7 Face Primers That Can Make Your Makeup Look Instantly Better

Explore 7 face primers for oily and dry skin, learn how to use face primer and compare matte, hydrating and pore-blurring formulas.

Want your makeup to look smoother and last longer this wedding season? A face primer can help create an even-looking base before you apply foundation, concealer or skin tint. Depending on the formula, it can help blur the appearance of pores, control excess oil or add hydration to dry skin.
Hero Image


Whether you're searching for the best face primer for everyday makeup or a formula suited to your skin type, choosing the right one can make a difference to your makeup routine. From pore-blurring gels to dewy primers and multitasking skin tints, here are seven options worth exploring.

Quick Comparison: 7 Best Face Primers

ProductBest ForKey Feature
LoveChild Masaba Skip Everything 4-in-1 Skin TintMinimal makeup routinesPrimer, moisturiser, sunscreen and foundation in one
Lotus Make-Up Ecostay Insta Smooth Perfecting Face PrimerOily skin and visible poresOil-free, mattifying gel
INSIGHT 3-in-1 PrimerEveryday makeupMatte finish and pore-blurring formula
FLiCKA Silk Touch 3-in-1 Moisturizer and PrimerDry skin and hydrationLightweight, hydrating formula
SUGAR Cosmetics Base Of Glory Pore Minimizing PrimerVisible pores and excess shinePore-minimising and oil-control formula
Lakme Unreal Blurfect Primer MiniOily skin and travelLightweight, mattifying finish
Maybelline New York Fit Me Primer Dewy + SmoothDry skin and a dewy finishSmooth, radiant-looking makeup base

1. LoveChild Masaba

Newspoint

If you prefer a quick makeup routine, the LoveChild Masaba Skip Everything 4-in-1 Skin Tint combines several steps in one product. It is described as a skin tint, primer, moisturiser, SPF 20 sunscreen and foundation, with a blurring serum texture and natural finish. The Delicate Darling (Sand) shade may suit some complexions, depending on their undertones.

It's worth considering for everyday makeup when you want a lightweight, natural-looking base rather than a heavy foundation finish. However, SPF 20 skin tint should not replace a dedicated broad-spectrum sunscreen applied in an adequate amount.

Shop Now



2. Lotus Ecostay

Newspoint

Want a smoother-looking base without adding a heavy layer to your skin? The Lotus Make-Up Ecostay Insta Smooth Perfecting Face Primer features an oil-free, non-sticky mattifying gel formula with vitamin E. It is designed to blur the appearance of pores and fine lines while helping makeup sit smoothly on the skin.

This primer is worth considering if you prefer a matte finish or notice excess shine during the day. Apply a small amount before foundation and allow it to settle for a smoother makeup application.

Shop Now



3. INSIGHT

Newspoint

For a straightforward makeup base, the INSIGHT 3-in-1 Primer combines priming, moisturising and protective positioning in an oil-free formula. Its matte finish and pore-blurring properties make it an option to explore if you want your makeup to look more even without adding extra shine.

The formula is listed for all skin types, making it a versatile option to consider for everyday use. Apply a thin layer before foundation, particularly around areas where makeup tends to settle unevenly.

Shop Now



4. FLiCKA Silk Touch

Newspoint

If your skin often feels dry before makeup application, the FLiCKA Silk Touch 3-in-1 Moisturizer and Primer may be worth a look. Its lightweight formula is designed to hydrate the skin, help minimise the appearance of pores and create a smooth makeup base. The product is also described as dermatologically tested and cruelty-free.

This primer may suit people who prefer a more comfortable, hydrated feel rather than a strongly mattifying finish. Use it before foundation or skin tint to help your makeup glide on more evenly.

Shop Now



5. SUGAR Cosmetics

Newspoint

Visible pores and excess shine can make some foundations look uneven as the day goes on. The SUGAR Cosmetics Base Of Glory Pore Minimizing Primer is designed to blur the appearance of pores, provide a smoother base and help control oil.

Consider this option if you prefer a more polished makeup finish, particularly around the nose, forehead and other areas where pores or shine are more noticeable. Start with a small amount and focus on the areas where you need it most.

Shop Now



6. Lakme

Newspoint

Looking for a primer you can carry in your makeup bag? The Lakme Unreal Blurfect Primer Mini is designed to blur the appearance of pores, mattify the skin and absorb excess oil. Its lightweight, non-sticky formula makes it an option to consider for touch-ups, travel or occasions when you want your makeup base to look smooth.

It may be particularly appealing if your skin tends to get shiny during the day. The mini size also lets you try the formula before committing to a larger product.

Shop Now



7. Maybelline New York

Newspoint

Prefer fresh-looking makeup over a completely matte finish? Maybelline New York Fit Me Primer Dewy + Smooth is designed to create a smooth, dewy-looking base and help makeup last longer. Its gel-primer format makes it worth considering if you want your foundation to look less flat and more radiant.

This option may appeal to people with dry skin who prefer a softer, luminous finish. Apply it evenly before foundation, and adjust the amount according to how your skin feels and how your makeup wears throughout the day.

Shop Now



How to Choose the Best Face Primer for Your Skin Type

The best face primer is not necessarily the most expensive one. It is the formula that works well with your skin type, foundation and preferred makeup finish.


Face Primer for Oily Skin

If your skin gets shiny quickly, look for an oil-free or mattifying primer. Products such as Lotus Ecostay, INSIGHT 3-in-1 and SUGAR Base Of Glory may be worth exploring for their matte or oil-control positioning. Apply a thin layer, focusing on areas where makeup tends to separate or become shiny.

Face Primer for Dry Skin

For dry skin, a hydrating primer can help create a more comfortable base. FLiCKA Silk Touch and Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth are options to consider if you prefer a hydrated or dewy finish. Moisturiser underneath may still be necessary, depending on your skin's needs.

Face Primer for Visible Pores

A pore-blurring primer can soften the appearance of pores and create a smoother-looking surface for foundation. Use a small amount over areas where pores are more visible instead of applying a thick layer across your entire face.

Face Primer for Everyday Makeup

If you prefer minimal makeup, a multitasking product such as the LoveChild Masaba skin tint may simplify your routine. If you regularly wear foundation, a dedicated primer chosen for your skin type may be a better fit.

How to Use Face Primer Correctly

Knowing how to use face primer can help you get a smoother makeup finish without making your base feel heavy.

  1. Cleanse your face: Start with clean skin and apply your usual skincare products.
  2. Moisturise if needed: Let your moisturiser absorb before applying primer.
  3. Apply sunscreen: Use a dedicated broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, even if your makeup product contains SPF.
  4. Use a small amount of primer: Spread a thin, even layer across your face or focus on areas that need extra smoothing.
  5. Let it settle: Give the primer a short time to sit before applying foundation or concealer.
  6. Apply makeup gently: Blend your foundation rather than rubbing aggressively over the primer.

Final Thoughts

The right face primer can help you create a makeup base that looks smoother and feels more comfortable. If you prefer a matte finish, compare oil-free options such as Lotus Ecostay and SUGAR Base Of Glory. For a more hydrated look, explore FLiCKA Silk Touch or Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth. If you want fewer steps, LoveChild Masaba's multitasking skin tint may be worth considering.

Before choosing, think about whether your main concern is excess oil, dryness, visible pores or a dewy finish. That will help you narrow down the options and choose a primer you are more likely to use regularly.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended to help readers make informed purchasing decisions and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any product or brand by Times Internet. Some links may be affiliate links, through which Time Internet may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase, at no extra cost to you.