e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer Review

e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer
5.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.6 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Ingredients

e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Dimethicone, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Glycerin, C9-12 Alkane, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Sodium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Phenoxyethanol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Silica, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Cyclodextrin, Polydextrose, Resveratrol, Tocopherol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Review

Does e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.3 out of 10.

  

Key Benefits of e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer:
 

🔵🔵 Suitable Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.0 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈2.5%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.6 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈7.5%) and Trimethylsiloxysilicate (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is suitable for people with normal skin who want essential hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a moderate amount of humectants and occlusive ingredients to provide dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer contains a rather average amount of humectants.

People with normal skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Suitable for moisturizing normal skin
Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer
, as a moisturizer, is suitable for normal skin, combining a moderate concentration of humectants and occlusive ingredients to provide dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.
 
That said, there are some things about e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer worth noting.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains a limited amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering e.l.f. Cosmetics Liquid Poreless Putty Primer is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
7.5
5
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
C9-12 Alkane
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Cyclodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Polydextrose
Function:
Origin:
Resveratrol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.0
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
11.1
7.5
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.0 10
5.0
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 11.1 20
5.6
7.5
3.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.0 10
5
All humectants
5.0
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
7.5
3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 11.1 20
5.6
All occlusives
11.1
7.5
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.9 3 No
All antioxidants
0.9
Resveratrol
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Est. %5
Function
Origin
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone CrosspolymerAn anticaking agent that prevents a product from forming lumps. It also increases slip and produces an elegant finish in skincare formulations.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
TrimethylsiloxysilicateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient silicone resin that smoothes and softens the appearance of the skin. It also protects a product from rinsing away too easily with water, sweat, or friction.
Glycerin
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

C9-12 Alkane
Est. %2
Function
Origin
C9-12 Alkane
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeA silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 DiisostearateA vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl CyclodextrinA white crystalline powder that can reduce odors coming from other ingredients in a product.
Cyclodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclodextrinA naturally derived ingredient with the ability to absorb other compounds and remove harmful metal ions from water.
Polydextrose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polydextrose
Resveratrol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ResveratrolA famous plant-based polyphenol found mainly in red grapes. It is a potent antioxidant, soothing, and wound healing ingredient.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.