A flawless makeup look isn’t just about foundation and concealer—it all starts with the perfect primer. Many makeup lovers skip this step, but a well-chosen face primer can completely transform how your makeup applies and wears throughout the day.

From blurring pores and fine lines to hydrating dry skin or mattifying oily zones, primers serve as the essential base layer that enhances the performance of your foundation. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your skin type?

That’s where Sephora UK comes in—offering a vast selection of high-quality primers tailored to various skin concerns. Whether you’re dealing with dry patches, excess oil, large pores, or uneven skin texture, I will help you navigate the best Sephora-approved primers for a flawless, long-lasting makeup look.

What Exactly Is a Face Primer and Why Do You Need It?

A primer is a lightweight product applied after skincare but before foundation. It acts as a bridge between your skincare and makeup, ensuring your foundation glides on smoothly and stays put for hours.

The Key Benefits of Using a Face Primer

Extends Makeup Longevity

  • Keeps foundation from melting, creasing, or fading throughout the day.
  • Reduces the need for frequent touch-ups.

Creates a Barrier Between Skin & Makeup

  • Shields skin from pollution, sweat, and oil buildup.
  • Helps prevent clogged pores and irritation from heavy makeup.

Improves Skin Texture & Appearance

  • Blurs pores, fine lines, and rough patches for a smoother application.
  • Gives skin a refined, airbrushed finish.

Optimizes Foundation Performance

  • Ensures an even application and prevents cakiness.
  • Helps foundation blend seamlessly and stay fresh all day.

Now, let’s dive into how to pick the perfect primer based on your unique skin needs!

Choosing the Right Primer Based on Your Skin Type

With so many formulas available, choosing a primer tailored to your skin type is crucial. Let’s explore which primers from Sephora UK are best suited for different skin concerns.

1. Dry Skin: Hydration & Radiance

If your skin often feels tight, flaky, or dull, a hydrating primer will prevent foundation from clinging to dry patches and give you a healthy, glowing complexion.

Milk Makeup – Hydro Grip Primer

Why We Love It:
✔ Infused with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and hemp seed extract for intense hydration.
✔ “Grip” technology locks in makeup for 12+ hours.
✔ Creates a dewy, refreshed look without feeling sticky.

Best For:
Dry, dehydrated, or mature skin needing extra moisture.
Those who prefer a natural, radiant finish.

How to Apply:

  • Use one pump on moisturized skin and wait 1 minute before applying foundation.

Pro Tip:

  • If your skin is extra dry, mix a drop of face oil with the primer for additional nourishment.

Available on: Sephora UK

Laura Mercier – Pure Canvas Primer Hydrating

Why It’s a Must-Have:
✔ Silicone-free, lightweight formula deeply hydrates.
✔ Enriched with squalane and glycerin for long-lasting nourishment.
✔ Boosts skin radiance and elasticity.

Best For:
Normal to dry skin looking for a soft, glowing effect.

Pro Tip:

  • Apply a small amount with your fingers to warm the product and help it absorb better.

Available on: Sephora UK

2. Oily Skin: Shine Control & Matte Finish

Oily skin often causes makeup to slide off, oxidize, or become greasy. A mattifying primer helps control shine and reduce oil production.

Benefit Cosmetics – The POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer

Why It Works:
✔ Instantly blurs pores and fine lines for a smooth, velvety finish.
✔ Absorbs excess oil without clogging pores.
✔ Can be used alone or under foundation.

Best For:
Oily, combination skin struggling with large pores.

Pro Tip:

  • Apply a thin layer on the T-zone and press into the skin instead of rubbing.

Available on: Sephora UK

3. Combination Skin: Balance & Longevity

Combination skin requires a balanced formula that hydrates dry areas while controlling shine.

Fenty Beauty – Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer

Why Choose It?
✔ Provides a soft matte effect without drying out the skin.
✔ Contains prickly pear extract to soothe and hydrate.
✔ Ensures foundation stays fresh and crease-free.

Best For:
Combination skin needing oil control without excessive dryness.

Available on: Sephora UK

4. Sensitive Skin: Gentle & Protective Formulas

If you have sensitive skin, a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic primer is essential.

Tatcha – The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer

Why It’s a Must-Try:
✔ Contains silk proteins, green tea, and rice extracts to soothe irritation.
✔ Creates a lightweight protective barrier.
✔ Free of parabens, sulfates, and alcohol.

Best For:
Sensitive or redness-prone skin.

Pro Tip:

  • Use a brush or sponge instead of fingers to avoid transferring bacteria.

Available on: Sephora UK

Expert Tips for Applying Face Primer

Always apply primer after moisturizer for best absorption.
Less is more—a pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face.
Let the primer set for 30-60 seconds before applying foundation.
Use different primers on different areas for customized results.

Find Your Perfect Primer at Sephora UK

Choosing the right primer isn’t just about making your makeup last longer—it’s about enhancing your skin’s natural beauty while ensuring a smooth, flawless foundation application. The key is to understand your skin’s unique needs and select a primer that addresses your specific concerns, whether that’s hydration, oil control, pore-blurring, or soothing sensitive skin.

By using the right primer, you can:
Improve the longevity of your makeup—no more fading, creasing, or patchiness.
Create a perfect base—smooth, even, and poreless.
Protect your skin—shielding it from environmental damage and irritation.
Enhance the look of your foundation—achieving that airbrushed, professional finish.

Thanks to Sephora UK’s extensive range of high-quality primers, there’s a perfect match for every skin type and makeup preference. Whether you want a glowing, dewy finish, a mattified, oil-free look, or a lightweight, breathable base, you’ll find top-rated brands and exclusive selections available at your fingertips.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment and mix primers based on your needs. If you have combination skin, try using a hydrating primer on dry areas and a mattifying primer on oily zones. If you want extra glow, mix a radiance-boosting primer with your foundation for a natural, luminous finish.

With the right primer in your routine, you’re setting yourself up for flawless, confidence-boosting makeup that lasts all day.

Head over to Sephora UK now to find your perfect primer and elevate your beauty routine!