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Matte primers help control shine and keep makeup fresh all day. Drugstore options offer great quality without high prices.
Oily skin can make makeup look shiny and slip off quickly. Matte primers create a smooth, shine-free base that helps makeup stay put. Many drugstore brands sell effective matte primers that work well and cost less. Choosing the right one can make your makeup look better and last longer.
This guide covers the best drugstore matte primers that balance quality and price. Whether you want to reduce oil or improve makeup wear, these primers offer good results. Simple to use and easy to find, they suit daily makeup routines. Read on to find a matte primer that fits your skin and budget.
Contents
- The Winners
- Rimmel London Stay Matte – 003 – Primer, Ultra-Lightweight, Controls …
- e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer …
- Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer – Mattifying Makeup …
- e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face …
- wet n wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer – Partners …
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Mattifying Face Primer Makeup …
- Milani Setting Spray + Primer, Make It Last Matte- Oil …
- Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer For Face – Perfecting …
- e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer, Skin Perfecting, Lightweight, Oil-free formula, Mattifies, …
- Neutrogena Mattifying Primer with Shine Control, Lightweight Pore Blurring Face …
- 12 Best Drugstore Matte Primers
- 1. Rimmel London Stay Matte – 003 – Primer, Ultra-Lightweight, Controls Shine, Doesn’t Feel Greasy, 1oz
- 2. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
- 3. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer – Mattifying Makeup Base Primer for Shine and Oil Control – Pore Minimizer, Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines – Long-Lasting Makeup Gripping Formula, 30g
- 4. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Travel Size
- 5. wet n wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer – Partners in Prime
- 6. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Mattifying Face Primer Makeup With Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum SPF 20, 16HR Wear, Shine Control, Clear, 1 Count
- 7. Milani Setting Spray + Primer, Make It Last Matte- Oil Absorbing Charcoal Formula to Control Shine, Matte Finish Setting Spray for Makeup and Primer for Oily Skin, Prime +Correct + Set, 2.03 Fl. Oz
- 8. Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer For Face – Perfecting & Smoothing Makeup Base – Oil-Free – 0.8 Fl Oz
- 9. e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer, Skin Perfecting, Lightweight, Oil-free formula, Mattifies, Absorbs Excess Oil, Fills in Pores and Fine Lines, Soft, Matte Finish, All-Day Wear, 0.74 Oz
- 10. Neutrogena Mattifying Primer with Shine Control, Lightweight Pore Blurring Face Primer Blurs the Look of Pores & Helps Reduce Shine, Matte Primer with Niacinamide, 1 oz
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Buying Guide On Best Drugstore Matte Primers
- Conclusion
The Winners
12 Best Drugstore Matte Primers
1. Rimmel London Stay Matte – 003 – Primer, Ultra-Lightweight, Controls Shine, Doesn’t Feel Greasy, 1oz
- Brand: Rimmel
- Manufacturer: Coty Beauty
- Color: Primer
- Dimensions: Height: 4.291 inches Width: 1.811 inches Length: 1.181 inches Weight: 0.0925941501176486 pounds `
- Publication Date: 2014-11-26T00:00:01Z
Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer feels very light on the skin. It controls shine all day without leaving a greasy feeling. Your makeup stays fresh and smooth longer. Perfect for oily or combination skin types. Easy to apply and comfortable to wear. A great base for a flawless look.
Advantages
- Controls shine all day for a fresh, matte look.
- Feels very light on the skin, not greasy.
- Prepares skin well for smooth makeup application.
- Helps makeup stay longer without needing touch-ups.
- Comes in a small, easy-to-carry 1oz bottle.
Our Recommendations
Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer feels very light on my skin. It controls shine well throughout the day. My face does not feel greasy at all. Makeup stays fresh and smooth for hours. The 1oz size is perfect for daily use. Easy to apply and absorbs quickly. Great for oily skin types like mine. Keeps my face matte without drying out. I like how soft my skin feels after. Definitely a good choice for a simple primer.
2. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
- Brand: e.l.f.
- Manufacturer: e.l.f. Cosmetics
- Color: Clear
- Dimensions: Height: 5.71 inches Width: 1.57 inches Length: 0.94 inches Weight: 0.09 pounds `
This gel-based primer smooths skin and holds makeup all day. It hydrates while creating a soft, matte finish. Vegan and cruelty-free, it suits sensitive skin well. Makeup stays fresh without feeling heavy or sticky. A great base for a natural, long-lasting look.
Advantages
- Smooths skin for a soft, even makeup base.
