The best face primers: TOP 10 rating with reviews from makeup artists and buyers

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Published: 05/05/2019

Reading time: 10 min

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4.1 / 5 ( 17 votes)

Today we will learn what a facial primer is, how to use it and how to choose a makeup base for dry, oily or combination skin. Girls and women want to master professional cosmetics in order to always look young and attractive.

Year after year, there are more and more such inquisitive females. But before, only real specialists, known all over the world, knew the secrets of cosmetics.

Progress in science and technology has reached such heights that each woman can independently model her facial appearance using decorative cosmetics.

All girls and women want their makeup to last all day. It’s unpleasant when it “slides” or “floats”. First, you need to apply a certain base to the skin.

Its correct name is primer. We need to consider what it is, what it is used for, and how to do it correctly.

Facial primer: what is it and why is it needed?
How to choose a face primer: expert advice How to choose a face primer by color

What is the difference between a face primer and a makeup base?

What is facial primer and how to use it. Step-by-step instructions with photos

How can you replace face primer?

What is the difference between concealer and primer

How to make primer at home

Facial primer rating of the best

The best budget face primers with powder (mineral)

Rating of the best luxury face primers

The best primers for oily skin

Which primer is suitable for dry skin?

What is a face primer?

It doesn't matter whether you like full-coverage foundation or stick to a regular BB cream, a primer is a tool that will come in handy in both cases.

Many are sure: makeup base is an optional stage of makeup, only professional makeup artists use the product, but this is not so. If you are faced with the task of evening out your skin tone and extending the durability of your foundation, this product will definitely come in handy.

Primers can have a gel, cream or powder texture. Often formulas include silicones (such as dimethicone), which provide an additional smoothing effect. You need to be careful with such products if you have acne-prone skin - using a silicone-based primer can lead to irritation.
Today, primers perform many additional functions. They not only even out the skin before applying foundation, but also correct skin tone, protect against ultraviolet radiation, add radiance, moisturize, reduce pores and provide anti-aging care.

© lancomeofficial

We have compiled a rating of face primers. The top 10 products, as well as reviews of products from this category, are in the review below.

What is the difference between a face primer and a makeup base?

Let's talk about the difference between makeup base and primer, which everyone has heard about and which are actively used in the process of creating makeup.

Facial primer is a fairly liquid consistency that is applied to the face immediately before makeup to create a barrier between the skin and foundation.

It is colorless, quickly absorbed into the skin, and leaves no traces on it. While the makeup base is a cream of a thicker consistency, it can have color shades and is used to create a more saturated color for foundation, eye shadow or powder and emphasize facial features.

The base is not able to fully protect the face; it only affects the color of the applied cosmetics.

The differences between primer and base are colossal, but at the same time they perform the same functions - they are used before creating the main makeup. You can watch more about the differences and features of using primer and base for the face in this video:

Alliance Perfect face primer, L'Oréal Paris

This highlighter can be used in three ways at once: firstly, apply it to the face as a base for makeup to create the effect of a slight radiance of the skin “from the inside”; secondly, mix with foundation; thirdly, apply to the prominent parts of the face as a highlighter.

The product has a light gel texture, a formula that is suitable for any skin type, and one universal (for fair skin) shade.

Elena (panther_em***@mail.ru)

I tried Alliance Perfect liquid highlighter from L'Oréal Paris and did not regret it. Very nice, a little pearly tint. I tried it using the strobing technique, it fits perfectly and immediately provides shine. It can be put richly and lightly. I apply it to my cheekbones like a regular dry highlighter. The effect is great!

Anastasia (SN-g***@mail.ru)

I have been using L'Oréal's Lumi Magique Primer Pure Light makeup base for a long time. I bought it on the advice of a friend. The bottle, to be honest, is inconspicuous. But I'm so glad I took it. I have dry dull skin. This base perfectly moisturizes it, preparing it for further makeup. Gives a natural healthy glow and light blur. I usually apply it to tone, but you can mix it. Doesn't even out the skin, but I don't need it. Super base!

