Affordable blur & oil-control primer for oily & combo skin? Try ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer

If you have oily skin or visible pores, you might struggle with makeup, especially foundation. We all want flawless-looking skin, but it's often hard to achieve that smooth finish without a primer. ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer claims to blur pores and control excess oil - but is it an affordable primer that's actually ideal for oily skin?

Disclosure: The products featured in this post were gifted by Stylevana, but all opinions expressed are my own.

What is a primer?

A primer is a lightweight cosmetic product that we apply after skincare, as the first step of our makeup routine. The effect of a primer depends on the product and its formula - some are hydrating, while others are mattifying, illuminating, or color-correcting. Primers can also smooth the skin's surface, blur the appearance of pores and fine lines, and help makeup apply more evenly and last longer throughout the day. 

Can a primer actually shrink pores?

Primers cannot actually shrink pores, but some formulas can make them appear less visible. A pore-blurring primer can temporarily smooth the appearance of enlarged pores and create a more even-looking base for makeup. However, it’s still a good idea to take care of your pores with your skincare routine first and then use a primer to enhance the blurring effect.

Meet the brand: ABOUT_TONE

ABOUT_TONE is a Korean beauty brand focused on helping people express their individuality through makeup and skincare. The brand follows the philosophy “FOR EVERY TONE, EVERY YOU”, celebrating different beauty preferences and personal styles. ABOUT_TONE focuses on clean beauty principles, using its own 22 NONO-LIST standard and developing products with cruelty-free values and vegan certifications. The brand also emphasizes eco-conscious practices, including more sustainable packaging approaches.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer

A lightweight, long-lasting primer that evens out the skin tone, blurs the appearance of visible pores, and helps control excess oil. Its balm-like formula glides easily over the skin, creating a smooth, even base for makeup. It can be applied all over the face or focused on areas where pores and texture are more noticeable.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Packaging

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer comes in a paper box with a minimalist design. I really like this approach because it’s quite different from the packaging I usually see in makeup. Despite its small size, the box contains more information than you might expect, including directions for use, cautions, and information that the product is vegan.

Inside, there’s a tube containing the primer. The packaging combines transparent and chrome-finished plastic, giving it the appearance of a huge lipstick. Except it’s not a lipstick - it’s a primer.

One thing I have to mention is that a primer in this type of packaging isn’t the most hygienic. However, there are ways to make it safer to use, and I’ll show you how to keep it clean.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Texture & Scent

It’s a white stick, but it leaves a transparent layer on the skin. The texture feels velvety to the touch, with that characteristic silky feel you often get from silicone-based primers. It’s an unscented product, although it does have a light scent from the ingredients. I don’t find it bothersome or noticeable once applied.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Shades & Swatches

There’s only one shade of this primer, and it’s completely transparent.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Vegetarian/Vegan-Friendly & other claims

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer is vegan-friendly. The product was certified by the Korea agency of Vegan Certification and Services. This primer was tested by OATC INC. Skin Clinical Testing Center. According to the test results, the skin irritation index of the primer was 0.00.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Ingredients

Dimethicone, Polypropylsilsesquioxane, Silica, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Synthetic Wax, Phenyl Trimethicone, Vinyl Dimethicone/​Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Hdi/​Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Mica, Microcrystalline Wax, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, VP/​Hexadecene Copolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Laureth-4

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer that helps smooth and soften the skin while creating a protective barrier that reduces moisture loss. Polypropylsilsesquioxane is a silicone resin that acts as a film-forming ingredient. It creates a flexible, lightweight film on the skin's surface, helping to improve product durability, water resistance, and long-lasting performance. It is commonly used in makeup and sunscreen formulations to enhance wear time and improve the adhesion of products to the skin.

Silica is a mineral-derived ingredient widely used in both makeup and skincare. It can absorb excess sebum, helping to reduce shine and create a more matte finish. It can also be used as a thickening or texture-modifying agent in cosmetic formulations. Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a silicone-based polymer that acts as a film-forming and texture-enhancing ingredient. It creates a lightweight, silky film on the skin's surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and protect the skin from dehydration. It also improves the spreadability and sensory feel of cosmetic formulations, giving products a smoother, more elegant finish. Silicones are widely used in skincare and haircare because they can improve product application, enhance texture, reduce friction, and create a protective layer on the skin or hair without necessarily clogging pores.

