Image: MomJunction Design Team
Investing in the best primer for large pores is a good idea if you have large pores. A primer formulated for large pores forms a protective barrier between the makeup and skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, pores, and wrinkles.
Primers for large pores contain squalene, vitamin E and C, calamine, hyaluronic acid, green tea extracts, and natural skincare ingredients, such as Mediterranean algae and Padina Pavonica, to help retain the skin’s moisture, reduce skin redness, and minimize the appearance of large pores. They also help make your face smooth and firm. Keep scrolling as we list some expert-recommended primers for large pores and tell you how to choose the right product.
Types Of Primers
Primers can be categorized into four types.
- Matte primers: These primers have a matte effect on the skin and are suitable for oily skin. They can prolong the foundation effect and form a barrier between makeup and skin, blurring marks and smoothening pores. The addition of silicone in these primers offers additional benefits.
- Hydrating primers: These makeup primers are ideal for dry and flaky skin. They contain antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated and soft.
- Color-correcting primers: These primers are usually tinted and counteract underlying skin tones. For example, lavender or purple primers can balance yellow skin tones, while green primers can eliminate redness.
- Blurring primers: If you have wrinkles and fine lines, these primers can provide a soothing effect and reduce aging signs.
Top Picks
16 Best Primers For Large Pores In 2024
1. Best Non-Greasy:Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer Mattifying
Elizabeth Mott’s Thank Me Later face primer is a light, smooth formula that helps reduce fine lines and enlarged pores and enhances the makeup effect and keeps it longer. The non-greasy, silky-smooth formula has a matte effect and prevents shine. Furthermore, the primer controls excess oil, balances the complexion, and makes it brighter. The cruelty-free primer does not contain parabens and is water-proof and sweat-proof. Psst! The product has over 30,000 rave reviews on Amazon. Have a look at this product testing video to learn more about the primer for large pores.
Pros
- Prevents makeup crease
- Doesn’t need constant touch-ups
- Easy to remove with makeup remover
- Offers shine control
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- May not be easy to remove
- May be less suitable for combination skin
Review: A user writes, “I am impressed by Elizabeth Mott’s primer. It transforms my makeup, lasts long, and even survives meals. Although a bit tricky to remove, the pore minimization effects make it a good option for special occasions.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 30,844 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Point to consider2. Best Illuminating:Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer Illuminating
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later face primer is an illuminating primer designed to create a smooth, glowing base for your makeup. This primer for pores and wrinkles contains light-reflecting particles that help brighten the skin while also minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. Its non-greasy and lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin. The primer is suitable for all skin types and can be used under makeup.
Pros
- Helps makeup last longer
- No harsh chemicals or fragrances
- Can be worn alone for a radiant look
- Hydrating formula
- Waterproof and sweat-proof
Cons
- May not be great for oily skin
- Might be greasy for some
Review:
A reviewer says, “The Thank Me Later Face Primer performs admirably, upholding my makeup’s allure throughout the day. The application is seamless, and while my sensitive skin gets a little red, I’m pleased by the overall results.”
