Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide
Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide
Product Description
Product overview
A viral gel-based makeup primer from e.l.f. cosmetics enriched with 4% niacinamide to even skin tone, brighten dullness, and grip makeup for long-lasting, dewy-finish wear. This affordable drugstore favorite has earned a reputation as the go-to budget alternative to Milk Makeup Hydro Grip, offering the same tacky, hydrating base at a fraction of the price.
Sticky-Grip Technology
Tacky gel texture creates an adhesive base so foundation, concealer, and cream blush cling rather than slide throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSticky-Grip Technology
Tacky gel texture creates an adhesive base so foundation, concealer, and cream blush cling rather than slide throughout the day.
4% Niacinamide Brightening
Vitamin B3 at a meaningful concentration helps even skin tone, reduce dullness, and visibly brighten the complexion over time.
Hydrating Humectants
Glycerin, butylene glycol, and sodium hyaluronate pull moisture into the skin for a plump, dewy canvas under makeup.
Vegan & Leaping Bunny
100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny Certified. Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and fragrance.
Universal Translucent
Goes on completely clear, making it suitable for all skin tones from very fair to deep without leaving a white cast.
Dragon Fruit Extract
Hylocereus undatus (dragon fruit) fruit extract delivers antioxidants and vitamin C for an extra glow-boost.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide is widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens in the formula.
Contains Polysorbate 80, PEG-150 Distearate, and Potassium Laurate which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.
Oil-free and silicone-free gel formula. Brand-labeled non-comedogenic; very low risk of clogging pores for most users.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA applied in your skincare step beforehand. Wait for previous products to absorb.
Can pill if layered over silicone-heavy sunscreens or moisturizers that haven't fully absorbed. Wait 1–2 minutes between steps.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free. Suitable for reactive skin, though patch test recommended due to color additives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide 4%Proven
Vitamin B3 is the star skincare-active in this primer. At 4%, it reaches a therapeutically meaningful level that can visibly brighten, even skin tone, and regulate oil production while strengthening the skin barrier.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD+ in skin cells, powering repair, collagen synthesis, and barrier ceramide production.
- Clinical evidence: Studies show 2–5% niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation and sebum output within 8–12 weeks of daily use.
- Tolerability: Non-irritating and well-tolerated by sensitive and acne-prone skin; does not cause photosensitivity.
Glycerin + Butylene Glycol high %Proven
A humectant duo sitting near the top of the INCI list that attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, giving that plumped, dewy look primers are known for.
- Glycerin: Considered the gold-standard humectant and one of the most studied moisturizing ingredients in dermatology.
- Butylene glycol: Lightweight humectant and solvent that also helps delivery of active ingredients into skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid. Holds up to 1000x its weight in water and provides instant surface hydration that helps makeup sit smoother on the skin.
- Source: Dermatology literature well established as a non-irritating, universally tolerated hydrator.
- Role here: Supports the dewy finish and prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches.
Dragon Fruit Extract tracePromising
Hylocereus Undatus (Pitaya) Fruit Extract delivers antioxidants including vitamin C and flavonoids. Added at a low percentage but contributes to the brightening claim.
- Antioxidant action: In vitro studies show dragon fruit neutralizes free radicals that contribute to dullness.
- Marketing-forward: Appears low on the ingredient list, so benefits are mild supplementary support, not primary.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A lipid-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from free-radical damage and works synergistically with niacinamide to support barrier health.
- Research: Decades of dermatology data on tocopherol as a protective antioxidant.
- Formulation role: Also helps stabilize the formula against oxidation.
PEG-240/HDI Copolymer ~3%Proven
This is the film-forming polymer that creates the signature tacky grip. It forms an invisible, flexible layer that makeup adheres to for longer wear.
- Function: Thickener and film former that gives the primer its "sticky" cling.
- Why it matters: This ingredient is what differentiates a grip primer from a standard hydrating primer.
19 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, PEG-150 Distearate, Polysorbate 80, Tocopherol, Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG-240/HDI Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether, Potassium Laurate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Disodium EDTA, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol. May Contain: CI 16035 (Red 40), CI 19140 (Yellow 5).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPrimer is the bridge between skincare and makeup. Applyafter moisturizer and SPF have fully absorbed (1–2 minutes), andbefore foundation or concealer. Always allow 30 seconds for the grip to activate.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply your full skincare routine including SPF and let everything absorb for 1–2 minutes before priming.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Pump one small dollop onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — over-applying can cause pilling.
Pat, Don't Rub
Gently pat and press into the skin with your fingertips. The warmth of your fingers helps the gel melt and absorb evenly.
Wait 30 Seconds
Allow the primer to set and become tacky. This activates the grip before you apply any makeup on top.
Apply Makeup
Follow with foundation, concealer, cream blush, and powder. The tacky base will hold everything in place for long-lasting wear.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a budget-friendly Milk Makeup Hydro Grip alternative at roughly 1/4 the price
- You have normal, combination, or dry skin and want a dewy makeup base
- You deal with dullness or uneven tone and want skincare benefits in a primer
- Your makeup slides off or breaks down by midday
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free makeup products
- You like a glowy finish rather than matte or blurred
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — the PEGs and polysorbates may aggravate
- You have very oily skin and prefer a mattifying or pore-filling primer
- You need a pore-blurring silicone base for large pores or textured skin
- You dislike a tacky or sticky feel on the skin
- You have a known sensitivity to PEGs or synthetic dyes (CI 16035, CI 19140)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGrip helps hold makeup on oily skin, but the dewy finish may amplify shine in the T-zone. Set with powder.