Isononyl Isononanoate is a lightweight, dry emollient that helps soften and smooth the skin while preventing moisture loss. It improves the spreadability and sensory feel of cosmetic products, making application easier and creating a silky finish. It forms a lightweight protective film on the skin and hair, helping to improve hydration and manageability. It is also commonly used in makeup formulations because it helps disperse pigments evenly and can enhance the intensity and appearance of colors.

Synthetic Wax is a lab-created wax designed to mimic the properties of natural waxes. It acts as an emollient and occlusive ingredient, helping to soften the skin and reduce moisture loss by forming a protective layer on the skin's surface. This helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and supports skin hydration. Phenyl Trimethicone is a silicone-based emollient that improves the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products. It creates a lightweight, silky film on the skin's surface, helping to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and support moisture retention. Unlike some heavier occlusive ingredients, Phenyl Trimethicone provides a smooth, elegant finish and can be easily removed with regular cleansing products. It is also commonly used in haircare formulations, where it helps improve smoothness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction.

Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer is a silicone-based polymer that acts as a thickener, texture enhancer, and film-forming ingredient. It creates a lightweight, flexible film on the skin's surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and support hydration by limiting transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It also improves the sensory feel of cosmetic formulations, giving them a smooth, silky finish. HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer powder used as an anti-caking and texture-enhancing ingredient in cosmetic formulations. It helps prevent powders from clumping, improves the spreadability of products, and creates a smooth, soft-focus finish on the skin.

Mica is a naturally occurring mineral that is widely used in cosmetics as a pigment and light-reflecting ingredient. It creates a luminous, shimmery effect by reflecting and scattering light, which can help products provide a glowing finish and visually smooth the appearance of the skin. There has been some controversy around mica sourcing because mining practices in certain regions have been associated with poor working conditions and child labor concerns. Many cosmetic companies now focus on responsibly sourced mica or synthetic alternatives to improve supply chain transparency.

Microcrystalline Wax is a mineral wax derived from petroleum that acts as an emollient and texture-enhancing ingredient. It helps soften and smooth the skin while creating a protective barrier that reduces moisture loss and supports hydration. It is also commonly used to improve the consistency, stability, and spreadability of cosmetic formulations. Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a high-molecular-weight silicone polymer that acts as a thickener, texture enhancer, and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It creates a smooth, silky texture and can help improve the spreadability and sensory feel of skincare products.

Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a silicone-based ingredient used to coat and improve the dispersion of mineral UV filters and pigments. It can also improve the spreadability and texture of cosmetic formulations.

VP/Hexadecene Copolymer is a synthetic polymer that acts as a film-forming and stabilizing ingredient in cosmetic formulations. In sunscreens, it helps create a flexible film on the skin, improving water resistance and helping the product maintain better performance during exposure to water. It also helps stabilize the formula and improve its texture. 1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic solvent and preservative booster. It helps protect products from microorganisms by enhancing the effectiveness of other preservatives. It also has humectant properties, helping to keep the skin hydrated, and is generally well tolerated by the skin.

Caprylyl Glycol is a multifunctional ingredient with emollient and humectant properties. It helps keep the skin hydrated, improves the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations, and can contribute to a smooth, soft finish on the skin. Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional ingredient used as a preservative and preservative booster in cosmetic formulations. It has mild moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, helping to keep products stable while supporting the effectiveness of other preservatives. Laureth-4 is a non-ionic surfactant that acts as an emulsifier in cosmetic formulations. It helps combine oil- and water-based ingredients, improving the stability and texture of skincare products.

How to use ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer?

This primer should be applied after your skincare routine (after sunscreen, or at least moisturizer) and before applying other makeup products. The brand recommends applying a thin layer and avoiding the Blur Lasting Stick Primer on areas affected by eczema, dermatitis, or damaged skin.

A tiny tip from me: since it comes in a stick format, I recommend using a tissue to remove any remaining balm from the tip after each use. You can also wipe the stick with a tissue and 70% isopropyl alcohol or use a makeup sanitizing spray containing 70% isopropyl alcohol. Yes, 70% alcohol can be more effective against bacteria than 90%, but that’s a topic for a separate article.

How does ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer work?

