The e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is built around a lightweight, gel-based formula that combines that tacky, makeup-holding texture with genuinely hydrating ingredients:

Also available: Matte Power Grip Primer with lemon myrtle for oilier skin, and the dewy finish version with 4% niacinamide.

Application is simple, but the timing matters. Give it those thirty seconds to set, and the difference is immediate.

Tip: The texture is noticeably tacky, more than most primers. It takes a wash or two of getting used to, but that’s exactly what makes it work.

With more than 42,000 ratings and an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars, this is one of the most consistently praised products in its category, with roughly 9 out of 10 reviewers rating it 4 or 5 stars.

The most common praise centers on exactly what it’s designed to do — makeup that lasts noticeably longer without looking cakey or dry, even on oily or combination skin. Several buyers specifically mentioned it hasn’t caused breakouts even with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

The honest criticism is about texture. A number of reviewers described it as noticeably tacky, more than they expected. It’s also worth knowing this isn’t the primer for blurring pores or a soft, filtered finish — it’s built for grip and wear time first, smoothing second.

A few buyers also wished the standard size bottle lasted longer, since a little goes further than expected but the tube itself is on the smaller side.