Once upon a time, I believed that primers were one of those marketable but slightly unnecessary products that I could skip when doing my face. But after dealing with horrible adult acne for a year and a half, I needed to focus on clearing my skin to let my skin breathe. Throughout this time, my stance on priming has shifted, and now I rely on a few new 2019 makeup primers to keep my skin healthy under my full face.
My skin is prone to breakouts when overwhelmed with product, and I tend to suffer from dry spots and an oily T-zone once the afternoon creeps in. Many of the new launches from this year address all of those concerns and more. The products don't just act as a way to keep my liquid foundation locked in all day... they're almost an extension of my skincare routine. Especially with ingredients like vitamin C (in Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Face Primer) and blue agave extract (in Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer). With the seven products that I tested, I don't feel like I'm neglecting my skin or jeopardizing it at all. These primers work with me rather than against my goal of clearer skin — and most importantly, they make me feel good, too. See the seven products that I discovered (and fell for) in a week's time, ahead.
Monday: Crunchi Smart Primer
On a cold winter morning, I gave Crunchi's new launch try. My skin was a bit dry due to harsh winds, and the formula helped to soothe it. I also felt a hormonal breakout coming on, and unlike most heavy products, this one didn't encourage inflammation — it actually soothed it. I began my day at 7:30 a.m. and didn't wipe my makeup off until 9 p.m. that night... and all I needed was a quick powder touchup that afternoon. My makeup remained flawless otherwise.
Tuesday: Cover FX Gripping Primer
I applied the Gripping Primer, which launched late 2018, at 8 a.m., right before barre. After an hour-long class, my makeup stayed put aside from the excess concealer I dabbed on top of a blemish. And as you can see, my face looked glowy rather than oily.
Wednesday: Tarte Base Tape Hydrating Primer
I had a ton of running around to do and meetings to attend on the day that I put Base Tape Hydrating Primer to the test. The first photo, above, was during a coffee meeting around 10 a.m. And the last photo was taken at the end of my day, around 10 p.m.. I loved the lightweight texture of the product, and the coconut scent reminds me of the beach.
Thursday: Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Face Primer
Even though my breakouts were practically invading my face, I still rallied and put on a tiny bit of makeup to cover up. I couldn't get over how creamy this primer was — it smells incredible, too! It instantly made my tired and stressed complexion look alive and feel energized. Even I didn't feel the need to touch up all day and ended my day with bright skin.
Friday: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer
I took the day off, so I didn't need a ton of makeup on, but was still excited to test this highly-lauded release. Admittedly, I thought that the texture of this was a bit sticky. But as soon as I worked it in, the consistency became smoother and felt so refreshing. It helped me blend my makeup better, and I found myself using less foundation than normal since my canvas was so smooth.
Saturday: Pür 4-in-1 Correcting Primer Dark Spot Corrector
I have acne scars and an uneven skin tone, so I was excited to see if this primer could help with color correction. While applying my concealer and powder, I was amazed at how my spots and scars basically disappeared. It's like magic!
Sunday: Smith & Cult Glow Brite Radiance Boosting Primer
I finished my week by testing the Glow Brite Radiance Boosting Primer, and can attest that this one is true to its name. The texture was light and smooth, and gave me a glow that rivals my favorite filters. I wore my makeup from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m., and still felt really fresh-faced by EOD.
