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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!

HOW TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS, ACCORDING TO DERMS

Flawless skin is a goal many people aspire to achieve, but the presence of blackheads can often pose a daunting challenge. While unwelcome, the good news is that removing blackheads is not an insurmountable task. With the right knowledge and appropriate skincare routine, we can effectively say goodbye to these annoying blemishes. This post will delve into practical and proven strategies on how to remove blackheads, providing detailed information on preventative measures and targeted treatments for smoother, clearer skin.

WHAT ARE BLACKHEADS?

Before embarking on the journey to eliminate blackheads, it is crucial to comprehend their nature, beginning with their technical term, the “open comedone.” Comedones come in two varieties: open and closed, the latter often referred to as whiteheads. Blackheads manifest as diminutive dark bumps on the skin’s surface. According to Jessie Cheung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago and the founder of Cheung Aesthetics & Wellness: “They appear when sebum gets trapped with dead skin at the surface of your pores.” 

WHY DO YOU GET SO MANY BLACKHEADS?

Blackheads happen when too much oil, dead skin, and dirt build up in hair follicles and pores. They mix with the natural oils of the skin, making a plug that’s like a tiny bump. This can attract bacteria, leading to the formation of what we call blackheads. When this mix reaches the skin’s surface and meets air, it turns dark. Things like family traits, hormone changes, certain medicines, and the environment can make your skin produce too much oil, making it more likely to get blackheads. Not cleaning your skin regularly or using products that can block pores can also make blackheads worse. Knowing about these things is important for finding good ways to stop and deal with blackheads.

THE BEST WAYS TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS

If you’re dealing with blackheads, dermatologists recommend effective methods to remove them, and some of these strategies also work as preventive measures.

Use Products With Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a great ingredient for getting rid of blackheads. It’s a type of acid that helps renew skin cells and clear out pores. This acne treatment can also dry up active acne because it’s a gentle chemical that can irritate the acne. Many studies show that salicylic acid is effective against acne. Using a 2% salicylic acid wash for two weeks reduced the number of acne spots. 

Nazanin Saedi, MD, clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University and the department co-chair of the Laser and Aesthetics Surgery Center at Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting recommends three thrifty but effective drugstore products with salicylic acid: Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil Free Acne Wash, Neutrogena Gel Cleanser Acne Proofing, and Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense. 

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil Free Acne Wash: The powerful combination of grapefruit and vitamin C creates a potent formula that effectively clears blemishes and blackheads. Specifically designed for acne treatment, it not only targets and removes stains but also eliminates blackheads. The exfoliating action helps in smoothing the skin, getting rid of roughness for a healthier complexion.

Neutrogena Gel Cleanser Acne Proofing: The Neutrogena Acne Proofing Gel Cleanser is made for people with acne and oily skin. It uses ClearDefend technology to safely and effectively solve acne issues. The gel cleanser helps protect your skin from getting more acne and works fast to reduce old acne marks. It’s safe to use on your skin, and top dermatologists around the world recommend it.

Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense: This is the first product that mixes Dioic Acid 2% with Hydroxy Acid complex to stop clogged pores, reduce acne, and make wrinkles and uneven skin tone better. It controls extra oil and helps lower sebum by 28% in just one week. It also makes redness, acne scars, and uneven skin tone look better. 

Add a Retinoid to Your Routine

If you want to tackle blackheads, think about adding a retinoid to your skincare routine. Retinoids, such as retinol or stronger ones like tretinoin, come from vitamin A and help make your skin better and stop pores from getting clogged. Start with a small amount once or twice a week after washing your face, then slowly use it more often. After that, put on some moisturizer to keep your skin from getting too dry, and always use sunscreen in the daytime because retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It might take a few weeks to see a difference, so be patient. Using retinol with salicylic acid can be a good way to fight blackheads and make your skin healthier. The following products are recommended:

ProActiv Adapalene Gel 0.1%: Adapalene doesn’t have benzoyl peroxide. It’s a retinoid gel you use once a day, and it absorbs quickly to treat acne deep within your skin.

Differin Gel: Differin Gel works well against two main reasons for acne: blocked pores and redness. It clears up acne where it begins (deep in pores) and stops new acne from showing up.

Consider Alpha Hydroxy Acids And Beta Hydroxy Acid

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

These are acids that come from fruits and milk and can make your skin look better. AHAs work by removing dead skin cells and opening up clogged pores. You can find them in products like cleansers, toners, or creams. Start slowly, using them once or twice a week, and then you can increase how often you use them. It’s good to follow up with sunscreen during the day because your skin can be more sensitive. Using AHAs, along with other treatments like salicylic acid, can be a helpful way to get rid of blackheads and keep your skin in good shape. You can refer these products:

First Aid Beauty’s FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid AHA 10%: FAB Skin Lab was made for people with sensitive skin. It has 10 percent of 4 alpha-hydroxy acids that work to make rough, dull skin look smoother, brighter, and more even.

Clean and Clear Triple Cleanse Exfoliating Scrub: This everyday acne face scrub fights breakouts by taking away skin oil and gently scrubbing, treating acne, and also calming the skin.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

Salicylic acid, also called Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), is really good for getting rid of blackheads. It works by cleaning deep into your pores, taking away dead skin cells, extra oil, and dirt. Since it can dissolve the oily stuff in your pores, it stops blackheads from forming. Salicylic acid is also helpful because it reduces redness and swelling linked to blackheads. If you use it regularly, it not only helps with the blackheads you already have but also stops new ones from showing up. It fits well into different skincare routines and goes along with other useful ingredients. Overall, using salicylic acid can keep your pores clear and make your skin smoother. The products below may contain BHA, which works effectively:

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: This is a cult-favorite product known for its gentle yet effective exfoliation, helping to unclog pores and reduce blackheads.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution: The Ordinary offers an affordable salicylic acid solution that targets blackheads and blemishes. It is a straightforward product with a simple ingredient list.