This won’t be a super long review since it’s makeup. It’s my first experience with ABOUT_TONE, but I already have a good feeling about the brand. It feels like a unisex brand that could appeal to both men and women, with a more Gen Z aesthetic. That’s actually how I like Gen Z brands to approach their design - they take inspiration from Y2K and even Y3K aesthetics. ABOUT_TONE is minimalist but definitely not boring.

At first, I thought the packaging was a combination of metal and plastic. I also assumed the cap was magnetic, but it isn’t. The product itself is quite well designed, though, and the balm formula makes me confident that at least this primer won’t spill all over my cosmetic bag.

Maybe we should start with how this product is promoted. ABOUT_TONE describes it as a “one-slide Photoshop stick,” which is a pretty bold claim. It doesn’t give me that ultra-smooth, almost Photoshop-like look that some brands use to demonstrate their products, but it does have a nice effect on oily skin. The effect is subtle and natural - it gives the skin a delicate blurring effect. However, if your “pores” are actually deeper textural scars, such as icepick scars, this primer won’t be nearly as effective as it is on visible pores.

Does it glide smoothly over the skin? Yes, although I find it a little harder to apply around the nose. I can’t test whether it really lasts for 24 hours as ABOUT_TONE claims, but honestly, how many of us actually wear makeup for more than 12 hours? I’m testing this with everyday use in mind, not “I’m a bride at a Slavic wedding that starts at 4 PM and ends two days later” use.

It does help makeup last longer, thanks to the combination of lightweight oils and powder. The brand itself recommends using Blur Lasting Stick Primer with the Legendary Blur Powder Pact or The Blur Finish Powder.

If you prefer a more pronounced blurring effect, I’d pair Blur Lasting Stick Primer with the Legendary Blur Powder Pact. If you prefer a more natural finish, The Blur Finish Powder would be a better choice. You can also use it with Long Lasting Make Coating Fixer if you want to improve the overall longevity of your makeup.

On my skin, I think the effect is most noticeable on my forehead after applying foundation. My pores are still visible, but I really enjoy the fact that my skin looks less oily and the overall texture appears more refined.

One thing I have to say is that I find this product ideal for oily and combination skin. I love how velvety it feels on the skin, but this is definitely a product you don’t want to apply too generously under makeup. With this primer, moderation is key.

It’s a typical blurring primer, so if you have dry skin that needs plenty of hydration, it may feel too dry. For the price, though, I don’t think it’s a bad primer at all. If you’re looking for a lightweight product that subtly blurs pores, reduces the appearance of oiliness, and helps your makeup last longer, ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer is worth considering.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Skin Compatibility

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer is supposed to work for all skin types, but in my opinion, oily and combination skin might enjoy it the most.

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Pros & Cons

Pros:

+ Lightweight, velvety texture

+ Subtly blurs the appearance of pores

+ Helps reduce the appearance of oiliness

+ Helps makeup last longer

+ Easy stick application

+ Transparent finish that works with different skin tones

+ Compact and travel-friendly packaging

+ No added fragrance

+ Vegan-friendly

Cons:

- Can feel too dry on dry skin

- Easy to overapply, which can affect how makeup sits

- The blurring effect is subtle rather than dramatic

- Doesn’t completely hide deeper textural scars (icepick scars)

- Harder to apply around the nose

- Stick format requires extra attention to hygiene

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer - Alternatives

If you search for alternatives to this product and you focus on sebum control then Some By Mi PDRN Spirulina Poreless Primer is another stick primer, but the form seems to be harder to apply than ABOUT_TONE Stick Primer. 

For fans of liquid textures Laneige Smoothie Makeup Serum and Missha Glow Pore Blurring Balm are quite affordable options. 

If you’re open to primers with a bit of tint then CLIO Wake Up Primer Blur and Innisfree No Sebum Blur Primer might be a choice for you.

All these products are available at Stylevana.

Where to buy ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer and how much does it cost?

ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer is available at Stylevana. It’s currently priced at $10.08, while the regular price is $15.53. You can use my code INF10BETW to get an additional discount on your Stylevana purchase.

Overall, the ABOUT_TONE Blur Lasting Stick Primer is definitely an affordable option for anyone looking to control excess sebum and keep their makeup looking fresh throughout the day.

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