Best Pore Concealer Primer Cream Guide
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Do you want to know a secret about achieving a skin-like makeup finish? Here, let me tell you: primers. Makeup primer is your best friend.
A pore concealer primer cream is a makeup product that reduces the appearance of pores. When you apply this product to the skin, it also smoothes the face. Hence, it creates a canvas for the rest of the makeup. Like any makeup step, you set up a great base that guarantees it will last a long time.
Do you have a hard time finding the perfect primer? Because of my oily skin, I always ensure that my primer is shine-free and can mattify my skin. Numerous brands sell this product, which caters to different skin types. Make sure that you buy a primer that you can see yourself using all the time.
Continue reading to learn more about choosing the correct pore concealer primer cream. Read the rest of the blog below for my best picks of makeup primers on the market today.
Bottom Line Up Front
I obsess over the Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer. I find this primer the best one so far that I use in my makeup routine.
This face primer is the best for me as someone with face textures. It smoothes out everything, gives coverage, and minimizes my pores. The great thing about this makeup primer is that it sits great on top of the rest of my makeup. The formula of the primer formula goes well with my foundation too. Also, it contains SPF and is such a huge bonus! Even without foundation, my face still looks good—so great!
My Top Picks Up Front
- Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer
- e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
- Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer
- Beauty Blender The Leveler™ Pore Minimizing Primer
- Wet n Wild Coverall Primer
- L’Oréal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer
- Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer In Soft Matte
- Make Up For Ever Step 1 Primer Pore Minimizer
- Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer
- NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Primer
- Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Primer
- NARS Pore & Shine Control Primer
Alternatives to Pore Concealer Primer Cream
- Photo Finish Super Light Primer (Smooth & Blur)
- Hourglass Vanish™ Airbrush Primer
- Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer
- Tarte Poreless Mattifying Primer
- Rare Beauty Pore Diffusing Primer
Tips to Pick Out the Best Pore Concealer Primer Cream
This blog tackles pore concealer primer creams for specific skin types, different brands, and formulas. Most importantly, primers of different shades are on the list below. Before anything else, here are some tips on how to pick the perfect pore concealer primer cream for your face.
Find the Right Primer for Your Makeup
There are a lot of things you need to prepare before laying down your primer. A few people may find this product unnecessary, but primers have a vital role in your overall makeup look. The first thing you need to do is: identify your skin type. From there, you observe the textures of your skin and other factors you want to cover.
And do not fret—there is a wide range of primer options on the market that cater to every skin type. The most common of all skin types is combination skin, where you may be oily in the t-zone but dry in other areas. Of course, as humans, as we are, these differ from person to person.
In addition, if you have oily skin, you may want to avoid oil-based pore concealer primer creams. Your face will look too oily, and we do not want that. Instead, I suggest picking a mattifying primer, which blots your natural oils. If you have large, oily pores, choose a primer that minimizes the appearance of pores.
And if you have dry skin, avoid mattifying primers. Instead, opt for a hydrating pore concealer primer cream. Moreover, you can also choose an oil-based primer that leaves you with a soft-dewy base.
Do Not Skip Your Primer
As mentioned above, do not skip out on applying primers. Besides the aforementioned, primers help in holding your makeup. As a base, its use is also to create a smoother base that lessens the face texture. That is why some brands also include disclaimers like blurs the pores and others.
Pick the Right Formula
A lot of primers today have their concoctions for creating one. Primers contain a silicone-based ingredient, which is the most common component you can find in it.
Moreover, makeup artists say primers improve facial textures like large pores, wrinkles, and lines. You should also find a primer whose formula will not clash with your other products. It should go well with your foundation, concealer, and all that jazz to achieve that seamless look.
Always Check the Skincare Ingredients
Depending on the nature of your skin, find a primer that you are sure can help your base. Aside from that, to ensure you are not allergic to any, carefully read the ingredient list. One ingredient commonly found in primers is salicylic acid. This ingredient helps in fighting acne on your face.
Identify What Needs To be Hidden
Aside from knowing your skin type, it is vital to see what skin texture you want to hide. Examples are acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, discoloration, wrinkles, and fine lines, to name a few. For acne scars, you need a primer that can help fight it with ingredients like vitamin E, glycerin, or chamomile for relief.
Next, for hyperpigmentation or discoloration, a primer with a color tint will do as long as the color cancels out any redness or darkness in your skin. Lastly, for mature skin with wrinkles or fine lines, a nourishing primer adds moisture back to your skin.
Understand Your Skin Type
In identifying your primer of choice, you should listen to your skin! There are a lot of variations of skin types. There is a normal, dry, oily, combination (oily and dry skin) and sensitive skin. Your skin type and primer should match to achieve a longer wear time and a smooth finish.
