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Product Comparison

Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer versus e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush .

Last updated on October 13, 2023. Published on January 14, 2023

Overview

What they are

These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe . They have a total of 27 ingredients in common

Free From

They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens or sulfates

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.

Face Primer American Brand United States
Makeup Applicator American Brand United States

Face Primer

A base to help makeup products last longer on the face or to help control shine.

Makeup Applicator

Tools used to help apply makeup.

Price

Shop

Buy Poreless Putty Primer

Starts at $9.00
Shop

Buy Buffing Foundation Brush

Starts at $6.90

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and view relevant ingredients.
alcohol-free
silicon-free
fragrance-free
sulfate-free
paraben-free
oil-free
fungal-acne safe
reef-safe
eu-allergen-free
vegan
cruelty-free
alcohol-free
silicon-free
fragrance-free
sulfate-free
paraben-free
oil-free
fungal-acne safe
reef-safe
eu-allergen-free
vegan
cruelty-free

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Notable Ingredients

Exfoliators (2)

Benefits

Hydrating (2)
Redness Reducing
Reduces Irritation
Reduces Large Pores
Anti-Aging
Acne Fighting
Brightening

Concerns

Drying
Acne Trigger
Rosacea (2)
Eczema (2)
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Ingredients Side-by-side

Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.

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Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

1
What it does: Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Loved

Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.

So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Learn more about Water

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 1.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

2
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Disliked

Cyclopentasiloxane is a silicone used to improve texture and trap moisture. An easier name for this is D5.

D5 is considered lightweight and volatile. Volatile means it evaporates quickly after application. Once evaporated, D5 leaves a thin barrier that helps keep skin hydrated.

D5 is an emollient. Emollients help soften the skin and prevent water loss. Silicones create a silky texture in products. D5 helps other ingredients become more spreadable.

Studies show D5 is safe to use in skincare products. We recommend speaking with a skincare professional if you have concerns.

Learn more about Cyclopentasiloxane

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 2.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

3
What it does: Emulsion Stabilising
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Ceresin is a wax derived from ozokerite. It is an alternative to beeswax.

The most common process of creating ceresin is by using heat and sulfuric acid.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 3.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

4
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration. The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.

Dimethicone has been found increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients. While there is concern for the safety of dimethicone, the levels used in skincare are safe for use.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 4.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

5
What it does: Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Solvent
Community Rating: Loved

Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.

A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.

As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.

Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.

Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.

In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.

This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.

Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.

Learn more about Glycerin

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 5.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

6
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a synthetic polymer. Polymers are compounds with high molecular weight. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is an emollient and texture enhancer.

In one study, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene showed better skin hydration levels than Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. As an emollient, it helps keep your skin soft and hydrated by trapping moisture in.

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is often used as a mineral oil replacement.

Learn more about Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 6.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

We don't have a description for Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 7.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

8
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a silicone used as a film forming agent.

When applied to the skin, this ingredient creates an invisible film on the surface. This film still allows oxygen to pass through, but prevents moisture from escaping. This can help condition and hydrate the skin. It also leaves a silky feel when applied.

Polymethylsilsesquioxane has not been shown to clog pores. It has been deemed safe to use up to 55%, but most cosmetics use much less.

If you have concerns about using this ingredient, we recommend speaking with a professional.

Learn more about Polymethylsilsesquioxane

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 8.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

9
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Disliked

This silicone is an emollient. Emollients create a thin film on the skin to prevent moisture from escaping.

It is not soluble in water and helps increase water-resistance in products.

According to a manufacturer, it can blend seamlessly with silicone oils, such as Cyclopentasiloxane.

Learn more about Trimethylsiloxysilicate

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 9.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

10
What it does: Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Propylene Glycol is an odorless, colorless liquid. As a humectant, it helps skin retain moisture. It also aids in delivering active ingredients.

Another role of this ingredient is preventing a product from melting or freezing. Propylene glycol also adds antimicrobrial properties to a product, elongating product lifespan.

This ingredient is considered an organic alcohol and commonly added into both cosmetics and foods.

Those with sensitive skin or conditions may deliver a rash when using this ingredient.

Learn more about Propylene Glycol

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 10.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

11
What it does: Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning

Lauryl Peg-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone is a type of silicone.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 11.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

12
What it does: Masking
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Chances are, you eat sodium chloride every day. Sodium Chloride is also known as table salt.

This ingredient has many purposes in skincare: thickener, emulsifier, and exfoliator.

You'll most likely find this ingredient in cleansers where it is used to create a gel-like texture. As an emulsifier, it also prevents ingredients from separating.

There is much debate on whether this ingredient is comedogenic. The short answer - comedogenic ratings don't tell the whole story. Learn more about comegodenic ratings here.

The concensus about this ingredient causing acne seems to be divided. Research is needed to understand if this ingredient does cause acne.

Scrubs may use salt as the primary exfoliating ingredient.

Learn more about Sodium Chloride

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 12.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

13
What it does: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Astringent, Emollient, Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Tonic
Community Rating: Loved

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract is derived from the leaves of the tea plant. Black tea, green tea, and oolong tea are all harvested from this plant.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract has many benefits. It contains polyphenols, a strong antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight off free-radical molecules that damage skin cells. The antioxidants in green tea neutralize free-radicals from the sun. This gives the skin some extra UV protection, but should not replace sunscreen.

Many components of tea have anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols and L-theanine help soothe the skin and reduce irritation. L-theanine is an amino acid that makes up most of the amino acids found in tea leaves. The caffeine in Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract helps calm inflamed blood vessels.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract also contains Vitamin Bs, linoleic acid, magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract also has antimicrobial properties.

