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Home • Beauty

The Best Face Primers To Keep Your Makeup In Tact

With these top-rated primers, you can kiss makeup meltdowns goodbye.
The Best Face Primers To Keep Your Makeup In Tact
By Jennifer Ford · Updated May 8, 2023
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Achieving a long-lasting makeup look requires more than just good technique. Skin prep is crucial, and that’s where the best face primers come in. These products are specifically designed to address various skin concerns, such as excess oil and uneven texture, while also providing a reliable base for your makeup. So with the right primer in your collection, your makeup can go the distance.

To help you find the perfect primer, we’ve rounded up some of the best options for every skin type and concern. For those struggling with oily skin, try Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer to keep shine at bay. If you have dry skin but still want to achieve a dewy glow, a hydrating formula like our pick from Smashbox can help. Below, find seven must-have primers that will keep your makeup looking flawless all day long.

Best Primer Overall
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer

This clean, silicone-free formula is designed to give you a dewy finish while also providing a strong grip that locks in your makeup for up to 12 hours.

Available at Sephora
38 Shop Now
Best Pore Filling Primer
Caliray So Blown Blurring Collagen Peptide Primer

Caliray’s So Blown Blurring Collagen Peptide Primer has an ultra-blurring effect that diminishes the appearance of pores, fine lines and skin imperfections.

Available at Sephora
36 Shop Now
Best Drugstore Primer
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is a must-have in your makeup bag. This gel-based formula grips makeup like no other while smoothing and hydrating the skin.

Available at Amazon
10 Shop Now
Best Brightening Primer
Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Illuminating

Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer is a water-based primer that makes your skin look “juicy and beautiful,” according to one rave review.

Available at Sephora
47 Shop Now
Best Mattifying Primer
Fenty Beauty Rihanna Pro Filt'r Mattifying Primer

Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer helps control shine throughout the day while also improving and extending the wear of foundation.

Available at Sephora
36 Shop Now
Best Hydrating Primer
Smashbox Mini Photo Finish Primerizer + Hydrating Face Primer with Hyaluronic Acid

To give your skin a smooth, plump and radiant look, reach for this hydrating pick from Smashbox.

Available at Sephora
42 Shop Now
Best Primer For Oily Skin
Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer

This luxurious balm smooths your skin’s texture and keeps your makeup looking fresh for hours on end.

Available at Sephora
54 Shop Now

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