Look for Trusted Brands
In general, you should buy cosmetic products that are legitimate and trusted by many. Reviews online and by word of mouth are your best friends. Beauty influencers are also a great source of information about makeup. My personal favorite is Nikkie (Nikkietutorials). Buyers usually leave comments on shopping sites for reviews online that you may want to check out.
Also, be careful with counterfeit makeup products! Some people make cheaper versions of the product and are untrustworthy. Instead, I suggest you double-check the sites or stores where you plan to buy primers. In that way, you can secure the authenticity of the product.
Makeup Finish
When it comes to the finish of the primer, it all depends on your personal preference. You may want it to have a matte finish, a dewy one, or a brightening finish. You may also prefer a primer that balances your skin tone; it is all up to your personal choice. I want mine to have a dewy one, just because I want my base to look alive and not flat.
Long-Lasting Glow
Since a primer cream acts as a base for the makeup to last longer, it should be true to its name. You want your primer to stick around a lot longer so that you do not have to reapply it throughout the day. Also, it should grip the other products on your face, like your foundation. Find products that indicate their staying power.
How I Apply Pore Concealer Primer Cream
First, I make sure that I prep my skin. Eventually, skin prep is worth it despite its tediousness. I cleanse, tone, and moisturize. I also try to go extra and put on a face mask. After that, I use sunscreen to protect myself from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Next, I apply the primer using a flat brush on the t-zone. Then, I apply it as evenly as I can all over my face. I also wait a couple of minutes until the base is tacky enough to proceed to my other makeup routine.
How I Chose This: Pore Concealer Primer Cream
First, I look at my skin and identify which skin type I belong. Then I check out any textures I want to hide and also take note of this. Then, I look up reviews on which brand of primer cream works best for me.
Next, I looked at the brand’s overview. Then, I read how long they have been in the cosmetic business. Afterward, I would also search for a review of the company itself and how reputable they are. I do not mind how much it will cost as long as it is worth its price point.
I also include various makeup primer types in my options. There are matte, hydrating, illuminating, and color-correcting primers. I live for cream formulas as they feel great on my skin. I also ensure that it will last throughout the day and will not crack beneath everything.
My Favorite Pore Concealer Primer Cream
At last, we are finally here! Here is some pore concealer primer cream that I recommend for your next check-out.
Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer
This is by far the best primer for me on this list. It applies easily to the skin, which leaves it so smooth! Gone are your insecurities on your face with this makeup primer.
It is light and gives off a great glow. My skin is not shiny at all after application. A bit of a downside is that some people experience a sticky finish due to the primer. Also, some have issues with the tube’s size and taking into account its higher price point.
Pros
- Contains SPF
- Hydrates skin
Cons
- Expensive
- Comes off as oily for some skin types
E.L.F Poreless Putty Primer
This is one of my favorite primers on this list. The e.l.f Poreless Putty Primer is hands-down my holy grail. Moreover, this is a drugstore makeup product, accessible almost everywhere. This primer contains the ingredient squalane, which helps grip the makeup for all-day wear.
I find this primer a dupe for the Tatcha primer since it is similar in consistency and coverage. For a cheap price, you get a high-quality base, which makes it worth it.
However, you will see your pores reemerge after a couple of hours. In Jeffree Star’s review of this product, he observed that some of his pores started to show up a few hours after application. Although he praises the product, I agree that it is a great substitute for the Tatcha primer. Overall, it is one of the best primers at its price point.
Pros
- Silky smooth finish
- Poreless look
- Long-lasting
- Makeup lasts longer
- Acts as a good base for foundation
Cons
- Does not mix well with other makeup products
- Makeup comes off as a bit patchy
- Has a scent or odor
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Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer
One of the great things about this product is that you only need a small amount for your face. It also smells great, and its fragrance is not that unpleasant. It melts into the skin and feels like a moisturizer. After a few hours, it still leaves your skin silky smooth.
Although, I would not call it long-lasting, as your pores reappear after a few hours. However, it gives your skin a youthful glow.
Pros
- Smoothing effect
- A little amount goes a long way
- Smooth, silky finish
Cons
- Does not mix well with gel and alcohol-rich moisturizers
- Less oil control
Beauty Blender The Leveler ™ Pore Minimizing Primer
The Beauty Blender primer is also one of the drugstore primers on top of my list. This makeup primer contains niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of redness, large pores, and uneven texture. I attest that this primer holds up to its claims.
