7 Best Sweat-Proof Makeup Primers To Buy In 2024

Beauty formulations that help you with combat sweat and remain as gorgeous as ever!

Medically reviewed by Tommy Tafoya, Makeup Artist Tommy Tafoya Tommy TafoyaMakeup Artist insta_icon
Written by Baishali Bhattacharya, MA (English) Baishali Bhattacharya MA (English) linkedin_icon
Edited by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijita De MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Fact-checked by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijani Roy Chowdhury MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Last Updated on
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While you can control your makeup looks, you absolutely cannot control the weather! High humidity levels and soaring temperatures are not your friends if you have a face full of well-done makeup. That is unless you use the best sweat-proof primers! These are the gems of the makeup world that help you prepare your facial canvas before you apply your next layers. A primer smoothens your skin, fills your pores, and blurs out any unevenness. It also makes your makeup last longer. Primers are of various types: gel, tinted, cream, and silicone-based. It is also made according to skin types. So, while you choose the ones best suited for your skin type, make sure that it is also sweat-proof.

In this article, we take a closer look at some sweat-proof makeup primers available this year to help you make the best choice for yourself. So, give it a quick read before you make your next purchase!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Eyeshadow Primer: Ownest Eyeshadow Makeup Primer
Price on Amazon
Best Moisturizing Eyeshadow Primer: Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Eyeshadow Primer
Price on Amazon
Best For Glitter Makeup: Electrik Glitter Makeup Primer
Price on Amazon
Best For Uneven Skin Texture: Revlon Photoready Prime Plus Makeup+ Skincare Primer
Price on Amazon
Best For Oil Control: Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer
Price on Amazon
Best Value Added Set: UCANBE Makeup Eyeshadow Primer
Price on Amazon
Best For Dry Skin: Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray
Price on Amazon

7 Best Sweat-Proof Makeup Primers

1. Best Eyeshadow Primer: Ownest Eyeshadow Makeup Primer

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4

Eyeshadow primers are lightweight bases that help your eye makeup last for a longer time and allow a crease-free look. This set of three liquid eyeshadow primers for Ownest delivers intense pigment and can be used to achieve different makeup looks for different skin tones. Tommy Tafoya, Professional MUA, explains, “These eyeshadow primers are especially ideal as laying down color. Putting a white or light shade down first really brightens up the eyeshadow you’re using. These primers will help the tru eyeshadow color pop.” They provide a waterproof, matte finish. These long-lasting primers have a quick-drying, creamy formula that keeps your makeup intact throughout the day. These are not tested on animals, which makes them good fur-friendly options for all.

Skin Type: All

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof and smudge-proof formula
  • Quick-drying
  • Set of three
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • None
protip_icon Quick Tip
Set your primer with a light dusting of translucent powder. This will help lock in the primer and keep your makeup from melting.

2. Best Moisturizing Eyeshadow Primer: Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Eyeshadow Primer

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3.6
Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Eyeshadow Primer Image: Monicaannbeauty

For all you ladies dealing with dry skin around the eyes, here’s some good news! This eyeshadow primer by Monica Ann Beauty is enriched with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid that moisturizes and plumps your skin and preps it for any eye makeup. This quick-drying formula has a lightweight, creamy texture that brightens your skin tone and delivers a radiant finish. The oil-free, waterproof primer locks in your makeup for 24 hours! The brand does not conduct any animal testing for this product, which makes this a good ethically sensitive choice for users.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, non-comedogenic, Normal

Pros

  • Moisturizing
  • Lightweight
  • Quick-drying
  • Oil-free
  • Waterproof
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalate-free

Cons

  • None

3. Best For Glitter Makeup: Electrik Glitter Makeup Primer

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Electrik Glitter Makeup Primer Image: Electrik Glitter

This one is for all you ladies attending various music festivals and concerts. Tired of that glitter makeup running off your face in an hour? Try the Electrik Glitter Makeup Primer! For intense moisturization, the waterproof formula is enriched with hemp seed oil and omega vitamins A and E. You can use this budge-proof primer with any foundation and makeup product, but it is best suited for glitter makeup. According to reviews, people experience effective results when using this primer.

Color: off-white | Item Weight: 0.81 ounces | Product Dimensions: 3.25 x 1 x 1.5 inches.

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Moisturizing
  • Eliminates acne
  • Biodegradable
  • Long-lasting
  • Value for money

Cons

  • None

4. Best For Uneven Skin Texture: Revlon Photoready Prime Plus Makeup+ Skincare Primer

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Revlon Photoready Prime Plus Makeup+ Skincare Primer Image: Revlon
 

Get instantly photo-ready skin with this primer from Revlon. This makeup primer for long wear takes your skin’s needs into consideration while acting as the perfect base for your makeup products. The antioxidant-rich creamy formula is enriched with moisturizing vitamin B5, hyaluronic acid, and pumpkin-seed extract that work together to even out fine lines and uneven skin texture and deliver a natural finish. Get the best of skin care and makeup in this breathable formula, and wear your makeup for long hours without any worries. This primer from the celebrity-endorsed brand has multiple positive reviews on Amazon.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.19 x 1.19 x 5.13 inches | Weight: 2.12 Ounces.

Pros

  • Moisturizing
  • Breathable
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Phthalates-free
  • Artificial dye-free
  • Environment-friendly

Cons

  • None
Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Eyeshadow Primer
Best Moisturizing Eyeshadow Primer
Electrik Glitter Makeup Primer
Best For Glitter Makeup
Revlon Photoready Prime Plus Makeup+ Skincare Primer
Best For Uneven Skin Texture
Color- off-white -
Weight- 0.81 ounces -
Dimensions- 3.25 x 1 x 1.5 inches. 1.19 x 1.19 x 5.13 inches
Skin Type-- All
Weight-- 2.12 Ounces.
Rating
Reviews141695,751
Price$9.99$11.95$11.77

5. Best For Oil Control: Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer

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4.3
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer Image: Elizabeth Mott

Tired of that oily shine and glistening on your face around mid-day? Try the Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer. Tommy Tafoya explains, “Some people don’t need oil control on their whole face, but applying it at least to the T-zone will help extend the life of your makeup.” The non-greasy formula has a sebum-controlling element that works wonders for oily, acne-prone skin and offers a matte finish. This lightweight primer for acne-prone skin minimizes the appearance of pores and blurs fine lines. Brighten and balance your complexion for a selfie-ready look every day with this shine control primer! Several reviewers have mentioned how well this product smoothes and evens the skin before makeup application.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2.9 x 2.9 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 1.28 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight formula
  • Non-greasy
  • Controls skin shine
  • Brightens complexion
  • Controls sebum secretion
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Expensive
protip_icon Quick Tip
Use a setting spray to help lock in your makeup. This will help keep your makeup in place and will help it last longer.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 2,372 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

6. Best Value Added Set: UCANBE Makeup Eyeshadow Primer

This set of three different non-smudging eyeshadow primers by UCANBE is suitable for a wide range of skin tones. The transparent, light primer improves your overall skin tone and makes your eyeshadow colors pop out. The shimmer is for highlighting and brightening your skin, while the dark brown primer works best to cover blemishes and dark spots.

These quick-drying all-day primers offer a clear canvas for you to build up your eye makeup looks. They also absorb excess oil to provide a long-lasting, smudge-free look all day.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 3.1 x 0.94 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.76 Ounces.

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge-proof
  • Silky texture
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • None

7. Best For Dry Skin: Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray

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4.3
Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray Image: Skindinavia

Spray on this mist primer for long-lasting coverage all day. This lightweight, hypoallergenic formula allows your skin to breathe and prevents any breakouts. The hydrating, water-based primer is perfect for dry skin as it improves the quality of your skin over time. The skin-smoothing primer also regulates sebum production, blurs fine lines, and fills pores to provide an even canvas for your makeup looks.

Color: Colorless | Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 6 inches | Weight: 4.8 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Lightweight
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Hydrating
  • Non-greasy
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Expensive
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Applying a primer is a necessary step in the makeup regime. Primers form a smooth base for makeup that looks naturally even. A sweat-proof primer is suitable for active people, sweaty workouts and outdoor days! These primers need to be hypoallergenic, lightweight and loaded with sunscreen. However, before choosing one for yourself, check this buying guide to be better informed.

Things To Consider While Buying Sweat-Proof Makeup Primers

  • Skin Type

If you have oily skin, pick a primer that is non-comedogenic, non-greasy, and oil-free. A mattifying primer will minimize excess oil, reduce enlarged pores and shine. However, if your skin is excessively oily and you are in a humid environment, do carry a blotting paper to freshen up every now and then. For dry skin, you need a hydrating formula that can maintain the pH balance of the skin and keep it moisturized. A hydrating primer will replenish, nourish, and soothe the skin while preparing it for makeup. Sensitive skin can be tricky when selecting beauty products. Try to pick a primer that is crafted with natural ingredients, botanical extracts, and non-toxic materials. Look for dermatologist-tested products that are expertly crafted for sensitive skin types. Paraben, silicone, SLS, and other such additives must be avoided. Artificial fragrances can also cause irritation to delicate skin.

