Explore affordable alternatives to Benefit Porefessional Primer for smooth, pore-free skin. Dive into the world of L’Oreal Paris Magic Perfecting Base, Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster, Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser, and more for a flawless finish on any budget.
Our top Recommendation
Primer keeps the makeup products to not accentuating the open pores. Some primer dupes in the market are considered a gold standard for achieving a flawless look. I am going to share our top recommendation for a primer dupe.
- L’Oreal Paris Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer – Overall best
- Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum – 2 in 1
- Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer – for sensitive skin
Review of Primer Dupes
All makeup lovers know the significance of makeup dupes in their daily makeup routine. Primer is one of the primary makeup items. Using various primer dupes now and then gives me a thorough acquaintance. I used the following dupes mentioned below. Some do the job very well and few are just for everyday use.
Original Product: Benefit POREfessional Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: Lightweight
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: pore treatment, fine-line treatment, smoothening
- Package information: tube
I was ecstatic when I ordered the Benefit POREfessional Primer, a highly acclaimed product with a devoted following. Upon receiving it in its tube packaging, I was eager to maximize its potential.
My primary motivation for choosing this primer was to address my prominent pores and skin texture, especially around my nose and cheeks. The primer did not disappoint—it delivered on its promises. Applying a small amount evenly across my face transformed my skin, reducing the appearance of pores and leaving it remarkably smooth.
Upon applying the foundation, I noticed a velvety texture and a mattified finish, which piqued my interest. The makeup stayed flawlessly for 5-6 hours without settling into my pores or causing dryness.
However, my expectations were not fully met. While the primer did mattify my skin and slightly improved the appearance of my pores, it didn’t deliver the dramatic results I had hoped for. Its lightweight formula fell short of completely concealing my pores.
An oil-free product, the Benefit primer contains vitamin E for skin protection. While they suggest wearing it alone, I recommend applying a moisturizer beforehand, as its mattifying formula can make the skin feel dry.
In addition to the PRO balm face primer, Benefit offers the new POREfessional Pearl Primer, which adds a radiant touch to your complexion—a delightful choice when you want that extra glow.
Pros
- Makes my skin smooth and even.
- It is oil-free.
- Feels light on the skin.
- Gives a soft matte finish.
- Little goes a long way.
- Reduce the appearance of the pores by 60-70%.
- The packaging is travel-friendly.
Cons
- Not best for oily skin.
- Do not stay longer.
- expensive.
Final Verdict
Benefit Porefessional primer is the best option for an emergency. It smooths the skin and reduces the appearance of the pores. If you have normal or dry skin, you must opt for this primer. The primer does not camouflage the pores but somehow shrinks them and makes them less visible.
L’Oreal Paris Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: Lightweight
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: reduce the appearance of pores, fine-line treatment
- Package information: glass jar
Dealing with large pores on my oily skin has always been a concern. To address this, I ordered the L’Oreal Paris Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer based on positive reviews. Upon receiving the product in its elegant glass jar packaging, I was impressed by the embossed name.
The application was intriguing. The primer had a mousse-like, bouncy texture, and it felt notably thick. When applied to my pores, it seamlessly filled them, truly mattifying my skin and leaving it incredibly smooth.
As I continued with my makeup routine, I noticed some patchiness after applying loose powder, a potential issue for my skin. The slippery texture raised concerns about my foundation’s adherence.
Wearing the primer for 5 hours, I was pleasantly surprised. My foundation held up exceptionally well, with minimal oil breakthrough. I didn’t need to touch up with translucent powder because everything remained intact, free from cracking, creasing, or separation, even around my nose where bunching up sometimes occurs.
This primer brought to mind the Revlon ColorStay Grip Primer, delivering a mattified finish while effectively blurring out pores and wrinkles. Its formulation includes organic ingredients like citrus, aloe vera, and broccoli, and it’s cruelty-free. Furthermore, it outlasted the L’Oreal Paris primer.