Ekaterina (mimishe***@gmail.com)

Lumi Magique makeup base, L'Oréal Paris. This primer has a very light and delicate texture. When you apply it to your face, you notice that this primer refreshes the skin, giving it a natural glow. Also, thanks to this base, the foundation applies smoothly, does not crease and lasts quite a long time. Now using this primer, I can not worry about my makeup all day long. You should definitely buy this foundation!

Regina (garifyanov***@mail.ru)

Lumi Magique Primer Pure Light, L'Oréal Paris is perhaps one of the best makeup products that every woman should have. The cost is low. The bottle is very convenient, which is important for me. The product lasts me a long time, although I always carry it with me. The most important thing is its delicate and pleasant consistency. The base spreads easily over the skin and can be mixed with other cosmetic products without any problems. This product is widespread in retail outlets and online stores, and this makes me very happy.

Makeup base or primers. How to use and make it yourself

The base that is applied under makeup is called a face primer.

For many women in our fast-paced times, it is he who is an indispensable lifesaver. Thanks to it, the surface of the skin is leveled, which makes it possible to apply makeup not only smoothly, but also evenly.

The modern cosmetic market offers a wide range of primers. It is simply impossible to point to any of them and say that this is the best option if you make the right choice due to the many aspects that every woman should know about.

Types of primers

All existing primers are divided into two types according to their composition - silicone and mineral.

In the first case, the face primer is silicone-based. It is intended for application under foundation. In most cases, it is enriched with components that nourish the skin and perfectly moisturize it.

In turn, a mineral-based primer can be used when it is necessary to create a layer under the mineral foundation, if it is planned to be applied as the next step.

However, primers are also differentiated based on other factors. In particular, there are the following:

Corrective - is the best option for masking spots and scars. It perfectly hides problem areas, thanks to its similarity to concealer. In most cases they are pink, light green or yellow.
Gives radiance - indispensable when you need to improve your foundation or achieve a Hollywood look. This is the kind of face primer that can create a soft glow to your face.
Mattifying - useful when there are problems with acne, or a woman has sensitive skin. In most cases, primers are formulated to be non-comedogenic. However, there are times when they provoke inflammation of the skin areas of the face. Actually, for such cases, you will need this type of primer, which will allow oily skin to always remain in a healthy state due to the minimal fat content in it.

Subtleties of choice

To choose the right primer for your face, you need to have knowledge of all the intricacies of this process. You don’t need to know a lot, but focusing on the little things is a must.

All attention to texture

Let's start with the fact that the best primers are not only those that you make yourself, but also those that are great for your skin type. A liquid primer will be the best option when the skin does not have any special defects. In this case, the product will even out your tone, give it a matte appearance and moisturize.

If the facial primer has a creamy texture, then it contains not only powder, but also various pigment particles. In this case, such a remedy will be an excellent option for hiding persistent freckles or other defects from the eyes.

If you have problem or oily skin, then you need a gel face primer. Many people probably know that the pores on the skin are always open, and using this product will prevent them from being clogged with powder and/or foundation.

However, there are often cases when it is possible to use these makeup elements on a solid base. This step is necessary in cases of masking large defects or scars. Now you already know what this step in makeup is for, and you can continue the conversation in a deeper direction.

Based on the different consistencies of these products, it is always possible to choose the option that is needed at a certain point in time, therefore, the arsenal should have a set of all the most commonly used types of primers.

Matte or shiny

The choice depends on your skin type.

For the female half of the population who have perfect skin, it is better to choose a face primer that will give it a shimmering shine.

In turn, a greasy face, with wrinkles and pimples, which already shimmers on its own, will simply require a mattifying agent from the owner, which will give the skin not only matte, but also smooth out the tone.

