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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!

15 BEST PRIMERS FOR DRY SKIN THAT CREATE A HYDRATED BASE 

Dry skin can be a real struggle, especially when it comes to makeup application. Primers are an essential first step in any makeup routine, but finding one that works for dry skin can be tricky. A good primer will hydrate the skin, smooth out rough patches, and create a flawless base for your makeup. Here’s a look at 15 of the best primers for dry skin that will create a hydrated, dewy base for your makeup to last all day long! 

OUR TOP PICKS 

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH PRIMERIZER

This versatile primer offers a multifaceted approach to skincare, combining hydration, protection, and skin tone correction. Formulated with powerhouse ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it not only promotes plump and supple skin but also addresses dry patches, flaking, and uneven texture. The inclusion of a silkscreen complex, rich in antioxidants and probiotic extract, provides a shield against environmental aggressors like blue light and pollution. The primer’s ability to visibly plump the skin, impart a radiant glow, and ensure long-lasting effects makes it a standout product. However, it’s worth noting that its premium quality comes at a higher price point, making it a luxurious but potentially costly addition to your skincare routine. Additionally, its fragrance-free formula caters to those with sensitivity or preference for unscented products.

BOBBI BROWN VITAMIN ENRICHED FACE BASE

This product serves as both a nourishing day cream and an effective makeup primer, ensuring a long-lasting and hydrated complexion. Infused with key ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, it delivers a substantial dose of moisture, resulting in a well-hydrated and plumped canvas for flawless makeup application. Ideal for a range of skin types, including combination and oily skin, it strikes the perfect balance between skincare and makeup prep.

GUERLAIN 24H HYDRATION PARURE GOLD 24K RADIANCE BOOSTER PERFECTION PRIMER

Formulated with an impressive 98% naturally-derived ingredients, this primer boasts a sumptuous gel texture that not only provides up to 24-hour hydration but also delivers instantly unified skin. Beyond its hydrating properties, the primer actively works to visibly correct imperfections and refine skin texture, offering a flawless canvas for makeup application. A standout feature is its sensorial texture, which imparts an instant skin-blurring effect, enhancing the overall appeal of this luxurious primer. 

E.L.F. HYDRATING FACE PRIMER

Indulge in a natural finish with this sought-after primer, enriched with key ingredients like grapeseed oil, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Compact in size at 0.47 ounces, this cruelty-free formula has earned acclaim for its hydrating properties, efficient pore-blurring effects, and its ability to establish a flawless base for seamless makeup application. Users laud its affordability and the transformative advantages it delivers, as vitamin A ensures hydration, vitamin C imparts a radiant glow, vitamin E nurtures the skin, and grapeseed oil promotes an even skin tone. Going beyond its cosmetic allure, this primer also enhances the staying power of your makeup, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. Embrace this primer for its multifaceted benefits, offering not just cosmetic enhancement but also extended wear for a consistently impeccable look.

REFY FACE PRIMER

Unlike typical primers, this innovative formula doubles as a “gua sha tool” with its smart roller applicator. As it glides over the skin, it not only primes but also effectively smooths and sculpts, aiding in depuffing through a massaging action. The perfected formula features niacinamide, vitamin B5, and polymers, working in tandem to hydrate, minimize pores, and nourish the skin. The result is a radiant complexion and makeup that endures throughout the day. 

BY TERRY CELLULAROSE CC SERUM

Achieve a flawless and radiant complexion with the BY TERRY Cellularose CC Serum, designed to correct, illuminate, and prime your skin before makeup application. With a serum-like consistency that effortlessly absorbs into the skin, this hybrid primer and corrector formula not only provides hydration but also seamlessly blends under your preferred base product. The added bonus lies in its infusion of skin-loving ingredients, contributing to a lit-from-within finish that enhances your natural glow. 

MILK MAKEUP HYDRO GRIP PRIMER

This product comes in a 1.52-ounce size and is cruelty-free. It’s great for people whose foundation tends to disappear by midday. The product is a lightweight, water-based gel that does two things at once: it takes care of your skin and works as a primer. It has hydrating hyaluronic acid, pore-minimizing niacinamide, and blue agave extract to keep your skin healthy and prevent makeup from looking cakey or melting off. Even though it might feel a bit sticky when you put it on, users say it doesn’t make their foundation separate or create dry patches. Enjoy the benefits of this long-lasting, fragrance-free primer, but be aware that some people find it sticky, and it could clump if it’s not completely dry.

SAIE GLOWY SUPER GEL

Meet the Saie Glowy Super Gel, our top choice for days when your skin needs a bright boost. Use it alone or under makeup for a radiant look. This gel has good stuff like papaya, squalene, and vitamin C that keeps your skin safe, moisturized, and glowing. Say bye to dull skin and hello to a refreshed, radiant look with the Saie Glowy Super Gel.

ILLAMASQUA HYDRA VEIL PRIMER

The Illamasqua Hydra Veil has a special feel on your skin, making it refreshing. It’s great for getting your skin ready for makeup and helps if your skin is dry. This primer has good things like microalgae, vitamin C, and B, and plant extracts that make your skin feel fresh, balanced, and hydrated. We love it because it moisturizes and helps reduce the appearance of dryness.

