If you don't own at least one makeup primer, then you're really missing out on the secret to a flawless and long-wearing base. Although we often try to reduce the amount of products we apply, in the constant search for minimal beauty, sometimes adding a an extra touch of something can make the world of difference to your overall routine - and primer is the perfect example. Many people skip this step because they're confused as to how to use a primer, what benefits it can bring or even if it's worth the investment - but it 100% definitely is. (Read up on the five reasons you need to start using a primer here!) I have three favourite premium primers that I've turned to for many years, but it's also great to shake things up and try something a bit more affordable. I've pinpointed three high street dupes that will ensure the same performance, but will set you back half the price...
1. Benefit The Porefessional (£24.50) Vs GOSH Primer Plus (£13.99)
Possibly the most iconic primer ever launched, Benefit's Porefessional is a firm favourite across the globe. The slightly tinted and velvety formula glides over skin to help reduce the appearance of pores, even out tone and keep makeup looking tip top all day. However, if you can't justify the price tag, GOSH's Primer Plus provides a very similar consistency and finish; the velvety smooth primer melts into the skin to leave an undetectable finish that blurs away fine lines. It's even hydrating and contains snow algae for a touch of anti-ageing benefit too - not bad for £13.99.
2. NARS Oil-Free Pro Prime (£26.00) Vs Rimmel Lasting Finish Primer (£6.99)
Perfect if you have oily skin, NARS' oil-free formula is incredibly lightweight and feels almost like creamy water to the touch. It's absorbed into the skin like a cream, leaving a fresh feeling that won't overload skin or cause your makeup to feel cakey. As an alternative, Rimmel's Lasting Finish Primer is blooming brilliant; the texture is slightly thicker but still incredibly lightweight and easy to apply. It's a fab product to start with if you're not too sure about primers, while helping your base to last all day. A bargain buy if ever there was one (and also a bit of a dupe for Laura Mercier too!)
3. Bare Minerals Prime Time (£21.00) Vs B. Prepared Makeup Primer (£9.99)
The first ever primer I was introduced to was Prime Time. The transparent and silky smooth texture glides over skin to blur fine lines and create a barrier between makeup, leaving my base looking flawless. Although it's a bit pricey, you do get a lot out of this little bottle so it's a worthwhile investment - however, Superdrug's own brand B. offer an alternative that's hard to separate from the 'original'. Put these two side by side and you'd be hard pressed to find a difference. The texture of B. is a dream, melting onto skin upon contact to leave a fabulous finish; a great one if you're over 30 and you want to tone down those imperfections that are starting to pop up.
Have you tried any of these primers? Will you be shopping around for an affordable alternative?
All three 'dupes' are available in Superdrug stores nationwide.
Get involved with Superdrug's Swap Shop this June: the average Brit could save over £150 a year by swapping from pricy beauty brands to own brand beauty and toiletries! If you pop into store Superdrug staff will suggest an own brand alternative to your usual product; if you aren’t completely happy with your alternative then Superdrug will offer a 100% money back guarantee with a 25% off voucher for your next own brand purchase!
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
1. Benefit The Porefessional (£24.50) Vs GOSH Primer Plus (£13.99)
Possibly the most iconic primer ever launched, Benefit's Porefessional is a firm favourite across the globe. The slightly tinted and velvety formula glides over skin to help reduce the appearance of pores, even out tone and keep makeup looking tip top all day. However, if you can't justify the price tag, GOSH's Primer Plus provides a very similar consistency and finish; the velvety smooth primer melts into the skin to leave an undetectable finish that blurs away fine lines. It's even hydrating and contains snow algae for a touch of anti-ageing benefit too - not bad for £13.99.
2. NARS Oil-Free Pro Prime (£26.00) Vs Rimmel Lasting Finish Primer (£6.99)
Perfect if you have oily skin, NARS' oil-free formula is incredibly lightweight and feels almost like creamy water to the touch. It's absorbed into the skin like a cream, leaving a fresh feeling that won't overload skin or cause your makeup to feel cakey. As an alternative, Rimmel's Lasting Finish Primer is blooming brilliant; the texture is slightly thicker but still incredibly lightweight and easy to apply. It's a fab product to start with if you're not too sure about primers, while helping your base to last all day. A bargain buy if ever there was one (and also a bit of a dupe for Laura Mercier too!)
3. Bare Minerals Prime Time (£21.00) Vs B. Prepared Makeup Primer (£9.99)
The first ever primer I was introduced to was Prime Time. The transparent and silky smooth texture glides over skin to blur fine lines and create a barrier between makeup, leaving my base looking flawless. Although it's a bit pricey, you do get a lot out of this little bottle so it's a worthwhile investment - however, Superdrug's own brand B. offer an alternative that's hard to separate from the 'original'. Put these two side by side and you'd be hard pressed to find a difference. The texture of B. is a dream, melting onto skin upon contact to leave a fabulous finish; a great one if you're over 30 and you want to tone down those imperfections that are starting to pop up.
Have you tried any of these primers? Will you be shopping around for an affordable alternative?
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Clik here to view.
All three 'dupes' are available in Superdrug stores nationwide.
Get involved with Superdrug's Swap Shop this June: the average Brit could save over £150 a year by swapping from pricy beauty brands to own brand beauty and toiletries! If you pop into store Superdrug staff will suggest an own brand alternative to your usual product; if you aren’t completely happy with your alternative then Superdrug will offer a 100% money back guarantee with a 25% off voucher for your next own brand purchase!
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Features PR samples unless otherwise stated. To read my full disclaimer, click here.
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