Achieving a flawless and enduring makeup look often begins with the application of a high-quality primer. As the key step in any makeup routine, a primer serves to create a smooth base, minimize imperfections, and, most importantly, extend the longevity of your makeup. Many primers come across my desk as a beauty blogger, and most claim to extend makeup wear time. However, very few actually hit this claim in a real and noticeable way. I am sharing my list of the best primer for long lasting makeup that truly work, and I reach for all of these when I am doing special occasion makeup that I need to last for a long time.
Primer For Long Lasting Makeup
1. Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer
First for the best face primer to make makeup last longer is Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer, a game-changer in the world of makeup primers. The texture is luxuriously smooth and glides effortlessly onto the skin, creating an impeccable canvas for makeup application. What sets this primer apart is its exceptional ability to blur imperfections and create a soft-focus effect. It also extends wear time significantly. I do prefer to pair it with a pore reducing primer for the nose area. The lightweight feel and non-greasy finish add to its appeal, making it suitable for various skin types. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the results are well worth the investment.
2. Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer
Second for best long wear primer is Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer. I tested it against other popular “putty primers” and I found that it fills the most pores, has the least amount shine at the end of the day, and overall extends wear time the best. For it being the most expensive option, I know that is sad news! The balm-like texture melts seamlessly upon contact with the skin, creating an ultra-smooth canvas that feels like silk to the touch. This primer not only blurs imperfections and minimizes the appearance of pores but also imparts a subtle luminosity, giving the skin a healthy, radiant glow. If you want to read more about the test that I did, you can find that in my elf vs. Tatcha vs. Physicians Formula Putty Primers review.
3. elf Good Vibes Only Soft Velvet Primer
Third, in the category of drugstore primer for long lasting makeup, is the elf Good Vibes Only Soft Velvet Primer. It is actually limited-edtion, which is absurd for how awesome it is! it feels and looks a lot like Smashbox’s primer. The velvety texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, creating a soft, matte canvas that feels weightless yet substantial. Also, the scent is delightful! Somehow this product smooths my horrible pores without needing to reach for a secondary primer, which is absolutely unheard of for me! It does not even claim to be pore filling.
4. Alix Avien Primary Pro Matte Base
Fourth is the Alix Avien Primary Pro Matte Base primer. Sadly, this one is hard to get your hands on. It is pretty much always out of stock on the US store, and it is not available at other retailers. You might be able to shop their non-US store depending on your location. I cover this primer in detail in my Alix Avien Paris review. The formula has a lightweight texture that effortlessly glides onto the skin, creating a smooth canvas for makeup application.
What is immediately noticeable is its smoothing effect, providing a velvety base that effectively minimizes the appearance of pores and blurs imperfections like instant Photoshop. Throughout the day, it helps to manage excess shine, leaving my skin with a matte, yet natural, appearance. This is especially beneficial for individuals with combination or oily skin types. It also enhances the adherence and longevity of foundation. I have experienced a noticeable improvement in the staying power of my makeup, even in humid conditions. Despite its matte finish, the primer doesn’t feel overly drying on the skin. I do use pore filling primer in conjunction with this.
5. elf Power Grip Primer
Last for the best primer for long lasting makeup is elf Power Grip Primer. Really, any primer from their “gripping” line applies to this review. It offers a reliable grip that anchors makeup throughout the day. The texture of this primer is notably lightweight, providing a smooth yet slightly tacky base upon application. This primer excels in enhancing the longevity of makeup, particularly in preventing slippage or fading. I have noticed that my foundation adheres well to the skin. This does not fill pores.
For a pro-tip, I never recommend using a gripping primer with powder foundation, or for contouring before foundation application (underpainting). That can cause your look to be very patchy. Keep this type of primer for cream and liquid foundation/concealer use, and contour on top of those complexion products. You can read more in my elf Power Grip Primer review, which also connects you to the array of comparison posts that I have written for this product.
How to Use Face Primer for Long Lasting Makeup Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs:
I am ending with some frequently asked questions about primer for long lasting makeup:
Which primer is best and long lasting?
The “best” primer can vary depending on individual preferences, skin type, and the specific needs of your skin. However, there are several popular primers known for their longevity and effectiveness.
Does primer make your makeup long lasting?
Yes, primer can help make your makeup last longer. Makeup primers create a smooth base for foundation and other makeup products, filling in fine lines and pores. This helps makeup adhere better to the skin, resulting in a more even application.
How long should you let primer dry before foundation?
After applying primer, it is generally recommended to let it dry for a few minutes before applying foundation. The specific drying time can depend on the formulation of the primer and your skin type. However, allowing the primer to set for about 1 to 2 minutes is often sufficient.
Shop Best Face Primer to Make Makeup Last Longer
Conclusion
In summary, the significance of a reliable primer cannot be overstated. The best primer for long lasting makeup acts as the unsung hero, seamlessly bridging skincare and cosmetics to create a resilient foundation for any look. The quest for the best primer, then, is not merely a beauty pursuit but a strategic investment in the endurance and vibrancy of one’s makeup expression. Of course, a primer that works for me may not work for you, so there is always experimentation with your skin care needs. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
What are your ride or die primers?
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