Priming your skin ahead of make-up application is pretty essential in our beauty books – and, it seems Milk Makeup’s, too. Designed which hemp-derived cannabis seed extract, the Hydro Grip primer harnesses the power of blue agave extract for all-day hydration and hold. Delivering an invisible layer that grips on, the green-tinted, vegan formula blends clearly into skin and is works on all skin tones and types. Oh, and did we mention it’s free from the nasties (think parabens, oil, silicone, fragrance and gluten), too?

One thing we wish we could change is the pot. Although it's an adorable addition to any vanity, it’s not the most hygienic — use the included spatula, or be sure to wash your hands before using it to avoid contamination. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Sunscreen for your face is a must. And Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 from Charlotte Tilbury will provide that for you ( SPF 50) while also forming a smooth makeup base. The applicator is a tube with a pump which we appreciate as it allows for the right amount of product to come out every time. Two pumps covered our faces perfectly, prepping our skin for makeup by taking away any excess shine. Fluhr JW, Darlenski R, Surber C. Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functions. Br J Dermatol. 2008;159(1):23-34. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08643.x Despite numerous products claiming the contrary, there’s no way to shrink your pores. That said, with a good primer, you can drastically minimize their appearance. The Poreless Mattifying Primer from Tarte is a great option if you’re looking to shrink the look of your pores and help makeup look its best, even when sweat or an unexpected rainstorm comes into play. This silky, invisible gel mattifies skin and also helps smooth uneven skin texture, scars, and dry patches for up to 12 hours.

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Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(7 Pt 2):860-865. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732 Wanitphakdeedecha R, Ng JNC, Junsuwan N, et al. Efficacy of olive leaf extract-containing cream for facial rejuvenation: A pilot study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(7):1662-1666. doi:10.1111/jocd.13457 You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a quality face primer. Case in point: This creamy primer smoothes skin, giving it a soft-focus finish for a little over 15 dollars. Not only does it work well under makeup, but it’s formulated with anti-inflammatory marshmallow root extract which makes it ideal for those who need a little extra skin soothing. We were impressed with its quality, especially given the price. We loved its even consistency that left behind no residue. Plus, it absorbs into the skin completely after a few minutes, creating a soft, hydrated canvas for your makeup. If you want to invest in a primer with tons of skincare benefits, that promises to create a smoother-than-silk canvas for your makeup, this is the one. Dos Santos Nascimento LB, Gori A, Raffaelli A, Ferrini F, Brunetti C. Phenolic Compounds from Leaves and Flowers of Hibiscus roseus: Potential Skin Cosmetic Applications of an Under-Investigated Species. Plants (Basel). 2021;10(3):522. Published 2021 Mar 10. doi:10.3390/plants10030522

Infused with both silk extracts and silk powder, this velvety balm makes your skin quite literally feel as smooth as silk. Ideal for all skin types, the multi-tasking formula (it can be used on eyes, lips, and face) helps to minimize shine and offers a soft-focus finish that blurs the look of imperfections and fine lines. It also contains pollution-fighting natural actives like camellia sinensis leaf extract meant to not only repair immediate damage but also strengthen the skin barrier to protect against future damage. Plus, it contains the brand’s signature Hadasei-3, a trinity of Japanese superfoods, green tea, rice, and algae – antioxidants that leave skin soft and radiant. Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt'r Mattifying Primer is a great option for combination-to-oily skin. If you’re prone to acne or breakouts, its oil-free formula will help keep your complexion clear.

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Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Water, Glycerin, PEG-150 Distearate, Alcohol Denat., Polyglyceryl-10 Eicosanedioate/Tetradecanedioate, Diglycerin, PVP, Benzyl Alcohol, Sorbitol, Pullulan, Inositol, Betaine, Carbomer, Maltose, Xylitol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Phytate, Benzophenone-4, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Agave Tequilana Stem Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Vegetable Amino Acids, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Prunus Avium Flower Extract, Citric Acid, Benzoic Acid, Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), Red 33 (Ci 17200)

Don’t be surprised if it’s slightly tinted when it comes out of the tube. The primer imparts a white tint that blends (cast-free) into all skin tones. Be warned that it is heavily scented, so if you’re easily irritated by fragrances in cosmetics, you may want to steer clear of this primer.

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Gad HA, Roberts A, Hamzi SH, et al. Jojoba Oil: An Updated Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Uses, and Toxicity. Polymers (Basel). 2021;13(11):1711. Published 2021 May 24. doi:10.3390/polym13111711 Yotsawimonwat S, Rattanadechsakul J, Rattanadechsakul P, Okonogi S. Skin improvement and stability of Echinacea purpurea dermatological formulations. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2010;32(5):340-346. doi:10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00559.x