Matte putty primer that smooths over imperfections
Universal Sheer
Provides a poreless, shine-free, matte complexion
Infused with kaolin and white charcoal to absorbs excess oil
Velvety texture grips makeup for all-day wear
100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free
Description
Our best-selling primer goes matte! The skin perfecting Matte Putty Primer is infused with Kaolin and White Charcoal to absorb excess oil for a shine-free finish. The velvety texture glides effortlessly over the skin, smoothing over imperfections for a poreless effect and the ultimate grip on makeup.
Which Putty Primer is perfect for you?
• Luminous Putty Primer – Perfect for those who want a radiant, glowing complexion
• Poreless Putty Primer- Perfect for those who want a poreless, flawless finish
• Matte Putty Primer – Perfect for those who want a shine-free matte complexion
Proud to be 100% vegan and cruelty-free, worldwide. Because kindness is chic.
Trial/Mini/Travel Size: Yes
Suggested Age: All Ages
Health Facts: Vegan
Color Palette: Translucent
Skin Tone: All Skin Tones
Product Form: Cream
Sustainability Claims: Cruelty-Free
Beauty Purpose: Makeup Setting
Recommended Skin Type: Oily
TCIN: 76615244
UPC: 609332859111
Item Number (DPCI): 052-16-0761
Origin: Imported
If the item details aren’t accurate or complete, we want to know about it.
Estimated ship dimensions: 4.02 inches length x 2.52 inches width x 1.14 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.143 pounds
Return details
This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, delivered to the guest, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or picked up by the guest.
Q: I have never used a primer before. How do I know which one of the four to use?
submitted by Mommyof3 - 5 years ago
A: Here is a link to a chart that describes the primers: https://www.elfcosmetics.com/putty-primer-trio-1/81395.html?cgid=face-face-primer#start=6
submitted byThe Elf Team - 5 years ago
Brand expert
Q: Is this Non Comogenic?
submitted by Kendyl - 6 years ago
A: We take pride in the fact that our products are designed to help you look and feel your best. e.l.f. strives to select ingredients that are gentle on the skin. While our goal is to create gentle products, everyone is different and some may experience sensitivity to an ingredient or a combination of an ingredient and outside factors. Because we cannot predict how everyone may react, we do not claim that our products are entirely non-comedogenic.
submitted byThe Elf Team - 6 years ago
Brand expert
A: We take pride in the fact that our products are designed to help you look and feel your best. e.l.f. strives to select ingredients that are gentle on the skin. While our goal is to create gentle products, everyone is different and some may experience sensitivity to an ingredient or a combination of an ingredient and outside factors. Because we cannot predict how everyone may react, we do not claim that our products are entirely non-comedogenic.
submitted bythe e.l.f. team - 6 years ago
Brand expert
Q: I'd like to use the Poreless Putty Primer but don't know whether my sunscreen goes over it or under...can you help? Thanks in advance.
submitted by Madge - 8 months ago
A: Hey Madge,
Great question! We recommend to use the e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer over your sunscreen. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page. https://www.target.com/c/beauty/-/N-55r1x
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 8 months ago
Brand expert
Q: Will it help to hide horizontal neck lines too?
submitted by Sara - 9 months ago
A: Hey Sara,
Great question! Yes, the e.l.f Putty Primer glides effortlessly over the skin, smoothing over imperfections for a poreless effect. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page. https://www.target.com/c/beauty/-/N-55r1x
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 9 months ago
Brand expert
Q: How do the putty primers work on fine lines?
submitted by Tara - 10 months ago
A: Hey Tara,
Great question! The e.l.f. putty primer works great to prep and smooth over imperfections for a poreless effect. We recommend to apply your skincare routine first and follow up with this primer for a flawless base. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page. https://www.target.com/c/beauty/-/N-55r1x
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 10 months ago
Brand expert
Q: Can you wear two at a. Time?
submitted by Lilly - 2 years ago
A: Hey Lilly,
Great question! You can use two different e.l.f. putty primers on different areas of the face to address those needs. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 2 years ago
Brand expert
Q: Is this suppose to come with an applicator or is that sold separately?
submitted by Li13 - 2 years ago
A: Hey,
Great question! The e.l.f. Putty Primer Applicator is sold separately! It offers a spatula to help scoop out formula on one end and a dense bristle brush to easily blend out the product on the other. For real-time answers to all your beauty questions, use the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button on any beauty product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 2 years ago
Brand expert
Q: Can you use this under eye
submitted by Tlg - 2 years ago
A: Yes, this may be applied under the eyes.