It is a thick formula, so you should be careful in your application. Like with other consumers, it is hard to get the product out of the bottle. I have a hard time squeezing the product out of its packaging.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Blurs pores
- Evens out skin tone
Cons
- Packaging problems- trouble opening the product due to the bottle
- Not meant for the dry skin types
Wet n Wild Coverall Primer
If you are looking for an ordinary primer that is not pore-filling or does not give a dewy look, then this is perfect for you. This is one of the cheapest primers on my list. It sticks the makeup better on my face, which I think is great.
However, if you are looking for a matte finish, I suggest you find another brand. In the opinion of YouTuber Lavinia Rusanda, the formula is more on the hydrating side.
Pros
- Smoother makeup application
- Hydrating
Cons
- Does not blurs pores
L’Oréal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer
This makeup primer is a drugstore makeup that you can easily find and buy anywhere. It contains a silky, lightweight formula that glides onto my skin. It also minimizes my pores and my skin feels smooth to the touch. The bonus is that this primer is suitable for all skin types.
However, the formula is not mixing well with my foundation. It is like piling on my skin rather than blending into it.
Pros
- Glides easily
- Matte finish
- Allows foundation and concealer to glide onto the skin
Cons
- Thick formula
- Makes everything flaky and dry
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer in Soft Matte
This is one of the few primers that work well for all skin types. The Fenty Beauty primer is a universal product that stops shine, diffuses pores, and provides longer wear. What I like the most about this one is that it instantly evens out my skin tone, especially since I have redness around my nose area.
I had a similar experience with my favorite beauty influencer, NikkieTutorials, where the primer almost hugs the face. The primer finishes with a soft velvety look on the face. However, I have to quickly work on the product because it dries a bit instantly.
Pros
- Great base layer
- Filter-like blurring effect
- Did not add texture
Cons
- Dries too quickly for oily skin
Make Up For Ever Step 1 Primer Pore Minimizer
This is also one of my favorite primers on this list. The primer is not greasy and feels light on the skin. This makeup primer cream leaves my skin super smooth and the makeup lasts the whole day! It finishes matte, which produces the same results as YouTuber C Key.
However, I find that this primer does not work very well for my foundation. It comes off as a bit cakey instead. My pores are still present on top of my foundation. Moreover, the pores did not look smooth after a few hours.
Pros
- Blurs and minimizes pores
- Great canvass for foundation
- Leaves skin soft
Cons
- A little drying
- Strong scent
Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Makeup Primer
If you have dry skin, then this is one of the primers you should get. This primer helps out with any skin dryness. Whether it is winter or humid, your skin feels great in it. Furthermore, it glides and absorbs well onto the skin. A bit of a downside to this is that some buyers say the primer caused them to break out after. For me, my skin feels smooth after applying it but my pores are still showing a bit.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Leaves skin soft
Cons
- Strong scent
NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Primer
This makeup primer is almost identical to the Benefit Porefessional Primer. It is lightweight, non-drying, and blurs pores and lines. Furthermore, it applies smoothly to the skin with a translucent finish.
However, if you are on the drier side, this primer is not for you. It gives a matte finish and works well on oily skin. For YouTuber Gossmakeupchat, you get your money’s worth since it minimizes shine and fills in pores temporarily.
Pros
- A softer and smoother skin texture
- Matte finish
- Great for oily or combination skin
Cons
- Grainy or lumpy product out of the tube
- Flakes off the skin
- Less pore blurring
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Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Primer
First and foremost, this makeup primer is the most expensive product on my list. Its packaging bottle is very high-end, unlike other primers. It blurs the skin upon application. However, I feel that the primer feels a bit slippery. The primer is kind of a letdown, but it is mainly due to my oily skin type.
Pros
- Skin blurring
- Lightweight
Cons
- Expensive
NARS Pore & Shine Control Primer
This is a mattifying, refining, and pore minimizing primer. This Nars primer diminishes the look of pores over time. What I love most about this one is that it controls shine and is oil-free too. The only thing that I am not a fan of is the smell of the primer. Just like YouTuber Ask Candace, it seems to have a paint-like smell to it. Overall, the results are okay and mattify the skin.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Blurs imperfections
- Great for oily skin
Cons
- Does not mix well with foundation
- Flakey after application
Smashbox Photo Finish Super Light Primer (Smooth & Blur)
This is one of the makeup primers that are both vegan and cruelty-free. This works well if you have fine lines since this covers it just right. It also minimizes pores and is lightweight on the skin. Moreover, the Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Oil-Free Foundation Primer also minimizes the appearance of pores.
Some comment that even though the primer’s texture is great, it did not last long on their skin. In my experience, the primer feels great on the skin, but I struggle a bit in blending it with the rest of my makeup.
