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10 Best Elf Primer 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer, Makeup Primer For Flawless, Smooth Skin & Long-Lasting Makeup, Fills In Pores & Fine Lines, Vegan & Cruelty-free, Large

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,479
Skin Type Compatibility
Finish
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
40700 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Does not leave the skin feeling greasy or oily, making it suitable for a variety of skin types.
Finish
Glides on smoothly, creating a perfect base for foundation, even for those who have never used a primer before.
Pore Minimizing
Hydrates the skin effectively, making foundation look amazing and reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines.

The e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is designed to create a smooth base for long-lasting makeup application. It is infused with grape and vitamins A, C, & E, which help in hydrating the skin and boosting complexion. This primer is suitable for various skin types, including acne-prone, combination, and oily skin, making it versatile. It promises a full coverage finish, ideal for those looking to smooth out pores and fine lines.

Additionally, it pairs well with other e.l.f. products like the Flawless Finish Foundation or Camo Concealer for an all-day satin finish. The product is vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical beauty standards. However, the primer does not offer specific benefits like color correcting or SPF protection, which might be a downside for those specifically looking for these features.

For those seeking a hydrating, pore-minimizing primer that supports long-lasting makeup, this primer can be a great addition to their routine.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,479
Skin Type Compatibility
Finish
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
40700 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Does not leave the skin feeling greasy or oily, making it suitable for a variety of skin types.
Finish
Glides on smoothly, creating a perfect base for foundation, even for those who have never used a primer before.
Pore Minimizing
Hydrates the skin effectively, making foundation look amazing and reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines.
#2

e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30, Sunscreen & Makeup Primer For A Glowy Finish, Made With Hyaluronic Acid, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Packaging May Vary, Sunbeam

Rating
9.8
SPF Protection

Most important from
3148 reviews

SPF Protection
Users love the inclusion of SPF for added sun protection alongside its hydrating qualities.

The e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 serves as both a sunscreen and a makeup primer, making it a versatile addition to your skincare routine. It offers SPF 30 protection, which is beneficial for guarding against harmful UVA and UVB rays. The product is particularly praised for its lightweight feel and hydrating qualities, thanks to ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and aloe. This makes it suitable for a variety of skin types, including oily, normal, dry, and combination skin.

Users can expect a natural, radiant glow with a hint of peach shimmer, adding a touch of brightness to their complexion. This primer does not focus on minimizing pores or color correcting, which could be a drawback for some users specifically looking for these features. Its longevity helps in maintaining makeup throughout the day, though the exact duration might vary based on skin type and conditions. The product's vegan and cruelty-free status is a significant plus for those concerned with ethical beauty.

However, if you’re looking for a primer with strong pore-minimizing or color-correcting properties, this might not be the best fit. The packaging, while functional, may vary, which might be a point of inconsistency for some users. Additionally, the lack of a scent can be seen as a benefit for those sensitive to fragrances. This primer is most suitable for individuals looking for a hydrating, glowing finish with added sun protection.

Rating
9.8
SPF Protection

Most important from
3148 reviews

SPF Protection
Users love the inclusion of SPF for added sun protection alongside its hydrating qualities.
#3

e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, Silky, Skin-Perfecting, Lightweight, Long Lasting, Smooths, Hydrates, Minimizes Pores, Flawless Base & Finish, All-Day Wear, Ideal for All Skin Types, 0.74 Fl Oz

Rating
9.7
Skin Type Compatibility
Finish
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
42529 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight texture ensures it doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Finish
This primer smooths over your skin beautifully, creating a Snapchat filter effect.
Pore Minimizing
Blurs pores and fine lines effortlessly, without feeling heavy on the skin.
Color Correcting
It balances skin texture and shades, reducing the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and mouth.
Longevity
The look lasts all day, making it perfect for long-lasting makeup application.

The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer is a versatile makeup base designed for all skin types. It delivers a silky, smooth finish, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like Tea Tree and Vitamins A & E, it not only prepares your skin for makeup but also provides some restorative benefits.

