Grippy Serum Primer
Grippy Serum Primer
Product Description
Product overview
A water-based serum primer with 2% niacinamide and Serum-To-Grip technology that transforms from a lightweight serum into a tacky, makeup-gripping base in just 20 seconds. Delivers up to 24 hours of hydration and makeup hold with a fresh, plumped skin look — no white cast, no pilling, no greasy feel.
Serum-To-Grip Technology
Liquid-to-stick polymers glide on like a serum and transform into a tacky grip in 20 seconds, locking makeup in place for up to 24 hours.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSerum-To-Grip Technology
Liquid-to-stick polymers glide on like a serum and transform into a tacky grip in 20 seconds, locking makeup in place for up to 24 hours.
2% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Hydrates, strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness and inflammation, and promotes a plumped, even-toned complexion under makeup.
24-Hour Hydration
Water-based formula with glycerin and panthenol delivers continuous moisture that prevents foundation from cracking, flaking, or settling into fine lines.
Clean, Minimal Formula
Only 12 ingredients. Free from silicones, fragrances, parabens, oils, and sulfates. Vegan and cruelty-free with no animal-derived ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. No known ingredients of concern for pregnancy or nursing.
Contains Polysorbate 80 and PEG-150 Distearate, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you have active fungal acne.
Officially labeled non-comedogenic by Maybelline. Very low risk of clogging pores. Dermatologist tested and allergy tested.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free formula. Allergy tested and suitable for all skin types including sensitive and reactive skin.
Independently rated as acne-safe. Contains niacinamide which helps reduce sebum production and calm inflammation.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Water-based formula layers well with all types of skincare products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multitasking skincare superstar that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pore appearance, regulates oil production, fades dark spots, and calms redness. At 2%, it delivers noticeable skin-smoothing and hydrating benefits without irritation.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier skin barrier and improved hydration.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and inflammation, making skin smoother and more even-toned under makeup.
- Sebum Regulation: Helps control oil production, beneficial for keeping primers from sliding off oily areas.
Glycerin Top 3Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the skin barrier. Listed as the third ingredient, indicating a significant concentration.
- Humectant Power: Attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the surface hydrated.
- Skin-Identical: Naturally present in the skin, making it extremely well-tolerated and biocompatible.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) SupportingProven
A soothing humectant precursor to vitamin B5. Moisturizes, promotes healthy lipid production in the skin barrier, and has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce irritation from other ingredients.
- Soothing: Clinically shown to reduce irritation caused by fragrances, preservatives, and chemical sunscreens.
- Moisturizing: Attracts and holds water in the skin for long-lasting hydration throughout the day.
Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C) TracePromising
A fat-soluble form of vitamin C that provides antioxidant protection. Listed last in the formula, so present at a very low concentration — primarily functions as an antioxidant stabilizer rather than an active treatment ingredient.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution.
- Stability Note: This vitamin C derivative has stability similar to pure ascorbic acid, so its efficacy may diminish over time.
12 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, PEG-150 Distearate, Niacinamide, Polysorbate 80, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Panthenol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after your full skincare routine and before any makeup. Wait 20 seconds after application for the serum-to-grip transformation. Pairs best with water-based foundations.
How to use
HOW TO USEDrip
Apply the primer serum evenly to your face using the glass dropper. Use 3–4 drops to cover your entire face.
Glide
Pat and spread into skin with your fingertips. The warmth of your hands helps it absorb evenly across your face.
Grip
Wait 20 seconds for the Serum-To-Grip transformation. You will feel a light tackiness — this means it is ready to lock in your makeup.
Apply Makeup
Apply your foundation, concealer, and the rest of your makeup as usual. Pro tip: finish with a setting spray or setting powder for extra staying power.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gripping primer that extends makeup wear up to 24 hours
- You have dry or dehydrated skin that needs hydration under makeup
- You prefer a serum-like texture over thick gel primers
- You have sensitive skin and need a fragrance-free, silicone-free formula
- You want skincare benefits (niacinamide) built into your primer
- You experience foundation cracking or flaking around the nose area
- You prefer water-based primers for a natural, dewy finish
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 80 and PEG-150 Distearate)
- You prefer a completely matte, oil-controlling primer
- You dislike any tacky or sticky feel on your skin
- You need a pore-blurring or smoothing primer for textured skin
- You prefer silicone-based primers that fill in pores
- You have very oily skin and need strong mattifying control
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight water-based formula absorbs quickly. May add dewiness to already oily areas. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum over time. Best paired with a mattifying foundation.
Glycerin, panthenol, and niacinamide provide excellent hydration. Prevents foundation from cracking or flaking on dry patches. Gives a plumped, dewy look.
Hydrates dry areas while the grippy finish keeps makeup in place on oily zones. Niacinamide helps balance oil production across different face zones.
Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and dermatologist-tested formula with only 12 ingredients. Panthenol actively soothes irritation. Minimal risk of reactions.
Non-comedogenic and rated acne-safe. Niacinamide helps calm breakout-related inflammation. However, contains Polysorbate 80 which may not suit fungal acne.
