Even with a solid skincare routine, foundation can crease, fade, or fail to blend seamlessly, which is a common struggle many people face (yes, even on those “perfect skin” days). One step that is often overlooked but can make a noticeable difference is primer. Acting as a base for makeup, primers smooth skin texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and help foundation and other products apply evenly while lasting longer. They aren’t limited to full glam looks either, as the right formula can enhance everyday makeup with subtle, natural effects.
Primers are formulated to address different skin concerns. Hydrating primers deliver moisture for dry skin, while mattifying options help control shine for oily complexions. For sensitive or redness-prone skin, calming formulas create a smooth, even canvas without irritation. Selecting the right primer for individual needs ensures makeup performs its best and can transform how skin looks throughout the day.
To make the choice easier, this guide breaks down the must-have primers by category, highlighting standout products that will prep, perfect, and elevate any routine. Consider it a practical cheat sheet for creating a polished makeup base while shopping smart for formulas suited to your skin’s needs.
Primers for Oily Skin
Oily skin? Lightweight primers are ideal for long workdays, errands, or any time a matte finish is needed. Many mattifying formulas contain ingredients like clay or salicylic acid to absorb excess oil and help prevent breakouts. Choosing the right primer ensures makeup stays fresh and smooth from morning to night.
1. GRWM Cosmetics Ultra Grip Primer
Photo: Shopee
Designed to prep skin for long-lasting wear, the GRWM Makeup Prep Primer helps hydrate, smooth, and secure makeup for a fresh, polished finish. It comes in three variants to suit different needs, with the Ultra Grip Primer standing out for its strong hold that helps makeup adhere better and last longer. Ideal for days when you need your base to stay in place, this primer creates a reliable foundation for both everyday and full-glam looks. BUY IT HERE!
2. Happy Skin Oil Absorbing Matte Primer
Photo: Shopee
Made for humid days and oily skin, the Happy Skin Oil Absorbing Matte Primer is a lightweight gel formula that helps control excess shine while creating a smooth, matte base for makeup. Powered by alkaline pH technology, it absorbs oil effectively, while Mineral Silicate and Caffeine help refine skin texture and minimize the look of pores. The formula is designed to extend makeup wear for up to 12 hours, all while staying comfortable on the skin. With Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane in the mix, it delivers hydration and moisture without compromising its mattifying effect. BUY IT HERE!
3. Maybelline Primer Matte+Poreless
Photo: Shopee
Designed with oily and combination skin in mind, the Maybelline Matte+Poreless Primer helps control shine while blurring the look of pores for a smooth, soft-focus finish. Its lightweight formula absorbs excess oil without drying the skin, allowing makeup to look fresh and matte for hours. With SPF 20 built in, it also adds everyday sun protection, making it a practical first step for long days when a polished base matters. BUY IT HERE!
Primers for Dry Skin
Dry skin benefits from primers that provide hydration, smooth texture, and help foundation blend seamlessly. These moisturizing formulas leave skin soft, plump, and naturally radiant, giving makeup a polished base. Look for primers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to lock in moisture throughout the day.
1. blk cosmetics cooling primer stick
Photo: Shopee
This cooling primer stick from blk is perfect for dry to normal skin, delivering instant hydration while prepping a smooth base for long-lasting makeup. Infused with aloe water, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, it nourishes and moisturizes, leaving skin soft, plump, and refreshed. Lightweight and mess-free, it’s your go-to for a refreshed, radiant complexion during warm, busy days. BUY IT HERE!
2. ELF Cosmetics Power Grip Makeup Primer
Photo: Shopee
The e.l.f. Power Grip Primer features a hydrating gel formula that helps makeup adhere better while leaving skin moisturized and plump. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it creates a smooth, soft-focus base that enhances foundation wear and longevity. Ideal for those who want hydration without sacrificing staying power, this primer delivers a fresh, flawless finish that lasts. BUY IT HERE!