Choosing a color

In this case we are talking about the color of the product itself. It is impossible to say for sure which one will be better, since the question is what the woman wants from him.

Let's look at how color relates to skin:

purple will add liveliness and naturalness, therefore it is preferred for earthy skin tones;
green perfectly masks rashes and redness;
orange is well able to disguise bruises;
yellow saves women from dark circles.

Many women may think: “What color is chosen, so is the face.” This is a misconception, since the product is applied in a thin layer, and this will not make your face shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow.

Secrets of applying primers

In this case, it’s not easy to take a cosmetic brush and apply a thin layer of face primer while looking in the mirror. There are also secrets of mastery here.

Before application

This cosmetic product is applied to the face, which has previously been moistened with cream. Therefore, a very important point is its selection in accordance with the type of skin.

This cream should not only be non-greasy, but also absorb well and quickly, and be able to maintain the natural moisture of the skin throughout the working day.

In the winter season, the best option is a moisturizing protective cream that prevents your face from hypothermia.

In the summer, creams with an SPF factor or sun protection factor, which allows you to remain exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a long time, have proven themselves well.

Apply primer correctly

In this case, its correct application will be similar to foundation, when the product is distributed in the direction from the center of the face. You need to shade it very, very carefully, ensuring its placement on the skin of the face is as even as possible.

You need to be especially careful when working with problem skin areas, namely enlarged pores and/or wrinkles. Since subcutaneous fat is the worst enemy of any makeup, you need not only to remember to use mattifying wipes throughout the day, but also to apply facial primer, starting from the T-shaped zone, namely the forehead and nose area, which get fat faster than other parts.

Never try to use new layers of powder on problem areas. Under the influence of sebum, it will roll up. Instead, it is better to blot the oil that has come to the surface with a matting napkin, which will allow you to achieve excellent freshness and naturalness of your face.

Making your own primer

There is always the opportunity to create the kind of face primer you need with your own hands at home. Let's look at the “recipes” on how to get this cosmetic product in the form of ordinary powder:

mature skin - silk-based mattifying powder is suitable. It also has an antibacterial effect, giving the skin a specific silky shine;
oily skin - powder based on koalin or clay, rice powder, corn starch with zinc oxide is suitable here. This approach will guarantee an additional anti-inflammatory preventive effect;
acne skin – a different approach is needed here. Such as using green tea powder. It can be used as both a day and night product.

The inclusion of silica microspheres in the powder will create an effect such as light scattering, and will also visually smooth out wrinkles and even out the skin tone.

It is impossible to say which primers are the best - those purchased in the store or those made at home with your own hands. After all, you know what to expect from everyone - the performance of their functions. When choosing a primer for the face, two questions will always concern you: which of the provided ones is better, and how to make the right choice so as not to make a mistake? In this case, you can try several types and choose the one that suits you best.

Hygienic points

It is important to remember that face primer should always be applied only with your personal brush, just like a toothbrush.

An equally important point is to purchase not only a primer suitable for your facial skin type, but also buy a sterilizer for the brush. After all, various types of care products remove only the simplest forms of painful microflora.

There are times when it is very difficult or impossible to carry such a colossus as a sterilizer with you, then it is worth using a set of brushes for such purposes. After all, almost every hour you will have a new brush. Therefore, in this matter, it is important not only which facial primer to choose, but also how to keep your skin healthy.

master prime face primer, Maybelline

Maybelline New York has a new product: a collection of corrective facial primers Master Prime. Each of them prepares the skin for applying makeup and corrects the tone.

White smoothes the skin and minimizes pores, pink gives a healthy glow, green neutralizes redness, yellow corrects dark circles under the eyes and dull complexion, and blue hydrates and instantly refreshes the skin.

©mayelline.com.ru

We tested moisturizing and pore minimizing. The first one has a rather dense texture, which nevertheless is practically not felt on the skin. The colorless product instantly improves complexion, softens and gives the skin a delicate glow. It can be used on its own, as a moisturizer, or paired with foundation.

