e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

e.l.f. · Makeup

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer review

The best-known budget gripping primer, and a good first primer to try. Reviewers say makeup clearly lasts longer on top of it; the trade-offs are a 30-second wait while it sets and a dewy finish that oily skin may need to blot by midday.

A clear, sticky gel primer made with hyaluronic acid that grips foundation and concealer for longer wear and leaves a dewy finish. This listing is the regular 0.8 oz (24 ml) tube. e.l.f. says it is vegan, cruelty-free and non-comedogenic.

9/10SnipSnapy score · Excellent

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Who should buy this

Normal to dry skin that wants makeup to stay put without a matte look. Very oily skin may prefer e.l.f.'s Power Grip Matte Primer.

Pros & Cons

What We Like

  • Won Allure's 2024 Readers' Choice award for best viral product, per TODAY
  • Who What Wear lists it as the best overall pick in its primer roundup
  • Clear gel works on every skin tone
  • Hydrating feel thanks to hyaluronic acid
  • Low entry cost for a cult-favorite primer

What to Consider

  • Needs about 30 seconds to turn tacky before makeup goes on
  • Dewy finish can look shiny on oily skin by afternoon
  • TODAY's comparison found Milk Makeup Hydro Grip more hydrating
  • A few users report breakouts despite the non-comedogenic claim

SnipSnapy score

9/10
Excellent
Grip
9.2
Finish
8.5
Ease of use
8.8
Value
9.6
✎ Researched by Beauty TeamUpdated 2026-10-30How we score →

Specifications

Size0.8 oz / 24 ml (regular); also 0.5 oz mini and 2.5 oz jumbo
Key ingredientHyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate)
FinishDewy, translucent
Skin typesOily, dry and combination per e.l.f.
CertificationsVegan; cruelty-free (PETA and Leaping Bunny per e.l.f.)
FormulaNon-comedogenic; free from parabens and phthalates

Key features

  • ✦ Sticky gel grips foundation and concealer
  • ✦ Apply a pea-sized amount with fingertips
  • ✦ Can be worn alone under concealer and cream blush for a light look
  • ✦ Sold and shipped by Amazon on the linked listing

Where to buy

StoreLink
A
Amazon
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I avoid pilling?
e.l.f. recommends letting moisturizer absorb for a minute or two, using only a pea-sized amount and waiting about 30 seconds before foundation.
Is it good for oily skin?
It can work, but the finish is dewy. Reviewers with oily skin often prefer the matte version or blot at midday.

How we pick and rate products

1

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2

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3

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4

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SnipSnapy is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, SnipSnapy earns from qualifying purchases. Buying through our links can earn us a commission at no extra cost to you, and never changes what we recommend. How we make money