12 OF THE BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS, ACCORDING TO MAKEUP ARTISTS 

In the world of makeup, a good primer is the unsung hero. It creates a smooth canvas for your foundation, helps it last longer, and can even address specific skin concerns. But with so many primers on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for a lightweight and hydrating option, then a water-based primer might be the perfect fit. Here’s a look at some of the top picks according to makeup artists, designed to give your foundation a flawless finish and keep it looking fresh all day long.

WHAT IS A WATER BASED PRIMER?

A water-based primer is a makeup product formulated with water as the main ingredient, unlike silicone-based primers. This makes them:

Hydrating: The water content helps keep your skin from drying out, which can be especially beneficial for those with normal, dry, or combination skin. If your skin is too dry, pay attention to adding a moisturizing mask to your face, especially Korean face masks for hydrated and glowy skin.

Lightweight: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones.

Less likely to clog pores: The lighter formula is generally less likely to clog pores, making them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

BEST WATER BASED PRIMERS

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

If you’re looking for a water-based primer that ticks all the boxes, the MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Primer is a popular choice among makeup artists. This award-winning gel primer is all about longwear hydration. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide plump and hydrate the skin, while blue agave extract acts like a magnet to grip your makeup for up to 12 hours. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and free of common irritants like silicone, oil, fragrance, and gluten, making it suitable for most skin types.

ILIA, TRUE SKIN RADIANT PRIMING SERUM 

Focusing on more than just makeup application, ILIA’s True Skin Radiant Priming Serum bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetics. This silicone-free formula is a great option for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer a natural approach. It combines skincare benefits with a priming effect. Packed with nourishing ingredients, the serum helps to firm, moisturize, and soothe the skin while protecting it from environmental aggressors. It also boasts a subtle, radiant finish that creates a flawless base for your makeup. Like other water-based primers, it’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving a soft, touchable feel.

PEACE OUT INSTANT PORE PERFECTOR

Peace Out’s Instant Pore Perfector goes beyond just a basic water-based primer. While it is lightweight and formulated without pore-clogging silicone, it offers more than just hydration. This multitasking product acts as a primer and a treatment in one. The key ingredient is a special hyaluronic acid blend that plumps and hydrates skin, instantly blurring the appearance of pores. It also tackles redness with its formula containing niacinamide. But Peace Out doesn’t stop there.  This product boasts long-term benefits too, with ingredients like mushroom extract that work to refine skin texture over time. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes pores, reduces redness, and offers lasting results, the Peace Out Instant Pore Perfector could be your new makeup must-have.

ELTAMD, UV DAILY TINTED BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 40 

EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 falls into a different category compared to the other products mentioned so far. It’s not specifically a primer, but rather a tinted sunscreen. While it can provide some smoothing and evening of skin tone due to the tint, its primary function is sun protection.

This product is a good option if you’re looking to streamline your morning routine. It combines broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with a hint of color, potentially eliminating the need for a separate sunscreen and primer.  However, it’s important to note that sunscreen should always be applied generously and evenly, which might not be ideal if you’re aiming for a lightweight priming effect.

If you have dry or combination skin and prioritize sun protection, the EltaMD UV Daily Tinted could be a good fit. However, for those seeking a dedicated primer with pore-minimizing or other targeted benefits, this product might not be the best choice.

ARMANI BEAUTY LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING MAKEUP PRIMER

Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is a luxurious option for those seeking a radiant and hydrating base. This lightweight formula, suitable for all skin types, combines skincare and makeup benefits.  Like other water-based primers, it provides a surge of hydration with ingredients like shea butter and glycerin, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.

However, where the Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer truly shines is in its ability to enhance radiance. It utilizes a unique technology to capture and reflect light, creating a subtle, natural glow that complements your foundation. This primer is perfect for achieving the signature “lit-from-within” look that Armani Beauty is known for. If you have dull or dry skin and want a primer that promotes a radiant and flawless canvas, the Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer is definitely worth considering.