Pick up a Cleansing brush

If you’re looking to enhance your skincare routine, consider picking up a skin brush. These brushes are designed to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting a smoother complexion. They can also help with blood circulation and product absorption. When using a skin brush, remember to choose one with soft bristles and to use it gently to avoid irritation. Incorporating a skin brush into your routine a few times a week can leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Here are what you need:

Boie Dry Brush: This brush has a unique design with curved bristles that help to reach into pores and remove blackheads. It also has a built-in massager to improve circulation.

Foreo Luna Mini 3: This facial cleansing brush is made with soft silicone bristles and is gentle on the skin. It has different modes for cleansing, exfoliating, and massaging.

Use a mask

For oily skin types, clay and charcoal masks offer a powerful duo for tackling impurities and achieving a clear complexion. Clay masks act like magnets, drawing out oils and dead skin cells from deep within your pores, while charcoal’s absorbent properties work even deeper, capturing impurities and leaving your skin feeling refreshed and purified. Some clay masks are further boosted with sulfur, which effectively exfoliates and removes dead skin cells, further enhancing your skin’s clarity

Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask: A clay mask under the Innisfree brand with ingredients containing Jeju island volcanic ash + walnut shell powder and AHA that have the effect of exfoliating. Cleans dead cells, cleans sebum and excess oil, deeply cleans and improves pore problems, helps brighten skin and improve skin elasticity.

Derma clean charcoal facial mask: Use this refreshing face mask with antioxidants to remove dirt from your skin without making it too dry. It peels off imperfections, leaving your skin healthy and radiant. Charcoal in the mask gets rid of impurities and dead skin cells while making your skin firmer. It also gives your face a toned and cool feeling.

Opt for an In-Office Treatment

Going to a dermatologist can really help get rid of blackheads. They have treatments done in their office that make pores look smaller. These treatments can include lasers like Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant, or microneedling. The cost can be different, starting from a few hundred dollars to $1,500 or even more. Some people see good results after just one treatment, but others might need to go for a few sessions to get the results they want.

THE WORST WAYS TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS

Using the wrong methods to get rid of blackheads can lead to skin irritation and make the problem worse. One of the worst ways to tackle blackheads is squeezing or picking at them with your fingers. This can cause inflammation, infection, and scarring. It may also push bacteria deeper into the pores, leading to more breakouts.

Another bad approach is using abrasive scrubs with harsh particles. Scrubbing too vigorously can damage the skin, strip away natural oils, and worsen irritation. It’s essential to opt for gentler exfoliants that won’t cause microtears in the skin.

Additionally, overusing strong chemical peels or harsh acids can be detrimental. These treatments can cause excessive dryness, redness, and may not be suitable for everyone. It’s crucial to choose skincare methods that are effective yet gentle to avoid causing harm to your skin in the quest to eliminate blackheads. 

HOW TO PREVENT BLACKHEADS ON YOUR SKIN

To effectively prevent blackheads on your skin, it’s crucial to establish and adhere to a thorough yet gentle skincare routine. Begin by cleansing your face regularly using a mild cleanser that suits your skin type. This helps to eliminate excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that can contribute to the clogging of pores—a common precursor to blackheads. Perform this cleansing routine twice a day: in the morning and before bedtime. Additionally, if you engage in activities that induce sweating, such as exercising, ensure to cleanse your face afterward to prevent the accumulation of sweat and debris.

To enhance your blackhead prevention strategy, prioritize using non-comedogenic skin care products. These products are formulated to avoid pore-clogging ingredients, reducing the risk of pore clogging and subsequent blackhead development. When choosing cleansers, moisturizers, and other skin care products, check the “non-comedogenic” label to make sure they are suitable for preventing clogged pores. In addition to non-comedogenic products, consider incorporating regular exfoliation into your routine, especially with ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). You can refer to the suggested products above.

To bolster your blackhead prevention efforts, it’s essential to adhere to additional detailed practices. Make it a non-negotiable habit to thoroughly remove all makeup before bedtime. Additionally, be mindful of avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands throughout the day. Our hands can harbor dirt and bacteria, and transferring these to your face can contribute to blocked pores. Maintaining overall skin health is integral to blackhead prevention. Stay adequately hydrated to support skin hydration from within and consume a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

FAQ

1. How fast do blackheads go away?

Blackheads vanish at different speeds depending on their severity and treatment.. Typically, most blackheads disappear within six to eight weeks.

2. What happens if you don’t remove blackheads?

They are likely to transform into stubborn blackheads and, over time, develop into pimples.

3. Can you have a blackhead for years?

Having a persistent deep blackhead for years is not unusual if you haven’t identified the proper extraction method.

4. What to apply after removing blackheads?

Use a toner that doesn’t have alcohol to tighten your pores. A toner with witch hazel is a good choice, but be careful not to touch the area directly. 

5. Does touching your nose cause blackheads?

Blackheads may appear on your nose if you touch it frequently, as extra dirt and bacteria can enter your pores. Be sure to refrain from touching your face, and make an effort to clean items that regularly come into contact with your face.

CONCLUSION

Don’t worry about those pesky blackheads—they can be handled! Just follow the tips mentioned earlier, and you can clean your pores and keep blackheads away. The important thing is to be consistent. Make a simple skincare routine and stick to it for the best results. If some blackheads are tough, you might need help from a professional, but most of them can be taken care of with regular self-care. Be patient, be gentle with your skin, and enjoy seeing those annoying blackheads disappear!