12 Primers for Every Skin Type – And Budget

The secret to a flawless face and perfect makeup application? Primer. Not only does it create a smooth base and extend the life of your makeup, it can also help mask major skin concerns – from oiliness to fine lines, pimples and dryness. Discover the best primers for your skin type and get ready to look and feel better than ever with this powerful, perfecting product.

OILY SKIN

Budget: L’Oréal Infallible Pore Refining Primer

This pore-refining primer contains oil-absorbing fillers to leave skin grease-free and super smooth. You can also dab it on over your makeup to remove excess oils throughout the day.

Blowout: NARS Pro-Prime Oil-Free Pore Refining Primer

This clever oil-free formula mattifies skin by reducing shine, while mineral powders control the T-zone to ensure skin stays oil-free and fabulous.

DRY SKIN

Budget: Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water

Bursting with revitalising electrolytes to give skin a moisturising boost, this refreshing primer spray hydrates and softens skin all day long. It also comes in a handbag (and budget) friendly smaller size.

Blowout: Marc Jacobs Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer

Infused with not one, not two, but five types of coconut, this nutrient-rich primer hydrates skin and forms a natural, vitamin-rich barrier to protect and perfect.

AGING SKIN

Budget: Natio Ageless Illuminating Primer

Organic rosehip oil and aloe vera mean this primer gives skin a youthful glow and helps turn back time by repairing and nourishing damaged tissue.

Blowout: Dr. Barbara Sturm Monika Blunder Anti-Aging Primer

Created by skin guru Dr Barbara Sturm, this primer packs a serious anti-aging punch thanks to antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and purslane.

DULL SKIN

Budget: NYX Born To Glow Illuminating Primer

Give skin a brightening boost with this illuminating primer. It evens skin tone while providing a sheer, luminous glow to revive dull and dreary complexions.

Blowout: Becca First Light Priming Filter Instant Complexion Refresh

Infused with mineral-rich spring water, ginger extract, prickly pear flower and sodium hyaluronate – lacklustre and dull skin is revived in a flash.

SENSITIVE SKIN

Budget: Physicians Formula Spotlight Illuminating Primer

Free from skin-stressing fragrances and parabens, this hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested primer is enriched with antioxidants to soothe and reduce redness.

Blowout: Cover FX Calming Primer

Specifically formulated for sensitive skins, this primer calms redness and soothes skin whilst hydrating and firming.

BLEMISH-PRONE SKIN

Budget: E.l.f. Blemish Control Primer Clear

Stop spots in their tracks with this blemish buster, which harnesses the power of vitamin E and tea treat extract to prevent breakouts and treat pimples.

Blowout: Jouer Anti-Blemish Matte Primer

Working to correct complexions with each use, this powerful primer is formulated with soothing aloe vera and salicylic acid to unblock pores, ease congestion, and treat existing blemishes while preventing new pimples.