Primer smoothens, even out and gets the skin ready for makeup application. In choosing your primer, it is best that you know its core ingredient in order to make the best choice for your skin and elevate your makeup game.
For that reason, I will be discussing the infamous Elf Putty Primer and answering a burning question: Is it silicone or water-based?
Yes, Elf Putty Primer is indeed a silicone-based primer. It provides a subtle mattifying effect, perfect for keeping excess shine at bay, especially for those with oily or combination skin.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision on which primer suits your unique needs and brings out your inner makeup energy.
What Is Silicone-Based Primer?
Silicone-based primers basically contain silicone-based ingredients as their main components. The primary purpose of silicone-based primers is to fill in fine lines, pores, and other skin imperfections, creating a soft and flawless canvas for foundation and other makeup products.
When applied to the skin, silicone forms a thin, breathable barrier that helps to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines. This results in a smoother complexion and allows makeup to adhere more evenly, leading to a longer-lasting and more even makeup application.
5 Major Components of Elf Putty Primers and Benefits
Here are some common compositions of Elf Putty Primers and their respective benefits:
1. Silica
As an essential ingredient, silica’s remarkable oil-absorbing properties help control excess sebum, making it an ideal choice for those with oily or combination skin. This feature contributes to a matte finish and reduces unwanted shine throughout the day.
Similarly, silica’s fine particles create a pore-blurring effect, visibly minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. This imparts a smoother and more refined skin texture, creating an excellent canvas for makeup application.
By incorporating silica into Elf Putty Primers, the brand enhances the product’s ability to create a long-lasting, smooth, matte makeup base, catering to those seeking a flawless complexion throughout the day.
2. Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer used in the formulation of Elf Putty Primers. It provides several benefits for the skin, such as creating a smooth and even surface on the skin. It fills in fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a temporarily smoother appearance.
Due to its ability to fill in gaps and create a barrier on the skin’s surface, dimethicone can also minimize the appearance of pores, resulting in a more refined complexion.
Also, it forms a protective layer on the skin, helping to lock in moisture. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin, as it can provide a hydrating and soothing effect.
3. Isononyl isononanoate
Here is another ingredient found in Elf Putty Primers. It functions as an emollient, which means it helps soften and soothe the skin by creating a protective barrier that locks in moisture. It provides a smooth and velvety feel to the skin, enhancing its texture and appearance.
Similar to Dimethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate is considered non-comedogenic, making it suitable for individuals with acne-prone or sensitive skin. It does not clog pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.
The lightweight nature of Isononyl Isononanoate allows it to be quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. This property makes it ideal for use in lightweight and non-greasy formulations.
4. Dimethicone crosspolymer
It is derived from dimethicone and undergoes a crosslinking process to form a three-dimensional network.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer has excellent filling and smoothing properties, helping to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines. It is why the elf primer creates a blurring effect on the skin’s surface, resulting in a more refined and even complexion.
Similarly, it contributes to a matte finish on the skin, making it beneficial for individuals with oily or combination skin. It helps control excess oil and reduce shine, creating a more balanced and refined makeup look.
5. Ceresin
It is a purified wax obtained from mineral sources, typically from the refining of crude petroleum. Ceresin also acts as an emollient, which means it helps soften and moisturize the skin.
It forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
Due to its ability to block intrusive, Ceresin forms a protective layer on the skin, shielding it from environmental aggressors, such as harsh weather conditions and pollutants.
Also, Ceresin is considered non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. Its gentle nature makes it a preferred choice for individuals with delicate or easily irritated skin
6. Synthetic wax
Synthetic wax is a man-made or synthetic alternative to natural waxes, typically produced from petroleum or other petrochemical sources. It helps to soften and moisturize the skin.
They create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated and smooth.
One of the benefits of Synthetic wax is that it improves the stability of cosmetic products, helping them resist changes in temperature and preventing separation of ingredients.
Also, like many natural waxes, synthetic waxes are typically non-comedogenic, meaning they are unlikely to clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
Silicone vs Water-Based: Pros and Cons
Silicone-based primers
Advantages:
- Smooth and flawless finish: Silicone-based primers create a velvety and pore-blurring effect, leaving the skin with a smooth and even texture.
- Long-lasting: The occlusive nature of silicone helps makeup adhere better, leading to a longer-lasting makeup application
- Mattifying: Ideal for those with oily or combination skin, silicone-based primers can help control excess oil and shine throughout the day.
- Fills in fine lines: They can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making them suitable for mature skin.
Considerations:
- It can clog the pores: Some individuals with acne-prone skin may find that silicone-based primer can lead to clogged pores or breakouts.
- Gives a heavy feel: The silicone texture might not be preferred by those who like a lightweight and natural sensation on their skin.
Water-Based Primers
Advantages
- Lightweight: Water-based primers feel weightless and breathable on the skin, making them comfortable for daily wear.
- It hydrates: These primers provide a burst of moisture, making them beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin.
- Provides natural finish: They leave a dewy and fresh-faced look, perfect for achieving a natural makeup finish.
- Gentle on sensitive skin: Water-based primers are less likely to cause irritation, making them suitable for sensitive skin types.
Considerations
- It does not last: Water-based primers might not have the same longevity as silicone-based primers, especially for oily skin types.
- Gives limited pore-filling: They may not provide the same pore-blurring effect as silicone-based primers.
How Long Does It Take for Elf Putty Primer to Set?
After applying Elf Putty Primer to your skin, it typically takes 30 seconds to a minute to set and create a smooth, pore-blurring base for your makeup application. During this time, you may notice that the primer’s texture changes from a creamy consistency to a velvety finish as it dries and adheres to the skin.
Are Silicone-Based Primers Harmful?
Silicone-based primers are generally considered safe for most people when used as directed. The silicone used in cosmetics, including primers, is non-toxic and approved for use by regulatory agencies.
Nevertheless, some individuals with acne-prone or sensitive skin may find that certain silicone-based primers can lead to clogged pores or breakouts.
Also, the silicone component might trap oil and sweat beneath the skin’s surface, potentially contributing to skin issues for those with very oily skin.
To ensure a positive experience, it is advisable to perform a patch test and thoroughly cleanse the skin at the end of the day.
Silicone-Based Primers Are Best for Which Skin Type?
Silicone-based primers are best suited for individuals with oily or combination skin types. These skin types tend to produce more sebum, leading to excess oil and shine throughout the day.
Silicone-based primers have several properties that make them an excellent choice for addressing the specific concerns of oily or combination skin.
Is Elf putty primer oil free?
Elf Putty Primer is indeed oil-free. The product is formulated without oils, making it suitable for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin who may prefer oil-free makeup products.
Conclusion
Throughout this comprehensive guide, we explored the distinct characteristics and benefits of both types of makeup primers.
Silicone-based primers stand out with their ability to create a flawless and pore-blurring canvas, making them an excellent choice for those with oily or combination skin seeking a long-lasting and matte finish.
By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect primer to unlock the true potential of your makeup artistry.
