When it comes to drugstore gripping primers—those that help your makeup adhere to your skin and last longer—there are several great options that stick out (pun intended!)
Gripping primers are all about that tacky texture—think of them as double-sided tape for your makeup. Their “sticky in a good way” texture ensures makeup doesn’t budge, and stays fresh and vibrant even after hours of wear. Not only that, these primers are also bursting with skin-loving ingredients that work hard to nourish your skin and improve your complexion over time.
Here’s a rundown of the best drugstore gripping primers, focusing on their performance and suitability for various skin types. These are all affordable (typically under $15), widely available and excel at creating a tacky, grippy base that holds makeup in place.
Pro tip: Pat (don’t rub) these on for the best grip, and let them set for about a minute before applying foundation.
elf Power Grip Matte Primer ($10)
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is often hailed as the gold standard for drugstore gripping primers. And now elf has released the matte version of their fan-fave OG Power Grip primer and it’s perfect for those with oily skin! Infused with lemon myrtle blend, this mattifying gel primer helps reduce the look of excess oil and shine for a smooth, matte finish while gripping makeup for long-lasting wear.
What makes this primer stand out is the fact that it gives you a natural matte finish which is not drying or overly matte but still keeps the unwanted shine under control. And just like the OG primer, the sticky-as-e.l.f. formula locks in your makeup for a long-lasting matte look. This is a must-have mattifying primer for the days you want to start with a minimal-shine makeup base (you can always add glow as you go through during the rest of your makeup routine!)
Maybelline Grippy Serum Makeup Grip Primer ($10)
Formulated with 2% niacinamide, this water-based primer glides on like a serum and hydrates your skin without a greasy feel. After 20 seconds, the fresh serum texture transforms to a sticky base that helps to grip your makeup all day long. The lightweight, non-comedogenic formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
NYX The Face Glue Gripping Primer ($9)
Formulated with polyglutamic acid and maple syrup, this lightweight primer is designed to hydrate your skin while gripping makeup without a sticky feel. It feels comfortable on the skin and is less tacky than e.l.f. Power Grip primer (despite the term glue in its name!) but still offers solid staying power.
The white gel formula blends seamlessly into all skin tones without any cast and gives a soft-focus finish.This water-based primer has a non-comedogenic formula that’s compatible with all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s hydrating enough for dry patches but doesn’t exacerbate oiliness.
CoverGirl TruBlend Skin Enhancer Sticky Grip Primer ($12)
This primer has a liquidy, sticky gel formula that feels lightweight and ensures a strong grip to keeps your makeup intact. It’s not overly tacky but still helps makeup go on smoothly and stay put. Infused with vitamin C, aloe, glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, this primer is also hydrating and gives you a soft dewy finish. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Wet n Wild Prime Focus Clingy Serum Primer ($6.39)
A hybrid between a serum and a primer, this lightweight formula combines a grippy base with extra hydration and skin brightening benefits. It’s formulated with 8% Glycerin to lock in moisture and 5% Niacinamide to improve skin tone & texture over time. The hydrating formula glides on smoothly and leaves your skin looking dewy. It has a lightweight, slightly tacky feel that helps makeup adhere while keeping it fresh all day long. Let the formula set for one minute to absorb and then apply foundation. Great for all skin types.
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide ($8.40)
Best for normal to dry or combination skin, this is the dewy finish version of elf’s original Power Grip Primer. Enriched with 4% Niacinamide to help brighten and even out skin tone over time, the sticky gel formula grasps onto your makeup for a truly long-lasting look. Initially, it feels very sticky but once you are done applying your makeup, it feels comfortable on the skin for the rest of the day.
Suitable for all skin tones, the translucent formula goes on completely clear and gives skin a dewy, glowing finish. It also keeps your skin hydrated, thanks to the inclusion of sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and vitamin E in the formula. It’s also non-comedogenic (no clogged pores!) and is the perfect pick for dry, dull or lackluster skin.
PS: This primer is actually a great dupe for the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at one fourth the price!
Revolution Beauty Superfix Grip Primer ($9)
This gripping primer has a refreshing gel formula that smooths and hydrates skin for seamless makeup application while giving you a soft dewy glow. Not only does it grip and help makeup stay in place, but the formula is also infused with a blend of good-for-your-skin ingredients including Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract, aloe vera and cactus water to hydrate and brighten your complexion. The non-comedogenic formula is suitable for all skin types.
MCoBeauty Makeup Grip Primer ($11.99)
This is an oil-free, transparent gel primer that creates a smooth, hydrated base for makeup with a satin matte finish. It has a slightly sticky texture that grips makeup beautifully, and enhances makeup wear and performance. Not only does it hold makeup, but also hydrates your skin with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera extract, Niacinamide, glycerin, vitamin E, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) and Agave americana leaf extract. Great for all skin types.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Grip Primer ($12)
Enriched with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, this nourishing gel primer instantly hydrates skin while creating a smooth canvas to help makeup adhere better. The fast-drying formula feels comfortable on the skin and leaves skin looking hydrated with a dewy finish that improves the appearance of dull, dry skin while extending the wear of your makeup. Just apply a thin layer of primer and wait 30 seconds to allow the formula to set, then apply your makeup. Best for normal to dry skin.
So, these are the best drugstore gripping primers that give you an all-day grip on your makeup while keeping your skin hydrated. These drugstore gems prove you don’t need to splurge for a great primer that keeps your makeup locked in place!
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