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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, Smooths Wrinkles and Fine Lines – Long-Lasting Makeup Gripping Formula, 30g

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,177
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
44143 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
10.0
Chosen by1,177
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Texture and Finish

Most important from
44143 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

Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying Primer – Blurs Pores, Controls Shine + Holds Makeup for Up to 12 Hours – Creates a Smooth, Even Base for a Soft, Long-Lasting Matte Finish – 1.3 oz

Rating
8.5
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
683 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
This product is especially effective for oily skin, controlling shine while covering large pores.
Oil Control
This product is especially effective for oily skin, controlling shine while covering large pores.
Pore Minimizing
The primer feels incredibly smooth and lightweight, creating a flawless base that blurs imperfections and minimizes pores without any heaviness or greasiness.
Texture and Finish
The primer feels incredibly smooth and lightweight, creating a flawless base that blurs imperfections and minimizes pores without any heaviness or greasiness.
Longevity
It delivers a long-lasting hold that keeps foundation fresh and flawless throughout the entire day, enhancing makeup wear for both glam and natural looks.

The Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying Primer is a strong choice if you're looking to reduce shine and create a smooth matte base for your makeup. It works well for all skin types due to its lightweight, silicone-free gel formula that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. One of its standout features is the long-lasting hold—up to 12 hours—helping makeup stay put and crease-free throughout the day.

The primer effectively blurs pores and controls oil thanks to ingredients like niacinamide, which minimizes pore appearance, and lentil extract, which helps reduce shine. Additionally, bakuchiol smooths skin texture and moonstone calms the skin, giving it some gentle skincare benefits alongside makeup prep. The finish is soft-focus matte, which means it doesn't look flat or chalky but still keeps oiliness at bay.

Since it is a matte primer, if you have very dry skin, you might want to test it first because it could be a bit drying if your skin needs more moisture. Also, while it suits all skin types, those with extremely oily skin might want to layer it with other oil-control products for best results. This primer offers a clean, vegan formula that fits well for anyone wanting a natural matte look while improving skin texture and makeup longevity.

Rating
8.5
Skin Type Compatibility
Oil Control
Pore Minimizing

Most important from
683 reviews

Skin Type Compatibility
This product is especially effective for oily skin, controlling shine while covering large pores.
Oil Control
This product is especially effective for oily skin, controlling shine while covering large pores.
Pore Minimizing
The primer feels incredibly smooth and lightweight, creating a flawless base that blurs imperfections and minimizes pores without any heaviness or greasiness.
Texture and Finish
The primer feels incredibly smooth and lightweight, creating a flawless base that blurs imperfections and minimizes pores without any heaviness or greasiness.
Longevity
It delivers a long-lasting hold that keeps foundation fresh and flawless throughout the entire day, enhancing makeup wear for both glam and natural looks.
#3

jane iredale Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer

Rating
7.6
Texture and Finish
Additional Skincare Benefits
Oil Control

Most important from
1575 reviews

Texture and Finish
Transforms the skin with a silky, smooth feel that enhances comfort throughout wear.
Additional Skincare Benefits
Creates the perfect surface for foundation without any pilling, even eliminating the need for moisturizer underneath.
Oil Control
Blends easily and supports a smooth, shine-free finish that works well with powders and setting sprays.
Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for dry skin users who want a non-drying primer that still allows for a powder finish without heaviness.
Pore Minimizing
Provides a reliable mattifying effect that smooths the complexion while minimizing pores and fine lines.

The jane iredale Smooth Affair Mattifying Face Primer is designed to suit all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin, making it a versatile choice for many users looking to control shine. It effectively smooths the skin and mattifies the face instantly, helping to reduce oiliness throughout the day, which is a key need for anyone wanting a shine-free look. It also minimizes the appearance of pores and blurs fine lines, providing a smoother canvas that can help makeup last longer and look more even.

The primer's creamy texture helps it blend easily without feeling heavy or greasy, which is important for comfort during wear. Beyond mattifying, it supports skin elasticity and offers antioxidant protection, adding some skincare benefits that can contribute to a more youthful appearance over time. Although the product is formulated for long-lasting oil control, results may vary based on individual skin chemistry and environmental conditions. Additionally, those seeking a completely matte powder finish might notice that this cream-based formula offers a different texture and feel.

This primer is a solid option for those wanting a multifunctional product that not only controls shine but also cares for the skin, particularly for individuals with sensitive or oily skin who want a smoother base for makeup.

Rating
7.6
Texture and Finish
Additional Skincare Benefits
Oil Control

Most important from
1575 reviews

Texture and Finish
Transforms the skin with a silky, smooth feel that enhances comfort throughout wear.
Additional Skincare Benefits
Creates the perfect surface for foundation without any pilling, even eliminating the need for moisturizer underneath.
Oil Control
Blends easily and supports a smooth, shine-free finish that works well with powders and setting sprays.
Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for dry skin users who want a non-drying primer that still allows for a powder finish without heaviness.
Pore Minimizing
Provides a reliable mattifying effect that smooths the complexion while minimizing pores and fine lines.

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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