When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Primers For Oily Acne Prone Skin (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect makeup product to achieve a smooth, flawless skin for oily acne prone skin, then primers are a must-have. A good primer will make it easier to achieve perfection in look and feel. However, before investing in one, there are several factors that readers need to consider.

Firstly, readers should determine their skin type – oily, dry, or combination – and choose a primer that caters to their skin type. For oily acne-prone skin, it is recommended to opt for a primer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Such primers do not clog pores, prevent breakouts, and create a perfect base for makeup.

Secondly, it is essential to consider the ingredients present in a primer. A primer with salicylic acid or tea tree oil can help reduce the appearance of acne and oily skin. Additionally, silica, which is commonly found in primers, can help in oil absorption and make the skin look smoother.

Now, the question is, how to choose the best primer for your oily acne-prone skin? What are the best ingredients to look for? How should it be applied for the best results? Find out the answers to these and more questions in our upcoming articles. Stay tuned for our reviews of some of the best primers for oily acne-prone skin and get ready to flaunt a smooth, blemish-free complexion.

10 Best Primers For Oily Acne Prone Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for those with oily, mixed, acne-prone or sensitive skin looking for all-day smudge-free makeup with minimized pores and pimples.
2
Ideal for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and minimizing pores. Suitable as makeup primer for oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.
3
This product is ideal for providing skin protection, evening out skin tone, and acting as a primer under makeup.
4
Ideal for creating a smooth base for makeup, controlling shine and oil, minimizing pores, and hiding wrinkles and fine lines.
5
This product is ideal for blurring and moisturizing skin, even out complexion, and improving makeup wear.
6
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin who need broad spectrum sun protection.
7
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive, acne-prone skin who need a mineral-based, oil-free, sheer face sunscreen.
8
Ideal for combination and oily skin types, this toner helps minimize the appearance of large pores.
9
Ideal for hydrating and treating sensitive, acne-prone skin with its gentle formula and 0.5% salicylic acid.
10
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.
Ideal for those with oily, mixed, acne-prone or sensitive skin looking for all-day smudge-free makeup with minimized pores and pimples.
Ideal for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and minimizing pores. Suitable as makeup primer for oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.
This product is ideal for providing skin protection, evening out skin tone, and acting as a primer under makeup.
Ideal for creating a smooth base for makeup, controlling shine and oil, minimizing pores, and hiding wrinkles and fine lines.
This product is ideal for blurring and moisturizing skin, even out complexion, and improving makeup wear.
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin who need broad spectrum sun protection.
This product is ideal for individuals with sensitive, acne-prone skin who need a mineral-based, oil-free, sheer face sunscreen.
Ideal for combination and oily skin types, this toner helps minimize the appearance of large pores.
Ideal for hydrating and treating sensitive, acne-prone skin with its gentle formula and 0.5% salicylic acid.
The product is ideal for treating acne-prone, sensitive skin with a 3-step system including cleanser, toner, and spot treatment.

1. Matte Perfection Primer For Sensitive Skin

The Dermesence line offers a range of skincare products specifically formulated for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. The Dermesence Perfection is a non-greasy cream formula that mattifies the skin without over-drying it. This cream prevents makeup from smudging or smearing and provides a long-lasting smooth look. The Licorice Root Extract and Caffeic Acid in the formula help reduce eczema, redness, itchiness, and skin irritations.

The Dermesence Clean is infused with soothing plant extracts and natural salicylic acid moisturizer. It penetrates the skin to unclog acne-prone skin, reduces excess sebum, removes impurities, and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores. The 7-IN-1 formula purifies the skin with Kaolin Clay to remove shines instantly while moisturizing and minimizing blackheads.

The Dermesence Defense is an antioxidant-rich formula comprised of seven specific antioxidants and minerals that help soothe, smooth, and balance the skin. It provides full-spectrum protection against pollution, making it perfect for people who live in urban areas.

