A primer is the first layer that goes on the face before the real makeup begins, and yet it is the most underrated one. It helps even out your skin and smoothens the base for your usual makeup routine. Also, it is important to create the perfect base for the foundation and concealer that would come on later, but for those with oily skin, choosing a suitable primer is important.
Here are some of the best primers for oily skin in India that are perfect for enjoying smooth, patch-free skin. Here, you can also check some of the best primer spray brands & list of top primer brands for sensitive skin in India.
Our Top Recommendations
How Do We Choose the Best Primers for Oily Skin?
A primer can make your makeup look a lot better and help it last for a very long time. It helps in blurring out any unwanted texture to provide a smooth base to apply your makeup properly. In India, you can purchase good quality primers ranging from Rs 250 to Rs 799, depending on your need and budget. Here are some factors that help us decide the best primers for you.
Type
The three most common types of primers available in the market are mattifying, moisturising, and spray primers.
- If you have oily to normal skin, you can go for matte silicone-based primers. They create the perfect base for you to put on your makeup.
- If you have dry skin, you can go for nourishing primers that do much more than just perfect your skin.
- For people who have to be out for long hours, choosing a spray primer can do wonders as it helps the makeup stick for a much longer period.
- There are many colour-correcting primers also available in the market for concerns such as hyperpigmentation and redness on the skin.
Ingredients
No matter what skin product you use, always look out for formulas with clean ingredients and fewer chemicals. Your primer must be fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and sulphate-free. Also, it should be made of natural ingredients such as vitamins and minerals that can benefit your skin while smoothening it out. In this list, we have added some of the best primers that you can use every day.
Benefits of Using Primer on Oily Skin
Using primer provides several benefits to people with oily skin. Some of the prominent ones are:
Offers Mattifying Effect
Excess production of sebum by oily skin makes the face appear shiny and greasy. However, by using a primer you can control oil production and enjoy a matte finish.
Pore Minimisation
Primers are designed to minimise the appearance of pores and offer a smooth surface. It fills in the enlarged pores and makes the skin appear smooth and polished.
Enhances Longevity
This is one of the major benefits of using a primer for oily skin. It creates a barrier between the skin and makeup and prevents the oil from breaking through.
Improves Makeup Application
A primer acts as a base for makeup and creates a smooth canvas for applying foundation, concealer, and other products. It reduces the patchiness and allows makeup to glide smoothly and easily.
List of 15 Best Primers for Oily Skin in India
Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Makeup Primer
Lakme is a popular Indian cosmetics company that has been ruling the market for decades. It was brought to life in 1952 by JRD Tata and Simone Tata. The company majorly retails skincare and makeup products priced at the affordable end. With Lakme, you only get great quality and true value for money.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 825 |
Ratings | 4.2 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Brightens the Skin, Softens blemishes |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Makeup Primer:
- It is lightweight and helps the rest of the makeup glide smoothly over the skin
- Also helps in excess oil production and ensures that the makeup stays put for a long duration.
- Comes in a creamy, blendable texture in a waterproof silky formula
- It blends seamlessly for a more vibrant, true colour finish and also masks pores and blemishes
Pros:
- Blends easily
- A little product goes a long way
- Lightweight texture
Cons:
- May not be very long-lasting
Why We Picked the Lakme Absolute Blur Perfecting Primer?
The silky lightweight formula glides on your skin like a dream and blends beautifully, making it the best primer for oily skin in India. It helps your makeup last much longer and the subtle pink tint offers a radiant glow to your skin, leaving it all dewy and fresh!
Colorbar Flawless Finish Primer
Colorbar is a prominent cosmetics brand of Indian origin and is based out of New Delhi. It was founded in 2004 by Samir Modi and manufactures affordable-mid range makeup products. It is a cruelty-free brand.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 499 |
Ratings | 4.2 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Coverage | Full |
Finish Type | Flawless Finish |
Skin Type | All |
Product Benefits | Hydrating, Smoothening, Fresh |
Material Type Free | Fragrance-Free, Mineral Oil Free, No Alcohol |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Colorbar Flawless Finish Primer:
- Keeps your skin hydrated and fresh and reduces the size of pores
- It is free from mineral oil and gives a smooth application
- Colorbar primers are paraben-free and do not contain alcohol
- Comes in tube packaging for mess-free application
Pros:
- Hydrates the skin
- Instant results
- Value for money
Cons:
- Not a perfect choice for extremely dry skin
Why We Picked the Colorbar Flawless Finish Primer?
This dermatologically-tested primer has a beautiful, easy-to-use formula that smoothens texture, fine lines, and wrinkles to create the perfect base. It has a blend of silicone and glycerin that minimises your pores and keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day.
Blue Heaven Flawless Makeup Base Primer
Blue Heaven is an affordable beauty brand that has been catering to Indian buyers for decades. It was founded in 1974 by Charanjit Singh and Gurnam Singh. It is now owned by Samara Capital.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 190 |
Ratings | 4 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Skin Type | Combination |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Fresh, Lightweight, Softening, Soothing |
Material Type Free | Oil Free |
Item Volume | 16 ml |
Prominent Features of the Blue Heaven Flawless Makeup Base Primer:
- Has a wonderful pigment that is great for Indian skin tones
- This non-greasy primer comes with an oil-free formula that keeps your skin fresh all day long
- They are also quite easy on the pockets
- Help with oil control when used on a regular basis
Pros:
- Weightless gel
- Transparent
- Has aloe extracts
Cons:
- May cause dryness
Why We Picked the Blue Heaven Flawless Makeup Base Primer?
A lightweight silicone-based primer infused with aloe extracts that keeps your skin hydrated and offers a mattifying effect. It helps keep your makeup intact for hours and doesn’t cause any irritation on the skin. If you’re looking for a super affordable primer, Blue Heaven has great options!
Maybelline New York Fit Me Primer
Maybelline is a prominent multinational cosmetics company based out of Manhattan, New York. It was founded in 1914 by Thomas Lyle Williams and is owned by L’Oreal.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 599 |
Ratings | 4.1 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | Normal to Oily Skin |
Finish Type | Matte |
Coverage | Full |
Product Benefits | Smoothening, Shine, Moisturising, Long lasting |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Maybelline New York Fit Me Primer:
- Features a melting gel-cream texture that has a long staying power of 16 hours
- It renders a flawless matte look on the skin and is best suited for normal to oily skin
- This primer amps up your makeup by reducing pores and does a wonderful job of covering up as well, along with oil control
Pros:
- Has mattifying minerals
- Stays up to 16 hours
- Contains SPF 15
Cons:
- May not be best for dry skin
Why We Picked the Maybelline New York Fit Me Primer?
Maybelline New York is a show stopper when it comes to affordable yet best makeup products. Their primers are used around the world by millions of women because of the perfect base they lend and the flawless skin they end up giving the users. It controls the shine and blurs out all the pores.
Lotus Makeup Ecostay Perfecting Primer
Lotus is a leading skincare and cosmetics brand based in India that combines Ayurveda with technology to create exceptional products. It was founded in 1993 and has its head office in New Delhi, India. Those who are particular about only using herbal products on their skin will love what Lotus has to offer.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 695 |
Ratings | 4.2 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Natural |
Product Benefits | Smoothening, Weightless, Longlasting |
Speciality | Vegetarian |
Item Volume | 30 g |
Prominent Features of the Lotus Makeup Ecostay Perfecting Primer:
- Features a gel-based weightless formula with a long staying power
- It is an oil-free mattifying primer enriched with Vitamin E
- Aside from readying your face for full makeup, this primer also evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of acne and pores
Pros:
- Weightless
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
Cons:
- Doesn’t reduce pore size
Why We Picked the Lotus Makeup Ecostay Insta Smooth Perfecting Primer?
If you’re looking for an affordable yet super-efficient primer, the Lotus Primer is one you should definitely try. The lightweight gel formula is enriched with Vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant. This primer blends easily on the skin and creates a smooth canvas for you to apply makeup with ease.
