15 Best Primers in India for All Skin Types [August, 2024]

A primer is like the 360-degree insurance policy for your makeup look. This multitasking makeup base levels up your foundation game with a smooth canvas that grips makeup better while combatting the worst enemies of long-lasting perfection – oil, sweat, pores, textures issues and more. Just like a sports team can’t win without rigorous training and warmups, primer preps your skin to achieve flawless, enduring glam squad results.

With options galore now from mass market to luxury, finding the best primers in India for your specific skin type and concerns is vital. We cover everything from mattifying primers for oily skin and hydrating luminisers for dry skin to pore minimisers, correctors and more based on textures suitable across skin types and ages. Read on for the top 15 primers lovingly collated that we believe deliver on performance, value and results.

1. Insight Primer | 3 In 1 Oil Free

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Description

The Insight 3 in 1 Oil Free primer promises a shine-free and poreless base for flawless makeup application. It is formulated with oil-absorbing ingredients that help control excess sebum production.

Key Features

• Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula
• Refines pores and blurs imperfections
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Smooth canvas for foundation application
• Dermatologically tested

Our Expert Opinion

As an oil-free primer suited for oily and combination skin types, the Insight 3 in 1 primer delivers on its claims. It gives a matte, poreless finish for long-lasting makeup. The primer glides smoothly and does not feel greasy or heavy. For extremely oily skin, it may need to be topped up during the day. Overall, it is a good drugstore primer for oily skin concerns.

2. Swiss Beauty Real Makeup Base Highlighting Primer

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Description

The Swiss Beauty highlighting primer adds radiance while refining pores for flawless makeup. It is enriched with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. The tinted, golden formula creates a healthy, natural glow.

Key Features

• Hydrating, pore-minimising formula
• Vitamin E nourishes and protects skin
• Light-reflecting pigments for glow
• Smooth, even base for makeup
• Non-greasy, spreads evenly

Our Expert Opinion

The Swiss Beauty primer leaves your skin looking naturally radiant, thanks to light-reflecting pigments in its tinted gel formula. It feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. The primer formula could be more hydrating for very dry skin types, but works beautifully to add glow while refining pores and imperfections. Overall, it delivers a smooth, flawless base for makeup.

3. Blue Heaven Flawless Makeup Base Primer For Face Makeup, 30gm

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Description

The affordable Blue Heaven primer is enriched with skin-benefiting vitamins and antioxidants. It claims to reduce the appearance of pores while prepping skin for long-lasting makeup. The oil-free formula suits combination to oily skin.

Key Features

• Oil-free, non-greasy formula
• Vitamins A, C & E nourish skin
• Minimizes pores, fine lines
• Matte, flawless finish
• Smooth base for makeup

Our Expert Opinion

At just ₹199 for 30gm, the Blue Heaven primer offers great value for money. It delivers on oil control thanks to its matte, powdery texture while feeling lightweight. The formula could be more hydrating and pore-filling for extremely oily or mature skin. But for daily makeup for combination to oily skin on a budget, it works well for a smooth, shine-free base.

4. Colorbar Cosmetics Flawless Finish Primer, Transparent, 30 ml

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Description

The Colorbar Flawless Finish primer claims to even out skin texture while filling pores for a flawless base. The lightweight gel is suitable for all skin types. It is free of parabens and mineral oils.

Key Features

• Lightweight gel texture
• Evens out skin texture
• Fills pores, blurs imperfections
• Extends makeup wear
• Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic
• Paraben-free, mineral oil-free

Our Expert Opinion

As an affordable, everyday primer for Indian skin, the Colorbar Flawless Finish delivers on its claims. It offers adequate pore filling and blurring while feeling comfortable on the skin. The lightweight formula also helps makeup adhere better for increased longevity. It may not offer enough hydration for very dry skin or oil control for extremely oily skin on its own. But it works well for combination to normal skin.

5. RENEE Bollywood Filter Face Primer 15gm

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Description

The Renee Bollywood Filter primer claims to instantly minimize the look of pores, fine lines and imperfections. It provides a smooth, flawless base for long-lasting makeup. The hydrating formula is non-sticky.

Key Features

• Blurs pores, fine lines
• Hydrates and plumps skin
• Creates smooth canvas for makeup
• Lightweight, non-sticky texture
• Cruelty-free, vegan

Our Expert Opinion

The Renee primer offers Buildable coverage while feeling weightless on skin. True to claims, it visibly minimizes pores and blurs imperfections instantly. The serum-like texture also adds a nice dose of hydration without feeling sticky. It works well across skin types and ages. Overall, it’s a great option for a photo-ready, poreless base just like a professional Bollywood makeup artist would create.

6. Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Matte Face Primer

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Description

Lakme’s Blur Perfect primer minimizes pores while controlling shine and oil. The matte, smoothing formula claims to keep makeup fresh for up to 12 hours. It is waterproof and sweatproof.

Key Features

• Minimizes pores
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Oil control for up to 12 hours
• Sweatproof, waterproof, humidity-resistant
• Smooth base for long-lasting makeup
• Blurs imperfections

Our Expert Opinion

The Lakme Blur Perfect primer is specially formulated for oily Indian skin. True to claims, it keeps excess oil and shine at bay even in hot, humid weather. The matte texture also grips foundation well for extended wear without settling into pores or fine lines. For extremely oily skin, touch ups may still be required after several hours. But overall, it delivers on keeping makeup looking fresh while controlling oil and texture issues.

7. INSIGHT Primer 3 In 1 Oil Free

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Description

The Insight 3 in 1 Oil Free primer promises a shine-free and poreless base for flawless makeup application. It is formulated with oil-absorbing ingredients that help control excess sebum production.

Key Features

• Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula
• Refines pores and blurs imperfections
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Smooth canvas for foundation application
• Dermatologically tested

Our Expert Opinion

As an affordable, oil-free primer for oily and combination skin types, the Insight 3 in 1 primer delivers on its claims. It gives a matte, poreless finish for long-lasting makeup. The primer glides smoothly and does not feel greasy or heavy. For extremely oily skin, it may need to be topped up during the day. Overall, it’s a good drugstore option to prep oily skin for makeup.

8. INSIGHT COSMETICS PORE MINIMIZER PRIMER

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Description

The Insight Pore Minimizer primer visibly reduces the look of enlarged pores while creating a smooth, flawless base for makeup. It suits all skin types.

Key Features

• Minimizes look of pores
• Blurs imperfections
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Lightweight texture suits all skin types
• Extends makeup wear
• Dermatologically tested

Our Expert Opinion

The Insight Pore Minimizer offers good pore blurring at an affordable price point. It helps foundation glide on smoothly while providing oil and shine control. The texture is lightweight enough for daily, all-over use on combination to oily skin. For extreme pore issues it may require concealer touch ups. But overall, it’s a nice budget primer for minimizing pores and smoothing base makeup.

9. MARS Primer for Face Makeup For All Skin Types

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Description

The MARS primer for face makeup claims to reduce the look pores, fine lines and imperfections. It offers oil control and a smooth base for foundation with a lightweight texture suitable for all skin types.

Key Features

• Lightweight gel-cream formula
• Minimizes pores, blurs lines
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Oil control for up to 8 hours
• Extends makeup wear
• For all skin types

Our Expert Opinion

A good drugstore primer should even your complexion while making makeup last longer, and the MARS Face Primer delivers on that front. The smoothing, pore-filling formula leaves a nice matte finish. For extremely oily skin types, the oil control may not be sufficient in hot/humid climates. But for combination to normal skin, it gives a flawless, shine-free base while helping foundation apply smoothly and evenly.

10. Maybelline New York Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Primer

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Description

The Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth primer hydrates while giving the skin a subtle glow. Enriched with vitamin E and an aloe-based formula, it claims to prep normal to dry skin for long-lasting makeup.

Key Features

• Hydrating formula with aloe
• Vitamin E nourishes skin
• Lightweight gel-cream texture
• Dewy, luminous finish
• Up to 12 hour makeup wear
• Best suited for normal to dry skin

Our Expert Opinion

The Fit Me Dewy + Smooth primer lives up to its name by imparting a beautiful luminous sheen while hydrating the skin. The soothing gel-cream formula layers well under makeup without greasiness or shimmer overkill. For oily skin types, it may cause some melting or slippage of base makeup without adequate oil control. But for normal to dry skin, it gives the perfect non-greasy glow while gripping makeup better.

11. MARS Pore Cure Primer for Face Makeup

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Description

The MARS Pore Cure primer claims to minimize pores while controlling oils and shine. It provides a flawless, smooth finish for gripping long-lasting makeup. The oil-free formula suits oily and acne-prone skin.