©mayelline.com.ru

The second has a flesh tint and adapts to the skin tone. It instantly softens and smoothes it out, and also makes pores visually less noticeable. Suitable for those with oily and combination skin as it provides a mattifying effect. The foundation applies evenly and lasts longer than usual.

©mayelline.com.ru

Sonya (sofi.doch***@gmail.com)

I recently purchased Maybelline Baby Skin foundation, but I have had enough time to appreciate all its advantages. Firstly, it has a pleasant smell and a complete absence of color, which makes it possible for even the most fastidious girls to use it. Secondly, a wonderful, almost velvety covering of the skin. Thirdly, this is undoubtedly the best makeup base I have used. The foundation goes on smoothly and without any smudging. The skin seems to glow from within. Fourthly, the base moisturizes and nourishes the skin, like all my favorite Mabylline products with the word Baby in the name. Thus, the foundation not only strengthens makeup, but also helps the facial skin recover. Well, I would like to mention the extreme durability of the product. The foundation helps your makeup stay on all day without creasing or leaving marks on the skin.

Julia (dolgovslava1***@mail.ru)

I really liked the Baby Skin makeup base, Maybelline, it really hides pores, there is no greasy shine, you spend less time on makeup to cover up all the imperfections, the main thing is that it doesn’t slide, it’s just super, I found my product, the consumption is small, it moisturizes, I recommend)) )

Anastasia ()

Baby Skin Maybelline Foundation has been my go-to product in my makeup bag for the last couple of months. I used to have a serious problem with makeup; foundations and shadows of all brands would roll off or simply disappear from my face within a couple of hours. But when I started using Baby Skin foundation, I noticed two fantastic things. Firstly, my shiny, porous skin becomes matte and smooth (after the first use it was a shock =D), and secondly, the tone, shadows and even contouring on this basis last from evening to morning. Really cool stuff.

We recommend reading:

Why do you need a face primer?
What types of primers are there and what are their main differences?
All about makeup primers
How to apply primer correctly?

What is facial primer and how to use it. Step-by-step instructions with photos

The base is applied exclusively to moisturized skin. This must be done so that peeling is not noticeable. In addition, you need to thoroughly remove impurities from the pores. Pay special attention to areas such as: chin, cheeks, forehead, nose.

According to experts, in order to apply primer according to the rules, it is advisable to use sponges or pads (with pores) specially designed for these purposes.

Photo: how to apply facial primer, diagram

Stages of application:

Author:

womanss.ru

Still have questions? Ask them to the author in the comments!

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Using lotion, you need to cleanse the skin. The second option is to use micellar water. After slightly moistening the sponge, apply the product to the skin. You need to “go” from the eyes towards the cheeks. The product is driven in slowly. There is no need to rub it on your face.
The product is shaded. The first zone is the nose area, the second is the chin, the third is the forehead. Areas where there is redness are treated using a green product.
To disguise unsightly circles under the eyes, use tones of yellow and pink.
Wait for the composition to be absorbed. Only after this apply foundation.

There are times when a foundation is used instead of a primer. This can be done by girls (or women) who have dry skin with barely noticeable pores.

Shine killer face primer, NYX Professional Makeup

If you have oily or combination skin with visible pores, take a closer look at this NYX Professional Makeup base. It visually makes pores less noticeable, mattifies, evens out tone and prolongs the durability of makeup without weighing it down.

Apply with a synthetic brush or fingers - as a stand-alone product or before applying foundation. In the latter case, after applying the primer, you need to wait a few minutes for it to set - this way the foundation will fit better and last longer.

The best primers for oily skin

Cosmetics for oily dermis are aimed at eliminating unsightly shine and stabilizing the functioning of sebaceous openings. These primers have a light texture and tighten pores, preventing bacteria from entering them.