KAT BURKI SILK PROTEIN PRIMER

This moisture-packed primer is silicone-free and boasts botanical hyaluronic acid and Irish sea moss, working together to plump and hydrate the skin while keeping essential moisture locked in. The inclusion of silk amino proteins helps smooth out fine lines, and grapefruit seed oil combats skin flare-ups and redness. Its smooth and lightweight texture is a standout feature, delivering an airbrushed effect by blurring pores. Perfect for creating a seamless makeup base, it avoids settling into fine lines or dry areas, catering to those in their mid-40s. Despite its popularity for hydrating benefits, it’s crucial to be aware that the formula does contain fragrance.

LAURA MERCIER PURE CANVAS PRIMER

Laura Mercier Canvas Primers are renowned for their exceptional quality and effectiveness in creating a flawless base for makeup application. These primers are meticulously crafted to provide a smooth and even canvas, ensuring that your makeup adheres seamlessly and stays in place throughout the day. One notable feature of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers is their diverse range, catering to various skin concerns and preferences. Whether you’re looking to minimize pores, add a luminous glow, or combat redness, there is likely a primer within the collection designed to address your specific needs. The lightweight and breathable formulas of Laura Mercier Canvas Primers make them comfortable to wear, avoiding any heavy or greasy feeling on the skin. 

ARMANI LUMINOUS SILK HYDRATING PRIMER

The Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer stands out as a luxurious and effective addition to any makeup routine, recognized for its ability to create a radiant and flawless complexion. As part of the esteemed Luminous Silk range by Giorgio Armani Beauty, this primer is designed to enhance the application and longevity of makeup while providing essential hydration. Enriched with hydrating ingredients, the Armani Luminous Silk Primer quenches the skin’s thirst, leaving it supple and refreshed. The primer works to minimize the appearance of imperfections and fine lines, creating a luminous and dewy finish that complements the signature Luminous Silk foundation by Armani.

STILA ONE STEP CORRECT

Tailored for those prone to breakouts or redness flare-ups, this primer features color-correcting pigments that work their magic to even out your complexion seamlessly. Additionally, it serves as the ideal solution for combating mid-winter dullness, offering a brightening boost for an energized and fresh-from-vacation appearance. What sets this primer apart is its ability to not only provide a radiant finish but also address common skin concerns. It helps diminish the appearance of spots and circles, improves overall skin texture, and imparts a brightening effect. While its benefits are celebrated, keep in mind that some users have reported concerns about the pump breaking easily. 

CHARLOTTE TILBURY INVISIBLE UV FLAWLESS PORELESS PRIMER

Charlotte Tilbury continues to prove her mastery in the realm of makeup, and her primer is no exception. Beyond its ability to blur imperfections and minimize pores, this versatile primer acts as a protective shield against sun damage, promoting an even skin tone while providing nourishment and hydration. Infused with the brand’s signature airbrush polymers, this primer ensures you’re selfie-ready at all times, delivering a flawless finish without any worry of flashback in your photos. With Charlotte Tilbury’s commitment to quality and innovation, this primer stands as a must-have in any makeup enthusiast’s collection, offering a multi-functional solution for achieving a radiant and perfected complexion.

YVES SAINT LAURENT TOUCHE ÉCLAT BLUR PRIMER

The Blur Primer showcases a revolutionary transparent gel formula that optimizes light diffusion and incorporates advanced blurring technology, achieving the illusion of a matte and illuminated complexion. What makes this primer truly versatile is its adaptability – perfect for wearing under foundation to enhance its longevity and radiance or worn alone as a skin-perfecting base for a naturally flawless look. With its innovative formula and flexibility, this Blur Primer earns admiration for its transformative effects and its ability to effortlessly elevate any makeup routine.

WHAT DOES A PRIMER FOR DRY SKIN DO?

A primer designed specifically for dry skin plays a crucial role in addressing the unique needs and challenges associated with this skin type. Dry skin tends to lack sufficient natural oils and moisture, leading to a parched and sometimes flaky complexion. A primer tailored for dry skin aims to provide essential hydration and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

These primers typically contain moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or various plant-based oils. Hyaluronic acid is renowned for its ability to attract and retain moisture, helping to replenish the skin’s hydration levels. Glycerin works similarly, drawing moisture from the air to keep the skin supple and moisturized.

Beyond hydration, primers for dry skin often incorporate ingredients that help to smooth out uneven texture and nourish the skin. They may include antioxidants, vitamins, and botanical extracts to promote overall skin health. Some primers for dry skin also feature illuminating properties, adding a subtle glow to counteract any dullness associated with dryness.

By creating a hydrated and smooth base, these primers assist in preventing makeup from clinging to dry patches or settling into fine lines, resulting in a more seamless and comfortable makeup application. Ultimately, a primer for dry skin serves as a preparatory step in the beauty routine, ensuring that makeup not only looks better but also contributes to the overall health and comfort of the skin.

CONCLUSION 

Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, the use of a primer is crucial before applying makeup. Primer plays a significant role, and this article aims to provide valuable information specifically tailored to those with dry skin. Hopefully, the details about primers for dry skin outlined in this article will assist you in discovering your preferred product.