Top 15 Best Water Based Primers for Lightweight Makeup – Buying Guide
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By Catherine Jordan
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Looking for a lightweight makeup primer? If yes, your search ends here. In this guide, we’ve got 15 of the best water-based primers for lightweight makeup to try.
These are perfect if you want your face to feel weightless and fresh all day long. They also work well with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin types because they don’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
We have everything from silicone-free primers to ones that can help control oil production and keep shine at bay so it’s not an issue throughout the day. Whether you need something light, heavy duty, or somewhere in between these will do the trick. You’ll be able to find one that suits your needs in no time! Find one and try it out today!
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1. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Hydra Touch Hydrating Primer
NYX Professional Makeup Hydra Touch Hydrating Primer is a nutrient-packed primer formula that moisturizes and smooths your complexion.
This water-based primer formula creates a smooth, glowing canvas for flawless coverage while smoothing and refreshing your skin. It will leave you with radiant, soft skin that feels supple and nourished.
It is enriched with skin-loving chamomile, ginseng, and licorice root extracts plus hydrating Tremella mushroom and antioxidant boosting Centella extract, this nutritious primer formula leaves skin feeling softer with a luminous finish.
The formula contains hyaluronic acid which acts as a moisture magnet, absorbing water from the air and providing hydration for your skin. It also has Vitamin E to help protect against free radical damage and improve skin elasticity.
This primer is also oil-free and perfect for all skin types, including those who experience acne or oily skin. If you’re looking for a water-based product that will work with any type of foundation, this is the one you’ll need to add to your collection. It’s easy to blend into your moisturizer before applying makeup and won’t cause any irritation on sensitive skin.
It is also fragrance-free and has a non-sticky finish so it won’t leave any residue on your skin or clothing making it an ideal choice for anyone who is looking for a lightweight primer.
2. Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer
Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer is a water-based primer that is specifically designed to give your skin a radiant, healthy look.
It blends easily into your moisturizer before applying any other products so it won’t irritate sensitive skin whatsoever. It’s made with coconut water and aloe vera which hydrate the skin while reducing redness.
This moisturizing formula also contains vitamins A, C, & E along with grape oil extract and lemon peel extract for antioxidant protection against free radical damage.
It has jojoba seed oil as well which will protect your natural moisture barrier plus vitamin B12 to help brighten up dull or tired-looking skin.[1]
The main ingredients in this priming product are chamomile, ginseng root extracts, and licorice root extracts which work together to provide nourishment for stressed-out complexions of any kind including those prone to acne.
This buildable, lightweight primer is perfect for all skin types and will work well with any type of makeup you may be using including powders or creams found in a water-based foundation.
This unique formula has been infused with antioxidants and serums that provide hydration while also helping to tone the skin. It can also help reduce signs of aging on your face as well if used regularly over time which is another amazing benefit.
If you’re looking for a prepping product that helps create an even base plus give your complexion a healthy glow, this one’s worth checking out.
3. First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer
First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer is a water-based formula that is specifically designed for dry skin.
It will hydrate your complexion while also prepping it in order to provide a perfect base for any type of foundation, powder, or cream you may be using on top.
This lightweight lotion helps create an even surface thanks to its light coverage yet moisturizes and smoothes the skin at the same time as well which is one major benefit most primers have over other products like creams or foundations.
It has been formulated with ingredients including shea butter along with aloe vera extract so it’s going to work wonders on thirsty complexions who are looking for a product that will deliver intense moisture without being heavy or greasy feeling on their face.
The main ingredients in this water-based product are grapeseed, a natural antioxidant that will shield your skin from free radical damage while improving elasticity and preventing signs of aging.
This primer is perfect for any type of makeup including powders found in the water-based foundation as well as cream formulas so it’s going to work with whatever you’re using on top without any issues whatsoever.
It goes on easily before applying any other products and creates an even surface so there won’t be any areas where your makeup makes certain parts look cakey or overly blended when everything dries.
4. Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water is a light, water-based formula that has been created to hydrate and prime your skin.