Avesence Dermesence promises to create clean products that are non-irritating and cruelty-free. The brand has full transparency and provides oily, non-comedogenic, sensitive, and acne-prone skin with a fresh start every morning. The products are gentle and effective, providing users with the desired results without causing any harm to their skin.

The Dermesence products can be used in the morning with a daily moisturizer to mattify the skin. They can be applied alone or before a moisturizer and before makeup application. The seven antioxidants in the Dermesence Defense provide a clean, matte, and brighter canvas for the day!

Pros

  • Non-greasy cream formula that mattifies the skin without over-drying it
  • Prevents makeup from smudging or smearing and provides a long-lasting smooth look
  • Soothes the skin and reduces eczema, redness, itchiness, and skin irritations
  • Infused with natural salicylic acid moisturizer that unclogs acne-prone skin and reduces excess sebum
  • Removes impurities and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores
  • Provides full-spectrum protection against pollution
  • Gentle and effective on oily, non-comedogenic, sensitive, and acne-prone skin

2. Dermaquest Perfecting Primer – Anti-Aging & Pore Minimizer

The makeup longevity can be enhanced with this primer, which also primes the skin for a flawless look. It instantly smooths fine lines and wrinkles and can be used before applying either powder or liquid-based foundations. This primer not only softens and smooths the skin immediately after application but also penetrates the skin with its specialist ingredients to boost moisture and hydration from below the surface. It also absorbs excess oil and preps the face by smoothing the skin all over, giving it a boost of vitality and a radiant glow. The complex of powerful ingredients, including essential oils such as orange and lemon, hyaluronic spheres, thiotaine, and BV OSC, provide anti-aging and anti-acne abilities, targeting fine lines and wrinkles on the face, revealing more youthful-looking skin. This anti-acne pore minimizer primer refines the pores, making it ideal for all skin types from oily to sensitive, including acne-prone skin. It replenishes the skin with water through the use of hyaluronic acid and targets the upper layers of the dermis, helping to improve the overall skin tone.

Pros

  • Enhances makeup longevity
  • Smooths fine lines and wrinkles instantly
  • Softens and smooths the skin immediately after application
  • Boosts moisture and hydration from below the surface
  • Absorbs excess oil
  • Refines the pores
  • Ideal for all skin types, including acne-prone skin
  • Replenishes the skin with water
  • Helps improve the overall skin tone
  • Provides anti-aging and anti-acne abilities
  • Gives skin a boost of vitality and a radiant glow

3. Perfect Pigment Protector & Mineral Sunscreen

The Even Up All-in-One Regimen is the perfect solution for those who suffer from hyperpigmentation. This regimen immediately color-corrects and protects the skin with all-mineral SPF 50. It consists of Even Up SPF 50, which instantly brightens the skin and blurs stubborn brown spots, dark spots, and age spots. The lightweight colorless treatment, Even Up Multi Correction Serum, is designed to treat and prevent hyperpigmentation long-term. The 100% all-mineral Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 provides defense against sun, pollution, HEV (Blue) Light, and IR.

These hydrating and antioxidant-rich products contain Vitamin E and Botanical extracts, which help to nourish the skin. The formulas are free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, animal testing, talc, dyes, mineral oils, drying alcohols, and chemical sunscreen. This makes it a safe and effective solution for those with sensitive skin.

Overall, the Even Up All-in-One Regimen is an excellent choice for those who want to address their hyperpigmentation concerns. With its unique blend of effective ingredients and protection against environmental stressors, it helps to improve the skin's texture, tone, and overall appearance.

Pros

  • Immediately color-corrects and protects the skin with all-mineral SPF 50
  • Brightens the skin and blurs stubborn brown spots, dark spots, and age spots
  • Treats and prevents hyperpigmentation long-term
  • Provides defense against sun, pollution, HEV (Blue) Light, and IR
  • Hydrating and antioxidant-rich formulas contain Vitamin E and Botanical extracts
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, animal testing, talc, dyes, mineral oils, drying alcohols, and chemical sunscreen

4. Shine-Free Primer With Wrinkle Hiding Power

Prepare your face for the perfect makeup application with this matte primer. It is designed to be used after your skincare routine and before applying makeup, ensuring that your look stays in place all day. The primer delivers an instant smoothing effect, leaving your skin looking flawless and ready for makeup.

