Which Primer is Best For Me?

Curious about primer and thinking of adding it to your routine? This makeup essential is exactly what it sounds like: a product that primes the face for makeup application. This universally popular product is an easy fix to slipping or uneven makeup. To find out more about what it is and how to use a primer, read on to get the low-down.

What Does It Do?

Primer is a product that helps prepare your face for makeup application. It helps even skin tone and smooth out skin texture so that your makeup can glide on smoothly and stay in place.

What Are the Benefits of Using This in Makeup?

The most basic primers smooth skin and secure makeup in place so that it doesn’t move and make a mess over the course of the day. It’s a simple solution to locking in your look. Plus, many primers nowadays also come with features like illuminating, moisturizing, fading fine lines, targeting acne, and more.

Primer should be applied after your skincare routine. Use fingers or a slightly damp sponge to apply the product for the most seamless finish. Apply it in a small amount, about the size of a dime or nickel, blend it thoroughly, and then let it sit and dry before applying anything else. Once it’s on, you can proceed with the next steps like applying foundation, moisturizer, or concealer. Or, you can wear it alone for a beautiful bare-faced look.

How Do I Find the Right Primer for me?

There’s a type of primer for every skin type and problem imaginable. Acne-prone skin types should go for a mattifying product. Dullness can be addressed with an illuminating essential piece. And if dryness is a concern, you can use a balm for thick and heavy-duty moisture, or in a form like water for a refreshing pick-me-up, or oil for long-lasting hydration.

Read on to discover our selection of the best primers available on the US market today.

5 of the Best Primers

1. NuFACE NuBODY Hydrating Leave-On Gel Primer
2. DHC Velvet Skin Coat Primer
3. Illamasqua Hydra Veil Primer
4. Makeup Revolution Glass Liquid Skin Primer Serum
5. Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Primer

1. NuFACE NuBODY Hydrating Leave-On Gel Primer

Visibly boost your glow with the NuFACE NuBODY Hydrating Leave-On Gel Primer. This hydrating treatment harnesses innovative technologies to brighten and rejuvenate skin. Hyaluronic acid replenishes moisture, while a Phytomoist Complex derived from edible mushrooms reduces signs of aging. Skin is left softer and more supple. Formulated in a lightweight gel, this product is free from oils, alcohol, sulphates, parabens, gluten, and fragrances.

2. DHC Velvet Skin Coat Primer

Perfection is within reach with the DHC Velvet Skin Coat® Primer. This makeup primer perfects skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines, pores, and other imperfections. A transparent gel-like texture makes it easy to smooth out flaws and gently remove excess oils. Transform your face into a pristine canvas with a matte finish that lasts, ready for foundation to be applied. Or, simply wear alone for a natural look that’s enviably flawless.

3. Illamasqua Hydra Veil Primer

Welcome dewy freshness to your visage with the vegan-friendly Hydra Veil Primer from Illamasqua. Enriching micro-algae work in tandem with Vitamins C and B3 to soothe and re-energize your face. These nourishing ingredients are combined in a clear gel that seals in hydration and restores balance to your skin, expertly prepping it for make-up application.

4. Makeup Revolution Glass Liquid Skin Primer Serum

Get the totally vogue Korean glass skin look with the Glass Liquid Skin Serum from Makeup Revolution. Replenishing and radiance-enhancing, this serum makes skin look as if it’s illuminated within. A silky texture makes it pleasant to apply. Wear it alone to enhance your natural glow or under makeup for a subtle brightness.

5. Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Primer

Ultra-light, translucent, and moisturizing, the Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Primer gets you results in effortless style. This vegan 3-in-1 formula makes your face the perfect base for makeup. A nourishing mix of plant extracts provides moisture to up the glow factor. A jelly-like texture and a tightening mask effect make for seamless application. It’s just the answer to messy and melting makeup, securing makeup in place for as long as 24 hours. Suitable for all skin types, it’s dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic, and non-acnegenic. It’s free from parabens, phthalates, silicones, SLS, and fragrance.

For an even wider selection of top-quality primers to perfect your face, visit SkinStore today.

SkinStore Editors

Writer and expert

Our team of beauty experts cover everything from skincare to makeup, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the SkinStore blog, and find all your essentials in one place.