It’s also infused with a soothing complex which helps reduce redness or irritation on the face as well as promote an even surface for makeup application.
This primer is perfect for any type of foundation you may be using including powders found in a water-based product or cream formulas from water-based foundations so it will work no matter what else you’re applying after this one before going out into public.
There are three different types available depending on how much moisture your skin needs at the moment although all three offer intense hydration without being too heavy feeling or greasy like many other priming products can do when applied to dry skin.
This water-based primer is designed to not only moisturize but also prime your complexion which will help prevent any type of redness, irritation, or dry patches from occurring while wearing makeup with this product applied beforehand.
Overall, water-based primers are great for any type of complexion and will work no matter what your skin type is.
5. Honest Beauty Everything Primer
Honest Beauty Everything Primer is a water-based formula that is infused with antioxidants and vitamins to achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.
This primer has been designed as an all-in-one type of product so it can be used before makeup application for moisturizing skin or afterward for smoothing out any large pores you may have on your face.
It is a silky, lightweight primer that helps control shine and boosts long-lasting wear. This oil-free formula glides on easily to prime skin for makeup application without over-drying.
We can wear it alone or under foundation, the smooth silicone base creates a perfect canvas for flawless-looking skin. The hypoallergenic formula contains no parabens, phthalates, dyes, or synthetic fragrances.
It has a matte finish, longer-lasting makeup base that helps to blur imperfections for a more even look. It is Cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested, this cruelty-free product is made without animal testing.
This primer contains micronized bamboo powder and organic aloe leaf juice to help smooth skin, while also providing vitamins C and E as antioxidants. Available in a universal shade that works well with all skin tones. It goes on easily without any type of heavy, wet feeling and creates an even surface for makeup application.
Concluding the point, we must say that lightweight primer is infused with antioxidants and vitamins to give you a healthy, radiant complexion and It can be used before or after makeup application for different effects.
6. Becca Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector
Becca Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector is a water-based primer that has been created to reduce the appearance of pores all over the skin and keep makeup looking perfect for longer with no creasing or any other type of complications occurring.
It is a targeted oil-control primer that perfects and minimizes pores for mattified skin that lasts up to 12 hours.
This formula specifically targets oil-prone areas and acts as liquid blotting paper to leave your skin fresh and matte all day. Feel free to use it throughout the day to touch up areas of concern.
This water-based primer is perfect for those who are looking to reduce the appearance of large pores without feeling like they’re wearing a full face of makeup or waiting too long just to have everything else applied on top look good with no creasing, lines, dry patches, or any other type of complication that can occur in between when you apply your favorite types separately instead.
It’s also infused with antioxidants as well as vitamins A & E which are going to help nourish and hydrate dry patches while preventing any new ones from popping up during your day thanks to how lightweight this feels when applied correctly.
Overall, this is a great option if you’re looking for something that will help your skin look better and be more hydrated without adding any type of extra weight to the face which would make wearing makeup feel heavy or wet.
MUST READ: A Guide to 10 Best Airbrush Makeup Kit
7. Skindinavia Makeup Primer
Skindinavia Makeup Primer is a lightweight, sheer tinted water-based primer that hydrates your skin for a dewy, healthy look. It minimizes the appearance of pores and fine lines to create a flawless finish.
It is a water-resistant primer that glides on and locks down makeup for up to 16 hours. Use it before your foundation or BB cream for enhanced longevity and improved wear.
This anti-aging face makeup spray also conditions skin with natural extracts including aloe vera, chamomile flower extract, and glycerin. Our vegan face primer is easy to use and comes in a convenient travel-size bottle with a mist applicator.
The first makeup primer spray extends the wear of your foundation and other face makeup by preventing it from settling into fine lines. This water-based formula creates a breathable barrier on the skin for long-lasting, flawless results. The lightweight mist provides an even application without feeling heavy or greasy.
Ultimately, this is a great option for those who want to make their skin look and feel better without having to worry about it becoming oily throughout the day.
