Silicone is known for its ability to fill in
fine lines and pores for a smooth finish, so it's no surprise that this ingredient is common in primers. However, silicone isn't for everyone.
If you're not a fan of silicone, you don't have to give up primer. There are plenty of face primers without silicone to choose from, all of which still have
amazing benefits.
In fact, many people prefer them.
So, keep scrolling to discover all of the very best silicone free face primers that have made their way into our top shelves and have rightfully achieved "hero product" status.
What Is Silicone, and Why Is It Used in Primers?
Silicone is a synthetic substance, often listed as 'dimethicone' on product labels. Silicone is used in primers to fill in imperfections, allowing for smooth, even makeup application. This ingredient also creates a slightly sticky surface that keeps makeup on the skin all day.
Silicone is oil-free, so it's perfect for regulating sebum production on combination and oily skin. Plus, it leaves your skin with a velvet-like finish for an airbrushed look.
What Are the Drawbacks of Silicone?
Some people simply don't like using
synthetic ingredients on their skin. Silicone can also have negative side effects on some skin types.
Applying a silicone primer to dry skin can leave it feeling flaky and dehydrated, despite the product's silky feel. Silicone is also said to clog pores and cause breakouts if the product builds up over time.
Silicone primers create a layer between the skin and makeup. This layer may trap impurities and bacteria, making skin prone to breakouts and irritation.
You may also want to use a silicone-free primer if you're using a water-based foundation, as silicone doesn't react well with water and can disturb your foundation, leading to a messy finish. Silicone pairs best with oil-based foundations.
The Best Silicone Free Primers (According to Us)
Best Silicone Free Primer for Oily Skin The combination of natural skincare and perfect makeup base that your skin has been looking for. Grown Alchemist Prebiotic-Peptide, Anti-Pollution Primer provides anti-ageing antioxidant protection and locks in plumpness, creating an ideal canvas for your makeup to stay put throughout the day. Grown Alchemist Prebiotic-Peptide, Anti-Pollution Primer is ideal for all skin types, particularly those which are oily and dehydrated. Enriched with Ganoderma Mushroom Extract and an Anti-Pollution Shield Complex, the skin is protected from free radicals and over time the skin is left more bright and even-toned.
Best Silicone Free Primer for Combination Skin M.A.C Cosmetics Prep + Prime Natural Radiance creates a smooth, silicone-free base for your makeup with a subtle. This radiant formula creats a light, breathable barrier between your skin and makeup, while controling oil production. Natural extracts nourish and protect skin, such as antioxidants like Vitamins C and E. Caffiene invigorates the skin, with the added luminosity of pearl pigments for an ultimately balanced complexion.
Best Silicone Free Blurring Primer Give your makeup a sultry, airbrushed finish by prepping skin with Nude by Nature Airbrush Primer. A transparent, whisper-light formula, this silky formula glides over skin, infusing your complexion with hydration and creating a smooth, even canvas for makeup application. This seamless-finish primer goes deeper than just perfecting in the moment, with a formula enriched with antioxidants for a unique dash of anti-ageing skincare that leaves the skin smooth, primed, and protected against environmental damage.
The INIKA Certified Organic Pure Perfection Primer is a natural option for dry skin types looking for a fab & fresh silicone free primer. It's Vegan and cruelty-free with a host of organic ingredients that nourish the skin, leading it to become hydrated and balanced. We love the inclusion of Jojoba Oil, Apricot Oil and Lemon Myrtle Oil for soft, glowy skin that is effortlessly smooth.
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
Face Primers<p>Blur the lines between makeup and skin care by applying a face primer during your beauty routine. Face primers not only help to smooth makeup application and extend makeup longevity but can contain skin-loving ingredients to tackle skin care concerns such as dullness, dryness, and redness. We offer a large range of face primers, so no matter if you want to boost luminosity, minimise the appearance of enlarged pores, increase skin hydration or control excess oils, you can find a face primer which will improve both your skin care and makeup routines.</p>
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<p>When applying face primer, we recommend you use it after you have moisturised your skin and before you apply your makeup. Face primers can also be used on their own without makeup, particularly ones which have specific skin care benefits. Be careful not to apply too much primer though as this may clog your skin especially if your primer contains silicones.</p>
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<p>The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer is a favourite amongst Adore Beauty customers, especially for those with oily skin types. Using advanced adaptive silicones, the blurring primer leaves skin with a matte finish and allows makeup to adhere for longer. The Ordinary High-Spreadability Fluid Primer is another firm favourite. The lightweight serum-like primer helps even the most heavy-duty makeup apply seamlessly to the skin, while providing non-oily hydration for a dewy finish.</p>
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<p>The iconic Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer - GOLD has gained beauty cult status, known and loved for its skin-nourishing formula which conditions the skin while calming redness and irritation. Perfectly prepping the skin, the high-performance primer creates a smooth and healthy canvas for makeup application.</p>
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<p>Browse through our extensive range of face primers to discover makeup and skin care hybrids which aid makeup application while tackling a variety of skin care concerns.</p>
