elf Power Grip Primer vs. Niacinamide Comparison, Differences

elf Cosmetics is all about bringing us sticky, makeup gripping primers. Over the years they have released several, with some being limited edition. They all appear to look the same, so telling the difference can be a challenge. Their most recent two primers look like carbon copies, except for a color difference. My elf Power Grip Primer vs. Niacinamide comparison will help you to understand the differences so that you can pick the right primer for your skin needs.

Details & Claims

I am going to start off with where you can buy these primers. Both are available from the retailers that carry the brand, which are Ulta, Amazon, Target, and Walmart. As always, you can get them on elf’s website. Below are your shopping options:

Power Grip Primer

Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide

I will begin with what is the same for both of the primers… which is nearly everything. They both claim to be a gel primer that dries down with a sticky finish for long-lasting makeup wear. They are translucent for wear on all skin types, leaving you with a dewy finish. Each primer is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, as well as non-comedogenic to not clog your pores.

The difference comes in the key ingredients and what skin concern you are trying to target. The original Power Grip Primer has hyaluronic acid, which is for hydrating the skin. Where as 4% Niaciamide has niacinamide to even out skin tone and to reduce dullness. For more details, I have a complete elf Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide review.

The usage directions are the same for both primers. You are to use your fingers to evenly spread the product over the skin, then pat it in. The heat of your fingers will help. Allow them to dry for 30 seconds before applying makeup.

Review

LI find that they apply, wear, and perform virtually the same. It is hard to say if the niacinamide version is really doing anything, because it would require daily continuous use to see a benefit with your skin’s tone. Both seem to hydrate pretty well, despite the original being formulated to hydrate.

I find that these primers do dry down with a tacky finish, but it is not glue-like. They layer well over skincare, and with your makeup. They are not formulated to fill pores, so you will need to pair them up with a separate pore-filling primer on your areas of concern. I have an elf Putty Primer vs. Power Grip comparison to help you with your pore needs. Makeup applies normally over top.

When it comes to extending makeup wear time, that is where I am iffy. If you use these with a so-so foundation, it is not going to last any longer. When paired with a decent foundation, I think these help to an extent. Either way, these are decent drugstore options for a gripping primer. I do have a standalone elf Power Grip Primer review if you want to focus on one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Power Grip Primer and Niacinamide?

The difference between the Power Grip Primer and Niacinamide is that the original Power Grip contains hylauronic acid to hydrate the skin, where as Niacinamide, by the name, contains 4% Niacinamide to even skin tone and reduce dullness.

Which elf primer grip is better?

Neither elf primer is better. They both apply, wear, and perform the same. The difference comes down to the key ingredients in terms of what benefits you are seeking.

Does elf Power Grip Primer fill pores?

The elf Power Grip Primer does not fill pores. It is formulated to create a sticky, gripping base for makeup to adhere to. You will need to pair it with a pore filling primer for use on your areas of concern.

Shop The Primers

It comes down to the key ingredients in terms of what skincare benefit you are seeking. The original blue primer has hyaluronic acid for hydration, and the pink has niacinamide to even out your skin tone. No matter which you pick, they both grip your makeup. Which of these primers do you default to? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.

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