Part moisturiser, part primer, Smashbox’s Primerizer is designed with dry skin in mind. The texture feels closer to a lightweight lotion than a traditional silicone-heavy base, allowing it to sit comfortably on the skin rather than creating a slippery layer. A triple hyaluronic acid complex delivers hydration at multiple levels, while niacinamide helps support the barrier and improve overall tone. The result is a breathable base that allows foundation to glide on smoothly and remain even, particularly around areas prone to creasing.

When dryness shows up as tightness or visible patches, this replenishing primer helps restore balance before foundation goes on. Formulated with coconut water and olive oil, it adds softness and flexibility back into dehydrated skin. The creamy texture absorbs easily, leaving the surface smoother and more supple rather than coated. Free from alcohol and silicone, it avoids the overly slick finish some primers create and instead leaves behind a fresh, dewy glow that supports comfortable wear throughout the day.

For those who want their make-up to last without sacrificing comfort, this hydrating gripping primer offers a considered middle ground. Its breathable, silicone-free formula applies evenly and helps hold foundation in place without leaving skin feeling tight. Maple sap extract works to improve longevity, while butterfly lavender extract helps hydrate and subtly plump. It also performs well in humid conditions, making it a reliable choice when you need your base to stay intact from morning to evening.

If your foundation tends to cling to dry patches or disappear by lunchtime, meet your new pre-makeup MVP: the Maybelline New York Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Primer. This one’s got a glazed-skin energy, thanks to vitamin E that will leave your skin hydrated. It goes on like silk, smooths out any roughness and sets the stage for a luminous, second-skin finish that actually lasts. Bonus: it holds up for a full 12 hours without requiring any touch-ups. Just glide it on before your foundation and let the glow do the talking.

Straightforward and dependable, this primer is tailored to support dry skin from the first step of your routine. Enriched with vitamin E, it adds a layer of nourishment that helps soften texture before foundation application. The finish leans naturally dewy, helping to reduce the appearance of dry patches and encouraging smoother blending. For those who prefer a fuss-free formula that enhances glow while improving wear, it offers reliable performance at an accessible price point.

This blue-tinted primer from KIKO Milano focuses on restoring comfort and balance to dry skin. Aloe vera and shea butter work together to hydrate and soften, while the lightweight texture helps even out the complexion and minimise the appearance of pores. It feels smooth rather than heavy and does not leave behind an occlusive layer. Dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic, it suits skin that is both dry and sensitive, offering hydration without compromising comfort.

A refined, multi-tasking formula, this translucent primer combines hydration with subtle radiance. Dual hyaluronic acid supports moisture at the surface and deeper within the skin, while squalane helps reinforce the barrier and reduce moisture loss throughout the day. The addition of cacao peptides and moringa seed extract contributes to a brighter, more luminous finish over time. It prepares the skin with a smooth, light-reflecting base that enhances foundation without overshadowing it.

Lightweight yet moisture-focused, this primer water delivers an instant refreshing effect. The brand’s H2O Vita Complex and marine actives work to boost hydration, while light-diffusing microspheres help soften the appearance of pores and fine lines. Ficucell Vita supports elasticity and hazelnut oil adds a subtle layer of nourishment. The fluid texture absorbs quickly, making it easy to layer under foundation for a smoother, more hydrated-looking finish that lasts through the day.