18. Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Hydrating

Buy on Sephora | $39This hydrating primer is known for the way it excellently creates a “moisture barrier” between skin and makeup or environmental toxins. Wearers noticed how sleek and thin it felt, keeping their skin soft without feeling heavy. If you have deep pores or fine lines, in addition, you’ll probably notice how this primer glides over and “blurs” those features, giving you a flawless airbrushed look like an effect.

19. Urban Decay All Nighter

Buy on Sephora | $36If you have dry to normal skin, this may be the primer for you! You’ll likely notice that it allows your skin to look supple and hydrated, while at the same time, keeping dry patches under control. Those who tried it loved the way it kept their makeup in place all day, without feeling heavy, or as if they had too much product on.

FAQ About Primers

What are makeup primers and how do they work?

Primers help to prep the skin for makeup application; in doing so, they ensure that makeup lasts longer. They work to absorb excess oil in oily skin, moisturize dry skin, and even the skin tone. Additionally, any good face primer will provide a barrier between skin and makeup. Primers are applied after moisturizer and before any makeup.

Why you should use a makeup primer?

Use a makeup primer if you have less-than-perfect skin: i.e., dry, oily, or combination skin, as well as skin prone to redness or acne. Primers can lessen the appearance of these problems, with or without foundation. They also help your makeup to stay looking fresh all day.

How do I choose a primer?

For those who struggle with redness or sallow skin, search for a color-correcting primer that targets those issues. Those with dry skin should look for a primer oil or a hydrating primer balm. Finally, those with oily or acne-prone skin should stay away from primer oils and instead choose a mattifying primer.