Can I use moisturizer as primer?

Author: Shirley Kulas  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

If you want to try using moisturizer as a primer, it's best to get the one best for your skin type. If you do decide on using moisturizer as a makeup primer, we recommend using one that contains vitamins and antioxidants so that it will hydrate your skin while also serving as an anti-aging treatment.

Is it OK to use moisturizer as primer?

Yes, a moisturizer can be used in place of a primer. The root cause for using a primer is to create a smooth and even surface for applying foundation or makeup in general. So a primer's job is not to moisturize the skin but to create a smooth surface. A good moisturizer will do that job.

Can I skip primer if I use moisturizer?

Primer vs.

Moisturizer always comes before primer. If you're applying makeup during the day, you should start with a moisturizer, then sunscreen, then primer once the moisturizer and SPF have dried down.

What can we use instead of primer?

You can use tinted face powder or a compact(scrape it out using a nail filer) or baby powder would work too. Make sure you don't add a lot or the mixture will not come together. I'm using Lakme Rose Powder(review here) which is tinted and thus will add a base to the primer along with the foundation.

Is moisturizer a substitute for primer?

Yes, a moisturizer can be used in place of a primer. The root cause for using a primer is to create a smooth and even surface for applying foundation or makeup in general. So a primer's job is not to moisturize the skin but to create a smooth surface. A good moisturizer will do that job.

WHAT GOES ON FIRST | HOW TO APPLY | MOISTURIZER OR PRIMER | Khichi Beauty

Can I skip primer makeup?

You can apply foundation without using a primer but creating a smoothing-effect barrier between your skin and makeup with primer will help the rest of your makeup to blend more seamlessly and can help to improve your look's longevity.

What moisturizer is good as primer?

Best Moisturizer: Merit Great Skin Priming Moisturizer

This cream is super lightweight, packed with hyaluronic acid to soothe and lock in hydration, allowing makeup to go on smoothly sans pilling.

What can be used as a face primer?

Most makeup primers are silicone based, but they don't have to be. We get the same results (or better) with aloe vera, jojoba oil, and squalane. You can also use coconut oil, green tea extracts, vitamin E oil, and witch hazel.

Can lotion be used as primer?

Yes, you can use moisturizer as primer and in this post, we'll be looking at some of the reasons why this is possible. A primer is a product used to create a smooth base for makeup. It's meant to help skin look brighter and younger, and it also makes it easier for makeup to stay on longer.

How long to wait after moisturizer to apply primer?

For the best results, you should wait for a couple of minutes (between 1-5 mins in total) before adding the primer. In-between this time allows the moisturiser to be fully absorbed into the skin so that the primer can then be added onto a smooth skin base that is properly hydrated.

Do you really need a primer?

It isn't necessary to use a Primer before foundation, yet there are many benefits to adding this product into your makeup bag. It all depends on your skin-type, skin concerns and the skin-finish that you desire.

Can I use day cream instead of primer?

yes if you have really dry skin. a dewy hydrating primer can be replaced by a moisturizer but not a mattifying one,since they have dimethicone and silicones to fill your pores and other ingredients to prevent oil from brealing down your makeup throughout the day.

How long should moisturizer sit on the face before makeup?

It's just as important to let your moisturizer and skincare dry down as it is to apply it in the first place. If you apply liquid, gel or powder foundation before your moisturizer has completely absorbed, you run the risk of streaky, splotchy makeup. Try and wait five to ten minutes before moving onto your makeup.

What comes first, moisturizer or primer?

Let's dive a little deeper into the question that brought you here (namely: What goes first, moisturizer or primer?). As mentioned, the answer is simple: moisturizer should always go before primer. The purpose of a moisturizer is to lock in moisture and help keep dryness at bay.

Can you use vaseline as primer?

To begin with, I strongly advise against using Vaseline as a primer for normal, oily, or acne-prone skin. It excessively increases oiliness and leaves a greasy residue. If you have excessively dry skin, it might be worth considering, but for others, it's best to avoid.

Can you substitute primer with moisturizer?

Hydrating primers are designed to be an additional step for dry skin, not a substitute for moisturiser. This is because primers tend to sit on the surface of the skin, and function as a barrier. If you're worried about overloading your skin with moisture, consider a less hydrating primer.

What is the best hydrating primer?

The bareMinerals PRIME TIME primer is one of our top picks for its hydrating formula and quick absorption. It evaporates into the skin seamlessly and doesn't leave a greasy film or shine. It provides a clear and even canvas for foundation and makeup application and doesn't create buildup with other products.

How to prime face without primer?

All you need to do is mix a teaspoon or two of moisturizer with a little pure aloe vera gel and apply it all over your face as a primer. That's it, this will work best as a primer for you!

What can I use in place of makeup primer?

Facial oil is highly effective when used in place of primer. Applying a face oil as a primer provides a plumper, smoother, more hydrated base for a flawless, even foundation application that lasts all day.

Can I skip using primer?

While primer is an important step, it's not always necessary. You don't need to use a primer if your paint project has all of these conditions: You're painting drywall surfaces that are smooth, clean, and don't need repair. Surfaces were previously painted with latex in a flat or eggshell finish.

Can I use Aquaphor as primer?

Ditch your usual makeup primer and use Aquaphor instead. The formula works just as well, if not better, to hydrate and prep your face for lipstick or eye shadow.

Is moisturiser better than primer?

While moisturisers hydrate and nourish, face primers create a smooth base for makeup application, ensuring a long-lasting, flawless finish. By selecting the right products for your skin type and following the proper application techniques, you can enhance your beauty routine and achieve stunning results.

Can you wear moisturizer under makeup?

Is it good to put moisturizer on before foundation? Not only is it good, it's also a necessity. Moisturizer does two very important things: First, it smoothes skin's surface for a more even foundation or concealer application and can even help makeup to stay on longer.

What is the best primer to stop foundation separating?

Applying Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF50 before foundation is my top tip for helping to stop foundation from separating. This sunscreen-primer hybrid helps to create a smooth-looking canvas that's perfectly prepped to apply whatever foundation formula you choose.

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