Applying foundation to a fresh face just doesn’t have the same effect as when it’s applied to a face that’s been properly primed. But with so many primers on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is worth incorporating into your routine.
That’s where this list comes in – a list of the best primers on the market – ranging from splurge-worthy (if you’re down to drop some coin), to an alternative primer that might shock you (and your wallet), as well as a primer that tackles the hardest task of them all: smoothing combination skin.
SPLURGE-WORTHY
L’Or Radiance Concentration with Pure Gold by Guerlain – $74.00
If you’re looking to treat yourself while also plumping your skin with extra hydration, then you need to run to your local Nordstrom’s and grab yourself a bottle of Guerlain’s L’Or Radiance Concentration with Pure Gold. Why? Because you are a glowing goddess and by God, you deserve to have gold flecks all over that pretty face of yours! That’s right, not only is this product ultra-hydrating with a gel-like texture, but it also has 24-Karat gold flakes sprinkled throughout it.
How does it work? According to Guerlain, the 24-karat gold flakes are “crafted into ultra-sparkling and ultra-reflective particles” which are then “dispersed in a hydrating smoothing gel.” The result is an incredibly smooth surface as well as an unmistakable glow. And while this product isn’t cheap – a little does go a long way which means you’ll be glowing for months on end.
AFFORDABLE
Nivea Men’s Post Shave Balm – $5.00
Gather ‘round for story time, kids. Once upon a time, a well-known YouTuber by the name of Nikkie Tutorials found herself in a sparkling social media castle without moisturizer OR primer (a terrifying predicament indeed). She could have thrown her hands up in vain and reconciled to live her life as a jester but instead, she decided to get creative and grab the closest thing nearby: her boyfriend’s post-shave balm. And guess what? A BEAUTIFUL thing happened: it turned out to be perfect for sensitive skin and it left her foundation on for hours and hours. And not only did this stuff work great but it was also incredibly affordable – coming in at just $5.00. Ultimately, Nikkie and her skin lived happily ever after and with a price point like that? You can too.
COMBINATION SKIN
Argan Wear by Physicians Formula – $14.99
If you have combination skin, you may have more difficulty when it comes to finding a primer that fits all of your needs. Instead of going for a traditional primer, try opting for Argan oil instead. Traditional primers can accentuate the difference in skin textures (shining in certain spots while pilling and patching in others). Opting to use an Argan Oil instead can do the opposite – it can help to evenly hydrate skin, resulting in a smoother, more even surface.
PRIMING + PROTECTING
Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer by Dermalogica contains “velvety silicones” which combines with Soy Protein resulting in an incredibly smooth finish. Bonus: it also comes with the added benefit of SPF30. And while it is a pricier option, it’s perfect if you’re looking for something that primes as well as it protects. P.S. This is a great option for women who are in the process of laser hair removal, as this formula will hydrate sensitive skin while also protecting it between sessions.
LONG-LASTING
All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray by Urban Decay – $32.00
If you’re looking for something that will truly keep your makeup in place for hours on end – you may need to ditch the liquid primer and opt for a spray like All Nighter by Urban Decay. The benefit of using a setting spray rather than a liquid primer is that you can continue to use it once your makeup has already been applied. So, if you plan to be sweating or wearing your makeup for more than 10+ hours – a spray may be your best option.
By Sara Estelle Grayum
