My forehead could signal ships by noon. Blotting papers were a wallet staple.
The real issue? Foundation would just slide off my nose — a literal grease slick by 2 PM.
It’s a $10 putty primer from e.l.f.. I tried it because TikTok swore it was better than the $50 ones.
Smooth-Over Pores
It fills them in like spackle — but for your face.
Mattifies
Claims to control oil for 8 hours. Skeptical.
Grips Makeup
Supposedly creates a velvety base so foundation sticks.
Photo: Siora Photography / Unsplash
It’s basically skincare-makeup hybrid. Squalane for lightweight hydration, Kaolin Clay to sop up oil. No silicones, which is weird for a primer.
- Squalane: Hydrates without adding grease
- Kaolin Clay: Absorbs surface oil fast
- Vitamin E: A basic antioxidant
- Glycerin: Pulls a bit of moisture to the skin
Photo: Nick Noel / Unsplash
Waxy to the touch — warms up instantly on your fingers. Blends out to a soft, velvety film. Not sticky at all.
After two weeks, I noticed my T-zone wasn’t an oil refinery at 11 AM. But you MUST use the right amount — a pea-sized dab for the whole face. More is not better.
Photo: deanna alys / Unsplash
My shine was delayed by 4 solid hours. Foundation didn’t separate on my nose. Did I look matte at 8 PM? No. But I didn’t need to blot until after lunch. A win.
Photo: Sonia Roselli / Unsplash
It’s not magic, but it’s the best budget primer I’ve tried for oil control. I’ve already bought a backup.