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Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

Product Description

Product overview

Made in USA BUDGET

A silky, lightweight liquid primer that seamlessly glides over skin to minimize the appearance of pores, grip makeup for long-lasting wear, and create a smooth, poreless-looking canvas. Infused with squalane, resveratrol, and green tea extract for added skin benefits.

100% Vegan Cruelty-Free (Leaping Bunny) Paraben-Free Phthalate-Free Fragrance-Free Hydroquinone-Free Fair Trade Certified Silicone-Based
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Size
0.94 fl oz (28 mL)
Price
~$10.00
Type
Silicone-Based
Concern
Pore Minimizing
PAO
12 Months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Makeup Gripping Formula

Silicone-based formula creates a tacky base that grips foundation and concealer for extended long-lasting wear throughout the day.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Thick liquid / Serum
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
30 seconds to set
Finish
Soft matte

Makeup Gripping Formula

Silicone-based formula creates a tacky base that grips foundation and concealer for extended long-lasting wear throughout the day.

Pore-Blurring Effect

Polymethylsilsesquioxane and silica work as soft-focus agents, optically blurring pores and smoothing skin texture for a filtered appearance.

Squalane Hydration

Infused with squalane to help prevent transepidermal water loss while keeping skin comfortable and hydrated under makeup.

Antioxidant Protection

Contains resveratrol, tocopherol (vitamin E), and green tea extract for added antioxidant defense against environmental stressors.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Resveratrol is present in trace amounts and is not a concern topically.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate (derived from isostearic acid) and Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.

Comedogenic Rating: 2/5

Contains some potentially pore-clogging ingredients like Hydrogenated Polyisobutene and Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate. Most users tolerate it well, but acne-prone skin should patch test first.

Silicone-Based Compatibility

Best paired with silicone-based foundations for optimal performance. May pill or separate if used with water-based foundations. Pair wisely for best results.

Sensitivity & Allergens

Free from common allergens, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Contains phenoxyethanol as preservative, which is well-tolerated by most skin types.

Retinol & Active Compatibility

Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. Apply actives in your skincare routine first, allow them to absorb, then apply this primer as the last step before makeup.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Dimethicone 2nd ingredientProven

The workhorse silicone of this formula. Dimethicone creates a silky, smooth protective barrier on the skin, fills in fine lines and wrinkles temporarily, and gives the primer its signature slip and glide.

  • Function: Occlusive, skin protectant, texture enhancer, and pore-filling agent
  • Safety: Comedogenicity rating of 1 — non-irritating and well-tolerated by most skin types
  • Bonus: Also used in scar treatment gels for its ability to soften and improve elasticity of scar tissue
Dimethicone is the gold standard silicone in primers — stable, inert, and non-sensitizing for virtually all skin types.

Glycerin 5th ingredientProven

A powerful humectant that draws water into the skin. Glycerin keeps the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state, protecting against irritation and supporting moisture retention under makeup.

  • Effective from: As low as 3% concentration, with increased benefits at higher concentrations up to 20–40%
  • Comedogenicity: 0 — non-comedogenic
  • Research: Extensively studied skin-identical ingredient found naturally in the skin

Squalane TraceProven

A lightweight, stable hydrocarbon that mimics the skin's own natural oils. Squalane provides emolliency, surface occlusion, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) prevention without feeling greasy or heavy.

  • Source: Plant-derived (typically from olive or sugarcane) — stable hydrocarbon with long shelf life
  • Compatibility: Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and fungal acne-prone skin (as an isolated ingredient)
  • Research: Non-irritating even at 100% concentration; found naturally in human sebum

Resveratrol TracePromising

A potent polyphenol antioxidant naturally found in grape skins and red wine. Helps protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Research: Shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties in clinical studies
  • Note: Present in trace amounts in this formula — primarily a supportive ingredient rather than a key active

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract TraceProven

Green tea extract loaded with polyphenols — powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals from UV exposure and environmental pollution. Also offers anti-inflammatory benefits for rosacea and acne-prone skin.

  • Key compounds: EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) — one of the most studied antioxidants in skincare
  • Benefits: Anti-aging, UV protection support, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-regulating properties

Polymethylsilsesquioxane 7th ingredientProven

A spherical silicone powder that acts as a soft-focus agent and texture enhancer. This is the key ingredient responsible for the pore-blurring, skin-smoothing optical effect of the primer.

  • Function: Soft-focus agent, temporary wrinkle filler, oil and sebum absorption
  • Texture: Provides silicone-like softness and a velvety, powdery finish on skin

31 ingredients

Water (Aqua), Dimethicone, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Glycerin, C9-12 Alkane, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Phenoxyethanol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Silica, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Cyclodextrin, Polydextrose, Resveratrol, Tocopherol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)

FREE FROM: Parabens, Phthalates, Hydroquinone, Triclosan, Triclocarban, Nonylphenol Ethoxylates, Sulfates, Added Fragrance, Animal-Derived Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum / Treatment
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen
6
This Primer

Apply as the last step of your skincare routine, right before makeup. Allow 30 seconds for the primer to set before applying foundation. Best paired with silicone-based foundations for seamless compatibility.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Prep Your Skin

Complete your skincare routine (cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen). Make sure your skin is fully moisturized and sunscreen has been absorbed before applying primer.

