Whether you are prone to redness or your skin is looking lackluster, there is a colored primer that will counteract the issue.
Primers do a lot of things. They give you a smooth base for your makeup; they help make your foundation last longer, and they diminish the appearance of pores. Color-correcting primers do even more. They target specific issues such as redness or sallowness and correct them using the color theory principles you learned in art class. You might think that putting a green-tinted product on your face is odd, but it really does work without turning your face as green as the Wicked Witch’s.
(Related: My Before & After Photos Prove Just How Well This Green-Tinted Primer Reduces Redness)
Here are 12 color-correcting primers that treat specific skincare concerns:
1. Master Prime By Face Studio Blur + Illuminate Primer (Maybelline)
This water-based primer adds some warmth and radiance back into tired complexions. Think of it as your little pick-me-up in a tube. It also has SPF 30 for the days when you forget to apply your sunscreen. Again.
2. Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer In Caramel (Make Up For Ever)
If your skin is looking a little dull, there is no need to get a facial. This primer is specifically formulated to add radiance to dark skin. There are 9 other varieties, so whatever your skin color or concern, there will be a product to address it.
3. Mineral Infused Face Primer In Purple (e.l.f.)
It seems a bit strange to be putting something purple on your skin but don’t worry; this gel doesn’t show up like your purple eyeshadow. It improves your skin tone, controls oily skin, and reduces the appearance of pores. Oh, and it makes your makeup last longer.
4. “That Gal” Brightening Face Primer (Benefit)
Enliven your complexion with this pink primer. You can wear it alone or under your foundation. Remember this one for the cold, dark days of winter.
5. NYX Studio Perfect Photo-Loving Primer In Green (NYX)
Redness is a common skincare complaint, and this green-tinted primer conceals any red patches while creating a smooth base for your foundation and concealer.
6. One Step Correct Primer (Stila)
If you have a few different skincare concerns, this three-in-one primer can help solve them. The serum primer contains three color correctors that even out your complexion, plus it has moisturizing brighteners for a flawless finish.
7. 3-in-1 Corrector + Primer + Sun Protection In Green 7328 (Physicians Formula)
If you have sensitive skin, this is the primer for you. It does everything, at least when it comes to your face. The talc-free mineral formula prolongs the life of your makeup, reduces redness, and has SPF 15. The twist-pen applicator is unique compared to the usual squeeze tube formulas.
8. Illuminating Primer (Mineral Fusion)
This mineral primer is a bit different than the others on the list because the formula contains shimmering gold flecks to give the product its distinct appearance. It will boost your face’s radiance without making you look like a disco ball.
9. Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer (Smashbox)
Smashbox‘s Photo Finish Primer has gained cult status for a reason. If you’re prone to redness, this green-tinted one will help correct it. (Remember your color theory.) If you want to test it out, try this travel-sized version for less than half the price of the full-sized tube.
10. Studio Secrets Color Corrector In Green (L’Oreal)
If you have any pink spots, apply a bit of this color-correcting primer on them to even out your complexion. Note: If you have a pesky pimple, make sure to apply a dab of this before you cover it up.
11. Superprimer Face Primer In Color Correcting Sallowness (Clinique)
In addition to prepping your skin for a smoother, longer-lasting foundation finish, this oil-free primer perks up your complexion. For those rough Monday mornings, keep this primer handy.
12. Makeup Color Base In Yellow (Koh Gen Do)
This yellow primer won’t make it look like you’re wearing the wrong foundation shade. The yellow shade tones redness and can also be used to camouflage dark circles. If you have oily skin, this primer has an oil-absorbing formula that keeps shine under control.