Lock in your makeup with the power of this makeup primer. The matte finish protects your makeup throughout the day from oiliness and creasing, keeping your look fresh and flawless.

In addition to evening out your skin tone, this formula also enlivens your skin's appearance and balances your complexion. As a pore minimizer primer, it's perfect for layering under makeup, providing extra protection against creasing.

This face primer is suitable for all skin types. The well-balanced matte makeup base is weightless, non-greasy, and long-wearing, ensuring you won't need constant touch-ups throughout the day.

Crafted with high-quality ingredients such as pearl powder, this premium matte foundation primer is paraben-free, cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny approved.

Pros

  • Instant smoothing effect
  • Protects makeup from oiliness and creasing
  • Enlivens skin's appearance and balances complexion
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny approved

5. Tula Blur & Moist Primer For Flawless Skin.

TULA & PROBIOTIC EXTRACTS Instant Facial Skin Filter is a skin-perfecting serum that combines powerful probiotic extracts and skin superfoods to provide healthy, balanced, and glowing skin. This innovative product is clean, clinically proven, and effective, with no live cultures. It instantly smooths the look of uneven skin tone and hydrates for a glowy, 'filter' like finish. The probiotic extracts help balance the skin, while licorice helps even the look of skin tone over time. This non-tinted formula has golden, light-infused pigments that give the skin a glowy, 'filter' like reflective quality, making it ideal for all skin types, including oily, combination, mature, sensitive, dry, normal, and blemish-prone skin. TULA offers a worry-free return policy with their 30-day return policy. They stand behind their products and want their customers to love them as much as they do.

Pros

  • Instantly smooths the look of uneven skin tone and hydrates for a glowy, 'filter' like finish.
  • Probiotic extracts help balance the skin, while licorice helps even the look of skin tone over time.
  • Non-tinted formula with golden, light-infused pigments that give skin a glowy, 'filter' like reflective quality.
  • Suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, mature, sensitive, dry, normal, and blemish-prone skin.
  • Offers a worry-free return policy with their 30-day return policy.
  • Clean, clinically proven, and effective, with no live cultures.

6. Acne-Safe Sun Protection For Delicate Skin.

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 face sunscreen is the perfect solution for those with sensitive skin types that are prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. This oil-free sunscreen is formulated with 9.0% Zinc Oxide and Niacinamide, along with an antioxidant, which promotes healthy skin while blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. The broad-spectrum SPF 46 coverage ensures protection from the sun, making it an ideal daily face sunscreen for everyday skin care needs.

This Zinc Oxide sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists as it is non-greasy, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic. It is also an essential acne sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin care concerns. Applying this face sunscreen for sensitive skin daily helps to soothe the skin and protect against breakouts.

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 face sunscreen is a must-have in every skincare routine, as it provides comprehensive protection against the sun's harmful rays while promoting healthy skin. The non-greasy formula ensures that it does not clog pores or feel heavy on the skin. It is perfect for daily use and is compatible with all skin types.

Pros

  • Contains 9.0% Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, and an antioxidant which promotes healthy skin while blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun
  • Broad-spectrum SPF 46 coverage ensures protection from the sun's harmful rays
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin types
  • Non-greasy formula ensures that it does not clog pores or feel heavy on the skin

7. Zinc Sheer Tint Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen is a perfect daily solution for individuals with sensitive skin types that are prone to rosacea, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Its non-sealed formula contains 9.0% Zinc Oxide and other essential ingredients that are gentle on the skin while protecting it from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The broad-spectrum SPF 46 coverage ensures that you get maximum protection from the sun's harmful rays.

This oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists and is perfect for daily use. Its lightweight and tinted formula ensures that it seamlessly blends with your skin tone, giving you a natural and flawless look. The 1.7 oz travel size makes it easy to carry wherever you go, so you can always stay protected from the sun.