PuroBIO for Oily Skin

Rating: 4.9

At the top of the rating is the Italian primer, which is marked with international quality certificates and does not contain synthetic substances, harmful additives or fats. The formula includes natural oils, minerals and waxes. The product is optimal for sensitive and oily skin. It does not cause an allergic reaction.

Judging by the opinions of customers, the primer removes excess oil, it evens out well and hides imperfections. Thanks to PuroBIO for Oily Skin, the durability of your makeup is noticeably extended. It costs about 1020 rubles.

Advantages

high quality;
without harmful compounds;
the price corresponds to the quality;
eliminates oily shine;
perfectly evens out tone;

Flaws

The Saem Saemmul Face Lightener SPF 30 PA

Rating: 4.8

The primer has an incredibly light texture and even coverage. It carefully cares for the skin and nourishes it with beneficial elements. The composition includes birch sap, proteins, rice extract, Damask rose extract. These substances whiten the skin, eliminate inflammation, fight redness and accelerate the production of natural collagen.

The base provides protection from UV, cold and wind. The foundation and powder fit perfectly onto the base and last much longer than usual. There are three shades in total in the line. A tube of 30 ml costs 450-510 rubles.

Advantages

light pleasant texture;
careful care;
useful substances in the composition;
elimination of inflammation;
Sun protection.

Flaws

There are no serious disadvantages.

Holika Holika Puri Pore No Sebum

Rating: 4.7

The next line in the rating belongs to the South Korean primer, which allows you to achieve the ideal appearance of your skin. The Dewy Blur collection is the best option for women with oily skin. The primer contains extracts of lavender and green tea.

The product protects the skin from harmful effects and prevents the formation of inflammation. The Deep Pore series narrows wide pores, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, making the surface of the face softer. The base is used quite economically. It costs 890 rubles.

Advantages

plant extracts included;
prevention of inflammation;
normalization of the sebaceous glands;
economical consumption.

Flaws

does not hold makeup well;
will not hide strong defects.

Touche Eclat Blur Prime

Rating: 4.6

The product is based on corn, apricot, and bran oils. It tightens pores, gives softness and tenderness. Reflective particles give the face a magical glow. The primer is praised by famous beauty bloggers and recommend it for purchase.

Buyers like the delicate melting texture, convenient dispenser, economical use, harmless composition and beautiful tone that matches the color of the skin. The product hides peeling well and prolongs the durability of the foundation. A 30 ml bottle costs over 4,000 rubles.

Advantages

soft and gentle face as a result;
beautiful skin glow;
a lot of positive reviews;
Ease of use;
slow consumption;
hides peeling.

Flaws

high price.

Makeup Revolution Ultra Face Base

Rating: 4.5

Next in the ranking is a British product, which comes in a stylish and beautiful bottle with a convenient dispenser. Although its composition is not mega-harmful, it cannot be called useful either. There are no dyes or perfumes in it. The base provides an ideal base for makeup, smoothes out the microrelief, and makes the tone perfect.

Customers praise the non-sticky texture and effective results. The primer copes with its task 100 percent. The foundation applies well and is less noticeable on the face. Oily shine appears later than usual, pores become narrower. The primer comes off quite easily. A 25 ml bottle costs about 600 rubles. It lasts for a long time, because a pea of the product is enough for one application.

Advantages

convenient bottle;
smoothes the relief;
visible effect;
narrowing of pores;
slow consumption.

Flaws

questionable composition (preservatives and parabens).

Primer born to glow, NYX Professional Makeup

If your goal is not to mattify your skin, but rather to give it a delicate glow and moisturize, use Born To Glow base. It has a light texture, is instantly absorbed without leaving a sticky film on the skin, and evens out the tone.

The base can be used as a standalone product, mixed with foundation to highlight the skin, or applied as a highlighter to the prominent parts of the face for a subtle glow effect.