In summary, the L’Oreal primer impressively concealed pores and fine lines, providing a silky texture that blended seamlessly. It served as a reliable base coat without causing breakouts, distinguishing itself from other products I’ve tried.
Pros
- It feels lightweight.
- Silky texture easily glides on the skin.
- Gives a skin mattifying finish.
- Absorbs excess oil.
- Blurs pores and blemishes.
Cons
- It only stays for a few hours.
- The primer feels greasy on the face.
- The product is small compared to the price.
Final Verdict | best primer
I am impressed with this primer so far. It has a thick consistency but when you warm it up, it easily glides on the skin. It did make my skin smooth and the big pores less visible. The quantity is small compared to the price but a little goes a long way. I recommend it for normal to dry-skinned people. For oily skin, I suggest prepping the face skin before applying it.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Pore Filler Blurring Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: Lightweight
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: Fill pores, color correcting, smoothening
- Package information: tube
As a fan of the NYX brand, I recently decided to try out their Pore Filler Blurring Primer after hearing rave reviews. The product was designed specifically to fill and minimize pores, which was just what I needed. Upon receiving it in its sleek tube packaging, I was eager to give it a try.
NYX’s pore filling primer is enriched with vitamin E, making it an excellent choice to prep the face for a smooth makeup application while blurring imperfections. What caught my attention was its oil-free and talc-free formulation, as well as its cruelty-free and vegan credentials. Now, let’s talk about the application process.
I squeezed a bit of the primer onto my fingers and noticed its unique beige color—a departure from the clear or white primers I’ve used before. Nonetheless, I was excited to apply it. The texture felt like a balm, incredibly smooth and velvety, contrary to my expectations of a more lotion-like consistency.
Remarkably, the NYX primer left no residue despite its beige color. Its soft texture created a seamless layer on my skin, feeling neither oily nor greasy. Surprisingly, it didn’t replace my moisturizer; instead, it felt weightless on my skin while effectively minimizing the appearance of my pores.
Being a devoted NYX cosmetics enthusiast, I also experimented with the NYX Marshmallow Smoothing Primer. This primer worked wonders, reducing pore size and delivering a genuinely hydrating effect, a real boon for my combination skin. It provided a soft-focus effect and helped keep my makeup looking fresh.
Pros
- It smooths out the skin.
- Filling the pores and reducing their appearance.
- Little goes a long way.
- Gives skin a mattifying result.
- Allow soft and velvety texture.
Cons
- Make the skin dry and patchy.
- The tube packaging is small compared to the price.
- The primer does not come out easily and creates a mess.
Final Verdict
Overall the product did well for my skin. It filled my pores and was less visible. Gave me a mattified finish and smooth texture. I recommend it to people who have oily to normal skin. It sets long on their skin. However, dry-skinned people have to strive with this one. As it does not have a hydrating formula and makes skin patchy.
TOUCH IN SOL Redness Correcting Base Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: full
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: silky and matte
- Product benefits: hydrated, moisturize,d and minimize pores
- Package information: glass jar
I’ve always struggled with large, open pores and facial redness. At a friend’s recommendation, I decided to try the TOUCH IN SOL Redness Correcting Base Primer, designed to cover blemishes and neutralize redness. When it arrived, I found it in a glass jar with a convenient pump.
Before applying it, let me share what the product claims. It boasts ingredients like Pumpkin Seed Oil for hydration, Centella Asiatica to minimize pores and provide smoothness, and Hyaluronic Acid for skin moisture.
I followed their guidance and applied a pea-sized amount of the green-tinted primer to my face, as it’s specifically designed for correcting blemishes. I blended it with my fingers and was truly impressed by the results. The primer effortlessly evened out my skin, concealing rosacea and minimizing pores.
Its impressive pigmentation made quick work of neutralizing wrinkles and covering discoloration around my lips. It left my skin remarkably smooth and completely even.
Pros
- It tightens the pores.
- The green color neutralizes all the wrinkles and fine lines.
- Conceal out the blemishes or redness on the face.
- Make skin smooth and silky.
- Matte finish that does not clog pores and feel greasy over the face.
- The formula is lightweight and easy to blend.
- It controls the sebum.
Cons
- The pump does not reach the bottom.
- Does not completely cover blemishes.
Final Verdict
The product did an amazing job on my face. I had redness and wrinkles over my face that made my skin saggy and dull. But experiencing it for one time, I love this product. It minimized the appearance of the wrinkles and lifted my face by hiding the blemishes. Make sure to use a little otherwise the green color will surely make you clown.
Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: light
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: sebum and shine control
- Package information: glass jar
For a summertime wedding and the challenge of managing oil and shine, I discovered the Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum. Upon receiving my parcel, I found it in a glass jar with a convenient dropper tube for easy application.
This primer serves as a skin booster, bridging the gap between skincare and makeup by nourishing and prepping the skin. Formulated with rice proteins, it excels at absorbing excess oil and leaving the skin with a matte and smooth texture.
One of the primary questions about this product is whether it truly eliminates sebum and provides a matte, soft finish. In my experience, it exceeded expectations. I applied it before any makeup, and it functioned superbly as a base primer. Its jelly-like consistency effortlessly melted into my skin.
Not only did it effectively control oil and shine, but it also created a soft, seamless canvas for the rest of my makeup, preventing any product from breaking or shifting. Additionally, it minimized the appearance of my pores, resulting in a shine-free, non-greasy look that lasted for about 6 hours.
While Neutrogena offers three more primer options, such as the Neutrogena Radiant Primer + Serum, my choice was clear for the summertime oil and shine control needs. This primer can be targeted to the T-zone, where excess oil and shine tend to be more prevalent, making it an excellent choice for those like me with similar concerns.
Pros
- Covers the pores.
- Rice proteins reduce the shine and oil of the face.
- It does not feel greasy and sticky.
- Lightweight formula and easy to blend.
- The product is worth the money.
- Dual formulas help to smooth the surface of the skin for makeup application.
Cons
- It has a jelly texture.
- It is not best for oily skin types.
Final Verdict
Overall, Neutrogena is the best option for those people who do strive with unwanted oil and shine. It beautifully soaks up all the sebum and makes the skin matte. So the foundation does not shift or move. It works as a two-in-a-one benefit. The primer shrinks the large pores and the serum gives the skin a smooth surface.
e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: full
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: Hydrating
- Package information: Compact
Unboxing: The innovative makeup primer made the makeup blogger crazy as soon as it launched. I ordered e.l.f Poreless Putty Primer and received my parcel. It came in simple yet elegant compact packaging.
It claims to soothe the skin and prepare it for makeup application. The velvety texture smoothly glides over the skin and blurs the imperfections for a poreless effect. Moreover, the primer has a hydrating formula that does not dry the skin.
To check out all its claims I gave it a whirl. The packaging is not friendly for long nails folks so I scooped out the primer with a spatula spoon and applied it over my face. I pretty much focused on the areas where I have more pores. As I have a combination of oily skin, my skin tends to produce more oil after the application of the foundation.
Want to know how this primer would affect my skin? As far as I know, it mattified my skin and soaked up all the oil and shine. Gave me a smooth texture and when I applied foundation it made the foundation blends easily.
This primer held and mattified my skin. I noticed an effortless application with this primer. Some matte concealers and foundations really can not suit the luminous finish but this hydrating primer helps me to achieve a seamless and natural finish look.
Neutrogena primer is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. It is formulated without phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol, ethoxylates, triclosan, triclocarban, and hydroquinone.
Pros
- It feels light and breathable on the skin.
- Gives skin a moisturizer and hydrating effect.
- Make skin look healthy.
- A little goes a long way.
- Easy to blend and hides all the pores.
- It provides skin with a smooth and velvety texture.
Cons
- It does not stay all day.
- Gives light and sheer effect.
