When it comes to achieving a flawless makeup look, the foundation is just one piece of the puzzle. The best drugstore primer plays a critical role, setting the stage for your makeup application and enhancing its longevity. With so many options available on Amazon, finding the right primer can be a daunting task. In this detailed review, we’ve compiled the top 10 best drugstore primers available on Amazon in 2024, along with a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
- GET A GRIP: Achieve the perfect makeup base with essence Jelly Grip Hydrating Primer. Whether you're aiming for a fresh, natural look or need a reliable primer for all-day wear, this jelly primer has got you covered.
- PRIME TIME GLOW: Say goodbye to dull makeup days with this jelly foundation that not only hydrates but also grips onto your makeup for a flawless, long-lasting finish. Get ready to slay all day with a radiant, dewy look!
- GRIP, GLOW, SLAY: Apply one to two pumps of essence Jelly Grip Hydrating Primer, evenly to skin as the last step in your skincare routine before makeup application.
- CLAIMS: Vegan & Cruelty Free. Free from gluten, parabens, & microplastic particles. Made in Poland.
- CRUELTY FREE: essence cosmetics is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand. We do not test any of our products on animals.
- SKIN-SMOOTHING and GRIPPING PRIMER: Your makeup. It’s not going anywhere. Prep skin with this gel-based face primer that has the power to grip your makeup while giving skin a natural finish for a smoother complexion.
- FOR MOST SKIN TYPES: Our Power Grip Primer's formula goes on clear with a translucent finish for dry, combo and oily skin types. It is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores).
- HELPS MOISTURIZE & PRIME: The hydrating formula retains moisture for a plump complexion, plus moisturizes, preps, and smoothes, improving the look and feel of your skin.
- HOW TO USE: Apply evenly to face before makeup using your fingertips to pat into skin. The warmth of your fingers will help the product absorb into skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup. Stop use if irritation.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
- SKIN-SMOOTHING and GRIPPING PRIMER: Your makeup. It’s not going anywhere. Prep skin with this gel-based face primer that has the power to grip your makeup while giving skin a natural finish for a smoother complexion.
- FOR MOST SKIN TYPES: Our Power Grip Primer's formula goes on clear with a translucent finish for dry, combo and oily skin types. It is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores).
- HELPS MOISTURIZE & PRIME: The hydrating formula retains moisture for a plump complexion, plus moisturizes, preps, and smoothes, improving the look and feel of your skin.
- HOW TO USE: Apply evenly to face before makeup using your fingertips to pat into skin. The warmth of your fingers will help the product absorb into skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup. Stop use if irritation.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
- For Makeup That's Stuck Like Glue With No Icky Stick: Giving you all of the glue for face makeup that last up to 24 hours. This non-comedogenic face primer feels comfy on the skin, is breathable all day and gives a soft-focus finish with no white cast or transfer
- 24HR Hydrating Primer: This face primer for makeup grips and drenches skin with up to 24 hours of hydration! Our primer face makeup contains Polyglutamic Acid and Maple Syrup, the formula provides hydration and extreme grip. Vegan, suitable for sensitive skin
- Face From Foundation To Finish: Complete your makeup look with our full line of face products to aid in color correction and coverage from concealer, blush, bronzer, foundations and contouring to palettes and powders
- Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
- Discover NYX Professional Makeup: Try all of our professional makeup products today from eyeshadow, eyeliner, and false lashes to liquid lipstick, lip gloss, primer, concealer, setting sprays and eyebrow makeup
- Face Primer For Up To 24H Wear: Drip, glide, grip with Grippy Serum Primer. This face primer for makeup is ultra blendable with Serum-To-Grip technology, after 20 seconds the fresh serum texture transforms to a sticky feel that grips makeup for up to 24H
- Gripping Water Based Primer Formula: Grippy Serum is a water-based serum make up primer that has been formulated with 2-percent Niacinamide. This hydrating primer delivers 24H hydration and gives a fresh, plumped skin look
- No White Cast Or Greasy Feel: Apply this primer for face before makeup. Layers well with makeup and does not pill. Our primer face makeup is a non-comedogenic, vegan formula and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Maybelline Has What You Need: Create any look with foundation, BB cream, concealer and highlighter for the perfect canvas, eye shadow, brow pencil, mascara and eyeliner for any eye look and lip products, from matte lipstick to au natural lip gloss
- Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
- Formula: Instantly smooths and blurs the appearance of fine lines and pores, creating a flawless base that helps makeup apply more evenly and last longer throughout the day.
