It's tempting to skip a step (or five) when completing your daily glam, but for those with dry skin, a hydrating primer could make all the difference in enhancing the lay of your makeup. As makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran (and member of the Humphreys Witch Hazel Committee) explains, primers are a "key step in your skin prep" and should be applied before foundation or skin tints. She said to think of primers like a top coat, as in, something that allows for additional products applied after it to really shine through. There is another algae extract from another manufacturer that comes from red algae (much more common, about 40% of total macroalgae worldwide) and is claimed to have not only moisturizing but also skin smoothing and densifying effects.

Best for: Normal, dry, and oily skin types, especially those who love a comprehensive makeup routine. When you do find the right hydrating primer, you'll definitely know it. The makeup experts said that your skin will appear more nourished, hydrated, and radiant. Primer can surely help in combating signs of dehydrated skin, but Vincent notes that skin care plays an important role too, saying, "Your canvas is the most important factor for beautiful coverage, so skin prep, including adequate exfoliation and moisturization will always be key to providing the smoothest base for your primer to then do its job." My skin is normal to combination but prone to dehydration. When it comes to makeup and the way I like my skin to look, my preference is definitely dewy (so much that it errs on the shiny side), so any makeup products that are hydrating and luminous are right up my alley. This is probably why I like setting mists so much—they add a final layer of moisture. We all remember Maybelline’s Baby Lips makeup line, but did you also know that they have a Baby Skin line as well? The Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer is an almost identical dupe for the Smashbox Primer for a fraction of the price. Primer can be applied in multiple different ways. You could use a sponge or a brush, but we recommend just using your fingertips! It is super easy and it blends seamlessly this way. Just be gentle when applying it to not irritate your skin. Also, remember to always use a small amount. A little goes a long way! What are the benefits of primer?

The best primers for dry skin might be the most important products when it comes to extending the longevity of your favorite foundation, blush, highlighter — you name it. In fact, let's rewind, and emphasize a skin-care routine that covers all of the basics is always essential. "Skin prep, including adequate exfoliation and moisturization, will always be key to providing the smoothest base for your primer to then do its job," makeup artist Dani Kimiko Vincent explains. Taking notes yet? Makeup primers have so many awesome benefits which is why we recommend using one! Depending on which you get, the benefits will vary. All primers are meant to create a blank canvas for the rest of your makeup application. When using a good primer, you’ll notice that your pores and fine lines look blurred. Also, it helps to make your makeup stay in place all day. Creates a breathable, silky barrier that perfects the canvas by smoothing skin and strengthening it against damage from environmental aggressors like pollution and blue light.

To set: On the flip side, I am very into setting mists because when you get a good one, it gives the skin a fresh, juicy, slightly diffused appearance. This delivered on all fronts. It’s not the best I’ve ever used, but in terms of glow and that really hydrated look, it totally worked. One of the major downfalls of this product is, obviously, the price. It is just way too expensive for a lot of buyers to justify purchasing. Also, some reviewers say that this primer made their skin feel oily. About the brand: Smashbox is a Los Angeles-based beauty brand founded by Davis Factor. Originally tested and vetted by photographers and makeup artists, it's best known for promising a standout finish every single time (and in every light). About My Skin: DehydratedHere is a brown algae extract (the most common type, about 59% of macroalgae), also just called Algae Extract on the product label that is simply claimed to be a free radical scavenger, aka antioxidant. These were just three random examples from three manufacturers all called Algae extract even though they all come from different algae with different claims. Smashbox's Photo Finish Primer Water is a versatile product with a formula that enhances its multiple uses. To help you see how it performs in each situation, I've broken my review down by purpose. One thing to know about this product is that, if you apply too much, it can make your makeup separate. That is why we recommend only using a small amount to prevent this from happening.

If you have oily skin and have trouble with silicone-based primers, this primer is for you! It does a fantastic job of minimizing pores and fine lines. Also, it makes your makeup stay in place all day long without getting shiny or oily. Since it is sweatproof, this is also a great primer for those that have busy lives where they are always moving. This primer feels lightweight and comfortable on the face. You probably won’t even notice you’re wearing it underneath your makeup. Also, it is 100% cruelty-free. Another thing Caffeine is used for in body care products is its anti-cellulite effects. In theory, it can speed up the lipolysis process (the "fat burning" by our cells) andstimulate the draining lymph system that might lead to the improvement of cellulite. But here again, the evidence that it actually makes a measurable, let alone visible, improvement on actualhuman beings is limited (we could find only some animal skin studies or caffeine being combined with other actives). The NYX Studio Perfect Primer glides easily on the skin and blends out flawlessly. It creates a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup to be applied to. This formula is so lightweight that it won’t even feel like you’re wearing a primer. Just remember that a little goes a long way! Since you only need to use a small amount, one bottle should last you a few months. The formula feely silky on the skin, so it is super comfortable and not oily at all. Also, NYX Cosmetics is 100% cruelty-free!If you skip the primer and go straight for the foundation, your complexion's dryness could cause the makeup to cake or crease, makeup artist Nydia Figueroa notes. To avoid this, she says to look for nourishing face primers that contain hydrating skin-care ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, aloe, and blue agave extract. You'll also want to steer clear of traditional mattifying primers, as these were made with oily skin in mind and contain ingredients that could potentially dry out the skin. Unfortunately, L’Oreal is not a cruelty-free makeup brand. That can be a huge dealbreaker for those looking to shop for their makeup ethically. Another con that this product has is that it can cause pilling in your makeup if you apply too much. Some reviewers complain that the scent of this primer is way too overpowering. If you are sensitive to smells, this product may not be for you. Also, some people didn’t see a huge difference in how their makeup applies with this primer.

Let’s face it – most people don’t love spending a good amount of money on just one makeup product. I know I don’t! While the Smashbox Photo Finish does provide great results, there are so many great primers out there that don’t have to put a dent in your wallet. So ditch those overpriced products and try these almost identical dupes instead! NYX Studio Perfect Primer

Best for: All skin types

Of course, all products have their downsides. Sadly, people with sensitive skin found that this product caused them to breakout. Also, you really cannot use a lot of this product all at once. If you apply any more than a dime-sized amount, you risk your makeup pilling or separating. The Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer minimizes and blurs the appearance of pores and fine lines flawlessly. Since it is silicone-based, it has the same silky and lightweight feelings as the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer. The formula is non-comedogenic. So, it is great for all skin types – even sensitive skin! This product has a high-end feel for a drugstore price. A Silkscreen Complex - Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, Probiotic Extract, Vitamins, and Algae: Formula helps nourish, balance, and defend skin.