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We Tested & Reviewed Drugstore Primers Under $25 and Landed on 13 Must-Haves

Including mattifying picks from Rimmel, pore-erasers from Maybelline, glow enhancers from Neutrogena, plus many more.

A collage of drugstore primers we recommend on a grey background

Byrdie / Reese Herrington

Any well-applied, seamlessly-blended makeup look all starts with a solid base. Primer can sometimes be a step skipped over or deemed unnecessary, but if being and working with makeup artists has taught us anything, it’s that the devil is in the details when it comes to achieving optimum skin results.

While primer may be one of the first steps in your makeup routine, it holds your look together and keeps it lasting longer. It can mattify or add glow, blur pores, and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and you’ll also be pleasantly surprised at how affordable some of the best primers are.

If you find your makeup always goes flaky, you can’t seem to control your shine, or if your eyeshadow is constantly creasing, it’s time to go back to the very start and sub in a primer after your moisturizer and before your makeup. Then watch in awe throughout the day at what an improvement this tiny step makes to the staying power of your products.

Different primers provide different benefits. We reviewed and tested a wide variety on every skin type and also had a peek inside our colleagues’ kits and got their favorites, with many saying the drugstore finds come out on top and work even better than the more expensive offerings. After conducting hours of research on the best affordable makeup primers—evaluating each product based on its ingredients, benefits, and finish—we landed on these drugstore gems.

What We Like
  • Non-comedogenic

  • Fragrance-free

  • Mattifies skin

What to Consider
  • Can leave a greasy residue

Living up to its nickname "Photoshop in a bottle," we could all see a difference in how this primer minimized our pores, especially around the cheeks and nose. Apply a few drops onto your bare face to instantly improve softness and smoothness. If you're looking to streamline your routine, you can also mix it straight in with your foundation—either way, you'll reap the complexion-enhancing benefits and delight in the all-day moisture it provides.

Who It's For

The ultra-silky texture works on every skin type, leaving oily skin mattified and dry skin hydrated and smooth. We tested it on dry skin and found that our entire face felt instantly smooth, soft, and moisturized. The pores around our nose and cheeks were magically minimized, too.

Key Ingredients: Silicone, silica, bitter cherry extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Before and after headshots of a woman testing Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer

Byrdie / Olivia Handcock

Read Full Review: This $7 Primer Is Literally the Blur Tool IRL—Trust

What We Like
  • Long-lasting

  • Lightweight

  • Controls t-zone shine

What to Consider
  • Those with dry skin may find this slightly drying, but we found when teamed with the right moisturizer, it worked on all complexions

The right primer can work wonders when it comes to keeping skin matte and tamping down sheen all day. We tried this particular shine-controlling option and can confirm it does just that and lasts hours. The best part for us was how it never felt too dry or resulted in a cakey appearance.

Who It's For

This product is best for those with oily skin looking to reduce shine all day long.

Key Ingredients: Silicone, silica, talc | Skin Type: Oily, dry | Dosage: Pea-size amount | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

What We Like
  • Oil-free

  • Boosts radiance

  • Recently reformulated to be fragrance-free

What to Consider
  • The tube is slightly smaller, but we found a little bit goes a long way with this product, so it should still last a long time

While there’s no product out there that can change the actual size of your pores, there are ways that you can make them appear smaller, like using a primer such as this one. The oil-free formula smooths away the look of prominent pores and has a subtle lilac tint that delivers an overall more luminous glow and gives skin a vibrant appearance. We also love that this primer has recently been reformulated to remove the fragrance, making it gentler and more sensitive-skin friendly.

Who’s It For

All skin types can enjoy this drugstore gem—especially if you want a matte finish that's still fresh and vibrant.

Key Ingredients: Silicone, silica, talc, retinol | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Revitalizes tired skin

  • Lightweight

  • Dermatologist tested

What to Consider
  • Due to the hydrating ingredients (which we love), this primer may need a couple more minutes to absorb before you apply your makeup

If your complexion looks dull, lackluster, and generally a bit drab, consider using this skincare-makeup hybrid. Part serum, part primer, it delivers a mammoth dose of hydration via hyaluronic acid (always a surefire way to boost radiance), leaving skin plumped, smooth, and refreshed. And per the primer part of things, we gave this product a try and found it definitely helped to keep our makeup locked in all day.

Who It's For

We know you’ve been on the go nonstop, which is why we love this glowy primer and serum for you. It’s the best remedy for tired, dry skin that needs a boost.

Key Ingredients: Purified hyaluronic acid concentrate | Skin Type: Dull, dry | Dosage: A few drops | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

What We Like
  • Mattifies skin

  • Special oil-eliminating properties

  • Absorbs instantly

What to Consider
  • Smaller size than other options, but only a tiny amount is necessary

This featherweight gel option is an especially beneficial choice as it dries down to an undetectable matte finish and boasts a natural astringent to help stop oil in its tracks. Use it all over or just on areas prone to excess sheen, like your T-zone.

Who It's For

Those with oily skin are excellent candidates for using this primer. Think of it as the key component in getting your skin and makeup to work together or an extra security measure to help keep your complexion mattified.

Key Ingredients: Witch hazel | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.42 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Non-comedogenic

  • Generous size

  • Hydrating

  • Contains SPF 30

What to Consider
  • May be slightly heavy for those with oily skin

This multi-functional find acts as a primer to smooth skin and prolong makeup wear, but the benefits don’t stop there. Cannabis sativa seed oil works to impart long-lasting hydration while also soothing skin, and there’s also your daily dose of SPF 30 in the mix, too.

Who It's For

Anyone who’s constantly searching for ways to streamline their morning routine (insert hand-raising emoji here) will appreciate this multi-tasker.

Key Ingredients: Cannabis sativa seed oil, avobenzone, homosalate, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | Skin Type: All | Dosage: Dime-size amount | Size: 2.5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Reduces redness

  • Lightweight

  • Evens skin tone

What to Consider
  • Can be drying

Don’t be freaked by the pale green color of this primer—it’s the secret weapon for minimizing unwanted redness. (Green neutralizes red because the two colors fall opposite one another on the color wheel.) This is a great option for when the temperatures start to soar and the summer flushes set in or in the winter when the tops of our noses and cheeks turn rosy from the cold.

Who It's For

This color-correcting pick is ideal for anyone dealing with rosacea or blemishes or wanting to soothe and even out their complexion, even before you reach for foundation and concealer.

Key Ingredients: Seaweed extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: No

What We Like
  • Mattifies skin

  • Dries clear

  • Boosts radiance

What to Consider
  • Go in light-handed with this product to avoid it looking cakey

This mattifying eyeshadow primer absorbs oil and acts as a buffer between skin and shadow—be it cream or powder—to keep it looking smooth and even. It dries clear but does also have a subtle illuminating effect, which is never a bad thing in our book.

Who It's For

If you’re constantly dealing with eyeshadow that slides and creases, consider prepping lids with this shadow primer beforehand.

Key Ingredients: Talc, silicone, polymers | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.34 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Hydrating formula

  • Prevents lipstick smudging and feathering

  • Enhances color

What to Consider
  • Might not work as well with darker shades of lipstick

Just like a good primer can ensure your foundation stays put, a lip primer can help lock lipstick in place. Simply line and fill in your pout with this creamy pencil; it creates the perfect canvas, helping lip color glide on smoothly and preventing it from ever bleeding or feathering.

Who It's For

If a bold lip color is a staple in your life, having this primer in your repertoire is the key to ensuring a long-lasting look that won’t smudge.

Key Ingredients: Wax, silica, jojoba esters | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Ophthalmologist-tested

  • Flake- and smudge-free

  • Enhances lash volume

What to Consider
  • May make eyelashes feel slightly heavier, but that was a small price to pay for us to get thicker lashes

Believe it, your lashes can also benefit from a primer. This particular pick makes lashes look extra long and thick, all while acting as a mascara magnet to ward off the potential for mid-day flakes or smudges. Don’t worry about the goopy-looking formula; it works best if you carefully comb it through as you apply, then let it set for about 30 seconds before topping it with mascara. FYI, this buy goes on white, but that cast disappears once you layer on mascara.

Who It's For

This product is great as a daytime alternative to wearing fake eyelashes for anyone who loves a bold lash look all day.

Key Ingredients: Wax, polymers, jojoba oil | Size: 0.2 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

What We Like
  • Lightweight and silky-smooth

  • Blurs and softens imperfections

  • Three shade options

What to Consider
  • May not work with sensitive skin

Many say NYX Studio Perfect Primer is a dupe of Smashbox's beloved Photo Finish Primer. The lightweight, silky-smooth formula offers color correction while blurring pores, softening fine lines, and creating a smooth canvas for makeup application. Just a heads up, the silicone-based formula might irritate sensitive skin.

Who It's For

This product is perfect for those who need a two-in-one color corrector and skin smoother.

Key Ingredients: Silicone | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 ounce | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Smooths bumps

  • Soothes inflammation

  • Prevents future breakouts

What to Consider
  • Can be hard to spread

This putty-style primer from e.l.f. smooths bumps to create a more even surface for makeup application, but it doesn't stop there. The double-duty formula calls on zinc to soothe inflammation and salicylic acid to prevent future breakouts, while kaolin clay helps keep oil under control.

