Best Foundation Primers of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Foundation primers are an essential part of any makeup routine. They create a smooth base for foundation application and help it stay in place for longer. Primers come in different formulas, such as silicone-based, water-based, and oil-free, to cater to different skin types. Some primers also contain skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to hydrate and protect the skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, there is a primer out there that can help you achieve a flawless and long-lasting makeup look.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Cover #TOP 1
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.9
FREEORR One Step Color Corrector Primer SPF 50+ Cover #TOP 2
FREEORR One Step Color Corrector Primer SPF 50+
ftb score rating icon 9.8
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer Cover #TOP 3
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Foundation Primers

#TOP 1

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

82846
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer Cover
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer For Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, 0.811 Fl Oz (24 ml.)

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is a gel-based, hydrating face primer that grips makeup and smoothes skin for a seamless complexion. The formula is non-comedogenic and moisturizes skin with powerful ingredients, like Hyaluronic Acid, for a plump finish. It is suitable for all skin types and skin tones. To use, apply evenly to the face before makeup using fingertips. The product is 100% cruelty-free and vegan.

What We Like
Long-lasting makeup hold
Smooth, hydrating texture
Works with various foundations
Lightweight, non-heavy feel
Cost-effective, small amount needed
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
Slight initial stickiness
#TOP 2

FREEORR One Step Color Corrector Primer SPF 50+

FREEORR One Step Color Corrector Primer SPF 50+ Cover
FREEORR 2 Pcs One Step Color Corrector Primer, 3 In 1 Face Primer Before Makeup, Sunscreen Isolation Cream, SPF 50+, Skin Tone Correcting, Oil Control and Moisturizing, Radiance Skin

The FREEORR Color Correcting Primer offers a simple all-in-one solution to prepare your skin for makeup. It helps even out redness and uneven tones with its green, purple, and pink color-correcting pigments, giving you a smooth base to apply your foundation. This primer also provides strong sun protection with SPF 50+, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays while preventing premature aging. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula controls oil and keeps your skin hydrated, ensuring your makeup stays fresh and natural-looking. You can quickly apply it alone or under makeup to achieve a radiant and flawless complexion every day.

What We Like
Color correction
High SPF 50+ protection
Oil control and hydration
Lightweight, non-greasy formula
#TOP 3

L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer

071249629000
Primer
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer Cover
L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Face Blurring Primer Infused with Caring Serum Smoothes Liners and Pores

Age Perfect Blurring Face Primer by L'Oreal Paris is a foundation primer infused with a caring serum that can be worn alone or with foundation. It instantly smooths the appearance of lines and pores, giving a natural-looking, soft-focus finish. The universal rosy formula is flattering and helps boost healthy looking, radiant skin. It also works to improve skin appearance over time, leaving skin smoother and softer after each use.

What We Like
Smooths fine lines and pores
Lightweight, silky texture
Blurring and softening effect
Long-lasting makeup hold
Ideal for mature skin
What We Don't Like
Minimal skincare ingredients
Subtle tint, not a color corrector
#TOP 4

e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer

83406
Hydrating Blue
e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer Cover
e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer, Makeup Primer For Flawless, Smooth Skin & Long-Lasting Makeup, Fills In Pores & Fine Lines, Vegan & Cruelty-free, Small

The e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is a lightweight, long-lasting, and creamy formula that hydrates, smooths, and fills in pores and fine lines, leaving a natural matte finish. Infused with Vitamin E and grape, Vitamins A, C, & E, it helps boost complexion and hydrate your skin, creating a flawless, smooth canvas ideal for long-lasting makeup application, perfect for acne-prone, combination, and oily skin. It's cruelty-free, vegan and made from skin-loving ingredients at a good-for-you price.

What We Like
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
Hydrates and plumps skin
Smooth, flawless makeup base
Long-lasting foundation wear
Affordable and great value
What We Don't Like
May feel waxy for some
#TOP 5

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

C6R8010000
Clear
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Cover
Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Makeup Primer | Instantly Smooths and Blurs Fine Lines and Pores | Vitamins A + E, 0.34 Fl Oz

Smashbox Photo Finish is a versatile makeup primer that enhances your skin's appearance. It effectively smooths out the look of pores and fine lines, giving you a flawless base for makeup application. This primer also helps your makeup last longer, ensuring you look your best throughout the day. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier against environmental pollutants and stressors, keeping your skin safe. Suitable for all skin types, this vegan and cruelty-free primer is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their makeup routine.

