The Best Makeup Primers
Our top-rated primers suit every skin type and style—from glowy looks to long-lasting wear to a matte finish.
Best primers for long-lasting makeup
Shop allExtend your makeup’s staying power with primers that lock everything in place.
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Best mattifying primers
Shop allControl shine to create an airbrushed matte finish—ideal for oily skin.
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Best hydrating makeup primers
Shop allThese lightweight formulas create balance—perfect for no-makeup makeup looks.
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Best illuminating primers
Shop allA great choice for dry and mature skin, these create a dewy, healthy-looking glow.
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Best eyeshadow primers
Shop allIntensify your eyeshadow and prevent creasing.
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Best Makeup Primer for Every Skin Type
The best makeup primer varies depending on your skin type—whether you're looking for hydration, oil control, or a natural finish. Choose a formula that complements your skin’s unique needs for a flawless base.
What is the best makeup primer for aging & mature skin?
For aging and mature skin, opt for a hydrating and illuminating primer to plump fine lines, reduce wrinkles, and restore a youthful glow.
What is the best makeup primer for dry skin?
For dry skin, a hydrating and glowy primer is essential. Look for a primer that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin or other hydrating ingredients to help lock in moisture and give a luminous finish.
What is the best makeup primer for oily skin?
For oily skin, a mattifying primer is the best choice. This type of primer will help to absorb excess oil and keep your skin looking matte all day long.
What is the best makeup primer for sensitive skin?
For sensitive skin, a gentle, fragrance-free primer with minimal ingredients is ideal to help avoid irritation.
What is the best makeup primer for combination skin?
Combination skin benefits from a natural finish primer, which balances oily and dry areas without being too heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is makeup primer?
Makeup primer is a base product applied before foundation to create a smooth surface and extend makeup wear.
What does makeup primer do?
Makeup primer creates a smooth canvas for flawless makeup application. It minimizes the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles while controlling oil and shine. It creates a smooth base that enhances makeup application and extends wear for a flawless look.
How to apply makeup primer?
To apply makeup primer, start with a clean, moisturized face. Dispense a small amount of primer onto your fingertips or a makeup sponge. Gently pat the primer onto your skin, starting from the center of your face and working outward. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying foundation.
What brand is best for makeup primer?
Many brands offer excellent makeup primers. Here are a few popular brands known for their high-quality primers:
- Benefit Cosmetics: Renowned for their pore-minimizing and mattifying primers.
- Urban Decay: Known for their eyeshadow primers.
- Smashbox Cosmetics: Known for their photo-finish primers that create a smooth, flawless canvas.
- NYX Professional Makeup: Offers a range of affordable primers, including pore-filling, mattifying, and illuminating options.
Ultimately, the best primer for you will depend on your specific skin type and needs.
How to use eyeshadow primer?
To use eyeshadow primer, apply a thin layer to your eyelids using your fingertips or a small brush. Blend the primer evenly over your eyelids and allow it to dry completely before applying eyeshadow. Eyeshadow primer will help to prevent creasing and fading, and will also help your eyeshadow to look more vibrant and long-lasting.
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