MAYBELLINE, FACESTUDIO MASTER PRIMER 

Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Primer is a drugstore favorite that offers a budget-friendly option in the world of water-based primers. This color-correcting primer comes in a variety of targeted versions to address specific concerns.

Looking for a blurring effect to minimize pores and imperfections? They have a “Blur + Smooth” version. Want to combat redness? Try the “Blur + Redness Control.”  Each version utilizes lightweight, water-based formulas to create a smooth canvas for makeup application while addressing your unique skin concerns.

Given the variety of options and its affordable price point, the Maybelline Facestudio Master Primer is a great choice for those who want to experiment with water-based primers and find the perfect fit for their skin type and makeup goals.

TOO FACED HANGOVER REPLENISHING FACE PRIMER

Targeting those late nights and early mornings, Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer promises to be your beauty sleep in a bottle. This hydrating, water-based primer is formulated to combat the signs of fatigue and dehydration. Enriched with coconut water, electrolytes, and probiotics, it aims to revive and replenish your skin, leaving it looking bright and healthy.

Whether you’ve had a long day or a short night, the Hangover Primer aims to create a smooth and dewy canvas for your makeup. If you have dry skin or tend to experience dehydration, and want a hydrating primer with a touch of radiance, this Too Faced option could be worth a try.

SMASHBOX, PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER+ 

Smashbox’s Photo Finish Primerizer+ is a multi-tasking primer that combines the benefits of hydration with skincare-inspired ingredients. This water-based formula features a key ingredient: triple hyaluronic acid. This powerhouse hydrator plumps and hydrates the skin for up to 72 hours, ensuring a smooth and comfortable canvas for makeup application.

But the Photo Finish Primerizer+ goes beyond just hydration. It also boasts niacinamide, a vitamin B3 that helps strengthen the skin’s barrier and protect it from environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light.  This primer is suitable for all skin types, but those with dry or dehydrated skin might especially appreciate its long-lasting hydration benefits.

SHISEIDO SYNCHRO SKIN SOFT BLURRING PRIMER

Shiseido’s Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is a water-based primer that promises a flawless, soft-focus finish. Designed to be lightweight and universally flattering, it tackles multiple concerns to create the perfect canvas for your makeup. Its Light Diffusion Technology utilizes light-diffusing powders to blur imperfections and create a smooth, airbrushed appearance.  

For those with oily skin, mattifying peptides and sebum-absorbing powder work together to keep shine in check throughout the day. But hydration isn’t forgotten –  the formula boasts ingredients that provide up to 8 hours of moisture, ensuring a comfortable wear. So, if you’re looking for a water-based primer that minimizes imperfections, controls shine, and keeps your makeup looking fresh all day long, the Shiseido Synchro Skin Soft Blurring Primer is definitely worth considering.

LAURA MERCIER, PURE CANVAS PRIMER 

Laura Mercier’s Pure Canvas Primer is another strong contender in the water-based primer category. This silicone-free formula caters to a variety of skin types, offering a breathable, hydrating base for your makeup. Like many water-based primers, it boasts long-lasting wear – up to 16 hours according to the brand –  helping your makeup stay fresh and vibrant throughout the day.

While Laura Mercier offers a few variations within the Pure Canvas line, the core benefit remains consistent:  hydration.  The Pure Canvas Primer aims to improve the look of bare skin over time with its skincare-infused formula. This makes it a great option for those who want a primer that goes beyond makeup application and offers a touch of skincare benefit.

HONEST BEAUTY EVERYTHING PRIMER, GLOW

Honest Beauty’s Everything Primer, Glow caters to those who want a radiant, all-in-one base. This water-based primer is infused with hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin’s surface. But the glow doesn’t stop there. Mica, a light-reflecting mineral, gives your skin a subtle, luminous finish, perfect for achieving a dewy look. Honest Beauty doesn’t forget about nourishment – the primer also includes a blend of fruit extracts like watermelon, apple, and lentil, along with two types of hyaluronic acid to provide deep and lasting hydration.  This vegan and cruelty-free option is suitable for all skin types and aims to prep, brighten, and hydrate your skin for a fresh, healthy-looking complexion that’s primed for flawless makeup application.

