Consider this your makeup pre-game!
I can be super lazy when it comes to my beauty regimen. Seriously, if I’m extra tired (ok, fine, kind of buzzed), all I do at night is wipe off my makeup and apply on some moisturizer. So it makes sense that I was really resistant to makeup primers for so long—like, I couldn’t decide if they were worth the extra time in my routine, or if they were just an unnecessary step. But after finally using one for the first time, I can assure you that they are definitely worth it.
Hear me out: Primers fills in the open pores and help turn your face into a silky-smooth canvas, keeping your makeup based intact all day long, regardless of the temp. The best part? They don’t have to be super pricey—some of the best drugstore primers hydrate, mattify, brighten and smooth out the look of your pores just as well like the luxury ones. Ahead, the best 8 drugstore primers to help you level up your routine.
Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser
Lightweight and oil-free, this primer dries down to a smooth and clear finish that meshes with your makeup (and skin) seamlessly.
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Face Primer
BEST PORE-BLURRING DRUGSTORE PRIMER: You can’t reduce your pore size as it’s primarily due to genetics but thanks to this formula, you can now legit make it disappear.
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Prep + Correct Primer for Redness
The best primer to deal with splotchy redness. It has a green tint to it, which when applied to the skin helps in covering spots and blemishes.
E.L.F. Blemish Control Primer
With salicylic acid to stop breakouts before they even arrive and vitamin E and tea tree to soothe and hydrate your skin, this primer will help fight zits and set your makeup.
Nyx Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Matte Primer
If you have oily skin, you know the struggle of blotting sesh. But the mattifying effect of this primer might let you toss those blotting sheets for good since a mix of clay and minerals help absorb any excess oil you produce throughout the day.
Revlon PhotoReady Prep Set, Refresh Mist
An all-in-one primer, midday refresher, and setting spray. Mist it over your face before foundation to give the pigments something to cling to, then use it to lock in your base.
L.A. Girl Pro Prep HD Color Correcting Face Primer
This yellow-tinted formula works to brighten dark, dull spots and colour corrects the blemishes on your face making it look flawless.
CoverGirl Vitalist Go Glow Glotion
The best thing about this formula? Other than plumping and moisturizing your ski, this light-reflecting pigments will leave your skin dewy as hell.
