Best Primers for Acne Prone Skin
Looking for the ultimate primer that won’t aggravate your acne-prone skin?
Navigating the vast world of cosmetics to find products that offer the perfect balance of skin benefits without clogging your pores can be overwhelming. Primers, essential for creating a flawless makeup base, come in various formulas, but not all are suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin types.
Well, we’ll be going over:
- What makes a primer suitable for acne-prone skin?
- How can certain ingredients in primers benefit acne-prone skin?
- What should you look for in a primer to ensure it doesn’t contribute to further breakouts?
Let’s dive in.
Best Primers for Acne Prone Skin
If you have acne-prone skin, finding a primer that works for you can feel like a daunting task. But fear not, we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best primers for acne-prone skin.
These primers are specially formulated to provide a smooth base for your makeup while also helping to control oil and prevent breakouts. So whether you’re dealing with occasional blemishes or chronic acne, these primers will help you achieve a flawless complexion.
e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer
If you are looking for a primer that helps prevent future breakouts, e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer could be a great option for you.
Pros
- Infused with 1.8% Salicylic Acid, Zinc, and Kaolin to draw out imperfections, minimize the appearance of pores, calm irritated skin, reduce redness, control oil, and prevent future breakouts.
- Great for acne-prone, combination, and oily skin.
- The putty’s unique, velvety formula applies clear, and smooths over imperfections, gripping your makeup for all-day wear or giving you an even, clear bare-faced natural finish.
Cons
- Some users have reported that it settles into their pores and creases.
- The color may not match all skin tones.
- It may not work well for those with dry skin.
e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer is a great product for those with acne-prone skin. Its unique formula helps prevent future breakouts while smoothing over pores and imperfections for a flawless and even complexion.
The putty’s velvety texture applies clear and smooths over imperfections, gripping your makeup for all-day wear or giving you an even, clear bare-faced natural finish.
One of the best things about this primer is that it is infused with 1.8% Salicylic Acid, Zinc, and Kaolin.
These ingredients help draw out imperfections, minimize the appearance of pores, calm irritated skin, reduce redness, control oil, and prevent future breakouts. It is also great for acne-prone, combination, and oily skin.
However, some users have reported that it settles into their pores and creases. Additionally, the color may not match all skin tones, and it may not work well for those with dry skin.
Overall, if you have acne-prone skin and are in need of a primer that will help prevent future breakouts, e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer is definitely worth considering.
Topicals Sealed Active Scar Filling Primer for Acne Prone Skin
If you are looking for a primer that fills in acne scars and helps improve overall skin texture, Topicals Sealed Active Scar Filling Primer is a great option for you.
Pros
- Smoothens and fills in acne scars
- Restores and refines skin texture
- Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not work for deep icepick scars
- Foundation and concealer may cling to the primer
- May not work as well for dry skin
Topicals Sealed Active Scar Filling Primer uses Medical-Grade Silicone, Biomimetic Peptide, and Retinol to help restore and smooth skin, improve scarring, and boost cellular turnover.
The primer can be used with or without makeup, and it is recommended to wait 30 seconds before applying makeup or follow with moisturizer and sunscreen for makeup-free days.
With consistent use, Sealed promotes skin recovery and refines texture for long-lasting improvements in scar appearance.
All Topicals products use ingredients and herbs that have been scientifically proven by clinical studies and formulated in partnership with their scientific advisory board. Topicals products are always free from dyes and animal testing.
Overall, if you are looking for a primer that helps fill in acne scars and improve skin texture, Topicals Sealed Active Scar Filling Primer is a great option to try out.
PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer
If you’re looking for a primer that helps clarify blemish-prone skin, PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer might be worth considering.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Helps reduce redness
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- May not work for all skin types
- Some reviewers found it to be just okay
- A bit pricey compared to other primers
This primer has a lightweight formula that won’t feel heavy on your skin. It also contains ingredients that can help reduce redness, which is a plus if you have acne-prone skin. Additionally, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it.
However, some reviewers found that it didn’t work well for their skin type, so it may not be the best fit for everyone. It’s also a bit pricier than some other primers on the market, so keep that in mind if you’re on a tight budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that can help with redness and blemishes, PÜR 4-in-1 Correcting Primer might be worth trying. Just keep in mind that it may not work for all skin types.
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide
If you’re looking for a primer that not only grips your makeup for long-lasting wear but also brightens and evens out your skin tone, then the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide might be the perfect product for you.
Pros
- Infused with skin-loving niacinamide to help even out skin tone while giving makeup lasting power
- Smooths and brightens the look of dullness while creating a dewy, glowing finish
- Ideal for all skin tones, goes on completely clear
Cons
- Sticky texture might make it difficult to spread, so quick application is necessary
- Might not be suitable for those with very oily skin
- Some users reported that it didn’t work well with certain foundations
This gel-based primer preps and primes your complexion for makeup application while smoothing and brightening the look of dullness. Its sticky texture grips makeup for long-lasting wear, and the niacinamide helps even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.
To use, apply the primer evenly to your face before makeup using your fingertips to pat into the skin. The warmth of your fingers will help the product melt into the skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup.
All e.l.f. products are made from skin-loving ingredients you want, minus the toxins you don’t—all at good-for-you prices. The Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide is 100% cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great choice for those who prefer ethical and sustainable beauty products.
Overall, if you’re looking for a primer that not only grips your makeup but also brightens and evens out your skin tone, then the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide might be a great choice for you.
Ruby Kisses Blemish Control Primer
If you’re looking for a primer that can help control shine and reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores, then the Ruby Kisses Blemish Control Primer may be worth considering.
Pros
- The lightweight formula can be worn under or over makeup for a smooth canvas.
- Helps increase your foundation’s hold, making your makeup last longer.
- Balances the skin’s texture and tone for a smoother, subtle-looking skin.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the product can be drying.
- May not work for all skin types.
- The tube is smaller than it appears.
This primer has a silky, lightweight formula that’s easy to apply and can be worn under or over makeup. It helps increase your foundation’s hold and reduce the appearance of fine lines and large pores. The Blemish Sweep feature helps balance the skin’s texture and tone for a smoother, subtle-looking skin.
One of the main benefits of this primer is that it’s oil-free, making it a good choice for those with oily-prone skin. However, some users have reported that the product can be drying, so it may not be the best choice for those with dry skin.
Overall, the Ruby Kisses Blemish Control Primer is a good option for those looking for a primer that can help control shine and reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores. While it may not work for all skin types, it’s worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable primer that can help your makeup last longer.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a primer for acne-prone skin, there are certain features you should look for to ensure that the product will be effective and gentle on your skin. Here are some factors to consider:
Ingredients
Look for primers that contain non-comedogenic ingredients, which means they won’t clog your pores. Avoid products that contain heavy oils or fragrances, as these can irritate your skin and cause breakouts.
Instead, opt for primers that contain ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, which can help hydrate your skin and reduce inflammation.
Texture
Choose a primer with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that won’t feel heavy on your skin or exacerbate your acne. A water-based primer is a good option, as it won’t add any additional oil to your skin.
Coverage
If you have acne scars or discoloration, look for a primer that provides some coverage. However, be careful not to choose a product that is too heavy, as this can clog your pores and make your acne worse. A light to medium coverage primer is usually sufficient.
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun is important, especially if you’re using acne medication that makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays. Look for a primer that contains SPF to help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Price
Primers for acne-prone skin can range in price from a few dollars to over $50. While expensive products may contain high-quality ingredients, there are plenty of affordable options that work just as well. Consider your budget and choose a primer that fits within your price range.
By considering these factors, you can choose a primer that will help keep your acne at bay without irritating your skin.