MAKE UP FOR EVER, STEP 1 PRIMER SHINE CONTROL 

Designed for normal, combination, and oily skin types, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Primer Shine Control is a mattifying water-based primer. This lightweight formula minimizes shine and mattifies the complexion, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. It’s formulated without oil or silicone, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. If you struggle with excess oil throughout the day and want a water-based primer that keeps shine in check, Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Shine Control Primer could be a great choice.

BENEFITS OF USING A WATER-BASED PRIMER

Water-based primers offer a variety of advantages over their traditional, solvent-based counterparts. Here’s a breakdown of some key benefits:

Lightweight and Breathable: Water-based primers feel lighter on the skin compared to silicone-based ones. This is because they use water as the main solvent, resulting in a more comfortable and breathable wear, especially beneficial for normal, dry, or combination skin types.

Hydration Hero:  Many water-based primers are packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. This helps to keep your skin from drying out throughout the day, ensuring a smooth and plump canvas for makeup application.

Less Likely to Clog Pores: Due to their lighter, water-based formula, these primers are generally less likely to clog pores compared to silicone-based primers. This makes them a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Farewell to Fumes:  Water-based primers are known for their low odor or lack thereof. This is a major benefit for those who are sensitive to strong smells or have respiratory concerns.

Easy Cleanup:  Cleaning up after application is a breeze with water-based primers. Simply use soap and water to wash away any residue from your brushes or sponges. No harsh solvents or special cleansers are required.

WHEN NOT TO USE A WATER-BASED PRIMER?

While water-based primers offer many advantages, there are situations where they might not be the best choice. Here’s when you might want to consider a different primer option:

VERY OILY SKIN

If you have extremely oily skin, a water-based primer might not provide enough mattifying power to control shine throughout the day. In this case, a mattifying silicone-based primer could be a more effective option for shine control.

SEALING STAINS

Water-based primers aren’t the strongest when it comes to sealing stubborn stains like watermarks or tannins on wood. If you’re priming a surface with such stains, a solvent-based primer might be necessary to create a good barrier.

EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS

Water-based primers may not be the most durable option for very humid or cold environments. If you’ll be wearing makeup in extreme weather, a more heavy-duty, weatherproof primer might be a better choice.

CRACKED OR DAMAGED SURFACES

For surfaces with cracks or significant damage, a water-based primer might not fill in the gaps effectively. Opt for a thicker, filler primer in these cases to create a smooth and even base.

CONCLUSION

So, that concludes our look at 12 of the best water-based primers according to makeup artists.  With a variety of options to choose from, there’s a perfect primer out there for almost any skin type and makeup need. Whether you’re looking for long-lasting hydration, a radiant finish, or shine control, a water-based primer can provide a smooth, prepped canvas for flawless makeup application.  Consider your skin type, makeup goals, and budget when making your choice, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find the water-based primer that works best for you!

Tatcha Water Cream Vs. Dewy Skin Cream: A Comparative Analysis for Glowing Skin

In the realm of skincare, finding the perfect moisturizer is akin to discovering a hidden treasure. It has the power to transform your skin, leaving it supple, hydrated, and radiant. Two popular contenders in the world of moisturizers are Tatcha Water Cream and Dewy Skin Cream. While both promise to deliver luminous skin, they possess distinct qualities that set them apart. Come with us as we compare two renowned moisturizers, exploring their ingredients, benefits, application techniques, and more. Enjoy!

What Sets Tatcha Water Cream Apart?