L’Oreal Base Magique Primer
L’Oreal is one of the largest cosmetics and personal care companies in the world. It was founded in 1909 by Eugène Schueller and has its head office based in Clichy, Paris. The French cosmetics giant makes hair colours, makeup, perfumes, and sun protection products.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 970 |
Ratings | 4.2 out of 5 |
Item Form | Mask |
Coverage | Lightweight |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Hydrating, Lightweight, longlasting, Smoothening |
Item Volume | 15 ml |
Prominent Features of the L’Oreal Base Magique Primer:
- With a non-greasy and lightweight formula, this primer creates an even surface for your makeup routine
- It absorbs excess oil and gives a matte finish while also infusing hydration into your skin
- Suitable for all skin types and hence can be used by those with oily skin without any worries
- Those who already suffer from skin problems like acne and pimples need a primer that will not further add to the problem, and this primer is one of the best in the segment
Pros:
- Hydrating formula
- Mattifies skin for long-lasting makeup
- Makes skin super soft
Cons:
- A bit pricey but worth the money
Why We Picked the L’Oreal Base Magique Primer?
A silky smooth formula that glides easily and smoothes out any texture on the skin. The lightweight primer fills up your pores quickly and creates the perfect canvas for you to put on your makeup. If you have oily skin, it will be the best primer for you as it helps reduce sebum production.
Nykaa Prep Me Up! Face Primer
Considering that it is a relatively new brand, Nykaa has tapped into its audience well. Its products are perfectly made for Indian skin and have gathered a loyal customer base in India today. The brand was founded by Falguni Nayar in 2012, and it has been growing rapidly ever since.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 549 |
Ratings | 3.7 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Lightweight, Non-greasy |
Item Volume | 30 g |
Prominent Features of the Nykaa Prep Me Up! Face Primer:
- Infused with Vitamin E to keep your skin nourished and neutralize free radicals
- The velvety, silky texture covers up pores to control oil secretion and offers a matte finish
- It fills in the pores to help you apply makeup flawlessly and smoothly
- This parabean-free formula is safe to use and is not tested on animals
Pros:
- Promotes healthy skin
- Glides smoothly
- Mess-free tube packaging
Why We Picked the Nykaa Prep Me Up! Face Primer?
A sensational matte primer that is made with a hydrating silicone-based formula. This product has a velvety formula that glides smoothly on your skin to minimise the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and pores. It is the number-one choice for many makeup lovers across the nation today!
Wet n Wild Photofocus Matte Primer
Wet n Wild is a reputed brand and has products for makeup enthusiasts from all walks of life. This brand is a pioneer in making vegan, cruelty-free products without any parabens.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 699 |
Ratings | 4 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Luminous |
Product Benefits | Brightening, Smoothening |
Coverage | High Coverage |
Speciality | Mattifying |
Item Volume | 25 ml |
Prominent Features of the Wet n Wild Photofocus Matte Primer:
- It features white sapphire crystals formulated into a silky smooth cream to give a radiant complexion
- This cream glides effortlessly to minimise the appearance of pores, mask signs of ageing, and make your skin foundation ready
- It is a lightweight formula that settles quickly and offers a perfect canvas for makeup
Pros:
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons:
- It may not suit dry skin
INSIGHT 3 in 1 Primer
Insight Cosmetics is a global brand with more than 31 years of experience in the cosmetic industry. Their products are high-quality, FDA-approved, and ISO 9001:2015 certified. If that’s not all, these wonderful products are very reasonably priced.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 260 |
Ratings | 4.1 out of 5 |
Item Form | Gel |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Natural |
Product Benefits | Flawless Skin, Waterproof |
Material Type Free | Paraben Free |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the INSIGHT 3 in 1 Primer:
- The product brings together the best of skincare and makeup for your oily skin
- Its oil-free formula doubles down as a moisturiser and makeup base
- This lightweight gel blurs out fine lines and smoothens out pores and wrinkles to give you the perfect base for your makeup
- Waterproof formula that ensures your makeup lasts long
Pros:
- It is free from alcohol, sulphates, parabens
- No artificial fragrances and additive dye
- Safe for sensitive skin
Cons:
- May cause breakouts
Swiss Beauty Real Makeup Base Highlighting Primer
Swiss Beauty is a relatively new brand that now competes with some of the biggest names in the cosmetics industry today. It was founded in 2008 and has its headquarters in New Delhi, India.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 399 |