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Tinted Face Sunscreen is a noncomedogenic solution that promotes healthy skin. Its key ingredients help soothe sensitive skin and keep it hydrated, preventing dryness and irritation. It is an excellent solution for individuals who want to protect their skin from the sun without compromising on their skincare needs.

Pros

  • Contains 9.0% Zinc Oxide and other essential ingredients that are gentle on the skin while protecting it from harmful UVA and UVB rays
  • Broad-spectrum SPF 46 coverage ensures that you get maximum protection from the sun's harmful rays
  • Oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists and is perfect for daily use
  • Lightweight and tinted formula ensures that it seamlessly blends with your skin tone, giving you a natural and flawless look
  • Noncomedogenic solution that promotes healthy skin

8. Perfectly Balanced Pore Reducing Toner

Achieve a youthful and radiant complexion with the Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner from Paula's Choice. This toner helps minimize the appearance of pores, reduce blackheads, and fight the signs of aging, resulting in smooth and clear skin. It is a great addition to your daily skincare routine, whether in the morning or at night.

Formulated with antioxidants and hydrating ceramides, this toner helps balance and refine oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. It targets the oily areas, making them less noticeable, and evens out the skin tone. Use it after your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser to remove the last traces of makeup, clear pores, and renew skin before moisturizing.

Paula's Choice products are designed with every skin type and concern in mind. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, aging, acne or blemish-prone, sensitive, or dull skin, they have a skincare solution for you. Say goodbye to your skincare woes with Paula's Choice Skincare products that work. Their science-backed formulas do not contain any fragrance, parabens, or fluff. Just effective solutions for all your skincare needs.

Pros

  • Minimizes the appearance of pores for a smooth and clear complexion
  • Reduces blackheads and fights the signs of aging
  • Formulated with antioxidants and hydrating ceramides to balance and refine oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin
  • Effective in removing the last traces of makeup and clearing pores before moisturizing
  • Free of fragrance, parabens, and fluff

9. Gentle Clear Skin Moisturizer

The Shine-Free Hydration with .5% Salicylic Acid is an excellent addition to the skincare routine for those with sensitive skin. Not only does it hydrate the skin without leaving any greasy residue, but it also clears and prevents breakouts while improving the skin's tone and texture. The botanical and prebiotic complex in the formula helps to nourish the skin and soothe any redness caused by acne. This product is dermatologist recommended, making it a trustworthy choice for those with sensitive skin. The product is also formulated to defend against five signs of skin sensitivity, including a weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness, and dryness. The travel size toiletries make it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip.

Pros

  • Hydrates the skin without leaving any greasy residue
  • Clears and prevents breakouts while improving the skin's tone and texture
  • Botanical and prebiotic complex helps to nourish the skin and soothe any redness caused by acne
  • Defends against five signs of skin sensitivity
  • Dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin
  • Travel size toiletries make it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip

10. Effaclar Acne Treatment System: 3 Steps, 2 Months.

The Acne Kit with Effaclar Duo, recommended by dermatologists, is the perfect solution for those struggling with acne. This kit is formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients, such as Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), to reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. It is an oil-free formula that targets the major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists.

The Effaclar Duo in this kit is the only one of its kind and is highly recommended by dermatologists. It reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days with visible results starting day 1. This amazing kit has won Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment 3 times.

The Acne Kit contains an acne wash/cleanser, an acne facial toner, and an acne spot treatment cream. Use these products together as part of your daily skincare routine and get ready to say goodbye to acne for good.

Pros

  • Reduces up to 60% of acne in just 10 days
  • Visible results starting day 1
  • Formulated with dermatological acne treatment ingredients
  • Oil-free formula
  • Targets major causes of acne as observed by dermatologists
  • Effaclar Duo recommended by dermatologists
  • 3-time winner of Allure’s Best of Beauty Award for Best Acne Treatment

Best Primers For Oily Acne Prone Skin FAQs

Are there any particular brands or products that are highly recommended for oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes, there are several brands and products that are highly recommended for oily, acne-prone skin. One such brand is La Roche-Posay, which has a range of products specifically designed for oily and acne-prone skin. Their Effaclar line includes cleansers, toners, and moisturizers that help to control oil production, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of blemishes.

