When it comes to affordable and high-quality cosmetic brands, ELF stands out as a top contender. Renowned for their exceptional primers, ELF has gained a strong reputation in the US market. One of the primary reasons behind the popularity of ELF primers is the extensive range of formulas specifically tailored to cater to various skin types. Moreover, these primers have the remarkable ability to enhance the overall appearance of your makeup, including imparting a radiant glow to your foundation.
Let’s delve into the world of ELF primers, exploring their unique qualities and suitability for different individuals.
Jelly Pop Dew Face Primer
For those seeking a captivating dewy finish, the Jelly Pop Dew Face Primer is the perfect choice. Its gel-like consistency not only hydrates your skin but also provides a firm grip for your foundation, ensuring long-lasting wear. Even without makeup, this primer can bestow upon you that coveted dewy appearance while simultaneously smoothing out your complexion.
Infused with skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract, and vitamins A, C, and E, this primer offers multiple benefits. Notably, it exudes a pleasant watermelon fragrance and leaves no sticky residue.
Pros
- Suitable for a wide range of skin types, offering moisture for dry skin and a gentle texture for oily skin
- Facilitates seamless application and blending of foundation
- Prolongs the longevity of makeup
- Features user-friendly packaging with an efficient pump mechanism
Cons
- Availability may be limited due to frequent store sell-outs
- Some users have expressed concerns about the intensity of the scent
- Its relatively thick consistency may not be ideal for hot weather conditions
- May not cater to the specific needs of mature skin
Poreless Putty Primer
Renowned as the best primer in America, the Poreless Putty Primer has become a go-to choice for many. This primer not only enhances makeup longevity but also diminishes the appearance of pores and imperfections, resulting in a flawless complexion. It particularly caters to individuals with large pores, making it an ideal option.
One of the key reasons for its immense popularity is its velvety texture, which ensures smooth application and seamless blending. Infused with squalane, the primer effectively grips makeup and prevents moisture loss.
Pros
- Exceptional packaging
- Creamy and hydrating feel on the skin
- Dries to a powder-like finish
- Promotes a healthy-looking complexion while reducing imperfections
- Cruelty-free formulation
- Versatile ingredient squalane offers multiple benefits
- Affordable price point
- Suitable for all skin types, with a separate mattifying formula for oily skin
- Universally applicable, regardless of skin tone
Cons
- Lack of a safety seal in packaging may be a concern for some individuals
- Texture can be stiff, requiring a tool for product removal
- Slight scent present
- May not be as effective for oily skin (consider the separate mattifying formula)
Matte Putty Primer: For those with oily skin, the Matte Putty Primer offers a compelling alternative to the Poreless Putty Primer. Formulated with white charcoal and kaolin, this primer effectively mattifies the complexion, absorbs excess oil, and prevents oil-induced breakouts. It shares the velvety texture of the original Putty Primer, facilitating seamless blending and minimizing the appearance of pores.
Pros
- Blurs the look of pores and texture irregularities
- Mattifies the skin without causing dryness
- Pleasing fragrance, reminiscent of tea tree oil
- Smooth application and blending
- Enhances foundation longevity
Cons
- Some reviewers believe that ELF offers superior mattifying primers
Luminous Putty Primer
If you desire a poreless effect coupled with hydration, the Luminous Putty Primer is an excellent choice. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this primer delivers moisture to the skin, ensuring all-day hydration. Additionally, it provides a flawless canvas for foundation application, imparting a lovely dewy appearance.
Pros
- Imparts a captivating golden-tinted glow
- Perfect primer for dry skin
Cons
- Some reviewers expressed disappointment regarding the presence of glitter in this primer
Mint Melt Cooling Face Primer
Ideal for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, the Mint Melt Cooling Face Primer boasts a cooling gel texture that nourishes and preps the skin for foundation application. Infused with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, this primer offers both soothing and moisturizing properties, protecting the skin and locking in moisture.
