12 Best Primer with SPF (Reviews & Guide)

Updated 5 years ago

If you think that a primer is a waste of time and money, think again. A primer is an essential item in your makeup routine.

We all want to cut down on our makeup routine time in the mornings and primers can help with that! One of the most handy things about primers with SPF is that they serve two functions in our routine. They can protect from the harmful UV rays of the sunlight and prime your face for makeup.

On the lookout for a primer that also doubles as a sunscreen? If you have no idea which to get, keep on reading to find out some of the top products to consider.

Reviews of Top-Rated Primers with SPF

To make your life a lot easier, keep an eye on the primers we mention below

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Aging Primer with Sunscreen SPF 50

Among others, one thing that makes this product exceptional is the Cell-Ox Shield Technology, an innovation that has been exclusively developed by the manufacturer. The latter allows it to provide UVA and UVB protection while also having antioxidants that will be effective in protecting the cells from the damage that can be caused by free radicals. More so, with the mattifying texture, it can help to fill any imperfection for a more flawless look. It is free of fragrances and preservatives. The formula is also non-comedogenic, which means that it won’t clog the pores.

BareMinerals Primetime BB Primer Cream SPF 30

With broad spectrum SPF 30, this is another top primer that will give the skin the protection it deserves from the harsh heat of the sun. It is a multipurpose product as it promises to be helpful in perfecting, protecting, and priming the skin. This is a multitasking BB cream that also acts as a primer. It improves the defense of the skin against external elements and stressors. It also has a silky and smooth formula, which will help in fighting oiliness and dryness, among other skincare problems.

Dermalogica Skinperfect Primer SPF 30

More than just being a makeup primer and a sunscreen, this product can also function as an anti-aging treatment. It has silicones, soy proteins, and natural minerals, which will improve the luminosity and radiance of the skin while also targeting the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. It also has tea polyphenols, which will repair the damage caused by free radicals. It is made without the use of artificial fragrances, parabens, and other harsh ingredients that could damage sensitive skin.

Philosophy Supernatural Poreless/Flawless Tinted Primer with SPF 15

One of the best things about this primer is the oil-free formula, which will prevent the face from being excessively shiny. This makes it an excellent primer of choice for those who have oily skin. It is also a tinted primer, which will work like magic in improving your skin tone while also making sure that you are protected from the heat of the sun. If you have large pores, this primer will also be effective. If you are concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, you will have another good reason to use this primer with SPF.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 20

This is an invisible gel primer that promises to protect against skin damage that can be caused by UVA/UVB rays. The weightless formula is a big plus for those who are looking for an easy to use primer that will make the application of makeup a lot easier. It is also non-greasy and won’t create a white cast. Even during a hot day, the primer will stay on your face, so as your foundation or makeup. It has Dermal Complexity, an advanced peptide. It also has green tea, a powerful antioxidant. More so, with Vitamins A and E, it becomes more effective in promoting a radiant and healthy skin.

Mary Kay Foundation Primer Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15

A mineral-enriched sunscreen, this product comes with an oil-free formula. Therefore, if you have oily skin, this is the primer that will work best for your needs, which will be effective in preventing the face from being shiny and feeling greasy. It does not only absorb oil, but it also diffuses light. The anti-aging benefits are also worth mentioning, especially the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines. The primer has also been tested by dermatologists and proven to be safe even if you have sensitive skin.

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Primer SPF 15

This is a tone-correcting primer packaged in a one fluid ounce tube, which makes it easy to keep in your bag for easy access anytime and anywhere. The formula is silky and lightweight, which is a welcomed alternative from those that are thick and greasy. Even during the summer months, you can wear this primer without worrying that it will be uncomfortable. One of the best ingredients that you can find in this product is the natural soy. With long-term use, the latter can help in the significant improvement of the skin tone.

Hourglass Cosmetics Veil Mineral Primer SPF 15

Looking for a primer that does not contain oils, parabens, and fragrances? Want one that does not only prime the skin but also protects from the harsh rays of the sun? This is one of the perfect options to consider. It is well-loved by many because it is silky and lightweight, which will help in the effortless application of makeup. It makes the skin smoother and effectively hides the imperfections, such as pores and fine lines. It also comes with a formula that will minimize shine, which makes it a great choice for those who have oily skin.