Research has shown both drinking Camellia Sinensis Leaf Tea and applying it to the skin can help boost skin elasticity and hydration. Studies also show using tea extract may reduce sebum, or oil, production.

Learn more about Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 13.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

14
What it does: Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Loved

Squalane is an emollient that helps the skin hold onto moisture. It's an oily liquid that occurs naturally in certain types of fish and plant oils.

Because squalane boosts hydration in the skin, it also comes with plenty of benefits: it is an antioxidant and can help fight free radicals and skin damage. Squalane is also found to have a detoxifying effect when applied.

Squalane comes from squalene, which occurs naturally within the sebum of our skin. It is one of the oils our skin produces to keep itself hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene and has a longer shelf life.

Research shows that squalane is non-irritating (even at 100% concentration).

In general, it's a fantastic ingredient. It does a great job at hydrating the skin, and it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.

The source of squalane may impact malassezia / fungal acne. This is because olive oil derived squalane can contain impurities such as fatty acids and plant waxes. Sugarcane derived squalane is recommended for anyone with malassezia concerns.

Is squalane vegan? This depends on the source. Squalane can be derived from both plants and animals. Most squalane used in skincare comes from plants.

Please note: the source of squalane is only known if disclosed by the brand. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have any questions about their squalane.

Read more about squalene with an "e".

Learn more about Squalane

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 14.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

15
What it does: Skin Conditioning

Oryza Sativa Bran Wax is wax from the outer layer of a rice kernel. It is a byproduct of milling rice, or the operation to produce a whole grain rice product.

Oryza Sativa Bran is moisturizing. This is due to its components of polysaccharides and omega-3 fatty acids.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 15.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

16
What it does:
Community Rating: Very Disliked

We don't have a description for Dimethicone/Peg-10/15 Crosspolymer.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 16.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

17
What it does: Emulsion Stabilising
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone created by modifying dimethicone with hydrocarbon side chains. Due to its large size, it does not penetrate skin. It is considered non-occlusive.

Dimethicone Crosspolymer is used to stabilize and thicken products. It also helps give products a silky feel.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 17.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

18
What it does: Abrasive, Absorbent
Community Rating: Disliked

Silica is a mineral naturally found in our skin. It helps to thicken and smooth the texture of a product. It also acts as an agent for other ingredients by increasing the absorption of other ingredients into the skin.

Silica is often used for absorption and can help reduce shine when products are applied. Silica occurs in naturally in materials like clay and sandstone, and it can also be produced synthetically.

Silica is present naturally within the skin during collagen production and when reducing inflammation.

Learn more about Silica

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 18.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

19
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a silicone used to bind and stabilize ingredients.

As an emulsifier, it helps prevent ingredients from separating. This can help elongate the shelf life of products.

Triethoxycaprylylsilane is often used to coat mineral sunscreens ingredients to help give a better feel. It also helps reduce oxidative stress in sunscreens.

Learn more about Triethoxycaprylylsilane

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 19.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

20
What it does: Abrasive, Absorbent, Skin Protecting
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Talc is a clay mineral. It helps absorb moisture and improve the texture of products. Like other types of clay, Talc can have a slight exfoliating effect on skin. Talc can be added to increase the volume of products.

Some Baby powders are made by combining talc with corn starch. The word "talc" comes from Latin and originates from Arabic. Talc is a mineral commonly found throughout the world.

If you have any concerns about using talc, we recommend checking out the FDA's official page.

Learn more about Talc

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 20.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

21
What it does: Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Community Rating: Mixed

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

  • It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
  • It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
  • It helps improve product application.

Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient. It is unlikely to irritate skin, and works well with pretty much all other ingredients.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 21.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

22
What it does:
Community Rating: Disliked

Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.

It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.

Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.

Learn more about Disodium EDTA

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 22.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

23
What it does: Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Liked

Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts and preserves moisture.

It is a common ingredient in many products, especially those designed to hydrate skin. The primary benefits are retaining moisture, skin softening, and promoting a healthy skin barrier.

Though Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it is not the kind that can dry out skin.

This ingredient is also used as a preservative to extend the life of products. It has slight antimicrobial properties.

Learn more about Caprylyl Glycol

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 23.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

24
What it does: Skin Conditioning
Community Rating: Mixed

Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.

You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 24.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

25
What it does: Preservative
Community Rating: Very Disliked

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 25.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

26
What it does: Cosmetic Colorant
Community Rating: Disliked

Ci 77891 is a white pigment from Titanium dioxide. It is naturally found in minerals such as rutile and ilmenite.

It's main function is to add a white color to cosmetics. It can also be mixed with other colors to create different shades.

Ci 77891 is commonly found in sunscreens due to its ability to block UV rays.

Learn more about CI 77891

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 26.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

27
What it does: Cosmetic Colorant
Community Rating: Mixed

Ci 77491 is also hydrated iron III oxide. It's sole purpose is to give a red/pink hue to products.

Iron III oxides are classified as inorganic chemicals for coloring.

Synthetically created Ci 77491 is considered safer than those naturally found. This is because the synthetically created version may contain less impurities. Iron oxides are generally non-toxic and non-allergenic.

Learn more about CI 77491

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer contains this as ingredient number 27.

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush contains this as ingredient number 1.

Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.

22% are loved or liked
11% have mixed ratings
56% are disliked or very disliked
11% have no rating yet

Usage

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Reviews

Here's what our community thinks

e.l.f. cosmetics Poreless Putty Primer 27 ingredients

2.0 /5
from 2 ratings
Matte (1) No Color (1) Satin (1)
Mamabuja's avatar

Mamabuja

5 months ago · Combination Skin
Review

it's an alright primer, but it clogged my pores, especially on my cheeks

e.l.f. cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush 0 ingredients

Buffing Foundation Brush hasn't been rated yet.
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