The 10 Best Primers for Mature Skin (2024)

"To minimize pores, I go to my classic," says Spickard of this primer from Smashbox (which, fun fact, happens to be the first primer on the market). "It fills in any large pores and helps blur the skin."

Finish: Natural
Key ingredients: Vitamins A and E

Customer Review:

"I keep trying different primers, but I always come back to Smashbox. My huge pores are definitely blurred, and my face looks smooth. It's fun to try new things, but I think Smashbox has them all beat." —kqua

Spickard says this two-in-one is another favorite. "Marketed as a primer/skincare hybrid, this formula is perfect for mature skin," says the pro. "It gives the skin a beautiful, juicy plump look, creating a smooth base for makeup."

Finish: Natural and hydrated
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, squalane, vitamins B, C, and E

Customer Review:

"I have extremely dry skin and have struggled to find any base/primer that has left my skin moisturized, supple and glowing all day long." —Galeforce

The key to this primer from Lancôme is the Elasto-Smooth™ technology, which leaves a satiny-smooth finish that's somehow both radiant and shine-free. Plus, it's suitable for all skin types.

Finish: Matte
Key ingredients: Elasto-Smooth™ technology

Customer Review:

"This primer is a must. I have tried tons of primer and this is by far my favorite. Makeup goes on smooth as a baby after applying this. Would highly recommend." —Steins35

We love how this primer has vitamin C for added antioxidant protection, and it's packed with hydrating humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, so you may even be able to skip moisturizer when you use it.

Finish: Dewy
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamin C

Customer Review:

"This is a really good face primer. I like how it feels on my face and it helps my foundation go on smooth and my skin look healthier." —melissa196

As soon as you apply this primer from Elemis, you feel a cooling sensation that is designed to tighten the skin and reduce the look of pores. Superfans say it works wonders and that the formula creates an even canvas for foundation.

Finish: Natural
Key Ingredients: Padina Pavonica algae, glacial water, marine extracts

Customer Review:

"This is worth every penny and more! I've used every primer out there and this is so smoothing makes me have the skin of a 20 year old at 39 and my make up lasts perfectly 6am-10pm or 11pm without a single crease line anything even after eating and working outside all day with kids!" —Katie

This blurring primer understands the assignment when it comes to visible pores and fine lines. The lotion-like texture may take a bit more effort to rub in (some reviewers said it was like sunscreen), but the results are worth it for a smooth canvas.

Finish: Semi-matte
Key ingredients: Ceramides

Customer Review:

"I liked this primer overall. It has a thicker and stickier consistency than the others, but that is likely what helps to blur those pores and lines! It helped my foundation last all day and I would even consider wearing it alone. It's a good choice to help smooth the look of your skin." —Melanie P

The refreshing gel texture of this primer will have you at hello, but the makeup-gripping properties will have you reaching for it over and over. Plus, it doesn't get sticky like some other gel formulas.

Finish: Radiant
Key ingredients: Tightenyl™, vegetable squalane, hyaluronic acid, eggplant fruit extract

Customer Review:

"This is a perfect primer. It works well under make-up, but I also enjoy wearing it without make-up. It smooths out my skin and adds radiance. I love the clean ingredients too." —Rebecca B

If you can give or take foundation, this soft-focus primer is ideal to have on hand. It blends in seamlessly to lend a pretty, not-too-shimmery glow, and it helps even the look of skin tone too. The addition of SPF 30 is the cherry on top.

Finish: Radiant
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, spirulina maxima extract, and sodium hyaluronate

Customer Review:

"Thanks to this magic in a bottle, my glow is back. My skin truly feels healthier inside and out. I like the lightweight, easily absorbed formula. It doesn't irritate my eyes or skin (and I have super sensitive skin). I love that SPF is in it. I have found that I hardly ever reach for foundation any longer. I love it!" —Stephie R

This sunscreen-spiked primer not only keeps makeup in place for up to eight hours, but also boosts hydration for a full day. One thing to note: There's only one shade and it's on the fair side.

Finish: Radiant
Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed silk, SPF

Customer Review:

"I have several dark spots on my face and this correcting cream worked great to really tone them down. It felt very light on my skin and didn't feel like it was caked on." —katec3

If dullness is the issue at hand, try this primer with light-reflecting smart pigments that adjust across skin tones. Even better, it helps brighten skin over time.

Finish: Radiant
Key ingredients: Licorice root, edelweiss flower, African whitewood

Customer Review:

"Wonderful. My makeup doesn't buildup in the creases in my face. The product gives my face a lovely glow even with no makeup." —Ann B

• The 15 Best Foundations for Mature Skin
• Bobbi Brown Shares Her Most Important Makeup Tips for Women Over 45