Two brands, e.l.f. and NYX, both have popular primers that people use before applying their base makeup. They are largely recommended for providing long-lasting wear, hydration, and smoothing effects for various skin types, but there’s debate on which one is the most effective.
Price:
- e.l.f.- All primers costing between $8-$25
- Power Grip Primer $11 (.8 fl. oz) & $25 (2.5 fl.oz) – for glowy skin, infused with niacinamide base
- Putty Primers $11 (.74 fl. oz) & $13 (.74 fl. oz) – for matte, smooth skin base
- NYX- All primers costing between $7-$21
- Shine Killer $15 (.67 fl oz) – for oily skin
- Plump Right Back $17 (1.01 fl oz) – for hydration
- Pore Filler $15 (.67 fl oz) – for blurring
e.l.f:
The most popular primer that e.l.f. sells is called the “Power Grip Primer”. They sell two different versions: one that is for matte makeup (pink) and one that is for an all-day sticky hold (blue). The focus is on providing “luxury” performance for a fraction of the cost. They also have another line of primers with a putty consistency instead, which is used for matte/velvety makeup looks.
NYX:
They currently sell three different kinds of primers: “Shine Killer”, “Plump Right Back”, and “Marshmallow Primer”. The “Shine Killer” primer makes sure of a very matte and finished makeup look. The “Plump Right Back” primer is a hydrating, vegan, and cruelty free electrolyte infused formula made to instantly plump, moisturize, and prep skin for all-day makeup wear. The “Marshmallow Primer” is a silicone-free face primer infused with marshmallow root extract to smooth, soften, and hydrate skin for up to 16 hours.
Comparison:
e.l.f primers are often described as stickier, while NYX primers offers more hydration and a lighter, serum-like feel. e.l.f. is famously known for their long-lasting “glue” hold, whereas NYX shines for plumping and a smoother finish.
e.l.f. has a thicker, gel-based consistency that provides secure hold, and NYX is a serum-like feel. lightweight, hydrating formula. NYX is more recommended towards dry skin due to the electrolytes infused, rather than e.l.f.’s that’s a sticky dry texture that doesn’t benefit your skin while holding your makeup.
Some customers that use e.l.f primer find it too tacky or heavy, especially in the heat. The ingredient difference between the two products is pretty drastic as well, with e.l.f primer having only 24 ingredients and NYX primer having 40.
Overall, the best primer is very subjective, considering you should choose a primer based on your skin type and goals. It also depends on whether you prioritize maximum, long-lasting grip or skin-loving hydration, while both companies products offer top-tier drugstore performance.