Got oily skin? These primers will help your makeup stay put

Should you invest in a primer? For oilier skin types, the answer is always a yes but even if excess oil isn’t your primary concern, using one has many benefits. They help create the smoothest of canvases, even out skin tone, shrink pores, fine lines and wrinkles and keep your foundation on longer. There is a bevvy of pre-makeup products on the market at any given time, but here is my pick of four excellent primers for oil-proofing your face. Not new exactly, but old reliables I frequently revert back to stop the shiny skin effect (the bad version of ‘dewy’).  If your skin is on the combination side of dry (yes, as well as oily), just make sure that all important moisturiser goes on ahead of any of these.

Smashbox Pore Minimizing Photo Finish Primer, €38

This oil-free primer is impressive; part BB cream and a primer. It’s the texture that makes this one worth buying. It has an almost powder-like consistency and is perfect under makeup for those who can’t get the foundation to stay put.

Benefit POREfessional Face Primer Balm, €34

This lightweight oil-free balm is ideal for those with particular oily areas, such as the T-Zone and it blurs pores almost instantly. Its colour adapts to a range of different skin tones and gives it a smoother, more even finish.

Estée Lauder Matte Perfecting Primer, €34

This primer contains soothing Vitamin E as well as a host of oil regulating ingredients, ensuring that your skin stays shine-free for longer. Use it to prep your face for makeup, then refresh throughout the day to keep skin looking its best. This is also an ideal companion to their Double Wear foundation.

Revlon Photoready Prime + Anti-Shine, €14.99

Don’t let the price put you off; this more than does the job if you are looking for a primer in a more affordable bracket. Its texture is heavier, but this one is really a multi-use balm which can be worn alone if your skin needs a makeup break or used underneath to smooth the skin and eliminate shine.