8. Becca Becca backlight priming filter
Becca Becca’s backlight priming filter is a primer that brightens and perfects skin with a sheer illuminating tint. It creates a seamless canvas for flawless makeup application.
It is a lightweight, whipped fluid that creates a smooth canvas and acts as an instant filter. The oil-free formula minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with vitamin E while imparting a one-of-a-kind, lightweight, whipped fluid texture.
It also contains natural ingredients like chamomile flower extract, vitamin E, and aloe vera to hydrate dry patches while preventing new ones from forming during your day.
This primer helps blur imperfections and impart a radiant glow to your skin. It is formulated with light-diffusing pigments that help diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles, while also improving your overall complexion.
The lightweight formula glides on easily and delivers a sheer finish. It’s not just makeup that women want; it’s healthy, beautiful-looking skin. It prevents fine lines and wrinkles while adding the perfect amount of moisture to your skin. This product will help you achieve a dewy look with ease.
Ultimately, this is the ideal product if you’re looking for something lightweight but still want their skin to look brighter or more illuminated throughout the day without having any type of complication such as too much oily buildup on areas of concern.
9. Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Invisible Bright Instant Perfector
Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Invisible Bright Instant Perfector is a water-based primer that’s designed to make your skin look even and hydrated no matter what time of day you’ve applied it.
It is a makeup primer to help blur imperfections and impart a radiant glow, Becca Cosmetics backlight priming filter is the perfect base for your makeup routine.
The vitamin-enriched formula minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as it helps boost the skin’s radiance. Use this primer before applying foundation or BB cream for a smooth, even application that will last all day long.
This product helps reduce the look of pores by over 50% while providing a natural-looking matte finish that lasts up to 8 hours.
Clinique’s pore refining solution contains an exclusive blend of ingredients that work together to help minimize the appearance of pores, control shine and give you a fresh complexion.
The lightweight, oil-free formula primes for makeup application while helping to smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Infused with vitamin E, this primer helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while imparting a radiant glow.
Overall, this is a great option because it helps to hydrate dry patches and prevent new ones from forming.
Read More: A Guide to Choose Best Airbrush Foundation
10. Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Illuminating Primer
Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Illuminating Primer is a water-based primer that’s designed to make your skin look even and hydrated no matter what time of day you’ve applied it.
It is a lightweight, primer formulated without silicones and with rich coconut alkanes in an antioxidant-rich, organic base of botanical juices. This formula can be worn alone or under foundation to provide a luminous glow.[2]
The Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Illuminating Primer is the perfect base for all foundations. The result is a lightweight, hydrating formula that blurs the appearance of lines and wrinkles while providing a luminous finish to prep skin for smooth makeup application.
Lightweight primer for all skin types that preps the skin for makeup application while providing an instant boost of radiance. This primer helps to hydrate skin while blurring the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Overall, It goes on smoothly without a heavy feeling or any type of wetness because this is made with only the best ingredients which mean there will be fewer complications occurring when applying makeup later too, just one light layer needed for an amazing finish instead.
11. LORAC "I'm So Sensitive" Soothing Face Primer
LORAC “I’m So Sensitive” Soothing Face Primer is a water-based primer that’s designed for sensitive skin. It is a silky-smooth, gentle primer that soothes and helps calm skin while promoting long-lasting makeup.
This lightweight, non-greasy formula contains antioxidants, vitamins, and plant extracts to help soothe your skin. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid which attracts moisture to the surface of your skin for a dewy look.
This face primer is infused with antioxidants, vitamins, and plant extracts to help soothe your skin. It is a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula that provides soothing hydration to soothe and calm the skin without irritation or redness.
This product is also formulated with antioxidants which help protect your skin from pollution, age spots, and wrinkles as well as the sun’s harmful UVB rays.
This facial primer works best when applied in small amounts on clean skin before foundation application. It can be used alone to provide perfect matte coverage or layered under makeup products for smoother wear throughout the day.
Don’t allow this amazing face primer to go unnoticed because it will save you time while helping keep your complexion looking flawless. Overall, this is an excellent option if you’re looking for a water-based primer that provides soothing hydration without irritation or redness.
12. Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer Illuminating
Laura Mercier’s Pure Canvas Primer Illuminating is a primer that creates a subtle glow on the skin.
This primer is a skin-perfecting, soothing face primer infused with antioxidants, vitamins, and plant extracts to help soothe and smooth your skin.
It features an illuminating formula that contains micronized pearls and porcelain flower extract to create a glow. The product is designed to be used before foundation, and can be used alone or under makeup as well.
Its use will give you a healthy-looking glow, while it also helps makeup last longer throughout the day by sealing in skincare products and protecting your skin from environmental damage.
Ultra-light and super hydrating, this water-based primer promotes long-lasting makeup wear with a natural, silky-smooth finish. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.
It features a unique formula that contains hyaluronic acid, which helps hydrate the skin while providing an illuminating effect. The product has a silky texture and is available in two shades: light/medium and medium/dark.
Overall, this is a great option if you’re looking for an illuminating face primer that contains plant extracts, micronized pearls, and porcelain flower extract.
13. Glam Air Airbrush Makeup Matte Foundation Water-based Makeup
Glam Air Airbrush Makeup Matte Foundation Water-based Makeup is a water-based makeup that provides an airbrush finish.
This lightweight, long-lasting foundation is good for people with sensitive skin because it’s formulated without alcohol, parabens, and fragrance which can irritate the skin.
It also doesn’t contain oils or other heavy ingredients that might clog pores if you have oily skin so this product will work well on all types of complexions including acne-prone.
Glam Air Matte Foundation Water-based Makeup has a matte finish with medium coverage and comes in two shades: light/medium and dark/deep to suit any complexion color.
It features a unique formula made from pure plant extract extracts (aloe vera leaf juice)and minerals (silica), making it lightweight, long-lasting, and perfect for sensitive skin.
A lightweight, airy formula that leaves skin with a subtle glow and a silky smooth finish for flawless makeup application. This primer is used by celebrities and fashion models to get that camera-ready look at any time of day.
It covers dark spots, brown spots, red spots, and evens out skin tone to leave you looking bright, awake, and alive! With SPF 15 protection from the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent premature aging of your skin.
This water-based makeup is ideal if you’re looking to provide a matte finish with medium coverage without clogging pores or irritating the skin.
Read More: Luminess Air Airbrush Makeup Kit Review
14. Jouer Anti-Aging Moisture Primer
Jouer Anti-Aging Moisture Primer is a water-based primer that is formulated with skin-loving ingredients, such as peptides and hyaluronic acid.
This lightweight moisturizer will keep your makeup looking fresh all day long by locking in moisture to the surface of the skin while protecting against environmental damage.
It also creates a protective barrier for smoother application of foundation or powder which helps it glide on more evenly and last longer.
A lightweight, airy formula that leaves skin with a subtle glow and a silky smooth finish for flawless makeup application. This primer is used by celebrities and fashion models to get that camera-ready look at any time of day.
It covers dark spots, brown spots, red spots, and evens out skin tone to leave you looking bright, awake, and alive. With SPF 15 protection from the sun’s harmful rays, it also helps prevent premature aging of your skin.
It contains vitamins, minerals, aloe leaf extract, and natural oils like olive oil to help nourish dry patches without making you greasy or oily. This product includes an SPF 30 sun protection formula so you don’t have to worry about damaging UV rays anymore.
It is important to note that this primer is best suited for those with sensitive skin, and it protects your complexion from the sun’s UV rays.
15. Pixi Flawless & Poreless Primer
Pixi Flawless & Poreless Primer is a water-based primer that is designed to blur pores and imperfections, hydrate skin, fight against aging by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and uneven texture.
This lightweight formula will keep your makeup looking fresh all day long while it locks in moisture to the surface of your skin. It also creates a protective barrier for smoother application of foundation or powder which helps it glide on more evenly and last longer.