What We Like
Smoothes and blurs skin texture
Minimizes fine lines
Improves makeup longevity
Lightweight and non-comedogenic
Infused with vitamins and antioxidants
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
May cause breakouts for some
#TOP 6

Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer

SG_B00G40FJH4_US
Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer Cover
Lancôme La Base Pro Perfecting Oil-Free Makeup Primer | Smoothing Face Primer for All Skin Types | Creates a Flawless, Matte Canvas for Long-Lasting Makeup Application | 0.8 Fl Oz

Lancôme La Base Pro Makeup Primer is an oil-free primer that creates a smooth base for makeup application, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin feeling smooth and soft. The primer is based on Lancôme Elasto-Smooth Technology that refines skin's texture, diffuses light, visibly reduces imperfections, and creates a smooth base. Suitable for all skin types, it provides the desired "air brushed look" without the mess or the mechanics.

What We Like
Silky lightweight texture
Blurs pores and fine lines
Long-lasting makeup hold
Controls shine
Smooths foundation application
What We Don't Like
Container could be improved
Silicone feel may not suit all
#TOP 7

Maybelline Grippy Serum Primer

0041554097993
Clear
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Maybelline Grippy Serum Primer Cover
Maybelline Grippy Serum Primer, Hydrating Makeup Primer with 2% Niacinamide For Up To 24HR Make Up Wear, Clear, 1 Count

The Maybelline Grippy Primer is designed for long-lasting wear, gripping your makeup for up to 24 hours. Its unique Serum-To-Grip technology transforms from a fresh serum into a sticky texture, ensuring your makeup stays in place. This water-based formula includes 2% Niacinamide, providing hydration and a plumped skin appearance. You’ll appreciate that it applies smoothly without leaving a greasy residue or white cast, making it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. It layers well with various makeup products, giving you a perfect canvas for any look.

What We Like
Long-lasting makeup hold
Blurs pores and smooths skin
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
Affordable price
Non-irritating for sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
Chemical-like scent on application
Awkward dropper packaging
#TOP 8

e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer

83405
Poreless White
e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer Cover
e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer, Restoring Makeup Primer For A Flawless, Smooth Canvas, Infused With Tea Tree & Vitamin A, Vegan & Cruelty-Free.47 Oz

The e.l.f. Poreless Face Primer is a tea tree and vitamins A- & E-infused primer that perfects your skin and locks in moisture. The silky base minimizes pores and imperfections, giving your makeup all-day lasting ability. Apply a small amount prior to foundation and/or concealer for a smooth canvas. The product is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. e.l.f. Cosmetics provides professional-quality products at affordable prices, believing that beauty should be accessible to all.

What We Like
Blurs pores and fine lines
Silky, lightweight texture
Extends makeup wear time
Affordable price point
Creates smooth, flawless base
What We Don't Like
Scent may not appeal to all
Packaging issues for some users
#TOP 9

Xiuxixu 3-in-1 Face Primer SPF 50

Xiuxixu
SADOER-faceprime-purple
Multicolor
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Xiuxixu 3-in-1 Face Primer SPF 50 Cover
3 In 1Primer for Face Before Makeup,Sunscreen Isolation Cream, SPF 50, One Step Color Corrector Face Primer, Blurs Imperfections Oil Control & Moisturizing Skin Tone Correcting,Radiance Skin

The Xiuxixu 3-in-1 Primer is designed to make your makeup routine easier and more effective. It works as a color corrector that balances your skin tone by blending three pigments, helping to hide imperfections. This primer also moisturizes your skin, keeping it comfortable and fresh without any sticky feeling. Its lightweight texture feels natural and is gentle enough for sensitive skin, making it a great choice for everyone. Plus, you can use it alone or under makeup to create a smooth, flawless look quickly and easily.

What We Like
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
SPF 50 sun protection
Redness and tone correction
Oil control and long-lasting makeup
Smooth, natural finish
What We Don't Like
May peel on dry skin
Limited effect on hyperpigmentation
#TOP 10

e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Primer, Matte Finish

83413
Matte White
e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Primer, Matte Finish Cover
e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Primer, Primer For A Smooth Foundation Base, Fills In Fine Lines & Refines Complexion, Vegan & Cruelty-free, Large

The e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Primer is a velvety base that preps your skin by locking in moisture and letting your makeup glide on smoothly, all while giving it all-day lasting ability. Apply a small amount evenly over your face prior to foundation and/or concealer application. The product is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, and free from phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol, ethoxylates, triclosan, triclocarban, and hydroquinone. e.l.f. Cosmetics believes beauty should be accessible to every eye, lip, and face by providing professional-quality products at affordable prices.