Quick tip3. Best Easy-To-Apply:e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
If you are looking for a primer to hide pores on your face, choose this e.l.f primer. It is the ideal skin repair cream with a velvety, smooth texture. The easy-to-apply poreless putty primer can lock the makeup for a flawless makeup look. The squalene infused in it can keep the skin hydrated. It makes your makeup last all day long and protects the skin from moisture loss. The primer does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and other chemicals and can provide nourishing, poreless, and smooth complexion to the skin. This primer has been reviewed by about 29,000 users on Amazon, and they have mentioned how it makes the skin look smooth and healthy. Check out this product testing video to learn how this primer works on large pores.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Provides the right balance between greasy and glowy
- Irritant-free
- Best for summers
Cons
- May be slightly drying
- May not offer great coverage
Review:
A user writes, “I was skeptical, but the e.l.f primer worked wonders on my combination skin. It has a pore-minimizing effect and helps my makeup last all day. A true friend for my makeup routine.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 29,424 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
Quick tipElizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer Mattifying Best Non-Greasy | Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer Illuminating Best Illuminating | e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer Best Easy-To-Apply | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | Normal |
| Dimensions | 2.9 x 2.9 x 0.7 inches | 2.9 x 2.9 x 0.7 inches | 0.91 x 2.56 x 4.09 inches |
| Weight | 1.28 Ounces | 1.06 Ounces | 0.74 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 30,844 | 323 | 29,424 |
| Price | $25.0 | $14.1 | $9.0 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Lightweight:Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Prime Primer
The Facestudio Master Prime by the celebrity-endorsed brand Maybelline is a color-correcting primer that preps the face for makeup. The blurring formula reduces pigmentation and skin marks, while the water-soluble base with active ingredients can help reduce large pores and provide a refined appearance to the skin. The makeup primer helps smooth out imperfections and fine lines, making your makeup last longer and giving you a non-greasy feel. You can use the lightweight, non-oily formula as a standalone primer or under foundation. Click this video link to learn about the efficacy of this primer for pores.
Pros
- Offers full coverage
- Hydrating formula
- Provides natural-looking finish
- Blends well on the skin
Cons
- May be less suitable for enlarged pores
- May have a slightly thin consistency
Review:
A reviewer says, “Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Prime Primer feels weightless on my skin and effectively conceals fine lines and extends makeup coverage. It has a slightly watery texture. Nonetheless, it is a reliable option and is easy to apply.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 6,251 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
5. Best With Slanted Applicator:NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Primer Stick
This professional-grade pore-filler primer stick by NYX Professional can be an ideal companion for reducing the appearance of open pores and fine lines. The non-drying formula and translucent color make the primer suitable for all skin types and colors. This slanted pore-filling targeted primer stick provides a soft finish and makes the skin look even and healthy all day long. Moreover, the sheer finish primer to hide pores can be used before or after applying makeup.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Easy to apply
- Not tested on animals
- Slanted applicator helps reach hard-to-reach areas
Cons
- Some might find the texture dry
- Might leave a greasy residue
Review:
A user writes, “I have saggy skin with enlarged pores and fine lines. NYX Pore Filler Stick has transformed my routine. It’s part of my pre-makeup step now. It helps smoothen my skin and subtly blurs imperfections.”
6. Best Vegan:BestLand All Matte Pore Invisible Face Primer
The BestLand oil-free makeup primer helps create an even and smooth base to ensure your makeup stays put throughout the day. It has a refreshing texture and helps reduce the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines for a radiant finish. The formulation helps protect the skin from dirt and pollution and keeps it hydrated and moisturized. It offers medium coverage and keeps your makeup fixed and smudge-free for a translucent glow.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Includes vitamins A, C, and E
- Provides shine control
- Suitable for all skin types, especially oily skin
Cons
- Quantity may not be sufficient
- Some may find it lighter than expected
Review:
A reviewer says, “I’m delighted with the results of BestLand Face Primer. While it may be a little drying, I have experienced a notable improvement in my complexion. It evens my skin, blurring imperfections and even reducing dark spots.”
7. Best Oil-Free:Benefit Cosmetics POREfessional Face Primer
Benefit Cosmetics POREfessional face primer is an oil-free formula that reduces the appearance of facial pores and fine lines. The translucent formula is a light balm that you can apply to the skin before foundation and makeup. It is infused with vitamin E to protect the skin from damage and is suitable for all skin types and complexions. Over 3,000 reviewers on Amazon have given a thumbs up to this best primer for large pores.
Pros
- Has a mild fragrance
- A little goes a long way
- Can also be used as a stand-alone
- Travel-friendly palm-size tube
Cons
- May not last long
- May require frequent touch-ups if you have oily skin
Review:
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 3,568 positive reviews on Amazon.
