectively smooths and blurs pores while keeping shine at bay for several hours. Many note it's light and comfortable even on its own for a minimalistic look. A few mention it may flake if over-applied or can clash with water-based foundations, but overall feedback highlights its budget-friendly, pore-blurring performance.
Notable Ingredients | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Silica, Mentha arvensis leaf extract, Jeju green persimmon extract |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 25 mL |
Users say it creates a smooth, soft-focus base that helps makeup glide on and stay longer. It’s often praised for minimizing pores and refining skin texture. One user said it instantly smooths out fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. A few with extra oily skin mentioned it may not fully control shine, but most love its matte, polished finish at an affordable price.
Notable Ingredients | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymers, Silica, Nylon-12, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 30 mL |
Customers rave about how effortlessly it smooths out pores and creates a sleek canvas, making makeup application seamless. Many mention they’ve been repurchasing it for years, citing consistent results. A few users note it may pill when layered with incompatible products, but overall it’s praised for dependable, velvety performance.
Notable Ingredients | Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Silica, Vitamin E Acetate, Isododecane |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | Yes |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 44 mL |
Features and benefits:
Shoppers say this primer gives a natural matte finish and keeps skin balanced throughout the day. Many highlight its pore blurring effect and oil control, especially for oily or acne-prone skin types. A few users, however, noted it didn’t work for some. One reported pore clogging and lack of noticeable blurring, so patch testing is recommended.
Notable Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, PEG‑8, Centella Asiatica, Licorice Root, Olive Fruit Oil |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 26 mL |
Users love its ability to blur pores and control oil, noting a smooth, matte finish that lasts all day — especially in humid climates. Many highlight GRWM as a strong local alternative to higher-end primers. A few reported breakouts or flaking on dry skin, so patch testing is advised.
Notable Ingredients | Aqua, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Isododecane, Silica, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Niacinamide |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Buyers say it brightens and hydrates the skin immediately while providing a smooth base for makeup. Many love its long-lasting and waterproof finish. A few caution the coverage is light — one user said it doesn’t cover spots fully, but most appreciate its multitasking convenience.
Notable Ingredients | Niacinamide, Hibiscus Esculentus Extract, Tremella Fuciformis Extract, 4D Sodium Hyaluronate |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | unknown |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | Yes |
Net Content | 50 g |
Features and benefits:
Users praise how it keeps oil and shine under control in humidity, often lasting all day. They mention that it makes makeup apply more smoothly and helps it stay put. However, a few note it can clash with non-silicone foundations or cause minor breakouts for sensitive skin.
Notable Ingredients | Dimethicone, Silica, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica Extract, Citrus Fruit Extract |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | unknown |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 30 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users rave that it's an adhesive for their foundation, praising its ability to keep makeup in place even through sweat and humidity. Many note its hydrating, skin-smoothing benefits — with some calling it a holy grail. A few users with very oily skin found it can make foundation slip over time.
Notable Ingredients | Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosemary Leaf Water, Peppermint Leaf Water |
---|---|
Oil-Free | |
Mattifying | |
Silicone-Based | |
Non-Comedogenic | Yes |
SPF | |
Color Correcting | No |
Net Content | 24 mL |
Here are some helpful tips as Dr. Katrina Luz answers some of the most-asked questions on the internet!
It depends. It's definitely important to review your current skincare ingredients and see if certain ingredients double. Having an ingredient that targets a particular concern and using it more than once definitely can increase your chances of developing an irritation. #AskYourDerma to help you filter through your products and create a cohesive skincare routine.
Primers are great but they are definitely not a must. Depending on your skin type and skin needs, your skincare routine can serve as the necessary prep before you apply your makeup.
A primer can help oily skin by regulating oil production. The key would be finding the right ingredient that targets just that.
For many people, makeup gives them the confidence and boost that they need to start the day. In saying that, check out our articles for the best makeup products available in the market to complete any look you want.
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Re-editor: J. Cuizon
Re-editor: Valerie Lagura
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Maybelline|Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer
No. 2: Happy Skin |Rescue Me Tinted Matte Sun Gel Primer
No. 3: INNISFREE|No Sebum Blur Primer
No. 4: BANILA CO|Prime Primer Classic
No. 5: Benefit Cosmetics|The POREfessional Primer
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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