2

Dispense a Small Amount

Gently squeeze the tube until a pea-sized amount of product appears. A little goes a long way — start with less and build up as needed.

3

Apply & Pat In

Apply evenly to the center of your face (nose, forehead, chin) using the Putty Primer Brush and Applicator or your fingertips. Gently pat and blend outward across the entire face, including jawline.

4

Wait 30 Seconds

Allow the primer to set for 30 seconds before applying foundation or concealer. This ensures the silicone base has time to create a smooth, gripping canvas.

5

Apply Makeup

Follow with your silicone-based foundation for best results. Can also be applied to eyelids as an eyeshadow primer to help lock color in place.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want a lightweight liquid primer that is easier to apply than the original putty formula
  • You need a pore-blurring, smoothing base before foundation
  • You prefer silicone-based primers with a soft matte finish
  • You want an affordable, vegan, and cruelty-free option
  • You need a multi-use primer that also works on eyelids
  • You wear matte or satin foundations and want extended wear time

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have active fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains potential triggers
  • You prefer water-based primers or use water-based foundations (may pill)
  • You need intense pore-filling power — the original putty version blurs pores more effectively
  • You want a dewy or luminous finish (this leans matte and may dull dewy foundations)
  • You have very dry skin and need heavy hydration from your primer
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Silicone base helps control shine, absorbs excess oil, and keeps makeup locked in place. The soft matte finish is ideal for oily complexions.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Smooths the oily T-zone without drying out cheeks. Great all-around performance for combo skin.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Creates a flawless, smooth canvas without feeling heavy. Squalane adds just enough hydration to keep skin comfortable all day.

Dry Skin
Good

Squalane and glycerin provide some hydration, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer underneath. Can emphasize dry patches if not properly moisturized first.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and free from common irritants. Phenoxyethanol preservative is well-tolerated. Patch test recommended for highly reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Contains Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate and Hydrogenated Polyisobutene which may trigger breakouts for some. Not fungal acne safe. Patch test first if acne-prone.

08

Results timeline

ONGOING USE (2+ WEEKS)
Immediate

Instant Smoothing & Pore Blurring

Skin looks visibly smoother with a soft-focus, filtered effect. Pores appear minimized and fine lines are temporarily filled in. Skin feels silky and primed for makeup.

95% noticed instant smoothing
2–4 Hours

Makeup Grip in Full Effect

Foundation and concealer remain locked in place with minimal movement or settling into fine lines. The silicone base keeps products adhering to the skin.

85% reported better makeup longevity
6–8 Hours

Mid-Day Hold Assessment

Makeup still looks fresh on most skin types. Oily skin may notice some shine breakthrough on the T-zone. A blotting paper or touch-up powder extends the effect.

70% said makeup still looked good at 8 hours
Ongoing Use (2+ weeks)

Skin Conditioning Benefits

Squalane, resveratrol, and green tea antioxidants may contribute to improved skin hydration and protection from environmental damage with consistent daily use.

60% noticed softer skin texture over time
09

Ratings by platform

5K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Doesn't blur pores as well as the original Putty Primer; some find the liquid format less effective
Ulta
4.2
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can make some dewy foundations look flat or matte; small tube size relative to price
elfcosmetics.com
4.4
Rating
900+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report pilling when layered over certain skincare products or water-based foundations
MakeupAlley
3.9
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can make makeup look cakey around the nose area; mixed results on pore-filling effectiveness
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Extremely affordable for the quality — under $10 for a well-formulated primer
  • 100% vegan and cruelty-free with Leaping Bunny and PETA certification
  • Lightweight liquid format is easier to apply than the original putty version
  • Leaves a smooth, soft matte finish that feels silky — not tacky or sticky
  • Works well under matte and satin foundations for extended wear
  • Infused with squalane, resveratrol, and green tea for added skin benefits
  • Fragrance-free and free from parabens, phthalates, and hydroquinone
  • Fair Trade Certified manufacturing facility

Criticized

  • Pore-blurring effect is noticeably weaker than the original Putty Primer
  • Can dull or flatten dewy or luminous foundations
  • May pill when layered over water-based skincare or foundations
  • Small tube size (28 mL) for the price — not the best value per mL
  • Not fungal acne safe — contains potential Malassezia triggers
  • Can look cakey around textured areas (nose) if over-applied
  • Squalane and antioxidants are present only in trace amounts
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Primer
$14.00
Similar Price

Very similar silicone-based pore-filling formula with dimethicone and silica. Slightly thicker consistency and comes in a squeeze tube. Better pore-filling than the liquid e.l.f. but lacks squalane and antioxidants. 20 mL size.

