In our never-ending quest to get a gorgeous glow, we’re constantly on the lookout for the best illuminating makeup. Most of the time, that has us coveting the newest highlighter launches that promise a lit-from-within, ethereal glow. But we shouldn’t rely solely on highlighters. There are other products that deliver a radiant finish, like luminizing face primers.
Rather than finish off a look with an illuminator, a luminizing face primer can deliver natural-looking radiance as the first step in your makeup routine. Luminizing face primers offer all the benefits of regular makeup primers: they minimize pores, offer a smooth base for foundation and prevent makeup from gradually fading throughout the day (or night). Why use a basic primer when you can get all the same benefits plus a gorgeous glow?
Whether a luminizing face primer is worn under foundation or alone, it delivers a dose of shine with just a few dabs. It can be applied all over the face or dotted on specific areas, like the cheekbones and T-zone, to perk up a dull complexion. And unlike some highlighters, a luminizing primer is virtually mistake-proof as it doesn’t require complicated strobing techniques.
Ready to get glowing? Start your makeup look off with one of these best luminizing face primers.
[ Next: Game-Changing Solutions for Glowing Skin — No Highlighter Required ]
12 Luminizing Primers That Deliver a Gorgeous Glow
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Start your makeup look off with one of these luminizing face primers for glowing skin in a flash.
Image: Imaxtree
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Sephora Collection Beauty Amplifier Afterglow Primer & Luminizer, $16 at Sephora
Pick a way, any way and this face primer will deliver pretty shine thanks to light-reflecting technology. The versatile luminizer can be applied to cleansed skin, mixed with foundation or as a radiant finishing touch.
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Hourglass Ambient Light Correcting Primer, $44 at Space.NK
Why is it that our skin seems to glow from within in certain light, while other light makes it look like we're in serious need of some blush? This light-correcting face primer will make sure your skin looks gorgeous no matter where you are, while smoothing skin, blurring imperfections and helping makeup stay put.
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MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Natural Radiance, $42 at MAC Cosmetics
Those with oily or combination skin might be hesitant about using illuminating products for fear of looking too shiny. This makeup primer is specifically formulated for oily and combination skin types. The gel emulsion manages oil, while illuminating pearls add a romantic radiance. Voila! Glowing skin without the grease.
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Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Radiance With Hyaluronic Acid, $39 at Ulta
Luminizers and highlighters often don't play well with dry skin, seeming to only enhance scaly patches. This hyaluronic acid-rich face primer ensures that skin is moisturized and imperfections are blurred — without a flaky bit in sight.
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NARS Radiance Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 35 Sunscreen, $36 at Sephora
Turn a dull, tired-looking complexion into glowing skin with the help of this luminizing face primer. It actually works over time to improve the appearance of skin.
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Tom Ford Bronzing Primer, $75 at Neiman Marcus
Put down the fake tanner and pick up this primer. The formula moisturizes skin and deposits a sheer golden veil for a honey-toned complexion in a few swipes. Wear it by itself or underneath foundation.
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L'Oréal Paris Studio Secrets Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer, $12.99 at Ulta
A standard face primer helps prep skin for makeup for a smoother, more convincing finish. This budget-friendly product does all that plus it imparts a soft radiance thanks to the way it picks up the light.
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Guerlain L'Or Pure Radiance Face Primer, $74 at Sephora
This gel primer is infused with 24-karat gold for some serious shine. Not only does it boost skin's radiance, it also helps minimize lines and tighten the face. The splurge-worthy product also has a pleasant cooling sensation.
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Laura Mercier Radiance Foundation Primer, $38 at Nordstrom
This radiance primer is like an espresso shot for the face. It enlivens lackluster skin thanks to its flattering pearl tint while also reducing the appearance of lines, pores and redness. Unlike a lot of silicone-packed primers, this one is water-based, so it feels lightweight on skin.
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E.L.F. Cosmetics Mineral Infused Face Primer in Radiant Glow, $6 at Ulta
Discoloration seems to disappear when this shimmery primer is applied on skin. The multitasker also hydrates, camouflages spots and pores and controls shine. Try it as part of a strobed finish or experiment with a no-makeup makeup look by using the primer and no foundation.
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Burberry Beauty Fresh Glow Illuminating Drops, $35 at Net-a-Porter
This luminizing face primer is a water-based formula that comes in a universally flattering shade. Mirror-flat pearls blur imperfections and give skin a just-had-a-facial glow.
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Lancôme La Base Pro Hydra Glow Illuminating Makeup Primer 24-Hour Hydration, $40 at Nordstrom
Every good makeup look starts with a flawless base. This illuminating primer is the first step to a seamless finish. It quenches parched skin while controlling shine. What's more, it allows products to glide on smoothly and it boosts their vibrancy. Did we mention it also adds a luminosity to skin that looks good IRL and in photos?