submitted bythe elfcareteam - 2 years ago
Q: Can you use your hands to apply this product?
submitted by Anna - 2 years ago
A: Hey Anna,
Great question! Yes, you use your finger tips to apply and pat into the skin. Also, we recommend to check out the e.l.f. Putty Primer Applicator as another option to apply! For all your future beauty questions, get real-time answers using the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button, found on every product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 2 years ago
Brand expert
Q: how to pick right shade
submitted by annette - 3 years ago
A: Hey Annette,
Great question! The e.l.f. putty primers come in different shades to help with specific concerns. Color
Poreless: Smooths over imperfections for a poreless effect. Color Luminous: Adds a soft glow for a radiant complexion. Color Matte: Provides a poreless, shine-free, matte complexion. Color Acne Fighting: Helps control acne and prevent future breakouts. For all your future beauty questions, get real-time answers using the “Chat with a Virtual Beauty Consultant” button, found on every product page.
submitted byTarget Beauty Consulting - 3 years ago
This primer has garnered enthusiastic praise for its ability to blur pores and create a smooth canvas for makeup application. Many guests appreciate its lightweight texture and effectiveness in enhancing makeup longevity. It works well for various skin types, providing a luminous finish without feeling heavy or sticky. While some guests experienced breakouts, the overall consensus highlights its affordability and performance, making it a staple in many makeup routines.
Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
4.6
4.6 out of 5 stars
8800 star ratings
4.6 out of 5 stars with 8800 reviews
easy to apply
4.6 out of 5
easy to apply: 4.6 out of 5
easy to remove
4.6 out of 5
easy to remove: 4.59 out of 5
long lasting
4.0 out of 5
long lasting: 4.02 out of 5
quality
4.0 out of 5
quality: 4.05 out of 5
value
4.2 out of 5
value: 4.23 out of 5
75% would recommend
287 recommendations
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
29 August, 2026Verified purchase
(no review title)
I love this item. I’ve been using it since freshman year of high school and now I’m a freshman in college. It blurred out my pores and leaves my makeup looking flawlessly at the end. 10 out of 10 recommend
Aideh
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
5.0 out of 5
long lasting: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
16 July, 2026Verified purchase
Skin tone: Light
Skin type: Combination
(no review title)
love this
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
5.0 out of 5
long lasting: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
31 May, 2026Verified purchase
Skin tone: Medium
Skin concern: Redness
Skin type: Combination
Hair color: Black
Eye color: Black
(no review title)
Very good pore filling primer. It glides like butter and helps with makeup longevity.
Jess
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
5.0 out of 5
long lasting: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
1 out of 5 stars
16 May, 2026
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Breakouts galore after one use
I haven’t had pimples in years and my entire jawline broke out after using this product one time. Will be junking and not buying this line again.
The Law
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
17 April, 2026
Skin tone: Light
(no review title)
absolutely my favorite
Rhonda
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
5.0 out of 5
long lasting: 5 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
14 April, 2026Verified purchase
Skin tone: Medium
Skin type: Oily
(no review title)
Oily skin here, unfortunately it gave me a very bad breakout!! Watch out!! Idk what do to. My skin looks horrible! Going to return it ASAP!!
Paris
quality
1.0 out of 5
quality: 1 out of 5
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
6 April, 2026Verified purchase
Skin tone: Medium
Eye color: Brown
Skin concern: Uneven skin tone
Skin type: Combination
Hair color: Black
Separates
Im not sure if it’s my skin type or my foundation I use. Every time I’ve used the primer my makeup ends up separating. I use the elf satin glow foundation that always looks better on its own.
Target Team Member
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
1.0 out of 5
long lasting: 1 out of 5
quality
1.0 out of 5
quality: 1 out of 5
value
1.0 out of 5
value: 1 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
1 January, 2026Verified purchase
Skin tone: Light
Skin type: Combination
Skin concern: Pores
Hair color: Brunette
Eye color: Brown
(no review title)
Did nothing.
Just a simple girl
easy to apply
1.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 1 out of 5
easy to remove
1.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 1 out of 5
long lasting
1.0 out of 5
long lasting: 1 out of 5
quality
1.0 out of 5
quality: 1 out of 5
value
1.0 out of 5
value: 1 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
22 November, 2025Verified purchase
Skin type: Dry
Skin tone: Light
Eye color: Green
Hair color: Brunette
Skin concern: Uneven skin tone, Sensitivity, Acne
(no review title)
I have very dry skin, which tends to look dry and flaky when I use foundation, but this primer really helps to even out my skin texture and helps my makeup apply smoothly. It goes on sort of like a lotion (I just use my fingers to apply, but I think e.l.f supplies brushes for this primer) and helps my skin feel a little more moisturized throughout the day.