70% Match
Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser
$8.99
Budget Pick

Classic drugstore silicone primer with a lightweight gel texture. Provides decent pore blurring and smoothing, but lacks the antioxidant complex and squalane hydration. Simpler formula overall. 20 mL size.

75% Match
Revlon ColorStay Grip Matte Primer
$12.99
Similar Price

Mattifying grip primer with aloe and antioxidants. Claims up to 16-hour makeup wear. More matte finish than the e.l.f. and better oil control, but thicker texture and not as lightweight. 30 mL size.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
The Silk Serum
Key Ingredient Silk Extracts + Hadasei-3
Size 20 g (0.7 oz)
Price per mL $2.60/g
Finish Velvety Matte
Pore Blurring Excellent
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Vegan / Cruelty-Free No / Yes

Benefit POREfessional Face Primer

Key Ingredient Dimethicone + Vitamin E
Size 22 mL (0.75 fl oz)
Price per mL $1.64/mL
Finish Natural Matte
Pore Blurring Excellent
Fungal Acne Safe Varies by analysis
Vegan / Cruelty-Free No / Yes
Hydro Grip Primer
Key Ingredient Blue Agave + Hyaluronic Acid
Size 45 mL (1.52 fl oz)
Price per mL $0.80/mL
Finish Dewy / Hydrating
Pore Blurring Minimal
Fungal Acne Safe No
Vegan / Cruelty-Free Yes / Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tube tightly closed after each use to prevent the product from drying out.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with screw cap — hygienic dispensing that minimizes product contamination compared to open-jar formats.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 28 mL is well under the 100 mL / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in a makeup bag.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The e.l.f. Liquid Poreless Putty Primer does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients flagged as potentially harmful during pregnancy and breastfeeding. All key ingredients (dimethicone, glycerin, squalane) are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. Resveratrol and green tea extract are present in trace amounts and are not a concern when applied topically. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No. This primer contains Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, which is derived from isostearic acid — a known potential trigger for Malassezia (fungal acne). It also contains Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, which some analyses flag as a concern. If you have active fungal acne, consider alternatives like the e.l.f. Matte Putty Primer or e.l.f. Luminous Putty Primer, which have been assessed as fungal acne safe by some ingredient databases.

Yes. This primer does not contain any active ingredients that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA. Apply your actives as part of your skincare routine first, allow them to fully absorb into the skin, and then apply this primer as the final step before makeup. The silicone base actually creates a protective barrier that can help buffer sensitive skin from potential irritation caused by layering actives under makeup.

This primer works well across all skin types but is especially well-suited for oily, combination, and normal skin. The silicone-based formula helps control shine and provides a smooth matte base. Dry skin types can use it but should apply a hydrating moisturizer underneath first. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well due to the fragrance-free, paraben-free formula, though patch testing is always recommended.

The pore-blurring and smoothing effects are immediate — you'll notice a soft-focus, filtered appearance as soon as you apply and blend the primer. Makeup gripping benefits are also instant. However, the antioxidant benefits from squalane, resveratrol, and green tea extract are supplementary and contribute to gradual skin conditioning over weeks of regular use. This is primarily a cosmetic primer, not a treatment product.

This primer is the final step before makeup. Your routine should be: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Treatment, Moisturizer, Sunscreen, then Primer. Allow each step to absorb before applying the next. Wait 30 seconds after applying the primer before moving on to foundation. Since this is silicone-based, it pairs best with silicone-based foundations to avoid pilling.

The overall comedogenic rating is 2 out of 5 (low-moderate risk). While most ingredients are non-comedogenic (dimethicone is rated 1, glycerin is rated 0), the formula contains Hydrogenated Polyisobutene and Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate which have mixed comedogenic ratings. Most users do not experience clogged pores, but those with highly acne-prone skin should patch test first and ensure thorough makeup removal at the end of the day.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After this timeframe, the formula may begin to degrade, separate, or become less effective. The squeeze tube packaging helps extend shelf life by limiting air exposure and contamination compared to open-jar formats. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed between uses. If the product changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.0 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The e.l.f. Liquid Poreless Putty Primer delivers solid performance at an exceptional price point. It creates a smooth, soft matte canvas that helps makeup adhere and last longer, with the added benefits of squalane hydration and antioxidant protection. While it doesn't blur pores quite as dramatically as the original Putty Primer or high-end competitors like Tatcha and Benefit, it offers remarkable value as a daily-use liquid primer. Best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types who prefer silicone-based primers with a matte finish. Not recommended for those with fungal acne concerns. For the price, it's one of the best drugstore primers available — a smart choice for anyone seeking an affordable, vegan, cruelty-free primer that genuinely performs.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Resveratrol Tocopherol Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Disteardimonium Hectorite
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Tocopherol
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
64% 12% 22%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 31 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
3 A
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
1 A
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Anticaking Agent
1 B
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS