Best Illuminating Primers

I just tried a bunch of illuminating primers that were sent my way recently, who knew finding a good one would be so tricky? Some were too shimmery, some had no sheen at all, and some just didn’t hold makeup on any better than nothing at all. Only these two made the cut and here’s why..

Sally Hansen’s Natural Beauty line is the creative work of TLC’s Carmindy from What Not to Wear. It’s churning out a few cult favs already and their Luminizing Face Primer is one of them. It’s a dense, silicone-based primer with a pretty shimmer that lights up the skin so your foundation looks a little more alive. Because of the luminizing effect the shimmer gives, it wouldn’t be something you’d wear without foundation, it’s a true primer that works best under makeup.

Hard Candy’s Sheer Envy also beat out competitors charging 3x more because of its subtle sheen and mild consistency that quickly disappears into the skin. I’d also be sure and pair this one with your foundation and remember a little goes a long way.

If your skin is looking a little dull lately and you’d like to wake it up, these primers will give you a boost without a sparkle overload.