You wouldn't expect a perfectly polished manicure without a proper base coat, so the same goes for your complexion. If you want to achieve your best possible glow up, then you need a good primer to smooth, even and protect your base to allow for a flawless foundation application. Packed full of vitamins and antioxidants, a good primer will naturally help to perfect your skin, helping blur imperfections even before you've applied your makeup and help target any key skin concerns such as excess oil or dryness. Whether you're looking to hydrate, illuminate or mattify, we have put together a list of our top picks to make sure that you're in your prime this summer.
Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Foundation Primer
This best-selling and award-winning Primer is a powerful formula that will give you effortlessly picture-perfect skin. The oil-free gel smooths into the skin to blur pores, fine line and imperfections to even out the complexion and help foundation glide on when applied. The Primer not only enhances the look of any makeup applied on top of it, but also works to protect the skin from pollutants and environmental aggressors, containing antioxidants and Vitamins A and E. Even better, the formula is 100% Vegan and cruelty free, a great addition to your sustainable beauty routine!
Revlon Exclusive PhotoReady PRIME PLUS Mattifying and Pore Reducing Primer
Eliminate unwanted shine with the Revlon PhotoReady PRIME PLUS Mattifying and Pore Reducing Primer. The complexion balancing primer is ideal for oily skin types as it contains Salicylic Acid that works to remove any excess dirt and oil to leave the complexion looking smooth and matte. The primer also contains nourishing, anti-oxidant rich ingredients that help to even out the skin's tone and texture and extend the longevity of your makeup. The Primer feels lightweight on the skin and blends in effortlessly without leaving behind a sticky feeling or drying out the skin.
Illamasqua Hydra Veil Primer
This ultra soothing primer by Illamasqua will leave your skin feeling pampered and prepped. The plant extracts and Vitamin rich formula hydrates the skin for a plumper and healthier looking face that will feel refreshed and rebalanced. The luxurious Primer comes with it's own application spoon so that you can apply the perfect sized portion that will easily spread across your face, absorbing in for a glowing finish.
Urban Decay All Nighter Face Primer
If you're a fan of the famous All Nighter Setting Spray (who isn't?) then you will absolutely love the new addition to the best-selling range, the Urban Decay All Nigher Face Primer. The lightweight formula helps to prolong the wear of your makeup, keeping it flawless and even for longer, as well as delivering a boost of hydration to the skin. Expect less visible pores and imperfections and airbrushed looking makeup for up to eight hours.
NARS Cosmetics Smooth & Protect Primer SPF 50
If you're looking for a Primer that is specifically designed for the summer time, this is it. Formulated with factor 50 SPF, this lightweight and oil-free Primer will not only protect from harmful UV rays to keep the skin looking young and healthy, but also won't clog the pores in hot weather without any greasy residue. The antioxidants help protect against environmental aggressors too to keep you skin safe, whilst brightening and correcting any dark spots or imperfections. Makeup will last longer and look enhanced.
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base
A cult favourite, this Primer by Bobbi Brown is a veil of nourishing moisture that can be worn alone or underneath makeup. The creamy formula brightens the complexion as well as softening, paving the way for both silky smooth skin and foundation application. The natural blend of Grapefruit and Geranium also give the Primer a sweet, summery smell.
NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Hydrating Jelly Primer
This water-based, jelly primer is ideal for the summer time, offering a lightweight but full coverage of the face. The Primer feels refreshing on the skin and sinks in to hydrate and perfect your base. The jelly texture makes it easy to massage around the facial contours, to ensure that you have a smooth, even coverage all over.
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Enjoy this? Try our best primer for oily skin, best silicone free primer or best primer for dry skin guides.