8. Best Hypoallergenic:Dr. Brandt Skincare Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer
Pores No More by Dr. Brandt is a scientifically formulated skin-refining pore-filler primer that instantly minimizes imperfections on the face and provides a clear, smooth canvas for makeup. The matte formula offers shine control by absorbing excess oil. This primer for pores from Dr. Brandt Skincare is dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free. This clinically backed skincare and cosmetic product can reduce enlarged pores and blemishes and is proven to deliver visible results after two weeks of use.
Pros
- Ensures hassle-free application
- Doesn’t flake
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Doesn’t feel cakey
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- May not be compatible with some makeup brushes
- May be smaller than expected
Review:
A reviewer writes, “Discovering Pores No More was a game changer. It beautifully blurs my pores, offering a fresh, youthful look. While it may feel slightly oily, it’s lightweight and help achieve smoother skin.”
9. Best Hydrating:Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Face Primer
Monica Ann’s Dual Action primer uses vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin and provide hydration to the face, giving it a healthy glow. The makeup primer can keep your makeup flawless all day long. It has a soft and silky texture, which helps smooth out imperfections on the skin. This foundation primer for pores has a matte effect on the skin, and it minimizes the appearance of large pores. The anti-aging formula also plumps the face and brightens it and does not contain sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.
Pros
- Provides translucent matte finish
- Helps lock in moisture
- Balances skin tone
- Cruelty-free
- Oil-free, waterproof, and sweat-proof
Cons
- May be less suitable for sensitive skin
- May have a glittery shine
Review:
A user writes, “Monica Ann Beauty’s Dual-Action Primer truly impressed me. My sensitive skin adores its velvety texture and lasting power. It’s a reliable choice for smooth makeup application, although the fragrance might affect some.”
10. Best Brightening:Latorice Face Makeup Primer
Latorice Face Makeup primer is the perfect makeup base for the face, helping conceal large pores, acne marks, and other skin imperfections. This primer for pores and wrinkles can moisturize the skin, control excess sebum, and act as a concealer to cover wrinkles and fine lines. Rich in plant extracts, the primer can penetrate the skin deeply, prevent meltdowns, and keep the skin dry. It also helps repair blemishes and erythema and brightens a dull complexion. This natural product can be used on its own or under foundation powders or bronzers.
Pros
- Gentle and hypoallergenic
- Minimizes redness
- Protect the skin from sun’s harmful rays
- Evens out the complexion
Cons
- May leave a white cast
- May be slightly greasy
Review:
A reviewer says, “Latorice One Step Correct effectively brightens the skin and provides a smooth canvas. Its lightweight formula is kind to my sensitive skin. While not an all-day solution, it’s become a valued part of my routine.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 2,407 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
11. Best For Blending: Smashbox Photo Finish Minimize Pores Primer
Use the Smashbox Photo Finish primer for pores to smoothen and blur pores on your face. Its mattifying and oil-free formula can control oil production for up to eight hours and give a long-lasting flawless finish to your makeup. Besides, this pore minimizer acts as a barrier and protects your skin from dirt and pollution. You can also apply this primer before the foundation for a seamless blending experience.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Skin smoothing
- Water-resistant and vegan formula
- Provides shine control
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Quantity might be less than expected
- May not be completely flake-proof
Review:
A user writes, “I rely on Smashbox Photo Finish Minimize Pores Primer daily. It creates a smooth canvas for makeup, blurring scars and pores. It helps control oil, but touch-ups are needed. Overall, I have noticed an impressive skin transformation.”
12. Best PETA-Certified: Revolution Beauty London Pore Blur Primer
Revolution Beauty London’s hydrating Pore Blur primer helps minimize the appearance of pores and gives a bright finish to the skin. The gel formula contains the antioxidant vitamin E, which eliminates free radicals and reduces wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, improving overall skin appearance. In addition, this pore-blurring primer can also give a flawless base to let you build and set makeup.
Pros
- Nourishing formula
- Provides a natural-looking finish
- Vegan formula
- PETA-certified cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be sweat-resistant
- Might be a bit oily for some
Review:
A user writes, “Among various pore-blurring options, Revolution Beauty London Pore Blur Primer impresses me the most. It offers a smooth, moisturized base. While it enhances the longevity of your foundation, it might not fully conceal pores for everyone.”
13. Best Matte Formula:First Aid Beauty Hello Fab Pores Be Gone Matte Primer
First Aid Beauty’s Hello Fab Pore Be Gone primer is an oil-free, matte formula rich in fig extract and salicylic acid. The non-comedogenic and clinically-tested formula improves the skin texture and reduces enlarged pores and blemishes on the face, providing a smooth complexion. The formula is rich in nutrients to nourish the skin and control sebum and forms a protective barrier between the skin and the makeup. The primer for pores and wrinkles also has antibacterial properties and optical diffusers to provide a soft, matte appearance. It does not contain parabens, mineral oils, artificial additives, nuts, gluten, and alcohol.
Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Free of lanolin and artificial fragrances
- Lasts long
- Ideal for a no-makeup look
- Provides intense moisturization
Cons
- May not be great for oily skin
Review:
A reviewer says, “First Aid Beauty’s primer astounded me. It delivers a remarkably smooth canvas for foundation, blurring lines, and ensuring lasting coverage. Its scent isn’t my favorite, but I love how it is light and offers a hydrating touch.”
14. Best Ultra-Blurring: Milani No Pore Zone Mattifying Primer
Get that flawless base with Milani’s ultra-blurring and pore-concealing primer. Its non-sticky formula adds a subtle glow to your skin and makes it look healthy from within. In addition, the primer’s lightweight and oil-controlling formula is infused with lily and bamboo extracts for nourished skin. It is formulated for normal to oily skin and is vegan-friendly and cruelty-free.
Pros
- Offers a matte finish
- Non-greasy formula
- Silky, smooth formula
- Hydrates the skin
Cons
- May not be quick-absorbing
- Some might find the quantity lower than expected
Review:
A user writes, “I rely on Milani No Pore Zone Mattifying Primer daily. It’s perfect for my oily combo skin, blurring breakouts and making the makeup last long. It ensures smooth application but may be drying for some.”
15. Best For A Flawless Base: L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer
The Age Perfect primer from the celebrity-endorsed brand, L’Oreal Paris, is infused with a caring serum that instantly smooths pores, lines, and other skin imperfections. This primer to hide pores can be worn alone or under the foundation to achieve a smooth, flawless base. In addition, this blurring face primer can make dull skin look healthy and radiant by giving it a soft-focus finish.
Pros
- Makes the skin soft
- Easy to blend
- Provides a natural-looking finish
- Gives the skin a healthy glow
Cons
- Might not be suitable for dry skin
- Might not be suitable for deeper skin tones
Review:
A user writes, “The L’Oreal Paris primer softens lines, offers a solid base for makeup, and can be worn alone for a natural touch. While it doesn’t have sunscreen like I’d prefer, it’s still a reliable addition to my routine.”
16. Best For Redness:CCPT Makeup Base Primer
CCPT primer is a makeup base that can be used under the foundation to obtain a smooth base. The pore filler is suitable for all skin types and helps conceal fine lines, wrinkles, and other facial blemishes. It is rich in Deep Sea Pearl powder and hyaluronic acid, which relieve skin redness and irritation and keep the skin moisturized and nourished. The primer comes in three colors to suit your skin tone. The lightweight formula glides smoothly on the skin and makes it soft. It adds radiance to makeup and gives a unified, matte finish to the face.
Pros
- Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin
- Easy-to-use pump
- Reduces pore size
- Evens out the skin tone
- Travel-friendly bottle
Cons
- May leave a white residue
- May have a slightly thick consistency
Review:
A reviewer says, “The CPT Primer effectively smooths out imperfections and provides a radiant matte finish. While it’s great for my oily and acne-prone skin, I’ve noticed slight white residue at times. Nonetheless, a solid choice overall.”
How To Choose The Right Primer For Large Pores?
When choosing a primer for large pores, keep the following points in mind.
- Skin type: The primers are largely based on your skin type.
- If your skin is oily, choose a matte primer. This helps control and absorb excess oil secretion and prevents the skin from looking shiny.
- If your skin is dry, the primer must have hydrating and moisturizing properties. A primer with a light creamy texture keeps the skin nourished.
- For normal skin, an illuminating formula with a dewy effect may be the right choice. A matte primer may make your skin look dull. An ultra blurring and pore-minimizing primer can provide an excellent base for foundation and concealer.
- For combination skin, you need a primer to control sebum while keeping the dry skin moisturized. It is best to choose a neutral primer or buy a primer with a matte and a hydrating formula. You can buy a primer with a matte formula to control shine and a primer with a hydrating formula to moisturize the skin.
- For aging and mature skin, use a primer rich in antioxidants. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and large pores and also moisturize your skin and lock makeup.
- Skin problems: Primers are available in different colors to help you deal with various skin discoloration problems. However, when choosing a primer to hide pores, it is best to look for a pore minimizer primer.
- Anti-sweat/Heat-resistant: If you do not want your makeup to run or melt on your face, choose a heat-resistant and anti-sweat primer.
- SPF factor: SPF primers can provide extra protection for the skin from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.
Makeup artist and beauty educator Jackie Alves, says, “Investing in a good primer, even if it’s a little more than you’d normally spend, is almost always worth it–your foundation will go further and last longer with primer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a primer that fills in pores?
All the primers listed above are formulated to blur large pores and give your skin a smooth texture. You may select one that suits your skin type.
2. How do I minimize my pores before makeup?
Here are a few ways that may help reduce large pores before applying the pore-reducing primer. Clean your face with face wash and lukewarm water. Also, exfoliate once a week with a BHA-based peel.
3. What do primers do?
Primers essentially even out the skin’s surface by covering the pores. They allow you to apply foundation and achieve a smooth and professional finesse. It also eases the application process of the remaining makeup and doesn’t allow it to budge easily.
4. Why do I have large pores on my face?
Some of the most common reasons for large pores are high sebum excretion, large hair follicle size, loss of skin elasticity, acne, sun damage, oily skin, and using non-comedogenic makeup (1)
5. Are silicone-based primers ok to use?
Silicone-based primers are good options if you have an oily skin tone and are not allergic to silicone. Due to their density, they effectively cover fine lines and large pores.
6. What should I do to prevent pilling or rolling when I use a primer?
To prevent makeup from pilling or rolling off, never use a water-based foundation after applying an oil-based primer, and vice-versa. Use a silicone-based foundation if using a silicone primer. Further, cleanse or exfoliate before using a primer to remove dead skin cells. Lastly, allow your moisturizer and sunscreen to dry or absorb completely before using a primer.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag, our skincare and makeup enthusiast, has a knack for researching and reviewing the best makeup products available in the market. A good primer is an essential product for any makeup lover to achieve the desired results, and therefore, Poulami has shortlisted the best primers for large pores. She has also explained the different types of primers and the features of each product based on user reviews to help you pick the right primer for your skin type.
The best primers for large pores offer multiple benefits. They are versatile and create the perfect canvas for your makeup while minimizing the appearance of large pores, fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. The options listed here have been curated to blur imperfections and give you a more radiant, youthful look. Some of them can even help you improve the texture of your skin and improve discoloration. Before buying, make sure you study the ingredients carefully so it doesn’t affect your skin.
Infographics: How To Apply A Primer For Large Pores?
Primer acts as a base for your makeup. But if you start applying makeup without letting the primer dry, your makeup may turn cakey. So, we have added some quick steps in the infographics below to help you apply the primer correctly for a smooth finish. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Enlarged pores
https://dermnetnz.org/topics/enlarged-pores
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.
Read full bio of Jackie Alves
Read full bio of Poulami Nag
Read full bio of Wedetso Chirhah
Read full bio of Deyasini Biswas
