Have you ever faced the struggle of a foundation you love being too matte? Or a powder that says it won’t cake leaving your face too cakey? These are common problems associated with a bad primer or no primer at all. Face primers can help your makeup of choice stay on longer and with a perfect, natural-looking finish. Selecting the best primer for your needs is the ultimate way to start your perfect look.
We have scouted out the three best face primers of 2020 by looking into product reviews, comparing ingredients, and watching numerous product tutorials. Below are the three products we’ve found to be at the top of the game. Here are the three best face primers of 2020:
Best Face Primer Center
1. NuFACE Leave-On Gel Primer
This product allows the skin to carry a lightweight finish all day while presenting in a natural glow. It activates your facial skin’s micro currency to plump and hydrates the areas it is applied to. This face primer can repair dried, dehydrated skin when used regularly and can be applied to the face, neck, and body.
- Specs
- Pros
- Video
- Range of three styles
- Range of three sizes
- Convenient, hassle-free application
- Moisturizing effects all-day
- Doesn’t need to be rinsed off
- Leaves skin looking younger
2. Dr. Brandt Skincare Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer
This product leaves a matte and hydrated finish to the skin. It absorbs excess oils on the face and minimizes the appearance of opened and clogged pores. It includes the extract of red clover which helps nourish the skin and shrink pores all in one. This product is also a gentle exfoliator and is paraben-free.
- Specs
- Pros
- Video
- One fluid ounce
- Melts into a smooth finish
- Helps foundation apply evenly
- Liquid or powder friendly
- Helps all skin types
3. Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer
This is a clean beauty product with no harsh chemicals or wheat residues. It accentuates your skin’s natural gleam while minimizing pores and facial lines such as wrinkles, smile lines, and dimples. This face primer’s formula is very versatile and can be used as a moisturizer for face and body, a face and eyelid primer or it can be mixed in with a foundation of your choice to create a sheer finish.
- Specs
- Pros
- Video
- 1.7 fluid ounces
- Dewey, glowing finish
- Mixes well with foundation
- Evens out skin tone
- Light and creamy texture
Buyer’s Guide
Now that you’ve seen our three favorite face primers, it’s time to decide which one will make the cut for you. Below is a list of some of the most essential qualities of face primers so you can pick and choose what you are looking for in your next (or first ever) primer.
Not oil based- Although some essential oils (like rosehip and frankincense) are great for priming your face, having an all oil-based product may lead to increased breakouts and irritation of your face’s sensitive skin. Finding a happy balance that works for you between oil and non-oils is key when priming your skin.
Moisturizing- Using a primer that moisturizes is important because it will keep your skin feeling fresh and sweat-free throughout the day. You can expect a moisturizing primer to feel lightweight and be very comfortable, also.
Blends well with foundation and concealers- SInce most people use face primers for the purpose of keeping foundation and concealers in place, it is important to select a product that plays well with your face makeup. If you are using a primer alone as SPF or moisturizer and don’t plan on wearing any other face makeup, this quality can be skipped.
Lightweight- Regardless of what you are wanting to put on your face before or after a primer, using a lightweight product will help your face feel cool and free the entire day. Choosing a lightweight formula in a primer can help ensure you never feel sweat locked or suffocated by your makeup.
FAQs
So, what if you’ve never used a primer before? Maybe you don’t know the best way to apply it or what to use before and after it. Here are some tried and true tips to help you shine your best with your new favorite primer.
Is primer the first thing you should put on your face?
No. I would strongly suggest washing your face and using a toner and moisturizer before applying anything like a primer or facial mist. Ensuring you are clean and your pores are closed is the best way to start your routine.
Do you put primer on before or after foundation?
Typically before. Some people prefer to apply primer after foundation, although it kind of defeats the purpose of priming if you are applying makeup before the product.
Why do some primers need to be washed off?
There are certain primers like the NuFace primers that may call to be wiped off because they are used with a NuFace machine and aren’t typically for only applying makeup. However, the NuFace primer mentioned in this article does not need to be washed off.
Are most primers leave-on formulas?
Yes. The only primers that call for being washed off are the ones mentioned above that work as part of a treatment with a NuFace (or another brand) facial machine. The majority of primers you will find are safe to leave on all day.
Are there any skin types that should avoid primers?
No. If you have a specific issue you are wanting to address with a primer regarding your skin type, be sure to check the formula and specifications to see if its a good match.
