After a year of going low-key in the makeup department, it’s time to restore what’s in your beauty bag and get your face ready for what’s on the horizon. Chances are you either need to add a face primer to your routine or get an updated one to ensure all your future makeup looks last the entire day.

Primers are a crucial product for makeup application, though many choose to skip this step. If you have oily skin, you may want to think again before slathering foundation directly onto your face. “Face primers serve as a base for foundation and other makeup products,” says Ronald Moy, M.D., one of the leading cosmetic and facial plastics surgeons at Moy Fincher Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology. “They allow it to go on smoother and last longer throughout the day without any creasing or fading.”

How to choose the best face primer for oily skin

Scan the label: Look for formulas that say “mattifying, oil-free, or pore minimizing” on the label. These primers include ingredients like silicone, which helps to absorb oil and smooth out fine lines.

Use oil-free products: According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), oily skin can cause clogged pores and lead to acne breakouts. To prevent that from happening, reach for primers that are oil-free.

Apply to targeted areas: Stick to applying primer to the areas that get oily frequently, like the t-zone, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin.

People with oily skin