Innovative Ingredients for Optimal Hydration and Oil Control

Tatcha Water Cream stands out for its innovative formulation, incorporating Japanese botanicals and cutting-edge technology. The key ingredient, Japanese wild rose, helps tighten pores and minimize their appearance, giving the skin a refined texture. Additionally, the cream contains a potent blend of green tea, rice, and algae extracts, all renowned for their exceptional skincare benefits. Green tea provides antioxidant protection, while rice nourishes the skin and promotes a healthy glow. Algae extracts deliver hydration deep into the skin, maintaining its moisture barrier.

Light-as-Air Texture and Instant Absorption

One of the most remarkable features of Tatcha Water Cream is its lightweight texture. Upon application, it feels refreshing and instantly absorbs into the skin, leaving behind a velvety-smooth finish. This quality makes it an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a non-greasy moisturizer that works well under makeup. The water-based formula of Tatcha Water Cream ensures optimal hydration without weighing down the skin or clogging pores.

Enhanced Oil Control for Oily Skin Types

Tatcha Water Cream exhibits impressive oil-controlling properties, making it particularly suitable for individuals with oily skin. The cream’s unique formulation helps balance sebum production, reducing excessive shine and promoting a matte appearance. By keeping oiliness at bay, Tatcha Water Cream allows your skin to maintain a fresh and luminous look throughout the day, without the need for constant touch-ups.

Unlocking the Secrets of Dewy Skin Cream

Deep Nourishment for Dry and Dehydrated Skin

Dewy Skin Cream, the brainchild of a popular skincare brand, focuses on delivering intense hydration to dry and dehydrated skin. Its rich and creamy consistency offers a luxurious experience, enveloping the skin in a blanket of moisture. A key ingredient in this formula is Okinawa red algae, which is known for its ability to retain vast amounts of water. By harnessing the power of this marine botanical, Dewy Skin Cream provides long-lasting hydration, combating flakiness and dullness.

Illuminating and Plumping Effects

What sets Dewy Skin Cream apart is its ability to impart a radiant, dewy glow to the skin. The cream is infused with a blend of botanical extracts, including ginseng and wild thyme. Ginseng, with its revitalizing properties, helps energize the skin, resulting in a more vibrant complexion. Wild thyme extract works synergistically to promote suppleness and firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The combined effects of these ingredients give your skin a youthful and luminous glow.

Suitable for All Skin Types

While Dewy Skin Cream is renowned for its effectiveness on dry skin, it is also suitable for other skin types that require an extra boost of hydration. Individuals with combination or normal skin can benefit from the nourishing properties of this cream, especially during colder months when skin tends to be more prone to dryness. However, those with excessively oily skin may find the rich texture of Dewy Skin Cream too heavy for their liking.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Incorporate Cream into Your Skincare Routine

Step 1: Cleanse your face

Begin with a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to remove any impurities and prepare your skin for optimal absorption of the moisturizer.

Step 2: Apply toner (optional)

If you use a toner as part of your skincare routine, apply it after cleansing to balance the skin’s pH levels and enhance the effectiveness of subsequent products.

Step 3: Dispense the desired amount of moisturizer

For Tatcha Water Cream, take a pea-sized amount and warm it between your fingertips. For Dewy Skin Cream, use a larger amount if needed, depending on your skin’s hydration needs.

Step 4: Gently massage onto the face

Starting from the center of your face, massage the moisturizer in upward and outward motions, ensuring full coverage. Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness or concern.

Step 5: Allow the moisturizer to absorb

Give the moisturizer a few minutes to fully absorb into the skin before proceeding with other skincare or makeup products. This will ensure maximum efficacy.

Step 6: Repeat morning and night

Incorporate the moisturizer into your daily skincare routine, applying it both in the morning and at night for consistent hydration and nourishment.

Which Moisturizer Reigns Supreme?

Whether you have dry, combination, or normal skin, these creams can offer substantial benefits. However, those with excessively oily skin might find better results with Tatcha Water Cream due to its unique formulation. On the other hand, Dewy Skin Cream could be an ideal choice for individuals with drier skin types. Ultimately, the choice depends on your skin’s specific needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of their differentiating factors:

Consistency: Tatcha Water Cream boasts a lightweight, water-based formula, while Dewy Skin Cream offers a rich and creamy texture.