Primer textures

Manufacturers offer women products of different textures. You should choose based on your skin type and its condition.

The types of textures are as follows:

silicone is a colorless base that creates a smooth surface for future makeup. It has a light gel texture, suitable for oily, aging skin;
cream – considered universal. Moisturizes the skin well, after which foundation is easily applied;
liquid (facial lotion) – a weightless water-based product. Helps to moisturize the skin well and even out its tone. The oil-free product is suitable for women with oily, combination skin;
oil – helps make the skin elastic, fills it with inner radiance, fills fine wrinkles well. This product has the qualities of decorative skin care cosmetics, which is very convenient.

primer honey dew me up, NYX Professional Makeup

Are you looking for a primer that not only performs decorative functions, but also cares for your skin? Check out Honey Dew Me Up. The formula includes honey, fine gold particles and collagen, which is responsible for strengthening and smoothing the skin.

Apply the product to cleansed skin - it will instantly neutralize redness (if any), moisturize and even out the tone. Wait a few minutes before applying foundation as the primer needs time to absorb.

Maria (maria_dobroskok***@mail.ru)

NYX Professional Makeup's Studio Perfect Primer is perfect for those with oily skin. The primer has a pleasant gel structure, is easy to apply and mattifies perfectly without a mask effect. Oily shine does not appear throughout the day, and the foundation applied to this base does not crease and does not leave stains. The product is available in three colors: clear, green (neutralizes redness) and violet (neutralizes unhealthy yellow or green skin tones). Contouring and strobing products also work well with this foundation.

What can I use instead of primer?

If you don’t have the product at hand, makeup artists advise replacing it with regular BB or CC cream. In fact, these products are offered as multifunctional. Only if you plan to apply foundation on top, then use just a little base. But there are much bolder proposals from Internet users:

Roll-on deodorant. It is used to prevent oily shine by girls who face this problem every day. It’s harsh, but you can try it as a one-time measure when you desperately need long-lasting makeup in hot weather.

After shave balm. Rummage through your boyfriend's shelf for cosmetics? Why not, just choose a balm that contains silicone or glycerin, which can fill in uneven skin.

Daily cream. It's time to read the label on your favorite jar. It is quite possible that the manufacturer made a note “suitable as a makeup base” specifically for such cases. It won’t cover up wrinkles and pimples, but the foundation will definitely go on smoother.

Cream for irritations and abrasions. Their main purpose is to absorb excess moisture at the site of application or create a silicone film that protects the skin from chafing. It’s great if you come across a mineral or silicone-based product – feel free to use it for beauty purposes.

photo from the site www.irfanridho31.tk

Now you not only know what a primer is, but also how to choose and use it correctly. There is one last piece of advice left - never use an unfamiliar product before an important event; all the stories from advertisers and reviews on the Internet may not be entirely true. Do your makeup in the same sequence the day before and see how it behaves on your face to protect yourself from unpleasant surprises.

Facial primer le base pro, Lancôme

This Lancôme base smoothes the skin, preparing it for applying makeup, and cares for it - softens, moisturizes, tightens pores. A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face.

After using the base, the foundation will be distributed more evenly, and the makeup will last throughout the day. Suitable for any skin type.

Primer fluid master primer, Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani base will help prepare the skin for applying foundation and make makeup more durable. It fills the skin's unevenness - pores, fine wrinkles and others, and also mattifies, maintaining a natural glow. The transparent base is completely invisible on the skin.

Primer maestro UV SPF 40, Giorgio Armani

The Maestro UV primer line includes three shades: beige, pink and lilac. Each is needed to correct the complexion (pink will help refresh an “earthy” complexion, and purple will cope with unhealthy yellowness and hyperpigmentation).

If there are no visible imperfections, it is better to use a beige primer - it will even out the skin tone, provide 12-hour hydration and protect it from UVA and UVB rays. Extends the durability of the foundation up to eight hours and copes with it “excellently”.