A primer on primers, makeup's hardest-working must-have for flawless skin

The next generation of makeup primers help de-slick T-zones, minimize pores and disguise redness and wrinkles.

By Jill Dunn, Flare

March 22, 2017

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Primers used to be one-size-fits-all, silicone-based, transparent veils that helped create a buffer between your skin and makeup so your face looked flawless. They got the job done, but in truth they weren’t always that targeted to specific skin types or concerns like large pores, redness or fine lines. Now you can customize your primer to target your concern and suit your skin type.

Primers

Skin type: Oily

Oily skin types tend to see their morning makeup slide by the time they clock their first coffee break. Oil-absorbing formulas will mop up excess oil before it disrupts your foundation. If you’re afraid of breakouts, try a primer mist. It’s super lightweight, keeps your makeup in place and it won’t clog pores.

De-Slick Complexion Primer, $38, Urban Decay

Skin type: Oily

Instaglam Airbrush Primer Complexion Perfector and Makeup Primer, $40, Rodial

Skin type: Oily

Sheer Envy Primer Mist, $10, Hard Candy

Skin type: Dry

Dry skin types need primers that are spiked with line-plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid so makeup doesn’t settle in to lines. Serum-based boosters and/or primers with light-reflecting pigments help to boost skin’s glow.

The Smoother Primer, $44, Estee Lauder

Skin type: Dry

Photo Finish Radiance Foundation Primer, $50, Smashbox

Skin type: Dry

Radiance Primer, $45, NARS

Skin type: Dry

HD Skin Booster, $51, Make Up For Ever

Skin type: Combination

Combination skin can deal with a whole host of skin issues, depending on the day from redness to excess oil to dry patches. A light-reflecting primer base will help give your skin uniformity by muting redness and/or uneven skintone and keeps your makeup on lock.

#InstaReady Face Primer, $16, Physicians Formula