If you’re really looking to upgrade your makeup for a flawless, filter-like look, then the key is finding the perfect blurring primer. A great makeup primer is the difference between just okay makeup and an effortless beat.
Blurring primers are especially helpful for minimizing the look of pores and smoothing your skin’s texture, which is a must for the sweaty spring and summer months. Whether you’re aiming for a soft matte finish or a luminous glow, the right blurring primer sets the tone for a long-lasting base. 21Ninety curated this list based on skin type versatility, ease of application, and overall value. This list explains the quality formulas behind the top blurring primers. From professional makeup artists to everyday beauty lovers, these five primers offer easy blurred perfection.
5 Blurring Primer Picks
- Best for a Luminous Finish: Iconic London Underglow Blurring Primer
- Best for Oil Control: Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Makeup Primer
- Best Multi-Tasker: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder
- Best for Grip: One/Size by Patrick Starrr Secure the Blur Makeup Magnet Primer
- Best Classic Option: Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer
Best for a Luminous Finish
If you love a radiant glow without greasy-looking skin, then the Iconic London Underglow Blurring Primer is your go-to. With Vitamin C and the plant extract Artemisia Capillaris, this primer delivers the best of both worlds. It has a glow from within and a smooth base. This primer adds a touch of luminosity while softly diffusing the look of pores and fine lines. Additonally, it helps protect your skin from premature aging and blue HEV light. For versatility, you can wear this primer under a full glam makeup look or alone for a no-makeup makeup vibe.
Pros:
- Gives a lit-from-within glow
- Smooth, lightweight texture
- Hydrating formula
Cons:
- May not control oil for long wear
- Subtle scent may not suit all users
Key Specs:
- Skin Type: Normal to dry
- Finish: Radiant
- Size: .9 oz
Best for Oil Control
The Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Primer is catered to those with oily skin. Similar to most primers, this one grips your foundation, helping to mattify shine and reduce the look of pores. The formula is silicone-free and breathable, making it ideal for long summer days or full-glam nights. It offers no patchiness and long-wear for up to 12 hours.
Pros:
- Great for oily and combo skin
- Controls shine for hours
- Silicone-free
Cons:
- May not suit dry skin
Key Specs:
- Skin Type: Oily to combo
- Finish: Matte
- Size: 1.35 oz
Best Multi-Tasker
The Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder is an innovative balm-to-powder formula. It really does it all. It can be used as a primer, foundation or touch-up product. Additionally, this balm powder smooths texture, controls oil and has a weightless feel on the skin. Black makeup designer Danessa Myricks created this with all skin tones and types in mind, making it a truly universal product.
Pros:
- Versatile 3-in-1 product
- Available in shades and universal transparent
- Long-wearing and buildable
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point
- Best applied with fingers or a dense brush
Key Specs:
- Skin Type: All
- Finish: Soft matte
- Size: 0.63 oz
Best for Grip
One/Size by Patrick Starrr is known for its mattifying product offerings, including its Secure the Blur Primer. Similar to other products from the brand’s line, including the setting spray, this primer grips foundation like a magnet and visibly blurs pores. It’s a go-to for full-glam makeup days and long events, like summer weddings and parties. The creamy-gel texture smooths out the skin without feeling heavy and keeps your makeup in place all day.
Pros:
- Excellent makeup grip
- Visibly blurs texture
Cons:
- May pill if over-applied
- Not fragrance-free
Key Specs:
- Skin Type: Combo to oily
- Finish: Matte
- Size: 1.18 oz
Best Classic Option
Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer is a cult favorite for a reason. If you’re ready to blind buy a primer for all your makeup needs, then this brand is the most classic option. Its silky, oil-free formula instantly smooths out fine lines and texture. It’s the perfect universal base for both light and full-coverage foundations. Details about its formula include antioxidants and vitamins A and E to protect the skin from pollutants.
Pros:
- Tried-and-true performance
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- Silicone-heavy feel not for everyone
Key Specs:
- Skin Type: All
- Finish: Natural
- Size: 1.7 oz
Our Take on Blurring Primers
Similar to most makeup products, blurring primers have evolved far beyond the heavy silicones of the past. Today’s formulas offer skincare benefits, targeted finishes and customizable textures. Whether you want something radiant, matte or multitasking, there’s a primer to elevate your base routine.
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