The primer is lightweight and offers all-day wear, making it suitable for long-lasting makeup application. The product is also 100% cruelty-free and vegan, appealing to conscious consumers. It comes in a compact size of 0.74 fl oz, making it easy to carry. This primer is ideal for anyone seeking a flawless base for makeup, especially if you need pore minimizing and smoothening effects.

Pairing it with e.l.f.'s Putty Brush, Blushes, and Bronzers can enhance your makeup look.

Rating
9.7
Skin Type Compatibility
Finish
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
42529 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight texture ensures it doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Finish
This primer smooths over your skin beautifully, creating a Snapchat filter effect.
Pore Minimizing
Blurs pores and fine lines effortlessly, without feeling heavy on the skin.
Color Correcting
It balances skin texture and shades, reducing the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and mouth.
Longevity
The look lasts all day, making it perfect for long-lasting makeup application.

Buying Guide for the Best Elf Primer

Choosing the right ELF primer can make a significant difference in how your makeup looks and lasts throughout the day. Primers are designed to create a smooth base for your foundation, helping it to apply more evenly and stay put for longer. When selecting a primer, it's important to consider your skin type, the finish you desire, and any specific skin concerns you may have. Understanding the key specifications of primers will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Skin Type CompatibilityPrimers are formulated to work with different skin types, such as oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin. This is important because using a primer that matches your skin type can enhance its effectiveness. For oily skin, look for mattifying primers that control shine and reduce the appearance of pores. For dry skin, hydrating primers with moisturizing ingredients are ideal. Combination skin types may benefit from a balancing primer that addresses both oily and dry areas. Sensitive skin types should opt for primers with gentle, non-irritating ingredients. To pick the right one, identify your skin type and choose a primer specifically designed to address its needs.
FinishThe finish of a primer refers to the look it gives your skin after application, which can range from matte to dewy. This is important because it affects the overall appearance of your makeup. Matte primers are great for those who prefer a shine-free look and have oily skin. Dewy primers add a luminous glow, making them suitable for dry or dull skin. There are also natural finish primers that provide a balanced look, suitable for most skin types. To choose the right finish, consider the look you want to achieve and your skin type.
Pore MinimizingPore minimizing primers are designed to reduce the appearance of large pores, creating a smoother surface for makeup application. This is important for achieving a flawless finish, especially if you have noticeable pores. These primers often contain ingredients like silicone that fill in pores and fine lines. If you have large pores or textured skin, a pore minimizing primer can help create a more even base. To pick the right one, assess the visibility of your pores and choose a primer that specifically targets pore reduction.
Color CorrectingColor correcting primers are formulated to address specific skin tone issues, such as redness, dullness, or sallowness. This is important for achieving an even complexion before applying foundation. These primers come in different colors: green to neutralize redness, purple to brighten sallow skin, and peach or orange to counteract dark spots and under-eye circles. If you have uneven skin tone or specific discoloration concerns, a color correcting primer can help balance your complexion. To choose the right one, identify your skin tone issue and select a primer with the corresponding color.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the primer helps your makeup stay in place. This is important for ensuring your makeup looks fresh throughout the day without needing frequent touch-ups. Long-wearing primers often contain ingredients that help foundation adhere better to the skin and resist fading. If you need your makeup to last for extended periods, such as during long workdays or special events, a long-lasting primer is essential. To pick the right one, consider how long you need your makeup to stay put and choose a primer known for its staying power.
SPF ProtectionSome primers include SPF protection, which helps shield your skin from harmful UV rays. This is important for preventing sun damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Primers with SPF are especially useful if you spend a lot of time outdoors or want an extra layer of sun protection in addition to your regular sunscreen. If sun protection is a priority for you, look for a primer with a broad-spectrum SPF. To choose the right one, consider your daily sun exposure and select a primer with an appropriate SPF level.

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