Another popular brand for oily, acne-prone skin is Neutrogena, which has a range of products that contain salicylic acid, a key ingredient in fighting acne. Their Oil-Free Acne Wash and Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser are both highly recommended for those with oily, acne-prone skin.

In addition to these brands, there are several other products that are highly recommended for oily, acne-prone skin. These include benzoyl peroxide, which is effective at reducing the bacteria that cause acne, and retinoids, which help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

Ultimately, the best products for oily, acne-prone skin will depend on your specific skin type and the severity of your acne. It's important to talk to a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

Can using a primer help control oil production and prevent breakouts?

Yes, using a primer can help control oil production and prevent breakouts. Primers are designed to create a smooth base for makeup application and also provide an added layer of protection for the skin. They contain ingredients that help regulate oil production, absorb excess sebum and prevent clogged pores, which can lead to breakouts.

There are primers specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin types that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or zinc, which are known to be effective in controlling oil production and preventing breakouts. These primers also help to mattify the skin, giving a shine-free finish that lasts throughout the day.

It is important to choose a primer that is compatible with your skin type and to apply it correctly to get the best results. It is also essential to follow a proper skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and using products that are suited to your skin type to maintain healthy, clear skin.

How do you apply primer to oily skin without exacerbating acne or clogging pores?

When it comes to applying primer to oily skin, the key is to find a product that is specifically designed for your skin type. Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic primers as they won't clog your pores or exacerbate acne.

Before applying the primer, make sure your skin is clean and moisturized. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate your skin without adding excess oil.

When applying the primer, use a small amount and focus on areas where you tend to get oily, such as the T-zone. Use a gentle patting motion to apply the primer, rather than rubbing it in, as this can irritate the skin and cause breakouts.

If you have particularly stubborn acne, consider using a primer with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as these ingredients can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

Remember to always remove your makeup and wash your face before going to bed to prevent further breakouts. With the right primer and skincare routine, you can keep your oily skin under control without exacerbating acne or clogging pores.

Is it important to choose a primer that also offers SPF protection for oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes, it is important to choose a primer that offers SPF protection for oily, acne-prone skin. The reason for this is that oily and acne-prone skin is more susceptible to damage from the sun's harmful UV rays. Exposure to these rays can lead to further skin damage, discoloration, and premature aging. Therefore, by using a primer that also offers SPF protection, you are not only creating a smooth base for your makeup, but you are also protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. It is recommended to choose a primer with at least SPF 30 and one that is oil-free to prevent clogging pores and exacerbating acne. Additionally, it is important to reapply the primer with SPF every two hours if you are in direct sun exposure. So, choosing a primer with SPF protection is a great way to protect your skin, prevent further damage, and ensure that your makeup lasts longer throughout the day.

What are the best ingredients to look for in a primer for oily, acne-prone skin?

When it comes to oily, acne-prone skin, finding the right primer can be a game-changer. A good primer not only helps to control oil production, but also provides a smooth base for makeup application. So, what ingredients should you look for in a primer for oily, acne-prone skin?

Firstly, look for a primer that contains salicylic acid. This ingredient is a great choice for those with acne-prone skin, as it helps to unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm redness and irritation.

Another key ingredient to look for is silicone. Silicone-based primers help to create a smooth, even surface on the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines. They also help to control shine and keep makeup in place for longer.

Lastly, consider a primer that contains mattifying agents like kaolin clay or silica. These ingredients help to absorb excess oil and keep your skin looking matte throughout the day.

Overall, look for a primer that is oil-free, lightweight, and non-comedogenic to avoid any further breakouts. With the right ingredients, a good primer can help to control oil production and keep your makeup looking flawless all day long.

Leave a Comment