Pros
- Pleasant scent reminiscent of sweet mint
- Non-tacky texture
- Provides a refreshing and cooling sensation
- Leaves a natural, healthy glow on the skin
- Works well with various foundation formulas
- Ensures long-lasting makeup
- Generous product quantity for the price
Cons
- Some users reported difficulty in product absorption by the skin
- Not recommended for oily skin
- Limited effectiveness in minimizing the appearance of imperfections
In summary, ELF primers offer a wide range of options to cater to different skin types and desired effects. Each primer presents unique features and benefits. By considering the specific pros and cons of each primer, you can make an informed decision based on your skin’s needs and preferences.
Matte Oil Control Primer
If the Mattifying Poreless Putty Primer doesn’t meet your needs, the Matte Oil Control Primer serves as a viable alternative. Infused with tea tree oil and kaolin clay, this primer effectively cleanses the skin and controls shine. It provides a mattifying effect, perfect for flawless foundation application, and effectively blurs the appearance of pores.
Pros
- Blurs the look of pores and texture issues
- Mattifies the skin without causing dryness
- Pleasant fragrance, reminiscent of tea tree oil
- Blends seamlessly
- Enhances the longevity of foundation
Cons
- Not recommended for mature skin as it may emphasize lines and creases
Hydrating Primer Serum
For individuals with dry and dehydrated skin, the Hydrating Primer Serum is an ideal choice. Infused with snow mushroom and hyaluronic acid, this primer retains moisture and prevents water loss. It offers a fragrance-free and lightweight formula, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. Your skin will be moisturized and perfectly prepared for foundation application.
Pros
- Perfect daily primer for dry skin
Cons
- Avoid applying with a brush or sponge as the product tends to build up easily. Instead, use your fingertips.
Glow Up Primer Serum
Combining hydration with a luminous glow, the Glow Up Primer Serum offers the best of both worlds. It nourishes the skin while imparting a natural radiance, creating an ideal canvas for foundation application. Despite being a serum, it feels lightweight on the skin. Infused with goji and hyaluronic acid, it ensures skin nourishment and moisture retention.
Pros
- Perfect for wearing alone or under foundation
- Provides a subtle shimmer without leaving a sparkly finish. Instead, it imparts a natural glow.
- Lightweight and non-sticky feel
- Non-comedogenic, reducing the risk of breakouts
- Long-lasting formula
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
Moisture Lock Primer
Combining the benefits of a moisturizer and primer, the Moisture Lock Primer offers a nourished canvas for foundation application. Formulated with shea butter and jojoba oil, it effectively moisturizes the skin, providing long-lasting hydration. The primer seamlessly melts into the skin, ensuring a smooth finish.
Pros
- Excellent packaging
- Even application
- Non-tacky feel
- Provides a subtle blurring effect
- Long-lasting hydration
- Enhances foundation longevity
- Ideal for dry skin
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Not recommended for oily skin
- May cause peeling on certain skin types
Soothing Primer
The Soothing Primer is specifically designed to calm dry and problematic skin types. Formulated with vitamins B5 and E, as well as aloe, it nourishes, soothes, and calms irritated and inflamed skin. This primer creates a smooth canvas for foundation application and ensures long-lasting makeup.
Pros
- Affordable option
- Offers a refreshing cucumber scent
- Suitable for all skin types
- Provides a subtle blurring effect
- Enhances makeup application
- Improves foundation longevity
- Does not settle into lines
- Smooths out the complexion
Cons
- May feel slightly tacky on the skin
- Some reviewers experienced issues with packaging, as product accumulation occurred around the dispenser
- Complaints of primer flaking off
Hydrating Face Primer
The Hydrating Face Primer provides a smooth canvas for foundation while delivering hydration to the skin. Infused with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as grape extract, it improves skin hydration and complexion. Available in both large and travel sizes.
Pros
- Excellent daily primer option
- Some reviewers find it suitable as an eyeshadow primer (exercise caution when using on the eyes)
- Lightweight formulation
- Easy application
Cons
- Reviewers reported that it made their skin feel oily
Brightening Lavender Face Primer
The Brightening Lavender Face Primer is an effective solution for uneven skin tone. By utilizing lavender, it neutralizes skin tone irregularities, especially discoloration caused by blemishes and rosacea. It also helps counteract yellow skin tones, providing a brightening effect. Despite the brightening properties, it offers a matte finish. This primer suits various skin types, with a particular advantage for dry skin due to its creamy texture.
Pros
- Small amount of product covers the entire face
- Even and effortless application
- Enhances skin brightness
- Smooths out the complexion
- Facilitates easier foundation application
- Suitable for dry skin and texture issues
- Suitable for both dry and oily skin types
Cons
- Several reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the packaging, finding it difficult to dispense the product.
Hydrating Primer Mist
If you prefer a mist formulation for your primer, ELF’s Hydrating Primer Mist is an excellent choice. This refreshing mist not only soothes the skin but also creates a dewy canvas for foundation application. You can even use it as a quick pick-me-up throughout the day to maintain soft and hydrated skin.
Pros
- Provides a refreshing sensation
- Helps prolong the wear of foundation
- Lightweight mist formulation
Cons
- May require manual spreading with fingers after spraying for even application
- Not recommended as a setting spray
- Some reviewers reported that the product runs out quickly
Poreless Face Primer
ELF’s Poreless Face Primer is a versatile product that not only creates a flawless base for foundation but also works as a treatment. Infused with vitamins A and E, as well as tea tree oil, this primer effectively smooths the complexion and minimizes the appearance of pores. It imparts a healthy glow to the skin, even when worn under foundation. Also available in a larger size option.
Pros
- Provides a smooth look and feel to the skin
- Enhances the longevity of foundation
Cons
- Some reviewers experienced issues with the product not being fully filled
- Has a strong lemon scent
Beautifully Bare Luminous Matte Makeup Primer
For those with oily skin who still desire a beautiful glow, ELF’s Beautifully Bare Luminous Matte Makeup Primer is the perfect solution. This lightweight primer offers subtle moisture benefits while refining the complexion. Formulated with skin-healthy ingredients like vitamins C and E, as well as acai, it reduces the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Pros
- Affordable option
- Creamy formula
- Diminishes the look of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Some reviewers mentioned it works well as an eye primer, although caution is advised
Cons
- May feel slightly tacky on the skin
- Some reviewers found other ELF primers, such as the Poreless Putty, to be more effective
Mineral Infused Face Primer
ELF’s Mineral Infused Face Primer creates a smooth base for foundation application, ensuring long-lasting wear. With its weightless and silky formula, it suits all skin types and effectively refines the complexion, blurring the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections. Also available in a larger size option.
Pros
- Particularly suitable for mature skin
- Smooths out skin imperfections
- Affordable option
Cons
- Reviewers complained about the small bottle size and limited product quantity
- Some reviewers expressed difficulties with the packaging, making it challenging to dispense the product
Illuminating Face Primer
For those seeking a radiant glow, ELF’s Illuminating Face Primer is the perfect choice. This primer imparts a luminous finish with a subtle shimmer, making your face appear naturally radiant. Its weightless formula suits all skin types and effectively refines the complexion, reducing the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections. The primer blends smoothly and ensures long-lasting foundation wear.
Pros
- Creates a dewy and luminous appearance
- Blurs various imperfections
- Compatible with various foundation types
Cons
- Some reviewers felt that the amount of yellow glitter was excessive, resulting in too much shimmer
Tone Adjusting Face Primer
If you struggle with redness and seek a color-correcting primer, ELF’s Tone Adjusting Face Primer is an excellent option. This green-tinted primer effectively neutralizes red tones, providing a more balanced complexion. Suitable for most skin types, it applies smoothly and ensures long-lasting foundation wear. Also available in a larger size option.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Lightweight formulation
- Smooths out imperfections
- Requires only a small amount for application, making the product last longer
Cons
- Alone, it may not completely reduce redness; it is best used in conjunction with foundation and/or color correctors
- Some individuals find the texture to be watery
Prep and Blur Stick
For those who prefer a creamy stick formula, ELF’s Prep and Blur Stick is a fantastic choice. This stick primer effectively blurs the appearance of pores, fine lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections, providing a smooth base for foundation application. It is available in a universal color that suits all skin tones and is especially suitable for oily skin due to its oil-absorbing witch hazel formulation.
Pros
- Blurs the look of pores and other imperfections
- Leaves the skin feeling smooth
- Silky texture that finishes like a powder
- Mattifies oily skin while hydrating dry skin
- Colorless and can be worn alone or under makeup
Cons
- Does not absorb into the skin and may accumulate on top, requiring additional blending