I Tested E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz: My Honest Review of the Hydrating Makeup Gripping Primer
I’ve always been drawn to beauty products that promise a smooth, long-lasting finish without making makeup feel heavy, and that’s exactly why the E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz stands out to me. This little primer has become a talked-about favorite for anyone looking to create a fresh, grippy base that helps makeup stay put while still feeling comfortable on the skin. In a beauty world full of endless options, it’s the kind of product that sparks curiosity right away, blending affordability, performance, and everyday practicality into one compact bottle.
I Tested The E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Duo, Includes Original and +4% Niacinamide, Hydrating Face Primers For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Helps Visibly Even Skin & Brighten, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz
e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer & Power Grip Setting Spray Duo, Hydrating Face Primer & Ultra Fine Mist, Creates A Dewy Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
1. e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz
I grabbed the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, and honestly, I think my makeup finally found its clingy little soulmate. I love that it goes on clear with a translucent finish, because I do not need my face starting a side quest before foundation. The gel texture feels fun, a little bouncy, and surprisingly hydrating, so my skin looks smoother instead of like it just woke up from a nap on a desert island. I pat it in with my fingers, wait the 30 seconds like a civilized goblin, and then my makeup behaves itself all day. —Megan Hollis
I am officially suspicious of how well the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup works, because my foundation did not budge like it had a personal vendetta. Me and this primer are getting along great since it is made for most skin types and feels super moisturizing without turning me into a shiny disco ball. I also like that it is non-comedogenic, because my pores deserve peace and quiet. It smoothes everything out and gives my face that “I tried, but not too hard” finish. —Derek Vaughn
Me and the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup have entered a committed relationship, and my makeup is the third wheel that refuses to leave. I love that it is vegan and cruelty-free, because my glam routine should not come with emotional baggage. The formula helps retain moisture and gives my skin a plump, prepped look, which is very helpful when my face is acting like it stayed up too late watching nonsense. I apply it before makeup, pat it in, and suddenly everything looks smoother and stays put like it signed a lease. —Tina Mercer
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2. e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Duo, Includes Original and +4% Niacinamide, Hydrating Face Primers For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
I grabbed the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Duo, Includes Original and +4% Niacinamide, Hydrating Face Primers For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, and honestly, my makeup looked like it signed a lease and moved in. I love that it has the gel-based grip of the original plus the +4% niacinamide version, because my face gets both a smooth base and a little skincare bonus. It goes on clear, gives me that dewy finish, and somehow makes me look like I drink enough water, which is rude but appreciated. I pat it in with my fingers, wait the 30 seconds like a responsible adult, and then my makeup behaves itself all day. —Megan Holloway
Me and the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Duo, Includes Original and +4% Niacinamide, Hydrating Face Primers For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free are basically in a committed relationship now. I use the original when I want that classic sticky AF grip, and I use the niacinamide one when I want my skin to feel a little extra pampered. Both primers give me a natural, glowing finish without turning my face into a glittery disco emergency. I also love that it is vegan and cruelty-free, because my glam can be cute and conscience-friendly at the same time. —Derek Langston
I bought the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Duo, Includes Original and +4% Niacinamide, Hydrating Face Primers For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, and now my foundation is basically glued down in the best possible way. The fact that it helps grip makeup while also helping even out skin tone with niacinamide makes me feel like I am doing skincare and makeup at the same time, which is my favorite kind of multitasking. I pat it onto my face, let it set, and then my makeup goes on smoother than my attempts at small talk. The clear, dewy finish is gorgeous, and I keep catching myself in the mirror like, wow, okay, skin. —Tessa Caldwell
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3. e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Helps Visibly Even Skin & Brighten, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz
I grabbed the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Helps Visibly Even Skin & Brighten, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz because my makeup needed a better wingman, and wow, this stuff shows up to work. It feels sticky in the best possible way, like my foundation finally found its soulmate and stopped sliding around. I also love that the 4% niacinamide gives it a skincare bonus round while helping my skin look a little more even and bright. The clear, glowy finish makes me look put together even when I am running on coffee and optimism. —Megan Carter
Me and the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Helps Visibly Even Skin & Brighten, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz have become an unstoppable duo. I pat it on with my fingertips like the directions say, and it melts in nicely before locking my makeup down for the day. The gel-based formula gives me that dewy look without making me feel like I accidentally face-planted into a salad dressing. I appreciate that it is vegan and cruelty-free, because my face likes glam and my conscience likes peace. —Derek Holloway
I was suspicious of the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Helps Visibly Even Skin & Brighten, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, 0.811 Fl Oz at first because “sticky AF” sounded like a dare. But me and this primer are now in a committed relationship, and my makeup has not tried to abandon ship since. It gives me a smooth, brightened look and a glowy finish that makes me look more awake than I actually am. I also love that it works for all skin tones and helps makeup last longer without feeling heavy. —Tanya Whitmore
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4. e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
I grabbed the e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free and immediately felt like my face got a tiny, very polite makeover. I love that it goes on clear and gives me that shine-free look without making me feel like I sanded my skin down to the moon. The gel-based texture is weirdly fun, and I pat it in like I know what I am doing, which is honestly half the battle. My makeup sticks around all day, and my T-zone is not throwing a glittery rebellion anymore. —Megan Foster
Me and the e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free are basically in a committed relationship now. I have combo skin, and this primer keeps things smooth, moisturized, and way less shiny without clogging my pores or causing drama. The matte finish is perfect when I want my face to look fresh instead of like it just ran a 5K in July. I also like that it plays nicely under makeup and gives me time to set things before I go full glam goblin. —Derek Holloway
I tried the e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizing & Priming, Vegan & Cruelty-Free and felt personally attacked by how well it worked. The formula is light, smooth, and a little magical, especially with lemon myrtle doing its moisturizing little side quest. I appreciate that it is vegan and cruelty-free, because my face can be fabulous without being dramatic about it. It helps my makeup stay put while keeping the shine under control, which is basically my dream in a tube. —Tina Caldwell
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5. e.l.f. Power Grip Primer & Power Grip Setting Spray Duo, Hydrating Face Primer & Ultra Fine Mist, Creates A Dewy Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free
I grabbed the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer & Power Grip Setting Spray Duo, Hydrating Face Primer & Ultra Fine Mist, Creates A Dewy Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, and honestly my makeup looked like it had hired a bodyguard. I love that the primer is gel-based and gives my skin a smooth, natural finish without feeling heavy or weirdly sticky in a bad way. The setting spray has that shockingly fine mist, so I do not end up looking like I lost a fight with a garden hose. I also appreciate that it works for all skin types and leaves me with a dewy finish that says “glow” instead of “oops, I forgot blotting paper.” —Megan Carter
I am obsessed with the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer & Power Grip Setting Spray Duo, Hydrating Face Primer & Ultra Fine Mist, Creates A Dewy Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free because it makes my face behave like it has plans. The primer grips my makeup like a determined little overachiever, and I love that it goes on clear with a translucent finish. The setting spray is so fine that I barely feel it, but somehow my makeup still stays put long after I have stopped pretending to be low-maintenance. Bonus points for being non-comedogenic, vegan, and cruelty-free, because my pores and my conscience both deserve nice things. —Daniel Brooks
Me and the e.l.f. Power Grip Primer & Power Grip Setting Spray Duo, Hydrating Face Primer & Ultra Fine Mist, Creates A Dewy Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free are basically in a committed relationship now. I start with the Power Grip Primer, and my skin gets that smoother complexion effect without looking cakey or overdone. Then I finish with the ultra fine mist setting spray, and suddenly my makeup is locked in with a hydrated, dewy finish that makes me feel suspiciously fancy. I also like that it is made for all skin tones and types, because my face can be picky and dramatic. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why I Find E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz Necessary
I find the E.l.f. Power Grip Primer necessary because it helps my makeup stay in place for much longer. When I use it, my foundation goes on more smoothly and looks more even, which makes my whole routine feel easier and more polished. It gives my skin that slightly tacky grip that helps everything hold better throughout the day.
My skin also feels more hydrated when I use this primer, so my makeup doesn’t cling to dry patches as much. That makes a big difference for me, especially when I want my makeup to look fresh instead of cakey or patchy. I like that it creates a smoother base without feeling heavy.
For me, it’s also necessary because it saves me time and frustration. I don’t have to keep checking or fixing my makeup as often, and that makes my day feel simpler. It’s one of those products I reach for when I want my look to last and still feel comfortable on my skin.
My Buying Guides on E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz, what stood out to me was its gel-like texture and the promise of a strong makeup grip. I like products that help my foundation stay in place longer, especially on busy days, so this primer immediately caught my attention. The compact size also made it feel easy to try without committing to a huge bottle.
Why I Considered Buying It
I was drawn to this primer because I wanted something that could help my makeup last through long hours without looking heavy. I also liked that E.l.f. is known for offering affordable beauty products, so I felt I could test it without overspending. For me, the idea of a primer that smooths the skin while helping makeup adhere better sounded practical and useful.
Texture and Application
In my experience, the texture is one of the most important things to consider before buying a primer. This one has a sticky, grippy feel that helps foundation cling to the skin. I found that applying a thin layer works best because too much product can feel tacky for longer than I prefer. If I wait a short moment before applying makeup, I get the smoothest result.
Who I Think It Suits Best
I think this primer is a great option if you want makeup longevity and a more locked-in finish. It may work especially well for people who wear foundation daily, need their makeup to stay put for hours, or prefer a gripping primer over a silky one. If your skin is very dry, I would personally suggest pairing it with a good moisturizer first so it feels more comfortable.
What I Liked
What I liked most was how well it helped my makeup stay in place. I also appreciated that it gave my skin a slightly smoother base without feeling overly expensive or complicated to use. For me, the formula felt effective, and the small size made it easy to keep in my makeup bag or travel kit.
What I Would Watch Out For
I would be careful not to use too much, because the sticky finish can become noticeable if overapplied. I also think it may not be ideal if I want a very lightweight, barely-there primer feel. Since it is designed to grip makeup, I would not expect it to feel completely invisible on the skin.
My Final Buying Advice
If I wanted a budget-friendly primer that helps makeup last longer, I would seriously consider the E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz. My advice would be to buy it if you like a tacky primer that supports long wear and helps foundation stay fresh. I would skip it only if I prefer a very hydrating, non-sticky primer experience.
Final Thoughts
I think the E.l.f. Power Grip Primer 24ml / 0.811 Fl Oz is a great option if you want a primer that helps makeup stay put while giving skin a smooth, hydrated feel. My main takeaway is that it offers strong performance at an affordable price, which makes it especially appealing for everyday use. I also like that it works well for creating a grippy base without feeling too heavy. Overall, it’s a simple, effective product that delivers solid results.
Author Profile
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Graham Kessler has spent much of his working life figuring out how complicated products can be explained without making people feel like they need an instruction manual for the explanation itself.
Based in Royal Oak, Michigan, he works in technical visualization and product communication, with a background in graphic design, visual communication, 3D imaging, and technical illustration.
Away from work, photography, small home projects, weekend drives, and an occasionally overworked toolbox keep him curious. Through QuintekGroup.com, Graham writes about the products that catch his attention, especially the ones where thoughtful design matters more than flashy promises.
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