- Protection: Acts as a lightweight barrier against environmental stressors while priming skin for optimal makeup application. Enriched with vitamins A and E to help nourish and support healthy-looking skin.
- Performance: This blurring primer helps minimize the appearance of imperfections and creates a smooth canvas for makeup, making it an ideal pore-minimizing primer for all skin types with instant results.
- Application: Apply this face primer before foundation to achieve a smooth, photo-ready finish. The original Smashbox primer formula is trusted by makeup artists for its professional-quality performance and long-lasting wear.
- PORE MINIMIZING & ANTI-WRINKLE PRIMER: The pore-minimizing formula of our primer face makeup tightens pores and gives a lifting effect to dull and saggy skin. This makeup primer for face with collagen helps to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and smooth skin texture so that it avails skin to be seamless.
- SMOOTHING AND HYDRATING PORE PRIMER: Touch in Sol primer face makeup for oily skin instantly hydrates the skin and prevents moisture loss by strengthening the moisture barrier. This pore filler primer will give you a healthy-looking face at once while regulating the oil excretion and controlling sebum production.
- VELVETY SKIN BEFORE & AFTER MAKEUP: The lightweight and non-sticky foundation primer will prepare the skin before the makeup by minimizing the spots, blemishes and hydrating the skin. This face primer shrinks the look of pores and smoothens the skin so you can apply professional quality makeup right at home.
- FACE PRIMER WITH PLANT-BASED INGREDIENTS: Touch In Sol No Pore Blem Primer contains plant-based ingredients like Green Tea Tree extracts and Soluble Collagen. These active ingredients in our hydrating primer help minimize wrinkles, pores, and uneven skin tone while energizing the skin for lasting makeup wear.
- EASY TO USE CHEMICAL-FREE MAKEUP PRIMER: This face primer under foundation does not contain paraben, mineral oils, acrylamide, talc, and animal ingredients, making it perfect for any skin type. Pump to dispense a small amount and apply a thin layer across the entire surface of your face, and massage.
- Blurs skin imperfections and smooths fine lines
- Primes skin for even makeup application without a greasy feel
- Weightless, water-based formula, non-oily
- Apply all over face before foundation or wear alone
- Facestudio Master Prime Makeup Primer: This color-correcting face primer preps for makeup application by visually blurring away specific skin concerns, refining the look and feel of skin.
- Maybelline Primer Face Makeup: Apply all over face before foundation or wear alone for a luminous effect; Weightless, water-based formula goes on smoothly and moisturizes skin without a greasy feel
- Best Face Forward: We have sheer, medium, and full coverage foundation in liquid, stick, and cushion foundation formulas, plus a range of concealers, primers, contours, highlighters, pressed and setting powders
- Create any look with Maybelline; foundation, BB creams, concealers, and setting powders for the perfect canvas, eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils, and eyeliners for any eye look and lip products, from showstopping lipstick to plumping lip gloss
- MAKEUP PRIMER & SKINCARE: Your skin’s future looks bright—your favorite sticky AF Power Grip Primer infused with skin-loving niacinamide grips makeup while helping to visibly even skin tone.
- SMOOTHS & BRIGHTENS COMPLEXION: Niacinamide helps smooth and brighten the look of dullness while Power Grip Primer's gel-based formula with sticky texture grips makeup for long-lasting wear.
