Skin primers are incredible for filling in enlarged pores, ironing out the look of fine lines and crow’s feet, smoothing out texture, and controlling excess oil, but certain formulas can actually correct and conceal specific skincare concerns, from redness to dull tone. These tone-adjusting and color-correcting face primers cancel out unwanted pigmented, blotchy skin, and can even conceal other imperfections, like sunspots and blemishes (especially with the help of a full coverage foundation applied on top). Color correcting products are based on the principles of the color wheel.
Essentially, colors that are opposite of one another on the color wheel can cancel the other out. For instance, because red and green are across each other, green will help to lift redness and conceal irritation, while purple-hued products will combat dullness and sallow-looking skin.
Of course, aside from tone-correcting properties, these multifunctional primers are also equipped with all of the other skincare benefits you expect from traditional primers, from extending the wear time of your complexion products to blurring out other imperfections. Ahead, we’ve lined up a few of our favorite (and affordable) tone-enhancing facial primers that will even out your skin before you even apply your foundation.
STYLECASTER’s mantra is ‘Style To The People’— and our mission is to be an accessible, inclusive, ahead-of-the-trend destination for millennial and Gen Z women who want to live with style and substance. Our fashion, beauty and lifestyle coverage is equal parts informative and inspiring, and at once aspirational yet attainable. If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission.
1. e.l.f. Tone Adjusting Face Primer
e.l.f.
This green-hued facial primer glides on with a smooth and silky texture while working to lift redness, discoloration, and other common signs of irritation. It’s suitable for all skin types (including sensitive skin) and is paraben-free.
2. TOUCH IN SOL No Pore Blem Primer Base
Touch in Sol.
Instantly fade the look redness with this pore-smoothing and tone-correcting formula. It’s also infused with nourishing skincare ingredients, including jojoba and pumpkin oil to help soften and hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue behind.
3. Covergirl Base Business Face Primer
Covergirl.
This tone-correcting and redness-neutralizing facial primer instantly fades discoloration and gives the skin a brightened effect, while also helping to extend the wear time of your foundation and concealer.
4. Algenist REVEAL Concentrated Color Correcting Drops
Algenist.
This Hypoallergenic color-correcting primer helps to instantly reduce redness, irritation, and refine enlarged pores. It has a serum consistency and sits well under makeup.
5. One Step Color Corrector Makeup Primer
Courtesy: Latorice.
This one-step color corrected has three different color-correcting pigments to even your skin tone. What’s more it has sunscreen built-in, so you can rest easy knowing your skin is being protected from the sun while it’s looking fabulous.