Oily skin needs a primer that controls shine without choking the skin, smooths the look of pores, and helps foundation grip so it does not break up by lunch. The sweet spot is a lightweight film that soaks up surface oil and adds soft blur, not a heavy wax that pills under makeup. Apply thin layers, set only where you crease, and keep hydrators underneath so oil glands do not overreact.
Below are three standouts that cover most needs: a true mattifier for hot or humid days, a balanced blurring lotion that keeps makeup camera-ready, and a budget “grip” gel with niacinamide for long wear. Each review explains who it suits, who should skip, and how to apply for the best results.
Quick Picks
- Best mattifying: Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Primer
T-zone shine control with soft blur that holds in heat and humidity. Rating: 4.7/5 - Best blurring, all-round: Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer (SPF 15 bonus)
Lightweight blur with reliable longevity that does not feel chalky. Rating: 4.6/5 - Best budget grip: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide
Jelly tack that locks base in place and calms the look of redness. Rating: 4.5/5
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Deep Dives
1) Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Primer — Best mattifying
Why it stands out: Built for oily and combo T-zones. The gel-cream texture lays a thin, breathable film that soaks up surface shine and keeps oils from breaking through for hours. Owners call out fewer touch-ups and better grip in humid weather.
Finish & feel: Matte-natural with soft blur; not powdery or chalky.
Who it’s for: Oily or combo skin, summer routines, long days or events.
Who should skip: Very dry cheeks or flaking—keep this for the T-zone only.
How to use for best results
- Moisturise lightly, let it settle 2 minutes.
- Rice-grain amount on forehead, nose, chin, press not rub.
- Foundation next; set center of face with micro-fine powder.
Tip: Layer a hydrating primer on the outer cheeks if they run normal/dry.
Pros
- Strong oil control without a heavy feel
- Soft blur for enlarged pores
- Reliable under liquid and powder bases
Cons
- Can highlight flakes if skin is dehydrated
- Price is premium
Rating: 4.7/5
2) Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer — Best blurring, all-round
Why it stands out: Elegant lotion that smooths texture and reduces transfer while staying lightweight. The satin finish reads polished rather than flat, and a bonus SPF 15 is handy for quick daytime errands (still wear proper sunscreen).
Finish & feel: Satin-natural; flexible film that helps makeup glide.
Who it’s for: Combo-oily who want blur and longevity without a flat matte.
Who should skip: Strict silicone-free routines, or those wanting max mattifying in peak summer.
How to use
- One small pump, center-out.
- Wait 30 seconds, then apply foundation with a damp sponge.
- Set only where you crease; add a touch of mattifier just on the nose if needed.
Pros
- Classy soft-focus blur
- Extends wear without dryness
- Plays well with most foundations
Cons
- Premium price
- SPF is a bonus, not a full sunscreen step
Rating: 4.6/5
3) e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide — Best budget grip
Why it stands out: Jelly tack that anchors makeup so it does not slide, with niacinamide to support a smoother look over time. Fragrance-free and widely tolerated.
Finish & feel: Starts dewy, sets to a tacky hold; reads natural under base.
Who it’s for: Oily or combo skin that needs longevity more than heavy mattifying.
Who should skip: If you want instant pore blur, layer a tiny pore balm just on the nose or choose Smashbox.
How to use
- Thin layer, wait 40–60 seconds until tacky.
- Press foundation on (do not drag) for maximum hold.
- Lightly set center; too much powder reduces grip.
Pros
- Strong hold at a great price
- Fragrance-free, niacinamide boost
- Works under many SPFs and bases
Cons
- Can feel sticky if over-applied
- Minimal pore blur on its own
Rating: 4.5/5
How to choose
- Max shine control, hot weather: Smashbox Control Mattifying.
- Balanced blur + longevity for daily wear: Hourglass Veil Mineral.
- Tight budget or need bulletproof hold: e.l.f. Power Grip + Niacinamide.
Application checklist for oily skin
- Keep layers thin. Let moisturiser and primer set before base.
- Apply primer only where needed (usually T-zone).
- Use a damp sponge to press foundation on; set with micro-fine powder in the centre only.
- Finish with a setting spray; blot once midday if needed, powder after blotting.
FAQs
Will a mattifying primer clog pores?
Primers use film-formers (often silicones) that are generally non-comedogenic. The bigger risk is not removing makeup fully—double cleanse on heavy days.
Where exactly should I apply primer on oily skin?
Just the T-zone: centre of the forehead, around the nose, and chin. Use a hydrating primer or none at all on the outer cheeks.
Can I layer a grip primer over a pore blurring primer?
Yes—keep layers thin. Pore balm on the nose first, grip primer lightly over the rest, let set, then base.
Do I still need powder if I use a mattifying primer?
Usually yes, but only in the centre. Over-powdering makes separation more obvious.
Best foundation finish for oily skin?
Natural to soft-matte works best. Pair with oil-resistant formulas and a setting spray for transfer control.
See also
If you’re also breakout-prone, see our roundup of primers for acne-prone, shine-prone skin and pair them with a foundation that actually stays put on oily skin.