Pros
- Contains Vitamin A and Vitamin E
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Not ideal for sensitive skin
Hourglass Vanish™ Airbrush Primer
This face primer is the best primer for me as someone with a lot of face textures. It smoothes out everything, controls the shine in my oily face, and minimizes pores. The great thing about this makeup primer is that it sits well on top of the rest of my makeup.
One small issue I had is that there were times when it became patchy, especially in my nose area. However, the issue is fixed when I add a little more amount the next time I apply it to my skin.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Blurs out pores
- Blurred, airbrush finish
Cons
- Tendency to not control oils in the face
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer
This is a lightweight, water-based cream primer. The Milk Makeup primer smooths skin, grips makeup, and locks in hydration. Also, this blurs pores and controls shine for a long-lasting soft matte finish. I also love how it lessens the shine on the face, which is a yay for oily skin types like mine.
However, the pore blurring is not working for me. It leaves my nose looking cakey. Also, like Nyma Tang’s review, this primer is decent but does not have a wow factor.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Longer wear
Cons
- Primer does not last all-day
- Not really pore-blurring
Tarte Poreless Mattifying Primer
The Tarte Poreless Mattifying Primer minimizes the look of pores and removes shine. Also, this is a mattifying and retexturizing face primer. I also love how it is not greasy and gives my face a satin finish. One disadvantage I find with this makeup primer is that the formula is too thick for my taste. Moreover, my skin feels heavy after application.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Longer wear
Cons
- Primer does not last for a long time
- Some reviews say that it caused their skin to break out (but that did not happen to me)
Rare Beauty Pore Diffusing Primer
This primer smooths away the look of skin texture and extends makeup wear. Also, primer by Rare Beauty hydrates the skin while fighting shine all day, which I adore. I love how it evens out my skin and creates a smooth base for the rest of my makeup.
The first thing I do not like about the product is that you need to apply a lot of it to make a difference. Second, it makes the rest of my makeup move around and does not last very long.
Pros
- Lightweight but holds makeup well
- Mattifying
- Has blurring effect
Cons
- Made foundation clumpy
- Makeup did not last long
Pulling Off the Perfect Glass-Skin Look
Okay, so you have created your base for your other makeup products to stay on top. So what is next? You can proceed with your foundation, concealer, contour, bronzer, blush, and highlight. Do not forget to spray a makeup mist or makeup spray on every layer.
If the vibe you are feeling is “makeup, no makeup” then nothing to worry about. You can opt for a tinted primer, and you are good to go. You may also pair a clear primer with a lightweight foundation or, even better, a skin tint.
FAQs
Question: Can I wear just a primer?
Answer: Of course, you can—there are no rules in makeup! There are primers on the market that have a tint on them. You can rock a tinted primer anytime you want.
Question: How much primer should I put on my face?
Answer: Based on my personal experience, it is on a case-to-case basis. Usually, you only need a pea-size amount and spread it all over your face. Additionally, for extra coverage or areas that need more help, that’s usually the time you need to add another layer.
Question: What ingredients should I look for in a primer for oily skin?
Answer: I got you. Here is the list of ingredients you need in a primer for oily skin types:
• Niacinamide
• Salicylic acid
• Silica
Question: What ingredients should I look for in a primer for dry skin?
Answer: Take note of these three top ingredients to find for dry skin:
• Aloe water
• B vitamins
• Glycerin
Question: What ingredients should I look for in a primer for combination skin?
Answer: For combination skin, here are the top three ingredients you should look for in a primer:
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Hyaluronic acid
Question: What ingredients should I look for in a primer for acne-prone skin?
Answer: Here are three aspects I look at:
• Hyaluronic acid
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin F
Question: What’s the best way to apply primer?
Answer: I like to apply it to the back of my hand. Then, if I am taking my time, I like to use a flat brush to pick up the product and put it on my face. If I am in a hurry, I rub the product together in my hands to warm it up and spread it, concentrating more on the areas that need more product.
Whether by brush or hand, it does not matter as long as it is clean. Since my skin is on the oily side, I concentrate more products on my T-zone rather than the rest of my face. Afterward, I let it dry a bit and proceed with my foundation.
Bottom Line
The Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer is your best friend For acne-prone skin with face textures. It also fills out your pores without overwhelming them. It smoothes out everything and contains SPF that protects you from the sun.
All in all, makeup can be expensive and hurts our pockets. Moreover, we want to achieve a flawless makeup look at a lesser cost. Lastly, enjoy your look. Have confidence in yourself because that is what matters most. As long as you feel comfortable with your selected products and feel like they are working on your skin, then you do you. Have fun!