Sophia
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
4.0 out of 5
long lasting: 4 out of 5
quality
4.0 out of 5
quality: 4 out of 5
value
4.0 out of 5
value: 4 out of 5
2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
1 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
18 September, 2025Verified purchase
Skin tone: Light
Skin type: Oily
Skin concern: Pores
Ineffective
The matte putty does literally nothing. Doesn't cover pores, doesn’t control oil. The putty just seems to soak into my skin when I put it on. So disappointed, this had such good reviews. The Benefit pore primer works much better!
MsTC
easy to apply
2.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 2 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
1.0 out of 5
long lasting: 1 out of 5
quality
1.0 out of 5
quality: 1 out of 5
value
1.0 out of 5
value: 1 out of 5
2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
24 August, 2025Verified purchase
Skin tone: Light
Skin concern: Aging
Hair color: Brunette
Skin type: Dry
Eye color: Blue
I have used this for several years
Great primer and great price!
jal
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
4.0 out of 5
long lasting: 4 out of 5
quality
5.0 out of 5
quality: 5 out of 5
value
5.0 out of 5
value: 5 out of 5
2 guests found this review helpful. Did you?
1 out of 5 stars
14 July, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Doesn’t Work
I’ve been using this for about six months now, and it doesn’t work for me. It doesn’t help with my oil, and it doesn’t blur my pores.
KNM8198
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
4 out of 5 stars
27 June, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Great primer
This was my first primer ever. Covered my pores but does not leave a complete matte finish. It is still a favorite
Alejandraaaa
Did you find this review helpful?
5 out of 5 stars
27 April, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Perfection
One of the only products that keeps foundation on my nose. A must buy for flawless, long lasting makeup.
Glitz4
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
14 April, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Another Repurchase
I have oily skin and this works well for me. I love the matte version. Its just tones down the shine, but does not make skin look flat. Must use this sparingly because a little but goes a long way, too much will make skin feel greasy & makeup will separate. I use the power grip for the other areas of my face. Good combo for makeup prep.
FabulousMissB
Did you find this review helpful?
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommendWould recommend
26 March, 2025Verified purchase
Skin tone: Light
Skin type: Combination
Skin concern: Acne, Aging, Pores, Sensitivity
Good Primer and affordable
I like the texture and the quality. Works well. I wouldn't recommend getting it shipped though because it got roughed up in shipping and wasn't in its package when it arrived and was a bit scuffed up.
Ams
easy to apply
5.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 5 out of 5
easy to remove
5.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 5 out of 5
long lasting
4.0 out of 5
long lasting: 4 out of 5
quality
4.0 out of 5
quality: 4 out of 5
value
4.0 out of 5
value: 4 out of 5
Did you find this review helpful?
3 out of 5 stars
26 February, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
This is misleading
I bought this in hopes that it would truly mattify my skin, and I was left with oilier skin than I started with. The plus side is you can use it as a moisturizer instead of a primer. So it’s not all bad. I just wish it would have been a holy grail product.
Password
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
2 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
8 February, 2025Verified purchase
Skin tone: Dark
Skin type: Oily
Skin concern: Acne
Hair color: Black
Eye color: Brown
Elf Acne Fighting Putty Primer
This primer made me look very shiny and I already have issues with having oily skin.
Kiwi
easy to apply
4.0 out of 5
easy to apply: 4 out of 5
easy to remove
4.0 out of 5
easy to remove: 4 out of 5
long lasting
2.0 out of 5
long lasting: 2 out of 5
quality
4.0 out of 5
quality: 4 out of 5
value
4.0 out of 5
value: 4 out of 5
1 guest found this review helpful. Did you?
5 out of 5 stars
27 January, 2025
originally posted on elfcosmetics.com
Best for oily t zone
Use this only on my nose & chin. That’s where I’m the oiliest on my skin and it keeps it matte.
beckwyn
Did you find this review helpful?
3 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommendWould not recommend
21 January, 2025Verified purchase
Skin tone: Medium
Skin type: Dry
Skin concern: Aging, Pores, Sensitivity, Uneven skin tone
Hair color: Brunette
Eye color: Black
Putty please
I wasn't a big fan of this product and won't purchase this product once I've finished it. I do believe there are other products I've tried that give a better luminous look and last longer than it did on me.