Final Verdict | Best Benefit Porefessional Dupe
All in all, this primer is best for all skin types. It gives hydration to the skin which means your makeup does not crack up or crease. The soft and smooth texture effortlessly blends into the skin while covering the pores. Moreover, it evens out the skin for further makeup application.
Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: medium, sheer
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Products benefits: hydrating, smooth matte finish, blurs pores
- Package information: tube
Unboxing: I used Maybelline baby lips which are my still favourites so I was so excited to try their whole “baby skin” range. Moreover, it has been an extremely hyped primer product in the drugstore. I ordered Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer and received my parcel. It came in aqua blue tube packaging.
The primer tube was so small that I thought it finished quickly. But I was proven wrong because you do not require too much for the application. The formula is like gel and completely melts into the skin. I have visible pores around my nose and cheeks. During summer, they appear more and expand due to sebum on the face skin.
I applied a small amount to my face and blended it. Instantly, it blurred my imperfections and filled in my pores. The appearance of my pores was reduced. It exceptionally gave me satisfying results. It left my face with soft and smooth skin. The formula was to hide the pores and when I applied the foundation over it, it did not cause the shift.
What should you do when you have oily skin? I recommend you use blotting paper to take out all the excess oil and then go for this one. It has a hydrating formula that does not cause the foundation to look cakey. In addition, it gives the skin a smooth matte finish.
You may also be interested in Is Yves Saint Laurent Makeup Cruelty-Free?
Pros
- Hide pores and evens out the skin.
- Gives a smooth matte finish.
- Does not feel greasy and sticky.
- Makes skin soft and silky.
- Primer is worth the money.
- Effortlessly apply on the face and give good coverage.
- fragrance-free.
Cons
- Oily people have to be careful.
- It clogs pores due to gel texture.
Final Verdict
Love the Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer. It covered up my pores and smoothened my skin for further application. It is suitable for every skin type. This item would give all the higher-end face primers a serious run for their cash. I highly suggest you give it a go for better and amazing results.
The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer
Key Features and Specifications
- Coverage: medium
- Skin type: all
- Finish type: matte
- Product benefits: Hydrating
- Package information: tube
Unboxing: As people are raving about the ordinary extensive range of skincare products, I delved into searching and found Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer. I ordered this and received my parcel. It came in a sleek plastic tube with a flip cap. It has a white gel creamy formula that blurs the pores and lines.
Ordinary primer uses an advanced formula of silicone that mattifies the skin as well as hydrates it. This primer can be used alone on the face or with makeup to reduce the appearance of pores and imperfections.
Let’s find out how this one performs on my face skin. The application was simple, I squeezed out a pea-sized amount and spread it all over my face. It absorbed into my skin and blurred the pores and lines of my face. It did not feel tacky on my skin rather it left my skin with a smooth surface.
What I find extraordinary about this primer, it does not have a mousse surface like other silicone-based primers have. I was concerned that it might be bunched up or piled however it did not. The texture of ordinary silicone primer was smooth and velvety yet felt lightweight.
I wore it pretty for 7 hours and it did not make my makeup shift. Even though it has silicone still it provided my skin with a matte finish. It did not dry out my skin like mostly primer with a matte finish does. This quality makes it different and unique from other primers.
This primer is great in blurring the pores however it did not fill my pores compared to what the Benefit Porefessional Primer did. It just evened out my face and gave a diffused look, not to make my pores disappear.
Check out our homepage for more interesting reviews.
Pros
- It is lightweight and does not feel tacky.
- Makes the face smooth and soft.
- It provides high adherence to the makeup application.
- Can be used alone on a bare face.
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.
- Free from any harsh chemicals and fragrance.
- Packaging is travel-friendly.
- Best for sensitive skin.
Cons
- Does not completely hide the pores.
- Gets patchy on dry skin.
Final Verdict
Honestly, I feel this primer did an amazing job on my skin. It did not blur my pores and imperfections. However, it is best in its unique texture. Moreover, it allows skin hydrating and matte effect as well. You can add this primer to your makeup and skincare regimen for better results.
