10 Best Primer For Oily Skin And Large Pores 2026 in the United States

The Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer is a solid choice for those with oily skin and large pores. It excels in oil control, offering a matte finish that helps keep shine at bay throughout the day. This is particularly beneficial if you're looking to maintain a fresh, non-greasy look. The primer also does a good job of minimizing the appearance of pores, enhancing the smoothness of your skin which is perfect for creating a flawless base for your makeup.

This product is infused with high-quality Korean ingredients, including luxurious pearl powder, which adds a touch of sophistication and ensures you're using a skincare product known for its beneficial properties. The primer is also cruelty-free and approved by Leaping Bunny, making it an ethical choice for conscientious consumers. It claims to be suitable for all skin types, although its strength is primarily noticeable for those with oily skin.

One of its standout features is its ability to hide fine lines and wrinkles, making it a good option for mature skin. It locks in makeup and helps it stay put from morning to night, adding to its longevity. However, some users may find the texture a bit thick and might need to ensure they apply it in thin, even layers to avoid a heavy feel. Additionally, while it claims full coverage, those with very large pores might not find it completely effective in hiding them. This primer is excellent for oil control and creating a smooth makeup base, but those with extremely large pores or a preference for lighter textures might want to consider their options.

The e.l.f. Acne Fighting Putty Primer is designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin, making it a solid choice if you want to reduce shine and keep your skin looking matte. Thanks to 1.8% salicylic acid, zinc, and kaolin, it works beyond just makeup, actively helping to prevent breakouts, calm redness, and minimize pores. The texture is putty-like and velvety, which smooths over imperfections well and helps makeup stick around throughout the day. This means you get both a natural bare-faced look or a great base if you wear makeup. However, since it’s in a jar form, some users might find it less hygienic or convenient compared to squeeze tubes or pumps.

The primer suits oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types rather than dry skin, so it may not offer extra hydration. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, which adds appeal if you prefer ethical products. If your main concerns are controlling oil, reducing visible pores, and avoiding future breakouts while keeping your makeup in place, this primer performs well with a lightweight feel. But if you have very dry skin or dislike applying from a jar, you might want to consider those factors before purchasing.

The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP The Face Glue Gripping Primer is designed to provide up to 24 hours of wear while being hydrating. This primer stands out for its impressive longevity, which is a big plus for those looking for makeup that lasts all day. It contains Polyglutamic Acid for hydration and Maple Syrup for grip, making it a unique combination of hydrating and sticky ingredients to keep your makeup in place. The primer is vegan and cruelty-free, which is appealing for ethically-minded consumers.

It is marketed as suitable for all skin types, which might be problematic for those specifically with oily skin and large pores. Though it claims to be hydrating and non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), the hydrating aspect might not be the best fit for oily skin types, as excessive hydration can sometimes contribute to oiliness. The product offers a soft-focus finish, but it doesn’t specifically mention any ingredients known for shrinking pores.

The texture is described as comfortable and breathable, which is beneficial for long wear. However, those with sensitive skin should approach with caution and maybe do a patch test first due to the unique ingredients used. It comes in a spray form, which might be convenient or cumbersome depending on personal preference. The product does well in terms of hydrating and providing a long-lasting base for makeup, but its suitability for oily skin and effectiveness in minimizing pores might not be as high as other primers specifically targeted for those issues.