3. Téviant The Ultimate Skin Master Luminous Radiant Primer
Photo: Shopee
The Teviant Skin Master Luminous Radiant Primer is designed to give skin a hydrated, glowing base that enhances makeup wear. This glow-boosting formula smooths texture while infusing the complexion with radiance, creating a healthy, luminous finish. Lightweight and versatile, it works as both a skincare step and a makeup primer, helping foundation glide on effortlessly. Perfect for anyone looking to brighten their routine, this primer adds instant glow while prepping skin for a flawless look. BUY IT HERE!
Primers for Combination/Normal Skin
Combination or normal skin requires a primer that balances hydration and shine control. These versatile formulas create a smooth, even canvas without overdoing matte or glow. Ingredients that regulate oil in the T-zone while keeping cheeks soft help maintain a natural, flawless finish.
1. BAD SKIN Pore Blur Primer Mousse Tone-Up Filter
Photo: Shopee
This lightweight mousse primer delivers a smooth, even base that’s ideal for normal to combination skin. Its airy texture blends seamlessly, instantly blurring pores and fine lines for a silky, flawless finish. Formulated with oil-absorbing ingredients like Anti-Sebum P, it helps control shine in the T-zone without drying out the rest of the face, making it perfect for balanced, all-day wear. Enriched with Berry Complex, Fish Collagen, and Triple Hyaluronic Acid, it also hydrates and nourishes, ensuring skin feels comfortable while foundation glides on effortlessly. BUY IT HERE!
2. Colourette Sun Base Everyday Sunscreen Primer SPF 45
Photo: Shopee
Meet Sun Base, the invisible SPF primer that smooths skin and preps it for flawless makeup with a soft demi-matte finish. Infused with squalane and hyaluronic acid, it hydrates without feeling greasy, making it ideal for normal to combination skin. This long-wearing formula keeps makeup fresh while providing broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection against UV rays and environmental stressors. Lightweight, non-comedogenic, and vegan, it’s a no-fuss primer that multitasks as skincare and sun protection in one. BUY IT HERE!
Primers for Sensitive or Redness-Prone Skin
Sensitive or redness-prone skin works best with primers that soothe irritation while smoothing texture. Look for calming, fragrance-free formulas that reduce redness and prepare skin for makeup without causing breakouts or flare-ups. Ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can help keep skin calm and comfortable all day long.
1. DAZZLE ME Supore-Fine Pore Blurring Primer
Photo: Shopee
The DAZZLE ME Supore-Fine Skin Makeup Primer delivers an instant pore-blurring effect while helping control excess oil for a smooth, matte base. Its lightweight, oil-free formula blends easily into the skin and works well for acne-prone complexions, making it suitable for everyday wear. Infused with chamomile and centella extracts, it helps calm and hydrate the skin while extending the wear of your makeup for a fresh, shine-free finish. BUY IT HERE!
2. Delmare 3 in 1 Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer + Primer SPF 50 PA+++
Photo: Shopee
Dewy Defense All Day is a lightweight, 3-in-1 primer, moisturizer, and sunscreen designed for sensitive or easily irritated skin. Its gentle mineral and chemical filters provide broad-spectrum SPF 50 PA+++ protection without causing redness or irritation, while hyaluronic acid delivers deep hydration and supports the skin barrier. Tomato fruit extract helps soothe and calm skin, creating a smooth, comfortable base for makeup. BUY IT HERE!
How to Choose and Apply Your Primer
Choosing the right primer starts with your skin type and the finish you want, whether matte, glowing, or natural. For long-wear events, opt for a slightly richer formula to help makeup last. For everyday use, a lightweight primer provides a smooth base without feeling heavy on the skin.
Application tips:
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Start with clean, moisturized skin.
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Apply a pea-sized amount to areas that need smoothing or shine control.
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Let it settle for 1–2 minutes before foundation.
No matter your skin type, the right primer can completely transform your makeup look. From controlling shine to adding hydration or soothing sensitive areas, there’s a formula for everyone.
READ MORE: This New Beauty Brand Is Set to Become Your Next Makeup Must-Have
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