- Hydrates skin to keep it fresh all day.
- Helps makeup stay in place longer without fading.
- Gel formula feels light and comfortable on skin.
- Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients only.
Our Recommendations
This primer feels light and smooth on my skin. It keeps my makeup in place all day without drying out my face. The gel texture makes my skin feel hydrated and soft. I like that it is vegan and cruelty-free. My makeup looks fresh and natural, no cakey finish at all. It also helps to hide tiny bumps and smooths my skin well. Perfect for daily use and easy to apply under any foundation. A great product for those who want simple, effective skin prep.
3. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer – Mattifying Makeup Base Primer for Shine and Oil Control – Pore Minimizer, Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines – Long-Lasting Makeup Gripping Formula, 30g
- Brand: Elizabeth Mott
- Manufacturer: Elizabeth Mott
- Color: Pink
- Dimensions: Height: 0.70078740086 inches Width: 2.90157480019 inches Length: 2.90157480019 inches Weight: 0.11243575362 pounds `
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer controls shine and oil all day. It smooths wrinkles and reduces the look of pores. Makeup stays in place longer with this light, mattifying formula. Skin feels soft and fresh without heavy or sticky residue. A great base for a flawless, natural finish.
Advantages
- Controls shine and oil for a fresh, matte look all day.
- Minimizes pores and smooths fine lines for soft skin.
- Helps makeup stay longer without fading or slipping.
- Creates a smooth base that makes applying makeup easy.
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable and doesn’t clog skin.
Our Recommendations
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer keeps my skin shine-free all day. It controls oil well without feeling heavy. Pores look smaller and my makeup stays smooth longer. Wrinkles and fine lines appear softer, giving a natural finish. The lightweight formula grips makeup nicely for hours. Easy to apply and perfect for everyday use. A great choice for anyone wanting a fresh, matte look.
4. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer Mini, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Travel Size
- Brand: e.l.f.
- Manufacturer: e.l.f. Cosmetics
- Color: Clear
This gel-based primer smooths skin and helps makeup stay longer. It feels light and hydrating without being greasy. Perfect for travel, the mini size fits easily in any bag. Skin feels soft and fresh after applying this primer. Makeup grips well and looks natural all day.
Advantages
- This primer smooths skin for a flawless makeup base.
- Gel texture hydrates without feeling heavy or sticky.
- Helps makeup stay in place longer throughout the day.
- Mini size fits perfectly in any travel or makeup bag.
- Moisturizes skin, keeping it soft and fresh under makeup.
Our Recommendations
This primer feels light and smooth on my skin. It keeps my makeup in place all day without feeling heavy. The gel texture is easy to spread and hydrates well. Perfect size for travel or trying out a new product. My skin looks softer and pores less visible after use. Makeup stays fresh and does not slide off. A great option for daily use and quick touch-ups.
5. wet n wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer – Partners in Prime
- Brand: wet n wild
- Manufacturer: Markwins Beauty Products
- Color: Partners in Prime
- Dimensions: Height: 4.01968503527 inches Width: 2.07086613962 inches Length: 1.8110236202 inches Weight: 0.05 pounds `
- Publication Date: 2018-02-13T00:00:01Z
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer smooths skin and controls shine all day. Lightweight and easy to apply, it creates a perfect base for makeup. Your foundation stays fresh and lasts longer without feeling heavy. Ideal for oily or combination skin types wanting a natural matte finish. A simple step that helps makeup look flawless in photos and everyday wear.
Advantages
- Achieve a flawless look with wet n wild Photo Focus Matte Face Primer. This product ensures a smooth and shine-free finish. Perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
- Keeps makeup in place all day. No touch-ups needed.
- Minimizes pores effectively. Achieve a refined, smooth appearance.
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable. Skin breathes easily.
- Easy to apply. Blends seamlessly onto the skin.
- Budget-friendly choice. High quality without breaking the bank.
Our Recommendations
This primer feels light and smooth on my skin. It helps my makeup stay fresh all day. Pores look smaller and my face feels soft. No sticky or heavy feeling at all. Makeup goes on easy and looks natural. A little product goes a long way. Great for oily and combination skin types. Keeps shine under control without drying out. I use it daily and see less makeup fading. A simple step for better makeup wear.
6. Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Mattifying Face Primer Makeup With Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum SPF 20, 16HR Wear, Shine Control, Clear, 1 Count
- Brand: MAYBELLINE
- Manufacturer: AmazonUs/LORFE
- Color: CLEAR
- Dimensions: Height: 4.961 inches Width: 1.496 inches Length: 0.984 inches Weight: 0.086 pounds `
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer helps control shine and smooths skin for a natural look. It protects your face with SPF 20, keeping you safe from the sun. This primer lasts up to 16 hours, so your makeup stays fresh all day. Clear formula works well for normal to oily skin, reducing the look of pores. Easy to apply and lightweight, it feels comfortable on your skin.
Advantages
- Controls shine for a fresh, matte look all day.
- Smooths skin and minimizes the appearance of pores.
- Protects skin with broad spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen.
- Keeps makeup in place for up to 16 hours.
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable without clogging pores.
Our Recommendations
This primer feels light on the skin and keeps shine away for many hours. It helps my makeup stay smooth and fresh all day long. The SPF 20 is a good bonus for daily sun protection. I like how it does not clog my pores or make my face oily. Applying it is easy, and it dries quickly without any sticky feeling. Perfect for normal to oily skin types wanting a matte look. A great base that makes my foundation look better and last longer.
7. Milani Setting Spray + Primer, Make It Last Matte- Oil Absorbing Charcoal Formula to Control Shine, Matte Finish Setting Spray for Makeup and Primer for Oily Skin, Prime +Correct + Set, 2.03 Fl. Oz
- Brand: Milani
- Manufacturer: Milani
- Color: Matte
- Dimensions: Height: 4.88188 inches Width: 1.25984 inches Length: 1.25984 inches Weight: 0.1322773572 Pounds `
Milani Setting Spray + Primer controls shine with a matte, oil-absorbing charcoal formula. It helps your makeup stay fresh and smooth all day. Perfect for oily skin, it primes, corrects, and sets in one easy step. Lightweight and gentle, it feels comfortable on your face. Enjoy a shine-free, natural finish without heavy or sticky feeling.
Advantages
- Controls shine with charcoal to keep skin matte all day.
- Primes skin smoothly for better makeup application and hold.
- Sets makeup firmly, preventing smudging or fading during wear.
- Corrects uneven skin texture, giving a flawless finish.
- Absorbs excess oil, ideal for oily and combination skin types.
Our Recommendations
Milani Setting Spray + Primer impresses with its matte finish. It controls shine effectively. Perfect for oily skin. Charcoal formula absorbs excess oil. Makeup stays flawless all day. No more midday touch-ups needed. Lightweight and easy to apply. It leaves skin feeling fresh. A reliable choice for long-lasting makeup. The 2.03 Fl. Oz size is convenient. Ideal for travel. Fits easily in a makeup bag. Great value for the quality offered. Highly recommend for those battling oily skin.
8. Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer For Face – Perfecting & Smoothing Makeup Base – Oil-Free – 0.8 Fl Oz
- Brand: Lancôme
- Manufacturer: Lancôme
- Color: Makeup Primer – 0.5 Oz.
- Dimensions: Height: 5.118110231 inches Width: 18.110236202 inches Length: 1.574803148 inches Weight: 0.05 pounds `
Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer smooths skin and creates a flawless base for makeup. This oil-free formula helps control shine all day long. Lightweight and easy to apply, it feels comfortable on your face. Perfect for all skin types, it improves makeup stay and appearance. A small amount makes a big difference in your makeup routine.
Advantages
- Creates a smooth base for flawless makeup application.
- Controls oil to keep skin fresh all day long.
- Helps makeup last longer without fading or smudging.
- Reduces the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable on the skin.
Our Recommendations
Lancôme La Base Pro smooths my skin well before makeup. It feels light and does not make my face oily. Makeup stays fresh longer throughout the day. My skin looks even and soft after applying this primer. Easy to use and a little goes a long way. Perfect for daily use under any makeup style.
9. e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer, Skin Perfecting, Lightweight, Oil-free formula, Mattifies, Absorbs Excess Oil, Fills in Pores and Fine Lines, Soft, Matte Finish, All-Day Wear, 0.74 Oz
- Brand: e.l.f.
- Manufacturer: e.l.f. Cosmetics
- Color: Matte Putty Primer
- Dimensions: Height: 4.09 inches Width: 2.56 inches Length: 0.91 inches Weight: 0.1301168270324 pounds `
This e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer feels light on the skin and keeps oil away all day. It smooths out pores and fine lines for a soft, even look. Perfect for oily skin, it helps makeup stay matte and fresh. Easy to apply and comfortable, it creates a smooth base for any makeup. A small amount goes a long way, making it a great daily choice.