Results timeline
4–6 WEEKSSerum-To-Grip Transformation
The serum texture transforms into a tacky, sticky base. Skin feels plumped, hydrated, and ready for makeup application. No white cast or greasiness.
95% noticed instant gripExtended Makeup Wear
Foundation stays put 2–3 hours longer than without primer. Reduced cracking and flaking around the nose and chin. Skin maintains a dewy, hydrated look throughout the day.
88% noticed improved wearHydration & Skin Texture Improvement
Consistent use of 2% niacinamide begins to improve skin texture, reduce redness, and strengthen the moisture barrier. Skin feels softer and smoother even without makeup.
72% noticed softer skinVisible Barrier Strengthening
Niacinamide continues to boost ceramide production for a healthier skin barrier. Pores may appear slightly smaller and skin tone more even. Foundation applies more smoothly.
65% noticed improved skin toneRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent makeup grip — extends foundation wear by 2–3 hours or more
- Lightweight serum texture that feels refreshing on application
- No pilling, no white cast, and no greasy residue
- Fragrance-free with a clean, minimal 12-ingredient formula
- Hydrating and plumping — prevents dry-skin flaking under makeup
- Affordable drugstore price (~$12.99) with glass dropper packaging
- Layers well with most foundations, especially water-based formulas
- Vegan, non-comedogenic, and suitable for sensitive skin
Criticized
- Glass bottle is fragile and easy to break if dropped
- Tacky/sticky feel may be uncomfortable for grip-primer beginners
- Can make foundation look slightly heavier on some skin types
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- Not ideal for pore-blurring — does not minimize texture
- May increase dewiness on very oily skin (especially T-zone)
- Some users report patchiness on mature or very textured skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares many key ingredients including niacinamide, PEG-150 Distearate, and glycerin. Gel texture instead of serum. More visibly tacky and stickier. Contains hyaluronic acid and menthol that Grippy Serum lacks. Slightly smaller at 24ml (0.81 oz).
Serum-style primer with electrolytes (hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, magnesium, potassium). Uses PVP instead of niacinamide for grip. Contains fragrance. More of a plumping focus than a gripping focus. 30ml size.
Higher niacinamide concentration (4% vs 2%). Gel texture with dragon fruit extract and hyaluronic acid. More skincare-focused than standard Power Grip. Stronger grip and more tackiness. Orange-tinted formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the glass dropper bottle upright to prevent leakage.
Clear glass bottle with precision dropper applicator. Provides controlled, hygienic dispensing.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. However, glass bottle requires careful packing to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Grippy Serum Primer does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula consists of only 12 gentle ingredients. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains Polysorbate 80 and PEG-150 Distearate, which are emulsifiers that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne or are highly prone to pityrosporum folliculitis, you may want to choose a fully fungal-acne-safe primer alternative. If your fungal acne is well-controlled, patch testing is recommended.
Yes. The water-based formula is compatible with all common skincare actives. Apply your retinol, vitamin C serum, or chemical exfoliants as part of your skincare routine, let them absorb fully, then apply Grippy Serum Primer as the last step before makeup. The minimal ingredient list means there are no known conflicts with these actives.
Grippy Serum Primer works for all skin types but is especially excellent for dry, dehydrated, combination, and sensitive skin. Its hydrating formula with glycerin, panthenol, and niacinamide provides moisture and plumping. For very oily skin, it may add extra dewiness — Maybelline recommends their Poreless Jelly Blur Primer as an alternative for oily skin types.
The gripping and hydrating effects are immediate — within 20 seconds, the serum transforms into a tacky base that locks in makeup. For skincare benefits from the 2% niacinamide (improved texture, reduced redness, stronger barrier), expect to see gradual improvements over 2–6 weeks of consistent daily use.
Apply Grippy Serum Primer as the very last step of your skincare routine, right before makeup. The correct order is: cleanser, toner, serums, moisturizer, sunscreen, then Grippy Serum Primer. Wait 20 seconds for the grip transformation before applying foundation. It pairs best with water-based foundations.
No. Grippy Serum Primer is officially labeled as non-comedogenic by Maybelline. It has an estimated comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning very low risk of pore clogging. The product is also dermatologist tested and allergy tested. It is independently rated as acne-safe by skincare ingredient analysis platforms.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The formula contains phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, and ethylhexylglycerin as preservatives to maintain stability. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass dropper bottle helps minimize contamination compared to jar packaging.
Verdict: Maybelline Grippy Serum Primer is an outstanding drugstore grip primer that delivers on its promises. The innovative serum-to-grip technology creates a genuinely effective tacky base that extends makeup wear by several hours, and the 2% niacinamide adds real skincare value. With only 12 clean ingredients, no fragrance, no silicones, and a price under $13, it competes directly with premium options like Milk Hydro Grip at nearly half the cost per ml. It is best suited for dry, combination, and sensitive skin types seeking hydration and long-lasting makeup hold. The only drawbacks are the fragile glass packaging and the fact that it is not fully fungal-acne-safe. If you love grip primers or want to try one for the first time, this is one of the best values available.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150 Distearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|