What We Like
Silky smooth finish
Minimizes pores and redness
Lightweight, non-greasy texture
Long-lasting makeup hold
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
May not suit sensitive skin
Contains silicone
Buying Guide Image

All You Need to Know About Buying Foundation Primers

What is a Foundation Primer?

A foundation primer is a product that is applied to the skin before applying foundation. It is designed to create a smooth and even canvas for the foundation to adhere to, resulting in a flawless and long-lasting finish.

Why Do I Need a Foundation Primer?

A good foundation primer can make all the difference in the wear and durability of your foundation. It helps to fill in pores and fine lines, creating a smooth surface for the foundation to cling to. This can help to prevent your foundation from creasing, smudging, or fading throughout the day.

In addition to creating a smoother base, a foundation primer can also help to improve the overall appearance of your skin. Many primers contain ingredients that can help to nourish and hydrate the skin, resulting in a more radiant and healthy-looking complexion.

How to Choose a Foundation Primer

When it comes to choosing a foundation primer, there are a few key factors to consider.

First and foremost, it's important to choose a primer that is specifically designed for your skin type. If you have oily skin, opt for a matte primer that will help to control shine and reduce the appearance of pores. For dry skin, look for a hydrating primer that will help to moisturize and plump up the skin.

Next, consider the finish you want to achieve with your foundation. If you prefer a natural, dewy finish, choose a primer with a radiant finish that will help to create a subtle glow. For a matte finish, opt for a primer with a matte finish that will help to reduce shine and create a smooth, velvety texture.

Finally, consider the ingredients in the primer. If you have sensitive skin, it's important to choose a primer that is free of potentially irritating ingredients, such as fragrances and dyes. For those with specific skincare concerns, like acne or uneven skin tone, look for a primer that contains ingredients that can help to address those issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a foundation primer is an essential step in achieving a flawless and long-lasting makeup look. By choosing a primer that is specifically designed for your skin type and concerns, and that matches the finish you want to achieve with your foundation, you can create the perfect canvas for your makeup and ensure a smooth, radiant, and long-lasting finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does primer do to your foundation?

A foundation primer is applied before your makeup to help your foundation apply smoothly, stay in place, and create an even skin tone. Some primers also provide additional benefits like hydration and a glowing complexion.

2. Is primer necessary before foundation?

Using a primer before foundation is not necessary, but it offers several benefits. Whether or not to use a primer depends on your skin type, concerns, and desired finish. It can help enhance the longevity of your makeup and address specific skin concerns.

3. Is there a primer that fills in wrinkles?

Yes, there are primers available that can help fill in the appearance of wrinkles. One example is StriVectin's LINEblurFECTOR Instant Wrinkle Blurring Primer, which instantly fills and blurs deep wrinkles while extending the wear of your makeup.

4. Do you put primer all over your face before foundation?

Yes, it is recommended to apply primer all over your face before applying foundation. This ensures an even application and helps prevent patchiness or uneven wear of your makeup.

5. Do you put moisturizer or primer first?

The correct order of application is moisturizer first, followed by primer, and then foundation. Allow enough time for the moisturizer to absorb before applying primer to maximize the benefits of both products.

6. Are you supposed to let primer dry before applying foundation?

It is crucial to let the primer dry completely before applying foundation. Waiting for at least a minute allows the primer to set and reduces the risk of pilling or uneven application. Additionally, it is essential to choose a primer suitable for your skin type to achieve the best results.

Editor's Notes

During our foundation primer research, we found 48 foundation primer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 531,542 customer reviews through our big data system to write the foundation primers list. We found that most customers choose foundation primers with an average price of $12.21.

The foundation primers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of foundation primers, including e.l.f., FREEORR, L'Oreal Paris, Smashbox, MAYBELLINE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Foundation Primers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand e.l.f. FREEORR L'Oreal Paris e.l.f. Smashbox Lancôme MAYBELLINE e.l.f. Xiuxixu e.l.f.
Item Form Gel Cream Cream Cream Gel Gel Serum Cream Cream Cream
Skin Type All All All All All All All All All All
Product Benefits Hydrating - Radiant Skin,Smoothening,Softening Hydrating, Smoothening Primes & nourishes. Instantly smooths and blurs the look of pores and fine lines. Helps makeup look better, longer. Controls shine instantly while leaving skin soft and satiny without feeling greasy. Long Lasting, Hydrating Smoothening Moisturizing Smoothening
Package Information Bottle - Tube Tube Tube Tube Bottle Bottle Bottle Tube
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy