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10 Best The Mattifying 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

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer - Mattifying Makeup Base Primer for Shine and Oil Control - Pore Minimizer, Hides Wrinkles and Fine Lines – Long-lasting Makeup Gripping Formula 30 g

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,191
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
41788 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
The inclusion of niacinamide and cica ingredients helps soothe sensitive skin and reduce redness.
Oil Control
The primer’s ability to prevent oil and creasing makes it a standout product for maintaining a matte finish throughout the day.
Texture and Finish
The lightweight, silky texture makes it easy to apply without feeling heavy or greasy.
Longevity
The primer's long-lasting formula ensures makeup looks fresh for hours with no touch-ups required.

The Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer stands out as a versatile mattifying primer suitable for all skin types, including both dry and oily. It excels in oil control and offers a matte finish that helps keep makeup looking fresh throughout the day. The inclusion of luxurious pearl powder lends a smooth texture, making it an excellent base for foundation and helping to minimize the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.

Its long-lasting formula ensures that makeup stays put from morning to night, which is particularly beneficial for those with mature skin seeking to avoid creasing and oiliness. Additionally, the primer's formulation includes skin-loving benefits and is cruelty-free, appealing to conscientious consumers.

However, some users may find that despite its many benefits, the primer may not provide sufficient hydration for those with extremely dry skin, and its mattifying effect might be too strong for those preferring a dewy finish. It's a strong contender for anyone looking to achieve a flawless, matte makeup look with added skincare benefits.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,191
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
41788 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
The inclusion of niacinamide and cica ingredients helps soothe sensitive skin and reduce redness.
Oil Control
The primer’s ability to prevent oil and creasing makes it a standout product for maintaining a matte finish throughout the day.
Texture and Finish
The lightweight, silky texture makes it easy to apply without feeling heavy or greasy.
Longevity
The primer's long-lasting formula ensures makeup looks fresh for hours with no touch-ups required.
#2

e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer, Restoring Makeup Primer For A Flawless, Smooth Canvas, Infused With Tea Tree & Vitamin A, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.47 Fl Oz

Rating
9.4
Skin Type Compatibility
Pore Minimizing
Texture and Finish

Most important from
18362 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
This product is particularly effective for those with oily and combination skin, helping makeup last longer even in challenging conditions like menopause.
Pore Minimizing
Users appreciate that it minimizes pores significantly and creates a flawless base for foundation.
Texture and Finish
The primer offers a smooth texture that makes the skin look younger and more radiant.
Additional Skincare Benefits
Though it doesn't perform miracles, it effectively minimizes fine lines and enhances the overall complexion.

The e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer offers several notable strengths, making it a strong contender for those seeking a mattifying primer. It is designed to deliver a smooth, flawless base for long-lasting makeup, which is a key feature for anyone looking to keep their makeup intact throughout the day. The inclusion of Tea Tree and Vitamins A and E provides additional skincare benefits, potentially helping to restore and nourish the skin while you wear it. This primer also leaves a matte finish, which is ideal for those with oily skin or those who prefer a non-shiny look.

It is compatible with all skin types, though its oil-controlling properties are particularly beneficial for oily and combination skin. The product's light coverage and moisturizing benefits add to its appeal, making it comfortable for everyday use. Additionally, it is vegan and cruelty-free, which aligns with the values of many conscious consumers.

On the downside, while it aims to minimize pores, users with very large or deep-set pores might not find it as effective as other more specialized pore-minimizing products. The texture is creamy, which might not suit those who prefer a more gel-like consistency. This primer is a good choice for those looking to achieve a matte, smooth finish with added skincare benefits, especially if they value vegan and cruelty-free products.

Rating
9.4
Skin Type Compatibility
Pore Minimizing
Texture and Finish

Most important from
18362 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
This product is particularly effective for those with oily and combination skin, helping makeup last longer even in challenging conditions like menopause.
Pore Minimizing
Users appreciate that it minimizes pores significantly and creates a flawless base for foundation.
Texture and Finish
The primer offers a smooth texture that makes the skin look younger and more radiant.
Additional Skincare Benefits
Though it doesn't perform miracles, it effectively minimizes fine lines and enhances the overall complexion.
#3

Rimmel London Stay Matte - 003 - Primer, Ultra-Lightweight, Controls Shine, Doesn’t Feel Greasy, 1oz

Rating
9.1
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
40584 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight and non-greasy, it leaves skin feeling fresh and smooth without any heavy feeling.
Oil Control
The Rimmel London Stay Matte Fix & Go is a fantastic 2-in-1 primer and setting spray, keeping makeup in place all day while controlling oil and giving a matte finish.
Texture and Finish
Lightweight and non-greasy, it leaves skin feeling fresh and smooth without any heavy feeling.
Longevity
The Rimmel London Stay Matte Fix & Go is a fantastic 2-in-1 primer and setting spray, keeping makeup in place all day while controlling oil and giving a matte finish.
Additional Skincare Benefits
This is the only mattifying product that has worked really well, even over sunscreen, and is worth the extra effort to blend makeup.

The Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer is designed to cater to a wide range of skin types, including oily and dry skin, making it quite versatile. Its ultra-lightweight formula ensures that it doesn't feel heavy on the skin, which is a big plus if you prefer a more natural feel. One of the key strengths of this primer is its ability to control shine for up to 8 hours, which helps in keeping your skin looking matte throughout the day.

Additionally, the primer claims to minimize pores and smoothen the skin, potentially providing a better base for makeup application. It also helps makeup to stay intact all day, which can be very beneficial for those with long days or special events. However, the product's ability to cater to both dry and oily skin types can be a bit contradictory since what works for oily skin might not be as effective for dry skin. Users with dry skin might need to pair it with a good moisturizer to prevent any potential dryness.

The primer is reported to never feel greasy, which is great for those with oily skin. Though it might not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types, this primer is particularly well-suited for individuals looking for a lightweight, shine-controlling solution that helps maintain their makeup throughout the day, especially those with oily skin.

Rating
9.1
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
40584 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight and non-greasy, it leaves skin feeling fresh and smooth without any heavy feeling.
Oil Control
The Rimmel London Stay Matte Fix & Go is a fantastic 2-in-1 primer and setting spray, keeping makeup in place all day while controlling oil and giving a matte finish.
Texture and Finish
Lightweight and non-greasy, it leaves skin feeling fresh and smooth without any heavy feeling.
Longevity
The Rimmel London Stay Matte Fix & Go is a fantastic 2-in-1 primer and setting spray, keeping makeup in place all day while controlling oil and giving a matte finish.
Additional Skincare Benefits
This is the only mattifying product that has worked really well, even over sunscreen, and is worth the extra effort to blend makeup.

Buying Guide for the Best The Mattifying Primer

Choosing the right mattifying primer can make a significant difference in your makeup routine, especially if you have oily or combination skin. A mattifying primer helps to control shine, reduce the appearance of pores, and create a smooth base for your foundation. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your skin type and makeup needs.
Skin Type CompatibilityThis spec indicates whether the primer is suitable for oily, combination, or sensitive skin. It's important because using a primer that matches your skin type ensures better performance and comfort. For oily skin, look for primers that specifically mention oil control or mattifying properties. For combination skin, a primer that balances oil and hydration is ideal. If you have sensitive skin, choose a primer that is labeled as hypoallergenic or non-comedogenic to avoid irritation.
Oil ControlOil control refers to the primer's ability to reduce excess oil production and keep your skin matte throughout the day. This is crucial for preventing your makeup from sliding off or looking greasy. Primers with strong oil control often contain ingredients like silica or clay. If you have very oily skin, opt for a primer with high oil control. For moderately oily skin, a medium level of oil control should suffice.
Pore MinimizingPore minimizing properties help to reduce the appearance of large pores, giving your skin a smoother and more even texture. This is important for achieving a flawless makeup finish. Primers with pore minimizing effects often contain ingredients like dimethicone. If you have large or visible pores, look for a primer that emphasizes pore minimizing. If your pores are not a major concern, this feature can be less of a priority.
Texture and FinishThe texture and finish of a primer can affect how it feels on your skin and how it interacts with your foundation. Mattifying primers typically have a lightweight, gel-like texture that dries to a matte finish. This is important for ensuring that your makeup stays in place and looks fresh. If you prefer a natural, non-greasy feel, choose a primer with a lightweight texture. For a more velvety finish, look for primers that offer a soft-focus effect.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the primer can keep your makeup looking fresh and matte. This is important for ensuring that your makeup lasts throughout the day without needing frequent touch-ups. Primers with long-lasting formulas often include ingredients that help to absorb oil and maintain a matte finish for extended periods. If you need your makeup to last all day, choose a primer with high longevity. For shorter wear times, a primer with moderate longevity may be sufficient.
Additional Skincare BenefitsSome mattifying primers offer additional skincare benefits, such as hydration, anti-aging, or sun protection. These features can be important for addressing specific skin concerns while also providing a matte finish. If you have dry patches, look for a primer that includes hydrating ingredients. For anti-aging benefits, choose a primer with antioxidants or peptides. If you need sun protection, opt for a primer with SPF.

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