8 Best Primers for Oily Skin – Mattifying & Pore-Minimizing Picks

8 Best Primers for Oily Skin, Tried and Tested

If your makeup starts melting off by midday or your T-zone shines brighter than your highlighter — it’s time to find the perfect primer for oily skin. A good mattifying primer not only controls oil but also keeps your makeup intact for hours, minimizing pores and creating a smooth, even canvas.

We’ve handpicked the 8 best primers for oily skin, tried and tested by beauty lovers and makeup artists alike. Whether you need a pore minimizing primer or a long-lasting makeup base, these top-rated picks will help you achieve that flawless, shine-free finish all day long.

 

 

Why You Need a Primer for Oily Skin

Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why primer is a must-have if you struggle with excess oil:

  • Controls Shine: A good oil control primer absorbs excess sebum, keeping your face fresh and matte.

  • Minimizes Pores: It blurs large pores, giving your foundation a smooth, airbrushed look.

  • Extends Makeup Wear: Acts as a long-lasting makeup base that helps your foundation stay put, even in humid weather.

  • Improves Skin Texture: Creates a silky surface so makeup applies evenly.

 

 

1. Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer

Best for: Long-lasting matte finish

This cult favorite from Smashbox is a go-to for oily and combination skin types. The lightweight, oil-free formula instantly mattifies the skin and keeps shine at bay for up to 12 hours. Plus, it minimizes pores without feeling heavy or sticky.

Why we love it:

  • Controls oil all day

  • Vegan and cruelty-free

  • Creates a smooth, photo-ready base

Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer to your T-zone before foundation for maximum oil control.

 

 

2. Benefit The POREfessional Matte Rescue Primer

Best for: Pore minimizing and shine control

If large pores are your main concern, this gel-based primer from Benefit is your best friend. It absorbs excess oil and instantly blurs pores, giving you a smooth, shine-free finish.

Why we love it:

  • Refreshing water-based formula

  • Visibly minimizes pores

  • Lightweight and breathable

 

 

3. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer

Best for: Everyday use and long wear

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty never disappoints. This mattifying primer balances oil while maintaining hydration — so your skin looks natural, not cakey. It’s perfect under foundation or even worn alone for a polished, filter-like finish.

Why we love it:

  • Keeps skin matte without dryness

  • Long-lasting hold

  • Ideal for humid climates

 

 

4. e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer

Best for: Budget-friendly option

This affordable gem delivers high-end results at a fraction of the price. Infused with kaolin clay and white charcoal, it absorbs oil and creates a blurred, poreless finish — making it one of the best drugstore primers for oily skin.

Why we love it:

  • Smooth, velvety texture

  • Long-lasting oil control

  • Great value for money

 

 

5. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Matte Primer

Best for: Dewy-matte balance

For those who want a matte finish without losing hydration, this hybrid primer from Milk Makeup offers the perfect balance. It grips makeup firmly while keeping excess oil under control, ensuring your look stays fresh all day.

Why we love it:

  • Silicone-free formula

  • Hydrating yet mattifying

  • Long-lasting wear

 

 

6. Too Faced Primed & Peachy Cooling Matte Primer

Best for: Summer and humid conditions

Infused with peach and sweet fig cream, this primer delivers a refreshing cooling effect that feels heavenly on oily skin. It instantly mattifies and blurs imperfections, making it an ideal long-lasting makeup base for warm weather.

Why we love it:

  • Oil-free and silicone-free

  • Blurs pores and imperfections

  • Pleasant, fruity scent

 

 

7. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer

Best for: Everyday affordable use

This pore minimizing primer from Maybelline is perfect for daily wear. It keeps oil in check for up to 16 hours while leaving your skin smooth and breathable. It’s especially great for those with oily to combination skin.

Why we love it:

  • Long-lasting matte control

  • Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)

  • Affordable and widely available

 

 

8. Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer

Best for: Luxury, silky smooth finish

If you want to treat yourself, this luxurious primer from Tatcha is a must-have. It creates a silky barrier between your skin and makeup, preventing clogged pores and extending makeup wear. Despite its creamy texture, it provides impressive oil control.

Why we love it:

  • Luxurious texture and finish

  • Minimizes pores and imperfections

  • Protects skin from pollution and makeup buildup

 

 

How to Apply Primer for Oily Skin (Like a Pro)

Applying primer the right way makes all the difference. Here’s how to maximize its benefits:

  1. Cleanse and moisturize your face first — yes, even oily skin needs hydration.

  2. Take a pea-sized amount of primer and apply it to oily zones (T-zone, nose, chin).

  3. Gently pat and blend using fingertips or a makeup sponge.

  4. Allow it to set for a minute before applying foundation.

Pro Tip: Avoid applying too much primer; it can cause pilling and uneven makeup texture.

 

 

What to Look for in a Primer for Oily Skin

When choosing the best primer for oily skin, check for these ingredients and features:

  • Oil-free formulas: Prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

  • Mattifying agents: Look for silica, clay, or charcoal to absorb excess oil.

  • Pore-blurring technology: Smoothens skin for flawless foundation application.

  • Lightweight texture: Keeps skin breathable and fresh.

  • Non-comedogenic: Won’t clog pores or trigger acne.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Finding the best primer for oily skin can be a game-changer for your makeup routine. Whether you prefer a pore minimizing primer, a mattifying formula, or a long-lasting makeup base, these 8 picks offer something for every skin type and budget.

Say goodbye to mid-day shine and hello to a flawless, matte finish that lasts from morning to night.

 

 

Explore More

👉 Explore our latest skincare and makeup essentials to complete your beauty routine.
 👉 Looking for more oily-skin solutions? Check out our guide on best foundations for oily skin.

 

 

Suggested Internal Links:

  • “Explore our latest skincare and makeup essentials.”

  • “Check out our guide on best foundations for oily skin.”

Suggested External Links: