Introduction
By using an elf primer as the foundation, you can achieve flawless coverage and even skin tone without worrying about applying other facial products. The elf primer is practical in creating a matte finish that enhances the longevity and definition of makeup.
For those who are new to makeup, the elf primers offer both affordable and professional results. The elf primer is tailored to the skin's needs. From reducing pores to controlling shine, these primers are tailored to provide hydration or a glowing look.
The light lotions penetrate the skin, leaving a soft, permeable texture throughout the day. Additionally, many elf primers contain beneficial elements, such as vitamins, antioxidants, or moisturizing agents, that help maintain healthy skin and enhance makeup results.
Furthermore, elf primers are recognized for their cruelty-free and vegan features, reflecting the brand's commitment to ethical beauty. The use of an elf primer is essential for achieving a flawless daytime look or nighttime glamour, as it provides slick coverage and definition. Simply put, this is the primary first step towards achieving professional-looking makeup that lasts longer.
Types of elf Primer
Hydrating Primers
For those with dry or dull skin, elf hydrating primers are a great choice. They contain moisture-boosting ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and vitamins, that help nourish the skin while creating a smooth base. These primers prevent foundation from clinging to dry patches, keeping makeup looking fresh and dewy throughout the day.
Matte and Poreless Primers
If you struggle with excess shine or visible pores, elf matte and poreless primers are designed for you. These formulas regulate oil production and minimize the appearance of pores, resulting in a soft, velvety finish for your skin. They’re beneficial for oily or combination skin types, ensuring makeup stays in place longer without looking greasy.
Illuminating Primers
For a radiant, glowing complexion, elf Illuminating primers add a touch of luminosity beneath your foundation. These primers contain light-reflecting particles that brighten the skin and enhance your natural glow. They’re ideal for special occasions, evening events, or when you want your makeup to look more vibrant and fresh.
Gripping and Long-Wear Primers
When you need your makeup to last all day or night, elf Gripping primers provide strong adhesion for foundation and concealer. Their tacky texture locks makeup in place, preventing it from sliding or fading. These are perfect for long events, hot weather, or situations where touch-ups aren’t convenient.
Buying Guide For elf Primer
Understand Your Skin Type
To determine your skin type, the best elf primer to use is worth trying. Applying a matte or non-pore-minimizing primer is essential for oily skin, as it helps to keep your foundation in place throughout the day. Dry skin can be soothed with hydrating formulas that contain hyaluronic acid, which helps prevent makeup from appearing flaky or patchy. You can achieve a more natural finish by selecting a primer that matches your skin tone.
Choose Based on Makeup Goals
Various looks and occasions demand distinct primers. The base is smooth and slick, making it suitable for everyday use with a universal elf primer. If your makeup lasts a long time, use a long-wear, gripping primer to prevent it from smudging.
A delicate, dewy, and radiant finish can be achieved with bright, illuminating primers or airbrushed with pore-filling formulas. To achieve your desired look, determine the type of primer to use and then select one that complements your makeup.
Examine the Formula and Ingredients
Elf has lightweight, skin-friendly formulations. Cruelty-free, vegan products are often incorporated into skincare routines alongside vitamins, peptides, or antioxidants. These additional benefits not only enhance makeup application but also improve skin condition. The formula is not only a foundation for your makeup, but also provides optimal skin care.
Value for Money
Most individuals prefer elf primer due to its cost-effectiveness and superior quality. When it comes to elf primers, which are cheaper than the premium brands, you can trust us to deliver professional results. It's effortless to experiment with various options, such as hydrating, matte, radiant, or poreless, without spending too much.
9 Best elf Primer
Using an elf primer offers multiple benefits that go beyond makeup application. These primers create a smooth canvas by filling in fine lines, minimizing the appearance of pores, and balancing skin texture, which helps foundation and other products apply more evenly. Many formulas are enriched with skin-loving ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants, that hydrate, protect, and nourish the skin while you wear them. For oily skin, mattifying primers help control excess shine, while hydrating options keep dry skin supple and comfortable. Illuminating primers add a healthy glow, giving the skin a refreshed and radiant look.
Since all elf primers are lightweight, non-greasy, cruelty-free, and vegan, they not only enhance makeup performance but also support long-term skin health, making them a wise, skin-friendly choice for everyday use.
elf Primer 82846
Elf Power Grip Primer is a gel-based product that not only provides a smooth texture but also effectively moisturises. Hyaluronic Acid is used in conjunction with this primer to help achieve a refreshed, plumped appearance.
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pros
- Thanks to its powerful grip, this primer helps your makeup stay in place all day without fading or shifting.
- Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, this primer not only preps your skin for makeup but also provides much-needed hydration, leaving your skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.
- Despite its hydrating properties, the elf power grip primer is lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for all skin types, including those with oily skin.
- Compared to other high-end primers, the elf power grip primer offers excellent performance at an affordable price, making it accessible for those on a budget.
- The gel-based texture is easy to apply and works well with both fingertips and makeup tools, providing a smooth and even finish.
cons
- Some users may find the primer’s grip a little too sticky, especially during the initial stages of application, although this sensation subsides after the makeup sets.
- The 0.811 Fl Oz (24 ml) size may not last as long for users who apply generous amounts daily, leading to quicker product depletion.
- While the primer works for most skin types, individuals with very oily skin may need to apply additional mattifying products to maintain a shine-free appearance.
Features and Benefits
Gel-Based, Hydrating Formula
Elf Power Grip Primer is a gel-based product that not only provides a smooth texture but also effectively moisturises. Hyaluronic Acid is used in conjunction with this primer to help achieve a refreshed, plumped appearance.
Powerful Makeup Grip
This primer is designed to hold makeup in place and last longer, making it a lasting choice. You don't need to touch up every time you apply foundation, blush, or concealer - no more needing that second set of rouge.
Smooths Skin Texture
The primer's texture transforms into a sheer layer, making makeup easy to apply. The effect is soft-focused, resulting in a smooth and even finish. It also reduces fine lines and imperfections.
Versatile for All Skin Types
With its translucent finish, the elf power grip primer is suitable for all skin tones and complexions. You can use this primer on any skin type — oily, dry, or combination —and it works as a foundation for your makeup routine.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
The power grip primer is a valuable addition to the ethical beauty line, as per elf. Despite being vegan, it is also eco-friendly and cruelty-free.
elf Primer 83405
The elf poreless face primer makes sure your makeup stays put all day. It has a cool texture that hides flaws like pores and wrinkles, so your foundation goes on great and lasts for hours.
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pros
- elf offers high-quality beauty products at an accessible price point, making this primer a budget-friendly choice for those looking to enhance their makeup routine without breaking the bank.
- The 0.47 fl oz size is compact and easy to carry, perfect for on-the-go makeup touch-ups or packing in your travel bag.
- With nourishing ingredients like Tea Tree and Vitamin A, this primer not only prepares your skin for makeup but also offers skincare benefits that enhance your skin's health over time.
- The lightweight texture makes it easy to spread and blend over your face. A little goes a long way, providing smooth coverage that doesn't feel heavy or greasy.
- elf avoids harmful toxins in its products, ensuring that this primer is gentle on the skin while providing long-lasting results.
cons
- While the 0.47 fl oz size is ideal for travel, it may not be sufficient for daily use if you regularly apply a large amount of primer.
- While this primer offers a balanced finish, individuals with dehydrated skin may find it needs additional hydration for a smoother application.
- Although it helps maintain a matte finish, individuals with highly oily skin may still experience some shine after several hours of wear.
Features and Benefits
Makeup That Lasts
The elf poreless face primer makes sure your makeup stays put all day. It has a cool texture that hides flaws like pores and wrinkles, so your foundation goes on great and lasts for hours.
Made with Tea Tree & Vitamin A
This primer isn't just for makeup; it also helps your skin. Tea Tree and Vitamin A nourish and calm your skin, leaving it feeling good and balanced while also improving your skin's health.
Vegan & Not Tested on Animals
Elf poreless face primer is vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it.
Makes Your Skin Smooth
This primer fills in pores and wrinkles. So your makeup looks even and smooth.
Shine with a Matte Look
It gives you a radiant look while keeping a matte finish that's perfect for all skin types, even oily skin.
elf Primer 85912
The elf poreless putty primer has this silky texture that just melts into your skin. It feels light, almost like you’re not wearing anything, so you stay comfortable from morning to night.
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pros
- This primer smooths out your skin, giving you that airbrushed look and helping your makeup glide on. Your skin ends up looking fresh and polished all day.
- elf stands by their ethics—no animal testing here, and no animal products either. You get a primer that’s both kind to animals and gentle on your skin.
- It’s got a silky feel, so you can use your fingers or a putty primer applicator and get the job done without any fuss.
- Packed with Vitamin E and Tea Tree, this primer does more than just prep your face—it actually takes care of your skin too.
- The formula lasts. You can go about your day without worrying about your makeup slipping or fading.
cons
- If you have really oily skin, you might notice this primer doesn’t keep shine away as well as you’d like. Small Size
- At 0.74 fl oz, it runs out pretty quickly if you use it every day or don’t skimp on the amount.
- It can feel a bit sticky when you first put it on, but that usually goes away after a few minutes.
Features and Benefits
Smooth, Lightweight Feel
The elf poreless putty primer has this silky texture that just melts into your skin. It feels light, almost like you’re not wearing anything, so you stay comfortable from morning to night.
Blurs Pores
This primer takes care of big pores and fine lines. It softens those spots and gives your skin a smooth, even base for makeup.
Hydrating and Perfecting
Thanks to squalane and other nourishing ingredients, your skin stays hydrated and looks healthy all day long. No dryness, just a fresh, moisturized feel.
Keeps Makeup in Place
Your makeup stays put—no fading, no creasing. You look as good at the end of the day as you did when you put it on.
Works for Every Skin Type
Oily, dry, or somewhere in between, this primer just gets your skin. It smooths things out and leaves you with that seamless, poreless look, no matter your complexion.
elf Primer 83415
elf’s blemish control face primer packs Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, and Vitamin E. Together, they fight acne-causing bacteria, sweep away dead skin cells, and feed your skin what it needs to keep breakouts from coming back.
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pros
- Salicylic acid and tea tree oil really make this primer a solid pick if you struggle with acne or breakouts. It actually helps calm your skin while setting it up for makeup.
- You know elf—always budget-friendly without skimping on quality. This primer’s no different, and since you get a generous amount, you’re getting real bang for your buck.
- This stuff feels super light. No greasy film, even if your skin leans oily. The finish is smooth and matte, with zero heavy or cakey leftovers.
- Works for All Skin Types Oily, dry, combo—it doesn’t matter. The primer is built to work with most skin types, giving your makeup a solid, balanced base.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and packed with skin-friendly ingredients, the elf blemish control primer is a gentle choice for your skin and the planet.
cons
- It keeps shine in check, but if you’ve got seriously oily skin, you’ll probably need to blot or layer up with more oil-control products as the day goes on.
- It helps stop new breakouts, but don’t expect it to treat deep, cystic acne. If your acne is severe, you’ll need something stronger.
- There’s a bit of fragrance here. Most people won’t mind, but if your skin reacts to scents, you might notice a little irritation.
Features and Benefits
Blemish-Fighting Formula
elf’s blemish control face primer packs Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, and Vitamin E. Together, they fight acne-causing bacteria, sweep away dead skin cells, and feed your skin what it needs to keep breakouts from coming back.
Hydrating and Soothing
This isn’t just a makeup base—it hydrates and calms your skin, too. Vitamin E locks in moisture, and Tea Tree Oil helps with irritation and redness. If your skin’s sensitive or a little inflamed, this primer’s got you.
Mattifying Effect
If your skin is oily, this primer’s made for you. It leaves a light, matte finish and keeps shine at bay, especially in your T-zone. No heavy feeling—just balanced, fresh-looking skin all day.
Long-Lasting Makeup Grip
It smooths your skin, so makeup goes on more easily and actually stays put. Forget about those midday touch-ups or fading foundation.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
It’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free. No animal testing, period.
elf Primer 787461068199
The elf brightening lavender face primer packs a punch with its lavender-infused formula. It cuts through yellow undertones and evens out patchy skin, so your face looks smoother and more radiant before you even think about makeup.
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pros
- Lavender extract helps reduce redness from conditions like rosacea, acne, or just plain irritation. Skin looks more even and less blotchy.
- You get solid coverage and color correction, but this primer doesn’t feel thick or greasy. It’s comfortable—no heavy, suffocating feeling, even after hours of wear.
- elf keeps things high-quality without jacking up the price. You get that “luxury product” vibe, but your wallet barely notices.
- The primer leaves a matte finish, so your makeup doesn’t slide off halfway through the day. It holds everything in place, so you need fewer trips to the mirror for touch-ups.
- This primer works well with all skin types, especially if you struggle with redness or uneven tone. You can use it under different foundations, so it’s easy to mix into whatever routine you already have.
cons
- Even though it’s matte, it doesn’t always keep super oily skin in check. You might have to blot or touch up if you get shiny fast.
- It’s lightweight, but it doesn’t add much moisture. If your skin gets flaky or dry, you’ll probably want to layer something extra-hydrating underneath.
- The lavender tint mainly targets yellow tones and redness, so it might not blend well with darker skin tones. If your undertones don’t match, it could look off.
Features and Benefits
Color-Correcting Power
The elf brightening lavender face primer packs a punch with its lavender-infused formula. It cuts through yellow undertones and evens out patchy skin, so your face looks smoother and more radiant before you even think about makeup.
Instant Glow
Right after you put it on, your skin looks brighter—like you actually got a good night’s sleep. It fights off that dull, tired vibe, leaving you looking fresh and luminous.
Matte, Not Shiny
Some primers leave you looking oily. Not this one. It keeps things matte and shine-free, so your makeup lasts longer and you don’t have to worry about looking greasy halfway through the day.
Smooths Everything Out
The creamy texture glides on and hides imperfections, so your foundation goes on like a dream. No patchiness, no caking—just a flawless base that lasts.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
Like every elf product, this primer is totally vegan and cruelty-free. It skips the harmful stuff, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin.
elf Primer 83614
This serum packs hyaluronic acid and goji, so your skin gets a serious hit of moisture. It leaves your face plump and healthy-looking, whether you want a fresh base for makeup or just a natural glow on its own.
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pros
- This gentle formula hydrates and preps your skin—dry, oily, or anywhere in between. It won’t clog your pores or pile on extra oil.
- You get a radiant, fresh look that actually lasts. Your skin stays hydrated and luminous all day, whether you’re wearing full glam or going bare.
- elf gives you a primer that feels high-end but costs way less. It’s perfect if you want quality without spending a fortune.
- This product is clean, ethical, and totally guilt-free. It’s good for your skin and the planet—no animal testing and 100% vegan.
- The serum goes on smooth and sinks in fast. You barely have to think about it, and it works whether you’re just starting with makeup or you’re a pro.
cons
- If you’re after a totally matte, oil-absorbing finish, this isn’t it. The dewy glow probably won’t be your thing.
- It hydrates, but if your skin’s extra thirsty, you’ll want to layer a moisturizer underneath for best results.
- This primer won’t even out your skin tone or hide imperfections. If you want coverage, you’ll need to pair it with other products.
Features and Benefits
Hydrating Formula
This serum packs hyaluronic acid and goji, so your skin gets a serious hit of moisture. It leaves your face plump and healthy-looking, whether you want a fresh base for makeup or just a natural glow on its own.
Weightless, Dewy Finish
The texture feels light—never heavy or sticky. You end up with a dewy, luminous look that actually lasts all day. Wear it solo, or use it under makeup. Either way, your skin looks lit from within.
Perfect Makeup Base
elf’s glow-up primer serum smooths things out so foundation glides on easily and wears longer. Your makeup sits better and finishes flawlessly, every time.
Clean, Vegan, and Cruelty-Free
This primer skips the harsh stuff. It’s totally vegan, cruelty-free, and gentle on skin, so that you can use it without a second thought.
Versatile Use
Swipe it on for a quick, radiant look, or layer it under your makeup for an extra boost—this primer fits right into whatever routine you’ve got going.
elf Primer 81517
This gel formula dives right in, giving your skin a rush of hydration and smoothing out rough spots fast. You’ll feel that soft, even base that makes makeup go on way easier. Thanks to niacinamide, your skin looks brighter—not dull or tired.
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pros
- This primer gives your skin a quick shot of moisture, which is perfect if you’re dealing with dryness or just need a little extra hydration.
- Your makeup actually sticks around all day—no sliding off, no gathering in fine lines.
- Works with any skin type or tone. The formula goes on clear and fits right in with whatever makeup look you’re going for.
- No harsh stuff here. It’s safe for sensitive skin, so you can use it every day without worrying.
- If you care about your beauty routine being ethical, this one’s got you covered—it’s cruelty-free and totally vegan.
cons
- It does feel a bit sticky at first, which might throw you off if you usually go for a silky-smooth primer.
- The bottle’s just 0.8 fl oz, so if you use primer every day, you’ll probably need to restock pretty often.
- It’s affordable for a quality primer, but compared to other drugstore options, it’s a little pricier.
Features and Benefits
Hydrates and Smooths
This gel formula dives right in, giving your skin a rush of hydration and smoothing out rough spots fast. You’ll feel that soft, even base that makes makeup go on way easier. Thanks to niacinamide, your skin looks brighter—not dull or tired.
Long-Lasting Makeup Grip
It’s got this slightly tacky texture that really holds onto makeup. Your look won’t fade or crease, so you get that just-applied finish all day. No mid-afternoon touch-ups, just makeup that stays put.
Dewy Finish
If you’re after a dewy glow, this primer nails it. The finish looks fresh, never greasy, and it plays nicely with every skin tone. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out with glam, it works.
Skin-Loving Ingredients
Loaded with clean stuff—no phthalates, no parabens, no harsh chemicals. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny Certified, so you can feel good about using it.