Humectant-rich formula with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate adds hydration and prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches.
Balances hydrated cheeks with a grippy base that helps control slip in the T-zone. A top match for combination skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free. Contains CI 16035 and CI 19140 dyes, so patch test if you react to color additives.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free with brightening niacinamide. NOT safe for fungal acne (malassezia) due to polysorbates.
Niacinamide supports barrier function and evens tone. Hydrating gel feels comfortable but will not fill fine lines like silicone primers.
Results timeline
12 WEEKS+Instant Grip & Glow
On first application you feel the tacky cling within 30 seconds. Skin looks hydrated, slightly dewy, and primed for foundation to glide on smoothly.
95% noticed instant gripExtended Makeup Wear
Foundation and cream products stay locked in place through a typical workday. Users report noticeably less midday slippage versus no primer.
80% reported longer wearSmoother Makeup Application
With daily use, consistent hydration helps makeup apply more evenly. Early signs of reduced dullness start to appear from the niacinamide.
60% noticed brighter skinTone Evening & Brightening
The 4% niacinamide reaches its clinical window. Expect visible improvement in overall evenness, reduced appearance of redness, and a brighter complexion.
70% saw tone improvementCumulative Skin Benefits
Long-term niacinamide use is associated with improved barrier strength, reduced pore visibility, and better sebum regulation in research literature.
75% would repurchaseRatings by platform
46K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value at just $11 — a fraction of Milk Makeup Hydro Grip price
- 4% niacinamide is a meaningful, not token, concentration
- Grip genuinely extends makeup wear throughout the day
- Hydrating and comfortable on dry skin — no tightness
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny Certified
- Translucent — works across all skin tones with no white cast
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free
- Easy availability at Amazon, Ulta, Target, and Walmart
Criticized
- Not fungal-acne safe due to polysorbates and PEGs
- Small 24ml tube depletes quickly with daily use
- Sticky, tacky feel can bother sensitive users
- Pump often dispenses too much at once
- Does not blur pores or fine lines like silicone primers
- Dewy finish amplifies shine on very oily skin
- Contains synthetic dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5) that a few users react to
- Can pill if layered over silicone moisturizers too quickly
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same gel-based grippy formula from the same brand, just swapping niacinamide for higher hyaluronic acid focus. Identical grip performance.
Jelly-textured hydrating primer with aloe and cucumber. More focused on hydration than grip; lacks the 4% niacinamide active.
Drugstore water-based primer serum with hyaluronic acid. Lighter texture and less tacky grip, but the cheapest in this category.
K-beauty favorite with a silky gel texture and B vitamins. More pore-smoothing than grippy; different feel on skin but popular cult following.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Benefit The POREfessional Primer
Touch in Sol No Pore Blem Primer
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal; avoid bathroom humidity.
Soft plastic squeeze tube with pump dispenser. Hygienic and prevents contamination from fingers.
Yes — at 24 ml, it fits TSA carry-on liquid limits (under 100 ml). A mini 15 ml travel size is also available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Niacinamide is widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters, which are the primary ingredients typically avoided during this period. As always, confirm with your OB-GYN if you have any concerns before introducing a new skincare product.
No. The formula contains Polysorbate 80, PEG-150 Distearate, and PEG-240/HDI Copolymer which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you struggle with pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), this primer is not recommended. Consider fungal-acne-safe alternatives like primers without polysorbates, fatty acids, esters, or ferments.
Yes. This is a makeup primer applied after your full skincare routine, so actives go on your skin first and have time to absorb. Niacinamide itself layers well with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA — modern research has debunked the old myth about niacinamide and vitamin C incompatibility. Apply your actives, wait for them to absorb, apply moisturizer and SPF, and then finish with the primer before makeup.
It works best for combination, dry, and normal skin types who want a dewy finish. The humectant-rich base hydrates while the tacky grip holds makeup on. Oily skin users can still enjoy it but may need to set with powder. People with very oily or fungal-acne-prone skin should consider alternatives.
Grip and hydration are instant — you feel the tacky cling within 30 seconds. Brightening and tone-evening benefits from the 4% niacinamide typically appear in 4–8 weeks of daily use. Clinical studies on niacinamide show visible improvement in skin tone within 8–12 weeks at this concentration.
Primer is the final step before makeup. Apply it after cleanser, toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen — always last in your skincare lineup. Wait 1–2 minutes for SPF and moisturizer to fully absorb to prevent pilling. Then pat the primer on, wait 30 seconds for it to set, and begin applying foundation or concealer.
No. e.l.f. labels this primer as non-comedogenic, and the comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no highly pore-clogging ingredients. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, can use it without breakouts — with the exception of those with fungal acne, as noted above.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the 12M symbol on the packaging. Store in a cool, dry place and discard after 12 months of use. If you notice any change in color, scent, or texture before that point, stop using it.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide is a standout in the drugstore primer category and one of the strongest budget alternatives to Milk Makeup Hydro Grip on the market. At $11 for 24 ml, you get a genuinely grippy gel base, a meaningful 4% niacinamide concentration for real brightening benefits, and a hydrating, vegan, cruelty-free formula that layers beautifully with skincare. It's not perfect — the polysorbates rule it out for fungal-acne sufferers, the tube is on the smaller side, and very oily skin may need extra powder — but for combination, dry, and normal skin looking for dewy longevity, it delivers on every promise for a fraction of the high-end competitor price.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
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
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150 Distearate
Emulsifying
|
|