Who It's For

As our superlative mentions, this is the top pick for anyone who needs help covering up or preventing breakouts.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, zinc, kaolin clay | Skin Type: Acne-prone, oily | Size: 0.7 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

What We Like
  • Dries quickly

  • Lightweight feel

  • Enhances eyeshadow pigment

What to Consider
  • Smaller tube but a tiny amount is all you need

Despite the smaller size tube, this primer never seems to end. A minuscule dot across the lids makes a world of difference to the overall finish of your eye makeup, especially if you are rocking a smokey eye. It prevents creasing on even the most hooded eyes and extends the wear of eyeshadow to keep your makeup always looking freshly appliedWe were particularly impressed with how well our makeup held up even in the sweltering summer heat waves.

Who It's For

Anyone who wants long-lasting eye makeup can give this product a try—it’s the perfect base for a soft or bold look.

Skin Type: All  | Size: 0.3 Fl. Oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Where We Stand

Primers are a crucial step in any makeup routine, as it’s not only a base for makeup, but a way to ensure your makeup stays on all day while addressing some skin concerns, like radiance, smoothing, blurring, and more. Our unanimous favorite is the Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer, which felt ultra-silky upon application and left our skin with a Photoshop-like blurring effect. If you’re looking to conceal your pores, try COVERGIRL Trublend Base Business Pore Minimizing Skin Primer as its oil-free formula smooths away the look of prominent pores while also lifting the appearance of skin with its lilac tint. Lastly, if you’re looking for a great budget-friendly buy, our recommendation is the Rimmel Stay Matte Mattifying Primer.

What to Consider When Buying Drugstore Primer

  • Avoid Silicone: If you see silicone on the back of the label, explains Kelli J. Bartlett, NYC-based makeup artist, put it back down. She recommends opting for primer with silica instead, like BLK/OPL Invisible Oil Blocking Gel Primer, as it can help absorb oil naturally without drying skin out.
  • Concern: Primers are typically made to address one chief concern. Therefore, explains Bartlett, you should stick to only your top needs to get the most out of your primer. For instance, Neutrogena Prep + Correct Primer addresses redness, and Covergirl Base Business Face Primer helps minimize the appearance of large pores.
  • Seasonal: Based on the season or temperature, you’ll need a primer for different concerns. During winter months you might need a primer for dry skin that lets you apply more makeup seamlessly, notes Bartlett. “In summer, you might be looking for a radiant primer that lets your skin shine with SPF,” says Bartlett. NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Primer SPF 30 is one of our favorite options with built-in sun protection.
FAQ
  • What primer is best for normal skin?

    The ideal primer for you depends on what your goal is. Primers can do everything from blur fine lines to hydrate to color correct. For normal or balanced skin, you’ll probably want a primer that hydrates or blurs.

  • Does primer have to match your skin tone?

    Primer is available in both clear and tinted varieties. If you’re unsure what shade is right for you, choose a clear option. Whichever kind you choose, primer’s main job is to act like spackle. They moisturize, plump the skin, and fill in any fine lines, pores, and wrinkles, so your foundation won't settle into them.

  • What is green primer?

    Green primer is used to counteract redness in skin. It’s a great choice if you have acne, rosacea, or if your skin becomes red easily. You’ll want to only use green primer on the areas of your face where you are experiencing redness.

  • What comes first, moisturizer or primer?

    Moisturizer comes before primer. Moisturizer should usually be the last step in your skincare routine, while primer should be your first step before applying makeup.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Clare Holden has been a fan of beauty and fashion since she was a child. While studying for her degree in Journalism and Communications, Clare worked at makeup counters part-time. After graduating, she went back and trained as a makeup artist after falling in love with beauty and skincare. She has done makeup for fashion shoots, TV, weddings, and events and has written for publications all over the world.

For this story, Team Byrdie worked with an expert to gather more insights about what to keep in mind when buying drugstore primers:

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough drugstore primers from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
  1. Bravo B, Correia P, Gonçalves Junior JE, Sant'Anna B, Kerob D. Benefits of topical hyaluronic acid for skin quality and signs of skin aging: From literature review to clinical evidence. Dermatol Ther. 2022;35(12):e15903. doi:10.1111/dth.15903

  2. Martins AM, Gomes AL, Vilas Boas I, Marto J, Ribeiro HM. Cannabis-Based Products for the Treatment of Skin Inflammatory Diseases: A Timely Review [published correction appears in Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022 Jul 11;15(7):]. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(2):210. Published 2022 Feb 9. doi:10.3390/ph15020210

  3. Gupta, M et al. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatology research and practice vol. 2014 (2014): 709152. doi:10.1155/2014/709152

  4. Woodruff, A, et al. A double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of a 2% salicylic acid cleanser for improvement of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Published 2013 April 1.

  5. Moosavi M. Bentonite Clay as a Natural Remedy: A Brief Review. Iran J Public Health. 2017 Sept. 46(9):1176-1183. PMID: 29026782; PMCID: PMC5632318.

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