The 7 Best Makeup Primers of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

Key Ingredients: Blue agave extract, hyaluronic acid, cannabis seed extract, niacinamide | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.33, 1.52, 5.28 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer is a must-have if you want skin that looks like it’s lit from within. The gel goes on completely invisible (despite the bottle having a greenish tint), and smooths the look of skin right away. All you need is a pea-sized amount, and it grips any and all makeup you put on top of without sacrificing hydration. The ingredients are equally impressive; the formula contains hydrating blue agave extract and hyaluronic acid, anti-inflammatory cannabis seed extract, and niacinamide to help brighten and tone the skin. Something to consider: It can feel tacky upon application, but it dries pretty quickly. 

Finish: Matte | Shades: 23 | Size: 0.11 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a quality face primer. Case in point: This creamy primer from Nyx smooths skin, giving it a soft-focus finish for a little over $15. Not only does it work well under makeup, but it’s formulated with anti-inflammatory marshmallow root extract which makes it ideal for those who need a little extra skin soothing. We were impressed with its quality, especially given the price. We loved its even consistency that left behind no residue. Plus, it absorbs into the skin completely after a few minutes, creating a soft, hydrated canvas for your makeup. 

Note: the primer has a subtle sweet scent. So if you’re sensitive to fragrance or just don’t love the concept of your primer having a smell, keep that in mind before buying. 

Key Ingredients: Coconut water, probiotics | Skin Type: Dry, combination | Size: 1.35 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Primers aren’t just for the oily skin sect; there are plenty of hydrating options out there that are ideal for adding extra moisture to dry skin, too. The Too Faced Hangover Primer made our list for the best primer for dry skin, as it’s infused with moisturizing ingredients like coconut water, glycerin, and probiotics (known to boost skin’s visible radiance and elasticity), making it a great formula for reviving parched, thirsty skin. We found it was effective at extending makeup wear and ensured our foundation stayed fresher for longer. 

Key Ingredients: Silk, squalane | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Infused with both silk extracts and silk powder, this velvety Tatcha balm makes your skin quite literally feel as smooth as silk. Ideal for all skin types, the multitasking formula (it can be used on eyes, lips, and face) helps to minimize shine and offers a soft-focus finish that blurs the look of imperfections and fine lines, making it a top choice for those with mature skin. It also contains pollution-fighting natural actives like camellia sinensis leaf extract, meant to not only repair immediate damage but also strengthen the skin barrier to protect against future damage. Plus, it contains the brand’s signature Hadasei-3, a trinity of Japanese superfoods, green tea, rice, and algae – antioxidants that leave skin soft and radiant.

One thing we wish we could change is the pot. Although it’s an adorable addition to any vanity, it’s not the most hygienic—use the included spatula, or be sure to wash your hands before using it to avoid contamination.  

Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, echinacea root, hibiscus flower, rosemary leaf extract | Skin Type: Oily, combination | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The Poreless Mattifying Primer from Tarte is a great option if you’re looking to shrink your pores and help makeup look its best, even when sweat or an unexpected rainstorm comes into play. This silky, invisible gel mattifies skin and also helps smooth uneven skin texture, scars, and dry patches for up to 12 hours. We found that it has a Vaseline-like consistency and provides the perfect amount of hydration with help from moisture-boosting avocado oil and echinacea root. Additionally, anti-inflammatory hibiscus flower and rosemary leaf extract reduce redness and aid exfoliation.

Key Ingredients: Jojoba seed oil, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This illuminating primer works a bit like a highlighter on dull skin, providing a radiant base for a gleaming makeup look. It’s creamy and skin-conditioning, thanks to a blend of hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. When we tested the primer, our skin felt wonderful to the touch and it kept our foundation hydrated with a natural-looking glow. All you have to do is apply a pea-sized amount (or two) to your fingertips and blend, for a glowy finish. Be aware that some reviewers found this product made them break out.