Key Features

• Minimizes pores
• Matte finish
• Oil control for up to 8 hours
• Refines skin texture
• Long-lasting smooth base
• Best for oily, acne-prone skin

Our Expert Opinion

As a drugstore primer formulated specially for oily and acne-prone Indian skin, the MARS Pore Cure delivers on its claims. It provides adequate oil control to reduce mid-day greasiness and melt-offs. The matte texture also seems to grip foundation nicely. It may not completely disguise large, open pores the way a professional primer would. But with smooth application and reduced oil breakthrough, it certainly helps makeup last longer on oily skin affordably.

12. Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer

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Description

The Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless primer is specially formulated for oily skin. It soaks up excess oil while minimizing the look of pores for smooth, flawless makeup that stays upto 16 hours.

Key Features

• Absorbs oil, retains matte finish
• Reduces appearance of pores
• Refines texture for smooth base
• Controls shine upto 16 hours
• Lightweight, non-greasy

Our Expert Opinion

Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer is regarded as one of the best drugstore primers even by makeup artists. This mattifying primer smooths skin texture effectively while controlling oils remarkably well given its affordable pricing. The skin-like texture doesn’t feel heavy, cakey or chalky. For extremely humid summer months, touch ups may be needed on very oily skin after several hours of wear. But year-round, it delivers smooth, shine-free, pore-minimized perfection for oily skin types.

13. ORO MAC Prep+Prime All Skin Base Visage Primer Pack-of-1

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Description

The ORO MAC Prep+Prime base evens skintone while filling pores and lines to create a perfect canvas for flawless makeup. The gel-cream formula suits all skin types.

Key Features

• Evens, smooths skin texture
• Fills pores, blurs lines
• Creates flawless base for makeup
• Longwearing formula
• Paraben free, non acnegenic
• For all skin types

Our Expert Opinion

The ORO MAC Prep+Prime delivers smooth, photo-ready skin in one easy step. The lightweight formula doesn’t feel greasy yet fills pores and evens skintone remarkably well. While very oily or dry skin may require specialised primers to manage shine or hydrate better, this works well as an all-rounder primer to grip makeup for a perfected look. The travel-friendly tube packaging is an added plus.

14. Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Matte Face Primer

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Description

Lakme’s Blur Perfect primer minimizes pores while controlling shine and oil. The matte, smoothing formula with peach undertones claims to keep makeup fresh for up to 12 hours. It is waterproof and sweatproof.

Key Features

• Minimizes pores
• Matte, shine-free finish
• Oil control for up to 12 hours
• Sweatproof, waterproof, humidity-resistant
• Smooth base for long-lasting makeup
• Peach tint for brightening effect
• Blurs imperfections

Our Expert Opinion

The Lakme Blur Perfect primer is specially formulated for oily Indian skin. True to claims, it keeps excess oil and shine at bay even in hot, humid weather. The matte texture also grips foundation well for extended wear without settling into pores or fine lines. The added peach undertones provide a brightening effect for dull, tired skin. For extremely oily skin, touch ups may still be required after several hours. But overall, it delivers on keeping makeup looking fresh while controlling oils and texture issues.

15. Swiss Beauty Mattifying Makeup Primer

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Description

The Swiss Beauty mattifying primer is specially formulated for oily skin types prone to shine breakthrough. It minimizes the look of pores while controlling excess sebum and oil for a flawless, long-lasting matte makeup look.

Key Features

• Oil-free matte finish
• Minimizes pores
• Controls excess oil and sebum
• Smooths and perfects skin texture
• Creates flawless base for long wear
• For oily and acne-prone skin types

Our Expert Opinion

The Swiss Beauty Mattifying Primer offers good oil control at an affordable price point. The texture truly mattifies and blurs pores without feeling heavy or chalky, allowing foundation to glide on smoothly. It may not keep oil at bay as remarkably in extreme heat and humidity as a higher end primer would. But for daily use by oily skinned beauties on a budget, it delivers on keeping shine in check for several hours while perfecting the base for flawless makeup application.

Feature Comparison for best primer

How to Choose the Best Primer

With so many options, choosing the right face primer for your skin type and concerns is crucial:

Skin Type and Concerns

Oily skin benefits from oil-free, mattifying primers while dry skin needs hydrating primers. Look for pore-filling formulas to minimize pores and blurring primers to camouflage fine lines.

Formula

Gel-cream textures work for most skin types. Avoid heavy, greasy formulas. Seek lightweight primers that layer smoothly under makeup.

Ingredient Deck

Check if the formula includes skin-nourishing ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins or hyaluronic acid rather than just silicones.