  • Shade

Choose a sweat-proof primer shade closer to your skin tone. You can determine the shade of your primer by applying it on your jawline. Choose the shade that looks absolutely natural against your skin.

If your skin is pigmented due to tanning, age, or skin issues, use a color correcting primer. There are specific color-correcting primers for specific tones. Green primer minimizes redness due to sunburn or a pinkish complexion. A purple primer helps cancel out yellow undertones. Pink primers can be used as blush-ons to add some color and brightness to the skin. Delicate skin showing blue veins can be covered with yellow primer while a peach primer is used to conceal hyperpigmentation and dark circles.

  • Skin Concerns

Aging causes fine lines, wrinkles, and blotchy skin. Check for ingredients rich in antioxidants that will smoothen the aging lines. A nourishing, moisturizing formula is also helpful to hydrate sagging skin and offer it a rejuvenated lift.

Your primers should contain salicylic acid as this helps reduce acne. Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free and fragrance-free formulas that will remove acne and other skin issues. Vitamins A and E can keep the skin moisturized while absorbing excess oil.

A pore-minimizing primer helps if you have large, open pores. The pore-filling primer forms an even, long-lasting base for your makeup so that the foundation does not settle into the pores and fine lines on the skin.

Infographic: Ingredients To Look For In A Sweat-Proof Primer

Who doesn’t want their makeup to stand up to the challenges posed by heat and humidity? A good sweat-proof primer – one that contains beneficial ingredients – can help extend the longevity of your makeup while nourishing your skin. Check out the infographic below to know what ingredients to look for when buying a sweat-proof primer.

Ingredients To Look For In A Sweat-Proof Primer (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Humidity is a nuisance for makeup, and we all agree that sweat-proof makeup products are a blessing! After all, no one wants to have a cakey, melting face after an hour of getting their face ready! A good-quality humidity-resistant primer helps smooth the imperfect texture of the face and offers a perfect base for successive makeup products. Look for sweat-proof primers that are lightweight, hypoallergenic, and do not have harmful chemicals in their formulation. Also, if you are someone with an oily skin type or oily T-zone, look for oil-free, non-greasy products that are also non-comedogenic. For dry skin type look for hydrating primers that nourish the skin. Enhance the longevity of your makeup with options like the Monica Ann Beauty Dual-Action Eyeshadow Primer, ensuring your eyeshadow stays vibrant throughout the day. For an impeccable base, consider the Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer, designed to control sebum secretion while helping your makeup stay put. If you prefer a spray format, the Skindinavia Makeup Primer Spray offers a convenient and effective way to keep your makeup fresh. Now, you can confidently face humidity with makeup that stays flawless and fabulous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a primer prevent sweating?

No, a primer does not prevent sweating. But, it prevents your makeup from sliding off with the sweat.

How do I stop my makeup from sweating off?

You can stop your makeup from sweating off by using sweat-proof products and a good primer.

Can we use primer in summer?

Yes, you can use silicon-based primers in summer because along with being lightweight they also minimize the production of oil and perspiration.

Do I apply sunscreen or primer first?

Sunscreen is the last step in your skincare routine, while the primer is the first step of your makeup routine. So, sunscreen comes before makeup.

Can I use sunscreen as a primer?

Yes! Some sunscreen can double up as a primer. However, do check the product level and reviews so that you can find the right sunscreen that you can use as a primer as well.

Can we use primer daily?

Yes, you can use primer daily even without makeup. This will help you to get a lightweight smooth complexion without the heavy foundation. Dab on some loose powder to make the look long-lasting.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author of this article, Baishali Bhattacharya, is certified in makeup artistry. She is also passionate about trying out the best makeup products and is closely reviewing them for her readers. She has conducted thorough research after going through several products and their reviews and user feedback to list these sweat-proof primers. These have been chosen based on their hypoallergenic, lightweight, non-greasy, and skin-friendly properties.

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Tommy Tafoya
Tommy TafoyaMakeup Artist
Tommy is a New York-based makeup artist with over a decade of experience. He originally hails from Los Angeles and Tokyo and is largely inspired by color, organic life, and spirituality. Tommy has been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue Runway, Vogue Italia, Vanguard, Playbill, and Worldwide, among others.

Read full bio of Tommy Tafoya
Baishali Bhattacharya
Baishali BhattacharyaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.

Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Srijita De
Srijita DeCommerce Writer
Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.

Read full bio of Srijita De
Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor
Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.

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