- CREATES A GLOWY FINISH: Ideal for all skin tones, this primer goes on completely clear and creates a dewy, glowy finish.
- HOW TO USE: Apply makeup primer evenly to face before makeup using your fingertips to pat into the skin. The warmth of your fingers will help the product melt into skin for even application. Allow 30 seconds to set before applying makeup.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
What is a Primer?
A primer is a cosmetic product applied before makeup to create a smooth canvas for foundation and other products. It helps to fill in fine lines and pores, control oil, and ensure that your makeup lasts longer throughout the day. In the world of beauty, finding the best best drugstore primer can make a significant difference in your overall appearance and the longevity of your makeup.
Buying Guide for the Best Drugstore Primer
Before diving into our top ten list of drugstore primers, it’s essential to consider a few factors that will help you choose the best product for your skin type and makeup needs. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Skin Type
Understanding your skin type is crucial when selecting a primer. Here are some general guidelines:
- Oily Skin: Look for mattifying primers that control shine and have oil-absorbing properties.
- Dry Skin: Opt for hydrating primers that provide moisture and a glow.
- Combination Skin: Choose a balanced primer that can target both oily and dry areas.
- Sensitive Skin: Go for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options to avoid irritation.
Finish Type
Primers come in various finishes, ranging from matte to luminous. Decide whether you want a dewy glow or a velvety matte finish based on your preferences and the look you aim to achieve.
Ingredients
Check the ingredient list for any allergens or skin irritants. Opt for primers enriched with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, or antioxidants for added skincare benefits.
Long-lasting Formulation
Look for primers that specifically mention long-wearing or extended wear for all-day makeup results.
Price and Value
While drugstore primers are generally more affordable than high-end options, evaluate the price in relation to the size of the product and its effectiveness.
User Reviews
Before making a purchase, check customer reviews on Amazon to gauge the experiences of others with the primer you’re considering.
Top 10 Best Drugstore Primers on Amazon in 2024
1. e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
The e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer has been making waves since its launch. This lightweight primer has a unique, velvety texture that fills in fine lines and pores, creating a smooth surface for foundation application. It is enriched with squalane, which helps to hydrate the skin while keeping oil at bay.
The Oil-free formula works wonders for all skin types and provides a beautiful, flawless finish.
Users rave about its affordability and performance, often comparing it to high-end primers. If you’re searching for the best drugstore primer for a poreless finish, this should be on your list.
- LIQUID MAKEUP PRIMER: Your favorite Poreless Putty Primer is now available in liquid form! This silky liquid face primer seamlessly glides over your skin.
- CREATES A PORELESS-LOOKING FINISH: This liquid face primer grips makeup for long-lasting wear and gives you a poreless-looking finish.
- INFUSED WITH SQUALANE: Infused with squalane. Great for oily, normal, dry & combination skin types.
- HOW TO USE: Apply prior to your makeup application to create a smooth canvas.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA.
2. Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser
Another fantastic product is the Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser. Known for its smooth and silky texture, this gel-based primer targets visible pores, leaving the skin soft and ready for makeup application. The lightweight formula glides on effortlessly and feels weightless throughout the day.
Its formula is designed to blur imperfections, making it a favorite among those with oily and combination skin. It adds a touch of radiance while controlling shine effectively, making it one of the best drugstore primers available.
- Pore less smooth skin perfection
- One second to smooth, pore less skin
- Visibly pore blurring smooth skin
3. NYX Professional Makeup Marshmallow Primer
For those seeking a unique blend of skincare and priming, the NYX Professional Makeup Marshmallow Primer is a delightful option. This primer hydrates and smooths the skin, thanks to its whipped marshmallow texture. It’s infused with vegan collagen, which aids in skin elasticity, making it suitable for all skin types.
This primer allows for longer-lasting makeup while giving a soft, dewy finish that many users love. Its lightweight feel makes it one of the top contenders for the best drugstore primer in 2024.
