These moisturisers double as primers for budge-proof makeup
Multi-tasking is what we're all about in the skincare world – gone are the days of desiring an 11-step routine morning and night. Any product that can double up and function as another is great news in our books, and one area where you can skip on two purchases is moisturiser and primer.
Primers became big news several years ago when makeup artists revealed they were the golden secret to keeping foundation in place, even on nights out or through long, exhausting work days. But at their core, one of the key functions of primer is to keep skin moisturised and smooth, allowing makeup to apply evenly and smoothly so it has a better chance of lasting throughout the day.
Therefore, if you choose right, you can actually invest in a moisturiser that'll also keep your makeup in place, day or night long.
These are our recommendations...
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-In-One Cream
Snail secretion? On my face? It may sound strange, but in reality, it's an incredibly skin-friendly ingredient with a wealth of fans and incredible reviews. The All In One Cream is perfect as a primer-moisturiser, being rich enough to nourish skin while adding a natural glow and hydration that makes foundation application a breeze.
Great for: Those looking to try something different.
Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre
Chances are you've heard of this TikTok famous, celebrity-favourite French moisturiser. It's a godsend for dry skin as the essential fatty acids, and moisturising factors are nourishing and keep skin supple and smooth for hours. "A must for makeup lovers," one Amazon reviewer raves. "Hydrates the skin like a dream and makes my makeup last for hours."
Great for: Anyone with a complex makeup routine.
AB LAB B3 Balance Water Gel Cream
Part of Adore Beauty's in-house skincare line, AB LAB, this gel-texture cream is great for those with oily skin who may find a moisturiser and primer too heavy when worn together. Ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and native Australian finger lime extract boost and balance the skin, while the formula itself offers a soft matte finish and balances sebum production through the day.
Great for: Oily skin types who still want maximum hydration.
Cinch Pump + Glow
This unique priming moisturiser has a legion of fans thanks to a lightweight formula packed with ingredients that boost skin hydration levels, like pentavitin and aloe vera. Also in the mix is an antioxidant blend to help decrease fine lines and boost collagen. "I love the texture of this and my skin feels hydrated and bright," one reviewer raved on Adore Beauty.
Great for: Anyone who is lazy with skincare.
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base
An ultra-rich but never greasy primer-moisturiser hybrid from famed makeup artist Bobbi Brown, this is our pick for ageing skin thanks to a cocktail of deep moisturising agents like vitamin E, vitamin B and shea butter. Hydrating and cushioning, you'll find makeup application smooth and consistent, without settling into fine lines.
Great for: Ageing skin in need of a boost.
Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream
More of a moisturiser that reduces the need for a primer, this cream by Dermalogica infuses skin with 48 hours of hydration via HydraMesh Technology, which also reduces trans-epidermal moisture loss through the day, protecting skin from dehydration. Antioxidants protect against environmental damage, and the hyaluronic complex of mallow, cucumber and arnica is soothing and nourishing.
Great for: Replenishing dry skin.
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Primer+
On the other end of the spectrum, this primer by IT Cosmetics has such a wealth of skin benefits, it could double as a moisturiser. Suitable for sensitive skin, the oil-free formula is super hydrating to prevent moisture loss, plus works to smooth and refine skin over time. "This primer makes my foundation stay and not crease for 12 hours," writes one reviewer on Adore Beauty. "This is great for hot summer months and makes foundation look fresh and flawless. I also like the texture, it's not sticky and your skin feels smooth."
Great for: Makeup fans with combination skin.
Hada Labo Intense Hydrating Skin Plumping Gel
This affordable moisturiser is so nourishing and skin-plumping, it eliminates the need for a primer. Creating a smooth, velvet complexion via an intensive delivery of hyaluronic acid, plus antioxidant protection courtesy of green tea extract, it's particularly beneficial for those living in hot, humid climates who want the lightweight feel of a gel without compromising on skin support.
Great for: Those who like their moisturiser to feel like nothing on the skin.
Weleda Skin Food
With a rich texture, this won't be the priming moisturiser for every skin type. However, it is a makeup artist favourite and has remained a best-seller for Weleda since its inception in 1926. Nourishing plant oils, lanolin and beeswax create a smooth and supported skin canvas for makeup application, boosting glow and preventing skin from drying out, especially during cooler months.
Great for: Anyone living in a cold climate or super dry skin types.
Innisfree Jeju Cherry Blossom Jelly Cream
Do you battle with skin redness? This soothing jelly cream might reduce the need for colour-correction primer. Jeju cherry blossom extract works with antioxidants to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness, while the lightweight formula hydrates skin without leaving it oily, creating a great base for makeup.
Great for: Soothing stressed skin before makeup application.