It is an oil-free primer that helps even out skin tone while minimizing the look of pores. The silky formula provides a smooth canvas for foundation application and leaves your complexion looking flawless.
It contains vitamins, minerals, and aloe leaf extract with natural oils like olive oil to help nourish dry patches without making you greasy or oily so this product is best suited for those with sensitive skin who hate heavy products on their face.
This silky-smooth formula glides on to give you a poreless finish, creating the ideal base for makeup application. It is formulated with Squalane and Titanium Dioxide to help reduce shine.
Overall, this water-based primer is ideal if you’re looking for a product that will hydrate and keep your skin soft while it protects against those pesky free radicals.
How To Choose Water-Based Primer
What kind of skin do you have?
If your skin is sensitive, then go for a water-based primer that doesn’t contain oil or silicone. If it’s not sensitive and prone to breakouts, try a silicone-based moisturizer with SPF 30+ protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Do I need a silicone-based moisturizer too?
If you’re prone to breakouts then yes but remember that most of them are not latex-free so they may make your skin more sensitive over time which can lead to issues like irritation from products containing silicones.
Can you use a silicone primer with a water-based foundation?
Yes as long as this product doesn’t contain silicone oil or any other ingredients that could end up clogging your pores.
Are water-based primers any good?
Water-based primer has a light texture and feels refreshing on the skin, especially during hot weather when you need something to help keep excess oils at bay. It also helps create an even base for a foundation which will result in less product being used but it won’t last as long without touch ups.
Do I need concealer with this type of primer?
No, unless you’re looking for extra coverage because one layer of this will be enough to cover most imperfections while keeping everything else more natural-looking. You can always go back over those spots with the correct shade if necessary after applying makeup though so there’s no need to worry.
How does a water-based primer work?
Water-based primers work by penetrating your skin and filling in any gaps or crevices to create a smoother base for foundation. It also helps lock moisture into the surface of your skin, which is why it can be used even if you don’t plan on wearing any type of makeup.
A water-based face primer helps create an even canvas by locking in moisture which will help keep your makeup looking fresh all day long while also preventing premature aging of the skin due to environmental stressors like UV rays.
It creates a protective barrier for smoother application of foundation or powder (more on this below) which helps it glide on more evenly and last longer than it would with just your skin.
How long does water-based primer last?
A water-based face primer will typically last anywhere from six to eight hours which is a little longer than it would if you were just using your skin alone, but not as long as some other types of products like silicone.
What’s best for one person might not be perfect for another though, so this depends on what qualities matter most to you when choosing the right product for your needs.
Good water-based face primers will usually last for about 12 hours without touch ups. With a powder form, it is possible to get up to 24 hours wear if you set the makeup before applying it and use an oil blotter in between reapplying foundation or concealer throughout the day.
Conclusion
Water-based primers are worth a try if you’re looking for something lightweight yet effective that will help make your makeup look more natural and last longer.
Some of the best water-based face primers on the market right now come with SPF protection to lock in moisture while also providing sun damage protection, so it’s important to choose one which has these qualities as well as other features like anti-aging benefits or oil control depending on what type of skin you have.
I highly recommend Jouer Anti-Aging Moisture Primer because it’s lightweight, contains anti-aging benefits, and is made with a blend of natural ingredients including jojoba seed oil, rosehip extract, and vitamin E for healthy skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are water-based primers any good?
Yes! They can be refreshing especially during hot weather when they provide an extra layer of hydration which protects against environmental stressors like UV rays without blocking pores from absorbing vital nutrients needed by the skin.
2. Can you use a silicone primer with a water-based foundation?
Yes! It’s best to not mix these types of primers though and it might be difficult for some people to get the desired results from this combination so make sure you do your research before making any purchases just in case.
3. How do you know if a primer is water-based?
If the primer is not silicone-based then it should be water-based but you can also look for things like “hydrating” or “moisturizing.” You’ll usually find this listed in the product description on sites like Amazon, Ulta, and Sephora among others so just keep an eye out.
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