Primer is sold as mandatory. It is not. Use it when pores show through, when oil breaks foundation by noon, or when dry patches catch pigment. The five below cover blur, hydration, glow, high-street matte and a pearl finish.
Benefit The POREfessional Face Primer
Silky pore-filler that smooths a canvas under matte or dewy foundation. Use on the T-zone, not as a moisturiser.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer
Hybrid primer-moisturiser. Sensible on dry or mature skin that still wants blur.
Laura Mercier Radiance Primer Perfect & Protect
Dewy primer with SPF 30 for normal-to-dry skin that wants light, not oil.
Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer
Oil-free shine control for oily and combination skin. Invisible under makeup if you use little.
Charlotte Tilbury Wonder Glow
Primer plus moisturiser with a pearlescent finish. Brightens dull UK winter skin; keep it off very oily zones.
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When to use primer and when to skip it
If foundation applies smoothly, skip primer on weekdays. Keep it for long days, photographs, or visible pores.
Apply after moisturiser, wait a minute, then use a small amount. Silicone formulas pill if you layer them over damp, rich cream too fast.
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Read guide →Best Foundation for Mature Skin
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Read guide →Best Concealer UK
Makeup guide
Read guide →Frequently asked questions
Should I use primer every day?
Only if you have a reason: oil, pores or a long-wear day. Otherwise moisturiser plus foundation is enough.
Can I skip moisturiser if I use primer?
No. Primer is not moisturiser. Hydrate, wait, then prime.
What primer is best for large pores?
Silicone blur primers such as The POREfessional work as a temporary fill. Apply only where pores show.