Editorial Ranking · Makeup · 2026

Best Primers in Australia (2026)

Primers tested under foundation, alone, and over moisturiser. Scored on grip, finish-altering, and how they age through 8 hours.

6 products tested April 2026 editorial visit 5-axis Glow Score 0 paid placements

Full ranking · 1 to 6

Glow's full ranking.

Primer is the most over-bought product in makeup. Most foundations don't need it. The exceptions: oily T-zones, dry winter skin, and event-day grip.

№ 1 Glow 9.4

Makeup · Charlotte Tilbury $78

Magic Cream Primer

Best for premium luxury

Top PickGlow Verified

Cult product, real benefit. Hydrating, glowing, gives skin a polished baseline. Pricey, but you use a pea.

№ 2 Glow 9.1

Makeup · Smashbox $48

Hydra Plump Primer

Best for hydrating workhorse

Hyaluronic-acid-led primer. Strong on dry winter skin. Doesn't pill under foundation.

№ 3 Glow 9.0

Makeup · Benefit POREfessional $52

Pore Minimising Primer

Best for pore-blurring

Glow Verified

The pore-blurring category leader. Apply only where pores show; don't cover entire face.

№ 4 Glow 8.7

Makeup · Smashbox $45

Photo Finish Primer

Best for long-wear

Silicone-based, photo-grade. Strong on event-day grip. Less ideal for daily natural-finish wear.

№ 5 Glow 8.5

Makeup · ELF $10

Universal Primer

Best for budget primer

Best ValueBest for Beginners

Pharmacy-grade, surprisingly competent. The starter primer at the price of a coffee.

№ 6 Glow 8.4

Makeup · Cover FX $55

Hydrating Primer

Best for sensitive + hydrating

Fragrance-free, alcohol-free. The right choice for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin that reacts to silicone primers.

Frequently asked

Common questions.

Do I need primer?

Most people don't. If your foundation looks fine without it, primer adds friction without benefit. Use primer for: 12-hour wear, oily T-zones, large pores, or specific event-day finish.

Should primer go before or after sunscreen?

After sunscreen. Sunscreen is treatment; primer is makeup. Order: skincare → SPF → primer → foundation.

Silicone vs water-based primer?

Silicone for grip and pore-blur. Water-based for hydration. They don't layer well together — pick one job per primer.

How much primer should I use?

Pea-sized for the entire face. Most people use four times this and complain about pilling.

More from Glow.

For more makeup editorial, see our Makeup hub, or browse all brands and brand reviews. For our annual edit, see The Glow 100.