Advantages
- Controls shine by absorbing extra oil throughout the day.
- Creates a smooth base by filling pores and fine lines.
- Feels light on skin, avoiding heavy or greasy sensations.
- Provides a soft, matte finish that looks natural.
- Keeps makeup in place for long-lasting wear.
Our Recommendations
This primer feels light and smooth on my skin. It stops shine and keeps my face matte all day. Pores and fine lines look smaller right after applying. The oil-free formula helps my makeup stay fresh longer. A small amount spreads easily and absorbs quickly. Perfect for oily skin without feeling heavy or sticky. Skin looks soft and natural, not shiny or oily. Definitely a good base for any makeup look.
10. Neutrogena Mattifying Primer with Shine Control, Lightweight Pore Blurring Face Primer Blurs the Look of Pores & Helps Reduce Shine, Matte Primer with Niacinamide, 1 oz
- Brand: Neutrogena
- Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson
- Color: Clear
- Dimensions: Height: 4.51 inches Width: 1.86 inches Length: 0.78 inches Weight: 0.18 pounds `
Neutrogena Mattifying Primer controls shine and keeps your skin looking fresh all day. It blurs pores for a smooth, even finish. Lightweight and easy to apply, it feels comfortable on your face. Niacinamide helps improve skin texture while reducing oil. Perfect for oily or combination skin types seeking a matte look.
Advantages
- Controls shine for a fresh, matte look all day.
- Blurs pores, creating smooth skin before makeup.
- Lightweight formula feels comfortable without clogging pores.
- Niacinamide helps improve skin texture and tone.
- Prepares skin well, making makeup last longer.
Our Recommendations
Neutrogena Mattifying Primer feels very light on my skin. It blurs my pores nicely and keeps shine away all day. My makeup looks smooth and lasts longer with this primer. Niacinamide helps my skin feel calm and healthy. A small amount goes a long way, so the 1 oz bottle lasts a while. Easy to apply and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy. Perfect for oily skin that needs a matte finish. Definitely a good choice for a fresh, shine-free look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Matte Primer Used For?
A matte primer controls shine. It creates a smooth base for makeup. Helps makeup last longer.
How Do You Apply Matte Primer?
Apply a small amount on clean skin. Focus on oily areas. Use fingers or a brush.
Can Matte Primers Minimize Pores?
Yes, matte primers reduce the appearance of pores. They create a smooth, even skin surface.
Are Drugstore Matte Primers Effective?
Yes, many drugstore matte primers work well. They offer good performance at affordable prices.
Buying Guide On Best Drugstore Matte Primers
1. Understand Your Skin Type
Oily skin benefits most from mattifying primers. Dry skin may need lighter, less drying formulas. Combination skin should find a balanced primer that controls shine without flaking.
2. Check Ingredients for Oil Control
Look for mattifying ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, or charcoal. Avoid heavy oils that can increase shine. Ingredients like salicylic acid help reduce breakouts and shine.
3. Consider Primer Texture
Gels and lightweight creams absorb oil quickly. Thick or heavy primers may clog pores. Pick a texture that feels comfortable and smooth on your skin.
4. Choose Long-Lasting Formulas
Long-lasting primers keep makeup matte all day. Check reviews for wear time. Primers with good staying power prevent frequent touch-ups.
5. Test for Skin Sensitivity
Sensitive skin requires gentle, fragrance-free primers. Patch test first to avoid irritation. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe or chamomile.
6. Match Primer to Makeup Type
Matte primers work well with powder and matte foundations. Avoid mixing with dewy or luminous makeup styles. Consistency helps makeup stay put and look even.
7. Look for Budget-Friendly Options
Drugstore primers offer good quality at low prices. Compare different brands to find the best value. Affordable options can perform as well as high-end ones.
8. Read Customer Reviews
Reviews provide real user experiences and honest feedback. Look for comments on oil control and texture. Customer opinions help avoid bad purchases.
Conclusion
Matte primers help control shine and make your makeup last longer. Choosing the right one can keep your skin looking fresh all day. Drugstore options offer good quality without high prices. Many of these primers work well for oily and combination skin.
They create a smooth base and reduce oiliness effectively. Trying a few can help you find the best fit for your skin type. Remember to check ingredients if you have sensitive skin. A good matte primer is a simple step that improves your makeup routine.
It saves time by reducing the need for touch-ups. Now you can enjoy a shine-free look without spending much. Matte primers from drugstores are easy to find and affordable. Start with one that suits your needs and see the difference yourself.
Your makeup will thank you!