- Smoothing Primer: This primer smoothes, softens, hydrates, soothes, evens tone, minimizes texture, blurs lines, adds a soft focus finish AND keeps makeup fresh, extending your makeup wear all day
- The Marshmallow Effect: This vegan, non comedogenic and dermatologist tested super primer is infused with marshmallow root extract for an oh so soft smooth canvas with 10 make up extending benefits
- Face From Foundation To Finish: Complete your makeup look with our full line of face products to aid in color correction and coverage from concealer, blush, bronzer, foundations and contouring to palettes and powders
- Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
- Discover NYX Professional Makeup: Try all of our professional makeup products today from eyeshadow, eyeliner, and false lashes to liquid lipstick, lip gloss, primer, concealer, setting sprays and eyebrow makeup
4. Rimmel Stay Matte Primer
The Rimmel Stay Matte Primer is a classic choice for those with oily skin. With its oil-control formula, this matte primer minimizes shine and keeps makeup fresh for hours. It has a lightweight texture that feels comfortable on the skin and doesn’t clog pores.
This primer promises to keep your makeup in place, making it ideal for long days or humid conditions. Users praise its ability to extend the wear of their foundation, making it a budget-friendly choice for anyone looking to conquer shine.
- Skin perfecting
- Ultra-lightweight formula
- Controls shine for up to 8 hours
- Never feels greasy or heavy
- Helps makeup stay all day
5. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro Matte Lock Primer
The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro Matte Lock Primer is perfect for achieving a flawless, matte finish. This primer absorbs excess oil and minimizes the appearance of pores, ensuring a smooth foundation application. It has a lightweight texture that works well under various foundations, providing a long-lasting hold.
This product is especially noted for keeping makeup in place throughout the day, making it a favorite for those who experience makeup slippage. If you’re on the hunt for longevity and a matte finish, this is one to consider.
- L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation: Lightweight and creamy, foundation goes on smooth with a demi-matte finish that lasts up to 24 hours, hiding imperfections for a smooth, clear complexion
- Air-Light Matte-Finish Foundation Makeup: For a matte finish that won't fall flat, apply with fingers, makeup sponge, or foundation brush, starting at the center of the face and blending toward the jaw and hairline
- The Foundation Of Your Look: From natural to full coverage, L'Oréal Paris face makeup has what you need for a smooth, even finish; Highlight to illuminate, use concealer to hide imperfections or use contouring makeup for enhanced, defined features
- Because You're Worth It: L'Oreal Paris Makeup helps you create the look you want with our full line of makeup including foundations, concealers, highlighter makeup, brow pencils, eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks and much more
- Perfect To Pair With: L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro Matte Lock Longwear Face Primer; Pro Matte-Lock Primer smoothes skin to perfect your complexion and prime your face for a better makeup application
6. Covergirl TruBlend Base Business Skin Primer
If you’re looking for a versatile product, the Covergirl TruBlend Base Business Skin Primer has you covered. This primer is designed to give skin an even tone while prepping it for makeup. It contains skin-loving ingredients to hydrate and smooth out the skin, making it suitable for various skin types.
With its skin-caring benefits and ability to create a smooth surface for foundation, it’s gaining recognition as one of the top drugstore primers of 2024. Users appreciate its performance and the fact that it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin.
- Visibly reduces and blurs pores while mattifying shine
- Creates the perfect canvas for foundation
- Long-lasting, weightless feel
- Oil-free, fragrance-free
- Suitable for all skin types
7. Milani Hydrating Primer
The Milani Hydrating Primer is ideal for dry skin types. Packed with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid, this primer hydrates and smooths the skin while providing a radiant glow. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy finish, allowing makeup to glide on seamlessly.
This product is appreciated for giving a dewy finish, and it pairs beautifully with liquid foundations and tinted moisturizers. If you’re after a hydrating primer that leaves the skin looking fresh and luminous, consider adding this one to your collection.
- Erase Base Blemish Control Primer with 2% Salicylic Acid
- No Pore Zone Mattifying Primer for Makeup (1.0 FlOz.)- Matte Face Primer for Oily Skin
- SPF BFF Primer for Makeup (1.0 FlOz.)- Makeup Primer with Sunscreen SPF30
- Skin Quench Hydrating Primer for Makeup (1.0 FlOz.)- Moisturizing Face Primer
- Bright Side Primer for Makeup (1.0 FlOz.)- Brightening Face Primer for Dewy Skin
8. e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer
Another gem from e.l.f. is their Hydrating Face Primer. This is a budget-friendly option designed to keep skin moisturized and smooth throughout the day. With ingredients like glycerin, it ensures that your makeup applies evenly and lasts longer.
The primer creates a beautiful, luminous glow, making it perfect for those who want a radiant finish. Users love the application and the overall feel of the product, making it one of the best best drugstore primers on the market.
- DEEP HYDRATION BOOST: Infused with skin-conditioning ingredients, this hydrating face primer helps moisturize, soft, smooth, and prep skin for seamless makeup application.
- SMOOTHS PORES & FINE LINES: Silky formula helps blur the appearance of pores and fine lines, creating an even canvas that enhances foundation performance and promotes a flawless finish.
- LIGHTWEIGHT LONG-LASTING BASE: Comfortable, non-heavy texture extends makeup wear while maintaining a fresh look, helping foundation stay in place without caking or drying out skin.
- MAKEUP PREP ESSENTIAL: Designed to grip and prep skin, this primer improves application and blendability of foundation, making it ideal for everyday wear and all skin types.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA. e.l.f. brushes are synthetic, vegan & cruelty-free.
9. Smashbox Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer
While Smashbox is often associated with high-end cosmetics, their Photo Finish Oil & Shine Control Primer is surprisingly available at a drugstore price point. This product is specifically formulated to control oil and minimize shine throughout the day. With its unique blend of ingredients, it also helps reduce the look of pores and fine lines.
This primer is praised for its mattifying properties that ensure your makeup looks fresh from morning to night. Users have noted remarkable results, making it one of the must-have options for 2024.
- INSTANT OIL CONTROL: Excess oil production is kept in check keeping skin looking matte without drying it out.
- SKIN-DEFENDING: Strengthens skin against damage from environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light
- NON-ACNEGENIC: Won't make you break out. Travel Size.
10. Physicians Formula Spotlight Illuminating Primer
If you’re after a radiant glow, the Physicians Formula Spotlight Illuminating Primer is a fantastic choice. This illuminating primer contains a unique blend of ingredients that adds a touch of luminosity to the skin while smoothing out imperfections.
It can be worn alone for a natural glow or under foundation for a more polished look. Users appreciate its lightweight formula and the radiant finish it provides, making it suitable for all skin types seeking that extra glow.
- Grip & Glow: A long-wearing primer that locks makeup in place and enhances your glow.
- Prime Perfection: Primes and perfects the skin with a flawless, bronzed finish.
- Exclusive Glow Activator Technology: A targeted complex of Niacinamide, Phospholipids, and Vitamins C & E that helps enhance and extend the look of your tan while improving overall radiance.
- Cruelty-Free: All Physicians Formula foundations, eye makeup, lipsticks, and other cosmetics are always cruelty-free and never tested on animals.
Conclusion
Finding the best drugstore primer can significantly alter your makeup game, giving you a flawless finish that lasts all day. Whether you’re looking for oil control, hydration, or a beautiful glow, the products mentioned above cater to various skin types and preferences. Remember to consider your skin type and desired finish when selecting your primer for the best results. With options like e.l.f., Maybelline, NYX, and L’Oreal, you can achieve professional results without breaking the bank. Happy priming!
Last update on 2026-06-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | hishecozy.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.