Comparison between Elf Poreless Putty Primer vs Benefit Porefessional
Choosing the perfect primer can be a challenge, especially for those with oily skin and visible pores. Here’s a comparison of two primers I tried:
| Primer | E.l.f Poreless Putty Primer | Benefit POREfessional Primer |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Thick texture, blends easily | Silicone-based balm |
| Initial Feel | Felt slightly greasy | Absorbs quickly |
| Pore Blurring | Improved the appearance of pores around the nose | Noticeable reduction in visible pores |
| Makeup Application | Allowed even foundation application | Provided a smooth canvas for makeup |
| Shine Control | Struggled to control shine for an extended period | Effectively controlled shine |
| Longevity | Did not stay on the skin for an extended time | Provided long-lasting results |
In my experience, the Benefit POREfessional Primer outperformed the E.l.f Poreless Putty Primer in terms of pore-blurring and shine control, making it the better choice for my oily skin.
Buying Guide
Buying and ordering a product will never be a difficult task for me since I know what the main key features and specifications of an item have in it. Picking the right primer can be an overwhelming errand, however, when you know these things, you can track down the ideal pair. Being a makeup consumer, I am well known for which kind of coverage and properties a primer has to be in it. To know all this, you must keep reading this.
Coverage
What is more important in a product to remember while purchasing? The coverage. I never choose a primer with light coverage. Why? Because it is the first step of your makeup application. Moreover, it is used as a base application. If your primer has light coverage how can it adhere all the rest of the makeup to the skin while blurring the pores?
Finish type
Most people have sensitive skin. They do makeup and find pretty breakouts on their face the next morning. Primers come in different categories like matte, hydrated, oily, and radiance. Opt for a primer which is best for your skin.
Anti-aging properties
If you are stressed over the future and how your skin will possibly mature, then at that point think about purchasing a primer with anti-aging properties. This keeps your skin hydrated and makes wrinkles less visible in their appearance.
Color Correcting primer
Now primers have come in different colors to conceal the blemishes, redness, wrinkles, and dark spots on the face. The green color is used to hide the redness caused by acne or rosacea. Purple is for individuals with a light complexion who need to conceal yellow undertones. Peach is used for dark spots, pink works for those who desire to look healthy and finally yellow primer is used to camouflage the blood vessels.
Top brands for Primer Dupes
There are many drugstore editions for a primer that has phenomenal results. In other words, primer dupes are giving a tough time to the higher-end because of their lower price. Below I will mention some primer dupes you can grab by saving time(of course money as well).
- e.l.f Blurring Primer Serum
- NYX Bare With Me Hydrating Jelly Primer
- Catrice Prime & Fine Aqua Fresh Hydro Primer
- Milani Instant Touch-Up Blur Stick
- Makeup Revolution Pore Blur Primer
- Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer & Serum
- NYX Hydra Touch Primer Oil
- Wet n Wild Photo Focus Cucumber Primer Water
- e.l.f Jelly Pop Dew Primer
- e.l.f Poreless Putty Primer
- The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer
FAQs
Is benefit pore primer water-based?
A super lightweight and breathable water-based face primer that hides the spots and makes pores less visible while guaranteeing a durable, long-lasting, and even after the makeup application.
How long does benefit POREfessional last?
Benefit POREfessional stays long on the face. I wore it for pretty much 7-8 hours. It did not make skin greasy and sticky. Moreover, It smooths out my skin, and makeup applications are still held on it.
Is silicone-based primer good for sensitive skin?
They are considered safe and good for sensitive skin. Silicone-based primer creates a top layer above the skin that protects it from dirt and debris. Moreover, it keeps skin hydrated and prevents moisture loss. Silicone primers give skin a silky and smooth texture.
Can I wear primer alone?
Primer can be worn alone on bare skin or with the application of makeup. It offers skin a smooth texture without having a ton of foundation and other makeup items. Your skin breathes more with fewer beauty products on the face.