Ratings | 4.1 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Glossy |
Product Benefits | Hydrating, Moisturising |
Speciality | Brightening |
Item Volume | 32 ml |
Prominent Features of the Swiss Beauty Real Makeup Base Highlighting Primer:
- Perfect oil-free, mattifying primer that contains pearl powder
- It features a silky, lightweight formula that will work wonders for you by minimising the appearance of pores and fine lines
- It helps smoothen out the surface of your skin so your makeup looks perfect and stays on longer
- It is extremely lightweight and does not make your makeup look cakey, even when worn for long hours
- Comes in three different shades
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Non-greasy
- Matte finish
Cons:
- May leave an unwanted shimmer on your face
Sugar Cosmetics Base of Glory Primer
Sugar Cosmetics is an Indian cosmetics company that has gathered a huge clientele within a very short span of time. It was founded in 2015 by Vineeta Singh and has become a sensation in the Indian beauty segment today. Check Best Sugar Cosmetics Cashback Coupons.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 799 |
Ratings | 4.2 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Weightless, Radiant, long-lasting, Smudge Proof |
Material Type Free | Parabean free |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Sugar Cosmetics Base of Glory Primer:
- Smooth gel formula that mattifies your skin and keeps you oil-free all day long
- It helps smoothen your skin by evening out the tone, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and lending a soft-focus finish
- Features a no-block no-clog formula for a smooth base
- Comes in a sleek tube packaging
Pros:
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- No preservatives
Cons:
- May not be readily available in stores
Faces Ultime Pro Perfecting Primer
A leading beauty brand with a heritage of about 40 years, Faces Canada entered the Indian market in 2009. Their products are designed to cater to every skin type, texture, tone and ethnicity. Their unique range of cruelty-free and hypoallergenic products is quite the rage in the beauty industry.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 899 |
Ratings | 4 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Matte |
Product Benefits | Softening, Smoothening, Lightweight |
Speciality | Antioxidant |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Faces Ultime Pro Perfecting Primer:
- It boasts a smooth velvety formula and glides easily
- It feels like a second skin and gives a tinted matte finish by absorbing excess oil from the skin
- Has a lightweight texture with shimmer particles for a beautiful glow
- Has a bit of tint to even out your skin tone
Pros:
- Removes excess oil
- Soft velvety formula
- Cruelty-free
Cons:
- May irritate sensitive skin
Oriflame The One Pore Minimising Primer
Oriflame is a Swedish beauty brand that has been in the industry for the last 50 years, standing the test of time. They have made sure to deliver trendy, high quality and safe products for all the makeup freaks out there.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 749 |
Ratings | 3.9 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Finish Type | Velvet |
Product Benefits | Silky, lightweight formulation |
Item Volume | 20 ml |
Prominent Features of the Oriflame One Pore Minimising Primer:
- It nullifies oil production and instantly masks pores
- Its matte finish lasts for up to 7 hours on the skin without stripping any moisture
- It has a non-sticky texture and is suitable for all skin types
Pros:
- Pleasant fragrance
- Evens skin tone and tones down texture quickly
- Makes the makeup last long
Revlon Photo Ready Perfecting Primer
Revlon is another brand superseding all benchmarks and making top-notch cosmetic products. It retails skincare, fragrance, and personal care products that lie in the affordable range and are very efficient. It was founded in 1932 by Joseph Revson, Charles Revson, and Charles Lachman.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 1699 |
Ratings | 3.9 out of 5 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | Normal |
Finish Type | Translucent |
Material Type Free | Fragrance-Free, Paraben Free |
Product Benefits | Fragrance-Free, Paraben Free |
Item Volume | 27 ml |
Prominent Features of the Revlon Photo Ready Perfecting Primer:
- Formulated specifically to control oil secretion
- Has a long-lasting matte effect on the skin that stays throughout the day
- It contains photochromatic pigments that bend, reflect and diffuse light to minimise flaws and give your skin a bright glow
- Helps reduce the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines
- Comes in a bottle with a pump dispenser
Pros:
- Stunning matte effect
- Very lightweight
- Can be worn alone too
Cons:
- A bit pricey
Clinique Superprimer Face Primer
Clinique is a premium skincare, toiletries, and cosmetics brand that hails from America. It was founded in 1968 by Evelyn Lauder and is owned by the famous Estee Lauder Companies. The brand has headquarters in New York City now.