Max Factor Facefinity All-Day Primer SPF 20

You can be confident about the safety and effectiveness of this primer with SPF since it has been tested and approved by dermatologists. It has natural antibacterial properties to protect the skin from serious damage. It will also hold your foundation, providing an assurance that it will stay longer and eliminating the need to apply often. The skin will have a matte finish and you won’t look greasy, even during a hot day. It comes with micro-correctors, which are the ones responsible for the absorption of the excess oil.

Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen and Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Based on the EWG sunscreen guide, this product has a 1 rating, which makes it a top-rated choice. The best thing is that this is a dual-purpose product. It is not your ordinary sunscreen. Rather, it also works as a primer, making it an essential part of your makeup regimen. If you are after eco-friendly products, you will also love this as it is cruelty-free and vegan. It is formulated without parabens, petrochemicals, nanoparticles, synthetic dyes, and titanium dioxide, among other ingredients that are harsh on the skin. It also has antioxidants that are known for promoting a youthful skin.

Tarte BB Tinted Treatment 12-hour Primer SPF 30

This is not just your ordinary primer that offers protection from the sun. The manufacturer markets this as a multipurpose product, basically because it also works as a moisturizer, light foundation, or even treatment for anti-aging. It is the perfect makeup base, especially because it can last for up to 12 hours. It also has a buildable coverage, which allows it to be great for all skin tones. More so, the primer is chemical-free, so there will be no adverse reaction even for people with sensitive skin. It also has a matte finish, allowing it to control the oiliness of the face.

Shiseido Refining Makeup Primer Base SPF 15

For a radiant and natural look that will last throughout the day, this is another product that should not be missed. With SPF 15, there is no need to fear the sun knowing that your skin is protected from the UVA and UVB rays. Since it is a refining primer, it will help in hiding your skin imperfections, including wrinkles and fine lines. It also has a non-comedogenic formulation, which will be great for those who are prone to acne or breakouts.

Why Use a Primer with SPF?

In case you do not know, a primer is a skin care product that is used to prime or prepare the skin for the application of foundation or makeup. Some primers can be used on their own. They will help make the skin smoother while also effectively hiding the imperfections.

If you are looking for a primer, however, you should look for one that comes with a sun protection. Even during the winter months and when the sun is not at its peak, the rays can be damaging once they get in contact with the skin. They can speed up skin aging, resulting in brown or dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, among others. Worst, it can lead to skin cancer.

Some people use a separate primer and a sunblock. While there is no problem with the latter, this will depend on the products that you will use. Most of the sunscreens are oily. They are not only greasy, but they can also cause breakouts. Thankfully, you can use primers that already have sunscreens.

The Right SPF in Primers

Looking for a primer that has SPF can be overwhelming. Some might opt for those with a higher SPF. Truth is, you do not really need an SPF rating that is too high. At a minimum, choose a primer with at least SPF 15. This is more than enough for most people, especially if you do not spend a long time under the scorching heat of the sun.

Primer Mistakes You Need to Avoid

Take note of the mistakes briefly mentioned below and make sure that you do not commit any of them when it comes to using primers:

  • Using a Primer Not Suitable for your Skin: You can have normal, combination, dry, oily, or sensitive skin. You need to find one that is suitable for your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, choose one with an oil-free formula. If you have dry skin, on the other hand, the primer should provide the hydration you need.
  • Not Applying Primer on the Eyelids: A lot of people tend to ignore the area around and under the eyes when they are using a primer. They are thin, and they also need to be taken care of, which is why using a primer is a must. With a primer that comes with SPF, this will also prevent the eyelids from damages from the sun.
  • Not Changing your Primer: Even if you have a favorite primer brand, it is not recommended that you stick to only one product throughout the year. If possible, change your primer to suit the season. Do not be afraid to experiment with different primers to see which one works best for you.
  • Using only a Brush: While a brush can be useful when applying primer to the smaller areas of the face, in other instances, it will be best to use your fingers. This will be effective in improving the blood circulation in the face, which will also provide you with a natural blush.
  • Not Wearing a Primer on its Own: A lot of us think that primers are exclusively to be used as a base for makeup. However, that is not always the case. There are some primers that can be used even on their own, especially when it already has SPF. It is smooth and lightweight while effectively hiding your skin’s flaws.

Wrap Up

Indeed, a primer is a must-have, especially one that has an SPF. Aside from protecting the skin from the harsh heat of the sun, the right primer keeps the makeup intact and will help to create a more flawless look. It will also be effective in hiding your skin imperfections. Use any of the primers mentioned above for a flawless and glowing skin!