Niacinamide Benefits
With 4% niacinamide, you’re getting real results: brighter, more even skin, less redness, and a more substantial moisture barrier. It’s a game-changer, especially if your skin’s dry or sensitive.
elf Primer 83406
elf’s hydrating face primer packs a punch with grape extract and vitamins A, C, and E. These ingredients dive deep, locking in moisture so your skin feels fresh all day. It smooths things out, setting you up for easy, flawless makeup.
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pros
- Even with its quality ingredients, elf’s hydrating primer doesn’t break the bank. You get a lot of value compared to higher-end brands.
- Vitamins A, C, and E do more than just hydrate—they actually nourish your skin, keeping it healthy while prepping it for makeup.
- Nobody wants a heavy, sticky primer. This one feels light and keeps your skin matte, so it’s especially good for oily or combination skin.
- No artificial fragrance, no parabens, no irritants. If your skin throws a fit easily, this primer keeps things calm.
- It goes on smooth and blends right in—no streaks, no patchiness. Plus, it absorbs quickly so you don’t have to wait around before putting on makeup.
cons
- The tube’s on the smaller side. If you use primer every day or just like a bigger bottle, you might run through it fast.
- Most people get good results, but if your skin is super oily, you might notice shine coming through by the end of the day.
- If you live somewhere really dry, you’ll probably want to add extra moisturizer before this primer to keep your skin comfortable.
Features and Benefits
Hydration Boost
elf’s hydrating face primer packs a punch with grape extract and vitamins A, C, and E. These ingredients dive deep, locking in moisture so your skin feels fresh all day. It smooths things out, setting you up for easy, flawless makeup.
Long-Lasting Makeup
This primer creates a solid base, so your makeup actually sticks around. Your foundation and concealer won’t budge or settle into lines. You get that just-applied look for hours.
Fills In Pores and Fine Lines
This primer blurs them, giving your skin a soft, even texture. Makeup glides on and keeps that fresh finish from morning to night.
Suitable for Acne-Prone Skin
If you struggle with oily or acne-prone skin, this primer’s non-greasy formula helps balance things out. It keeps oil in check and makes pores look smaller, so you end up with a clean, matte look.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
No guilt here. The formula is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, so you don’t have to compromise your values for great skin. It skips harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, making it a safe bet for all skin types.
elf Primer 81395
The elf cosmetics putty primer trio comes with three options: Poreless, Matte, and Luminous. Each one targets something different—shrinking the look of pores, keeping shine in check, or giving your skin a soft glow. So no matter what kind of finish you’re after, you’ve got choices.
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pros
- Three primers mean you can mix and match however you want. Pick one for your T-zone, another for your cheeks, or blend them all together to suit your skin’s mood.
- Each formula goes on creamy and smooth. Spreads easily, no patchiness, and you get even coverage every time.
- Thanks to the hyaluronic acid and squalane, your skin stays moisturized—even if you’re prone to dryness or dehydration.
- You don’t have to spend a fortune on good primers. elf keeps prices low, but the quality holds up. You get value and results.
- Oily, dry, combination—these primers work for just about everyone. No need to overthink it.
cons
- They’re great for travel, but the 0.14 oz pots run out pretty fast if you use primer every day.
- Sometimes one primer isn’t enough. You might have to layer or mix to really address your skin’s needs.
- The luminous option gives a gentle, soft glow. If you want full-on radiance, it might feel a little too subtle.
Features and Benefits
Three Unique Primers
The elf cosmetics putty primer trio comes with three options: Poreless, Matte, and Luminous. Each one targets something different—shrinking the look of pores, keeping shine in check, or giving your skin a soft glow. So no matter what kind of finish you’re after, you’ve got choices.
Hydrating Ingredients
These primers aren’t just about smoothing things out. They’re packed with hyaluronic acid and squalane, so while you prep your face, you’re also locking in moisture. Your skin feels fresh and hydrated all day—never tight or dry.
Travel-Friendly Size
Each little pot is just 0.14 ounces. They’re tiny, but that’s the point. Toss them in your bag, bring them on a trip, or stash one in your desk drawer for quick touch-ups. Super convenient, never bulky.
Long-Lasting Formula
The texture is velvety and smooth, which helps your makeup hold up. No more worrying about foundation sliding off, creasing, or settling into lines. You get a clean, even base that lasts.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free
You don’t have to second-guess what you’re putting on your skin. elf is vegan and cruelty-free—no animal testing, no animal ingredients. Just makeup you can actually feel good about.