Product Specifications:
Price | Rs 8,299 |
Item Form | Cream |
Skin Type | All |
Product Benefits | Smoothening |
Item Volume | 30 ml |
Prominent Features of the Clinique Superprimer Face Primer:
- It is a lightweight colour-correcting primer
- It has a transparent, oil-free formula that works well for both combination and oily skin
- It glides effortlessly on the skin and ensures your makeup stays in place for long
- Although a bit expensive, are going to be worth all the splurge
Pros:
- Corrects uneven skin
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
How to Apply Primer on Oily Skin?
If you are someone with oily skin, here’s the right way to apply primer. Make sure you follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth and beautiful base.
Step 1: Cleanse Your Face
Start by cleansing your face with a mild and gentle face wash. Pick the one that is specifically formulated for oily skin and can remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities.
Step 2: Moisturise
Once your skin is ready, take a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to hydrate your skin. Choosing the right moisturiser will also help in balancing oil production and preventing excessive oiliness.
Step 3: Apply Primer
Now pick a primer that is formulated to control oil and create a smooth, matte finish. Squeeze a small amount on your fingertips and gently pat it onto your skin. Focus on oily areas like T-zone, chin, etc. While applying, use a pea-sized amount and avoid rubbing or dragging the primer.
Step 4: Allow It to Set
After blending and setting the primer, leave it for a few minutes before you move ahead with your makeup. This will help it set and offer an oil-free, smooth canvas.
Final Word
Face Primers are a must-have, especially for people with oily skin, to help their makeup last longer. To ensure that you can flaunt your favourite makeup looks without worrying about regular touch-ups, we have listed some of the best primers for oily skin available in India. Our top favourites have to be the ones from Maybelline and Colorbar, but you’re free to choose from the list we have curated for you!
FAQs
What primer is good for oily skin?
When looking for primers for oily skin, go for oil-free mattifying formulas that absorb the excess oil and give your skin a flawless look. You can choose from Maybelline, Lakme, Clinique, and Lotus Herbals as per your budget.
Does primer help oily skin?
A primer sets the tone of your makeup by providing a smooth base. It helps absorb excess oil in oily skin and gives a matte finish that prevents the foundation and other makeup ingredients from dissolving into the sebum and slipping away.
Which is the best primer for acne and oily skin?
The Lotus Makeup Ecostay Insta Smooth Perfecting Primer is one of the best ones for oily skin. It features a gel-based weightless formula with long-staying power. It is an oil-free mattifying primer enriched with Vitamin E. Aside from readying your face for full makeup, this primer also evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of acne and pores when blended properly.
How can I control my oily face with makeup?
Wearing makeup on an oily face can be a real hassle. We have come up with some tricks to help you get by:
– Apply an oil-free primer before starting your makeup routine
– Do not apply heaps of powder. Keep it in control.
– Always carry blotting papers and just press them gently on your face when you feel the oil. Avoid rubbing it.
How do I choose a primer?
Choosing a primer depends on your skin type. Here’s how you can do that:
– For dry skin, choose a hydrating primer or those with a silky smooth formula.
– For oily skin, choose a primer that is free from oil and gives a matte finish.
– For normal and combination skin types, you can use a mix of primers and apply them on the desired parts as required
– If your skin has wrinkles and fine lines, choose a pore-minimising primer.
How often should a primer be applied?
Primer is typically applied before you put on makeup. However, the frequency of primer application depends on your personal preference and specific needs. You can either use it daily, occasionally, or even for touch-ups.
Can a primer be used alone without makeup?
Yes, using a primer alone is a great option if you are considering a no-makeup look. It will smooth and blur your imperfections and mattify your skin to make you look more refined and polished.
Why Trust CashKaro Reviews?
We have a team of category-specific researchers who follow stringent steps to avoid mentioning any less-than-worthy products in our blogs. At CashKaro, we believe in putting forth the most reliable information that’s best for our readers. We use transparent and unbiased practices to ensure that you receive the most value for your money. We hope our recommendations for the best primers for oily skin in India have helped you make an informed judgement.