Hours of Wear

See if the primer promises to extend makeup wear for 6-8 hours or longer while combatting sweat, humidity etc based on your climate.

Shade Range

While most primers seem transparent, some have a tint/undertone that must suit your skin shade.

Budget

Finally, ensure the primer fits your budget. Drugstore primers now deliver quality performance on par with luxe options.

Different Types of Primers:

There are different categories of face primers to address different needs:

1. Mattifying Primers

These control excess oil and shine on oily/combination skin for makeup that stays put without getting greasy.

2. Illuminating/Radiant Primers

These contain light-reflecting ingredients like mineral pigments to impart a luminous, lit-from-within glow.

3. Blurring Primers

These instantly camouflage the look of large pores, fine lines and imperfections.

4. Gripping Primers

These help makeup adhere better to the skin and prevent sliding or creasing.

5. Brightening Primers

Typically pigmented with color correcting shades, these even out skin tone and coloration.

6. Hydrating Primers

Water and glycerin-based hydrators prep normal to dry skin with moisture for smooth, lasting makeup.

Guide on Primer Usage, Care and Maintenance

Using primers correctly helps harness their complete potential:

Step 1: Prep

Start will freshly cleansed, toned skin. Use suitable serums and treatments before primer.

Step 2: Apply

Smooth out a pea-sized amount all over face just before makeup. Avoid rubbing excessively.

Step 3: Layer On Foundation

Let the primer set while tacky. Then use a compatible foundation formula and finish for best results.

Step 4: Store Well

Keep the primer tube hygienically sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Step 5: Shelf Life

Finish within 6 months of opening for best performance. Use clean hands without contamination for application.

FAQs about Best Primer

Q. Which primer is best for oily skin?

Some of the best primers for oily skin types are:

• Insight 3 in 1 Oil Free Primer
• Blue Heaven Flawless Makeup Primer
• Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Matte Primer
• MARS Pore Cure Primer
• Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer

These mattifying, pore minimizing primers help control excess oil and sebum for several hours while providing a smooth base for long lasting makeup.

Q. Which primer is best for dry skin?

Some good hydrating, moisturizing primers for dry skin types are:

• Swiss Beauty Highlighting Primer
• Maybelline New York Fit Me Dewy Primer
• Faces Canada Ultime Pro Primerizer

Enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and other nourishers, these primers provide hydration while giving a luminous, dewy glow to dry skin.

Q. Which primer is best for combination skin?

Versatile primers that work well for combination skin types are:

• Colorbar Flawless Finish Primer
• ORO MAC Prep + Prime Primer
• MARS Primer for Face Makeup

With their lightweight gel-cream textures that even out skin texture without greasiness or chalkiness, these primers balance the needs of combination skin.

Q. Which primer is best for makeup?

For keeping makeup looking fresh and intact for the longest time possible, some top primers are:

• Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Primer
• RENEE Bollywood Filter Primer
• Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Primer
• Insight Pore Minimizer Primer

Thanks to their pore filling, blurring, mattifying and gripping properties, these primers allow makeup to stay perfect for up to 12-16 hours while combatting sweat, humidity etc.

Q. Can I use a primer on bare skin?

Yes, face primers can also be worn alone without foundation or makeup for their skin treatment benefits like oil control, smoothing, pore filling etc. Choose suitable types.

Q. How long should a primer last?

On average, a primer should deliver its oil control, makeup extending, pore minimizing or other effects for atleast 6-8 hours before needing a touch up. Higher end ones last even longer upto 12-16 hours.

Q. Can primers damage your skin?

Gentle, non-comedogenic primers containing beneficial ingredients are formulated safe for skin. However, heavy reliance on chemical silicone primers could lead to clogged pores or acne breakouts for some acne-prone skin types.

Q. What’s the best way to apply face primer?

Dot a pea-sized amount all over a freshly moisturised face and blend outwards in dabbing motions using clean fingers or a makeup sponge for seamless application under foundation.

Q. How to store primer properly?

Store any opened primer away from heat, humidity and sunlight to retain its integrity. Keep the tube tightly shut hygienically when not in use to prevent contamination or drying for longevity.

Conclusion

So which is the best primer in India for you? We hope our curated list offers insight on the right primers to start with for your skin type while telling you what to look for. Always remember to pick formulas that not only perfect makeup results but also respect skin health with safe ingredients. Just like great athletes follow coaching, nutrition and training for peak performance, give your skin the prep it deserves with these multitasking makeup bases for winning glam looks!