Hydration: Tatcha Water Cream excels in oil control and provides lightweight hydration, whereas Dewy Skin Cream offers intense, long-lasting moisture for drier skin types.

Finish: Tatcha Water Cream provides a matte finish, making it ideal for those seeking a shine-free look, while Dewy Skin Cream imparts a radiant, dewy glow.

Targeted Concerns: Tatcha Water Cream focuses on oil control, minimizing pores, and refining the skin’s texture. Dewy Skin Cream emphasizes deep hydration, plumping, and overall luminosity.

Expert Tips for Maximizing the Benefits 

Layer strategically: If you have combination skin or prefer different finishes on different areas of your face, try layering Tatcha Water Cream on the T-zone for a more matte look and Dewy Skin Cream on the cheeks for a radiant glow.

Customize your application: Adjust the amount of moisturizer based on your skin’s hydration needs. Use a smaller amount for lighter hydration or increase the quantity for a more intensive moisturizing effect.

Prep your skin: For optimal results, ensure your skin is properly cleansed and toned before applying either cream. This will allow better absorption and maximize their benefits.

Mix with foundation: If you prefer a more sheer, dewy foundation finish, mix a small amount of Dewy Skin Cream with your liquid foundation. This will give your complexion a luminous, natural-looking glow.

Spot treatment: If you have specific areas of dryness or concern, you can apply either cream as a targeted spot treatment to provide extra hydration or address dry patches.

Use as a primer: Both Tatcha Water Cream and Dewy Skin Cream can act as effective primers under makeup. They create a smooth canvas for foundation application and help it last longer throughout the day.

Remember, skincare is highly personal, so feel free to experiment and adjust your application techniques according to what works best for you.

The Best Choice for Your Skincare Journey

When it comes to choosing between Tatcha Water Cream and Dewy Skin Cream, there isn’t a definitive “winner.” Each moisturizer offers unique benefits tailored to different skin needs and preferences. Consider your skin type, desired finish, and targeted concerns to determine which cream aligns most closely with your skincare goals. You may even find that incorporating both creams into your routine, depending on the situation, yields the best results. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve healthy, radiant skin that boosts your confidence and allows your inner beauty to shine through.

Remember, skincare is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Experimentation and finding what works best for your skin are essential. Whether you choose Tatcha Water Cream, Dewy Skin Cream, or explore alternative options, prioritize consistent hydration, and nourishment for a complexion that radiates beauty and confidence.

FAQs 

  1. Can I use Tatcha Water Cream if I have dry skin? While Tatcha Water Cream is formulated to provide lightweight hydration, it may not be sufficient for individuals with very dry skin. Consider layering it with a more emollient moisturizer or exploring alternatives better suited for intense hydration.
  2. Is Dewy Skin Cream suitable for oily skin? Dewy Skin Cream’s rich texture may feel heavy on oily skin and could potentially contribute to excess shine. It is recommended primarily for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin seeking deep nourishment and a radiant glow.
  3. Can I use Tatcha Water Cream under makeup? Yes, Tatcha Water Cream’s lightweight texture makes it an excellent choice as a moisturizing base under makeup. It absorbs quickly and leaves a smooth finish, allowing for seamless foundation application.
  4. How long does a jar of Dewy Skin Cream typically last? The longevity of a jar of Dewy Skin Cream depends on individual usage. Yet, since this cream has a rich consistency, a little goes a long way. With regular daily use, a jar can last several months.
  5. Can I incorporate both Tatcha Water Cream and Dewy Skin Cream into my skincare routine? Absolutely! As each cream offers distinct benefits, you can customize your skincare routine by using Tatcha Water Cream in the morning for oil control and Dewy Skin Cream at night for deep hydration and a radiant glow.