elf Cosmetics has offered several types of gel makeup gripping primers over the years, and I have individual and comparison reviews on them. This can get very confusing, so I want to break down elf Jelly Pop Primer vs. Power Grip. Jelly Pop came first, as a part of a limited-time collection. elf then “improved” this formula years later to give us Power Grip, which is a part of the permanent line. However, Jelly Pop is back again for a limited time, yet sold out temporarily. This comparison review gives you all of the details that you need to pick the best primer. Many say they love Jelly Pop but now Power Grip is their go-to.
Details & Claims
You will find that Power Grip Primer is available from many retailers due to its permanent placement with the brand, where as Jelly Pop Dew Primer is only back on elf’s website. Below are your options to shop:
elf Jelly Pop Dew Primer
elf Power Grip Primer
You will note that Jelly Pop is available in only one size, which is 1.01 fl oz for $10, while Power Grip comes in a full-size of 0.811 fl oz for $10, or a travel size of 0.6 fl oz for $5. Both are sold in squeeze tube pumps.
Both primers feature a translucent gel formula for use on all skin types and tones. They should dry down to provide a sticky feel for makeup to grip to for long-lasting wear with a dewy finish to the skin.
Both primers claim to hydrate the skin with the key ingredient of hyaluronic acid, but Jelly Pop also highlights other notable ingredients such as watermelon extract, Vitamin C, and niacinamide. elf does offer a niacinamide version of its Power Grip Primer. Because of these ingredient differences, you will note that Jelly Pop has a pink tint and watermelon scent, while Power Grip has a teal tint and no distinguishable scent. Jelly Pop is actually runnier than Power Grip. If you want to see even more about this OG product, you can read up in my elf Jelly Pop Dew Primer review.
The primers have the same directions. You are to use your fingers to evenly spread the primers over the skin, then pat it in. The heat of your fingers will help. Allow them to set for 30 seconds before makeup application.
Review
Honestly, these primers apply, look, and wear the same. Both layer well with skin care and makeup to leave you with a finish that looks dewy and healthy. You can feel the tackiness to grip makeup, but neither are like glue. The level of hydration is light.
Do note that these are not designed to fill pores, so you may need to add your favorite pore filling primer to your routine. I always advise against using gripping primers with powder foundation, as it it can cause a clinging affect in areas.
Makeup applies normally over top of the primers. I find that they can help extend the wear time of your makeup some, but nothing over the top. They definitely do not harm wear time at all.
Layering your powders and other products will most likely tone down or elimiate the natural glow. I see normal wear and tear and the end of the day. If you are no longer able to get your hands on Jelly Pop Dew Primer due to its limited nature, Power Grip is the perfect replacement. You can further your research with my elf Power Grip Primer review.
| elf Jelly Pop Primer vs. Power Grip Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Jelly Pop Dew Primer | Power Grip Primer | |
| Skin Type | Normal/dry/combo (all) | Normal/dry/combo (all) |
| Skin Benefit | Hydrates | Hydrates |
| Key Ingredient(s) | Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, Watermelon Extract, Vitamin C | Hyaluronic acid |
| % of Pores filled | 0% | 0% |
| Base | Gel | Gel |
| Finish | Natural dewy, tacky | Natural dewy, tacky |
Shop The Primers
Both primers are practically the same in all areas. It almost seems silly that elf felt the need to “improve” the original formula. That is probably more of a marketing tactic than anything. You can substitute these primers for each other, especially considering Jelly Pop will not be around forever. Which elf gripping primer is your go-to? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
One Response
I completely disagree, I tried both, they are sticky and make my pores larger, big waste of money.