Oil-Based Primers Or Gel-Based? Know Which Type Is Best-Suited For Your Skin

Choosing between an oil-based or gel-based primer with SPF largely depends on your skin type and the environmental conditions.

Understanding Oil-Based and Gel-Based Primers with SPF

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Primers are products made specifically for the face, eyes, lashes or lips that can help your makeup stay in place and enhance your look. This is the first step in your makeup regimen after skincare as it helps to create a smooth canvas. They come in different forms including gels, creams, tinted, untinted or face mists. Choosing between an oil-based or gel-based primer with SPF largely depends on your skin type and the environmental conditions. By understanding your skin's needs and the benefits of each type of primer, you can make an informed decision to ensure your makeup looks flawless while keeping your skin protected from the sun.

WHAT ARE OIL-BASED PRIMERS WITH SPF?

Oil-based primers are excellent for dry, mature skin or during colder weather, providing hydration and a smooth makeup base.

Explaining this, Dr. Ajay Rana, Internationally renowned Dermatologist, Surgeon, Aesthetic Physician and the Founder & Director of ILAMED & Dermalyn Aesthetics said, "Oil-based primers are formulated with oils that help to hydrate and nourish the skin. They create a smooth, even surface for makeup application, making them ideal for those with dry or mature skin. These primers often contain moisturising ingredients such as argan oil, jojoba oil, or vitamin E, which can provide additional skin benefits."

Benefits of oil-based primers:

The benefits of oil-based primers are as follows:

• Hydration: Perfect for dry skin, oil-based primers add a layer of moisture, preventing the foundation from clinging to dry patches.
• Nourishment: The oils in these primers can offer long-term skin benefits, improving overall skin health.
• SPF Protection: Many oil-based primers include SPF, offering an added layer of protection against harmful UV rays.

When to Use:

• Dry Skin: An oil-based primer can provide the necessary moisture if you have dry skin.
• Cold Weather: When skin tends to be drier in colder climates, oil-based primers can help maintain hydration.
• Mature Skin: Oil-based primers help smooth fine lines and create a dewy finish for mature skin, which can be prone to dryness.

WHAT ARE GEL-BASED PRIMERS WITH SPF?

Gel-based primers are perfect for oily or combination skin, especially in hot or humid climates, offering a lightweight, mattifying effect. 

Talking about this, Dr. Ajay Rana said, "Gel-based primers are lightweight and often water-based, making them suitable for those with oily or combination skin. They provide a mattifying effect and help to control excess oil production. These primers are typically formulated to minimise the appearance of pores and fine lines without adding extra weight to the skin."

Benefits of gel-based primers:

The benefits of gel-based primers are as follows:

• Lightweight: Gel-based primers feel light on the skin, making them comfortable to wear throughout the day.
• Mattifying: Ideal for oily skin, they help to control shine and keep makeup in place.
• SPF Protection: Like oil-based primers, many gel-based primers also offer SPF protection to shield the skin from UV damage.

When to Use:

• Oily Skin: If your skin tends to produce excess oil, a gel-based primer can help to mattify and control shine.
• Hot Weather: In warm or humid conditions, gel-based primers can help keep your makeup from melting or sliding off.
• Combination Skin: For those with combination skin, gel-based primers can balance out oiliness in the T-zone while providing a smooth base for makeup.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OIL-BASED AND GEL-BASED PRIMERS:

When comparing oil-based and gel-based primers with SPF, the key differences lie in their formulation, skin compatibility, and performance.

Rupali Sharma, Founder and CEO, of Aegte said, "Oil-based primers, while often nourishing and suitable for dry skin types, tend to have a heavier formulation that can clog pores and cause skin irritation or acne breakouts, especially for those living in humid climates, such as in India, where a majority have oily, combination and acne-prone skin types. This pore-clogging nature makes them less ideal for oily, combination and acne-prone skin, increasing the skin’s natural oil production and leading to a surge in acne and pimples. The situation exacerbates in humid conditions, where the excess oil production can make the skin appear even greasier, enlarge the appearance of open pores and lead to frequent acne breakouts."

"On the other hand, gel-based primers are typically water-based, ensuring they do not clog pores. Their mattifying properties help control shine, providing a smooth canvas for makeup application even in the most hot & humid environments. Gel-based primers often contain soothing and hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, which can calm and soothe the skin, be it inflamed or irritated while providing the necessary sun protection. Its lightweight consistency provides hydration and moisture without adding oil, keeping the skin balanced and preventing sebum overproduction. Water-based or Gel-based Primers generally have a non-greasy, oil-free formula providing a breathable barrier that feels comfortable on the skin. Its non-comedogenic nature significantly reduces the risk of breakouts. This makes them ideal for all skin types, especially oily, combination and acne-prone skin types."

SPF CONTENT IN BOTH OIL-BASED AND GEL-BASED PRIMERS:

Dr. Geetika Mittal Gupta, dermatologist and founder of Isaac Luxe said, "The SPF content in both gel-based and oil-based primers can vary widely depending on the product formulation. Generally, primers with SPF can range from SPF 15 to SPF 30. Most of the primers contain relatively Low SPF (15-25) which doesn’t protect us from UV radiation. Ideally, we need SPF 30 - 50  for better sun protection."