Do you struggle to keep your lipstick intact for more than a few hours? Having a good lip primer is essential in this situation – it helps form an even base, extending the longevity of the color and ensuring that your look stays put.
But which one should you choose among the thousands of options on shelves these days? We’ve rounded up five of our favorite lip primers to help make sorting through them easier. Read on to learn why they are some of the best lip primers available today.
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Chose The Best Lip Primer
When selecting the best lip primers, we considered several factors. First and foremost, we looked for formulas that not only provided long-lasting color but also hydrated lips and felt comfortable throughout the wear time.
We chose products from reputable brands with consistent ratings from customers, as well as those that are accessible to shoppers in terms of both pricing and availability. We also valued primers that were easy to use and provided a natural, seamless look on the lips.
Also, we only considered products that are cruelty-free and don’t contain any harsh chemicals. So, without further ado, here is our pick of the Top 5 Best Lip Primers.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Lip Primer
Why It's Our Top Pick
e.l.f cosmetics lip creates a base for long-lasting color while also plumping the lips with a subtle tingle effect. It pairs perfectly with their Lip Lacquer to add extra glam to any look, and it's made from hyaluronic acid that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
The price is also very reasonable, making it accessible to all makeup lovers in makeup bag. Plus, the cinnamon scent makes it a delight to use. It's easy to use, and it gives a natural and seamless look on the lips. And it doesn't contain any harsh chemicals, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
All The Details
The e.l.f Cosmetics Lip Primer & Plumper is a must-have for creating the perfect lip look. This primer not only extends the longevity of your lip color, but it also adds a subtle plumping tingle effect to make your lips look fuller and larger. It’s cinnamon scented, so you can enjoy a pleasant scent while you’re wearing it.
Plus, the formula is free of smudges, so it will stay put all day long. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients, this lip primer and lip plumper will help you achieve a sexy and natural look with no stickiness or residue. It’s perfect for pairing with their Lip Lacquer for added glam for any look.
Mented Cosmetics Balms Away Coconut Lip
Why It's Our Top Pick
Mented Cosmetics Balms Away Coconut Lip Treatment provides instant hydration and a subtle shine, leaving you with soft lips. It’s highly buildable, so you can wear it by itself or mix it with your favorite lip colors to create a stunning stained look.
Plus, Mented is vegan and paraben-free, making it a safe option for your skin. Moreover, it’s cruelty-free, so you can do good while looking great. Also, you will love the coconut scent, making it perfect for summer days. In short, this is one of the best lip primers available today. And it’s affordable too.
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It's highly moisturizing formula, ultra hydrating formula made with shea butter and jojoba oil, is long-lasting and perfect on its own or paired with your favorite lip colors to create stand-out, soft lips. The creamy texture of the lip balm gives a subtle shine and an instant vacay vibe scent whenever you apply it.
It's highly buildable so you can swipe it all over your lips for a hit of hydration or mix it with lip colors to create a stain. It's also vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free which makes it safe to use on your face as well as any other part of the body that needs a little extra TLC. Also, it's great to use as a lip primer, creating an even base and extending the longevity of your lipstick.
Milani Anti-Feathering Lipliner
Why It's Our Top Pick
Its transparent formula glides on smoothly and helps extend the wear of lipstick or lip glosses, preventing feathering and smudging. Plus, it’s enriched with vitamins and hydrators, creating a nourishing base for your favorite lip color.
The main thing that sets it apart is its subtle clear color, which means it won't interfere with your lipstick shade. Also, it’s cruelty-free, so you can feel great about using it. And, at an affordable price, this is one of the best lip primers available today. So, go ahead and try it out – you won’t be disappointed.
All The Details
The Milani Anti-Feathering Lipliner is a must have tool for keeping your lip color inside the lip line. It goes on clear to create a base that prevents lip color from smudging and feathering, while also adding hydration and vitamins to your chapped lips.
Trace the curves of your lips with this easily blendable transparent lip liner before applying lipstick or gloss to keep your look in place all night. Whether you want a subtle nude lip, or a dramatic bold one, the Milani Anti-Feathering Lipliner is the perfect tool for creating any look. Also, it’s cruelty-free and never tested on animals.
Maybelline Prime It Up Multi-Benefit Lip Primer
Why It's Our Top Pick
The Maybelline Prime It Up Multi-Benefit Lip Primer provides an even canvas for lipstick and gloss. It helps keep your look in place all day, and it provides nourishment for your lips. Plus, this primer is affordable and won't interfere with your lipstick shade. It’s also cruelty-free, so you can feel great about using Maybelline's lip care products.
This primer will help you get that perfect pout every time. With the help of this primer, you can keep your lip color in place longer and with more intensity for a stunning look that won’t smudge or fade. Also, it is easy to blend and comes in a convenient liquid form.
All The Details
This Maybelline lip primer is specially formulated to prepare your lips for long-wearing, high-impact color. The transparent formula glides seamlessly onto your lips and provides a smooth surface for lipstick application. Get ready for standout color impact.
Achieve the perfect pout by using this multi-benefit lip primer before applying your favorite Maybelline lipstick. This lip makeup primer has a matte finish that will keep your lipstick in place all day long, without smudging or fading. Plus, it's infused with vitamin E for extra nourishment and hydration to make sure your lips look and feel their best.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Lip Primer
Why It's Our Top Pick
The smooth formula ensures your lipstick stays put and won't smudge or feather. Plus, this lip primer pencil is formulated with texture-enhancing ingredients that keep your lipstick vibrant and long-lasting.
It also has a subtle nude hue that helps enhance your natural lip color, giving you perfect looking lips all day. Plus, this lip primer is certified by PETA as being cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. With the help of this primer, you will be sure to get a flawless look that won’t smudge or fade. Your lips will stay looking beautiful all day long.
All The Details
The NYX Professional Makeup Lip Primer pencil is the perfect tool for creating a flawless base and extending the longevity of your lip color. Its creamy formula goes on smoothly, without smudging or feathering, providing a smooth canvas for your lipstick to stick to.
Plus, it’s certified by PETA as cruelty-free so you can feel good about using it. This primer is available in a nude shade and can be used by all skin types. Keep your lipstick looking perfect all day long with the NYX Professional Makeup Lip Primer.
Best Lip Primer FAQs
Is primer good for your lips?
Yes! A good lip primer will help keep lipstick in place, and it can even prevent the dreaded “lipstick bleed”. It also helps to create an even base for your lipstick color to adhere to, making it last longer throughout the day.
How do you apply lip primer?
It's best applied with a lip pencil or a lip brush. Start by applying a thin layer all over the lips, then wait for it to dry before adding lipstick or lip gloss. Be sure not to apply too much primer, since this can cause your lipstick to look heavy and cakey.
Do I need to use a lip primer?
It depends on your preferences and needs. If you have trouble keeping your lipstick in place or have issues with it fading quickly, then using a lip primer is definitely helpful. However, if you find that your lips do not require extra help with staying put, then foregoing the primer can be an option as well.
Does lip primer expire?
Yes, most lip primers come with a best-by date on them. Once the product has expired, it’s best to discard it and purchase a new one.
Why should I use a lip primer?
A good lip primer can help extend the wear of your lipstick and create an even base for it to adhere to. It also helps prevent “lipstick bleed”, which is when lipstick bleeds into the fine lines around your lips. Using a lip primer will ensure that your look stays put all day long.
How do I choose the best lip primer?
First, consider what kind of formula you prefer. Do you want a matte lipstick or glossy finish? Another important factor is your skin type; if you have dry lips, opt for a more hydrating formula.
What does lip primer do?
A lip primer helps to create an even base for your lipstick, preventing it from bleeding and fading. It also aids in keeping the color lasting longer and prevents it from gathering in the fine lines around your lips.
How long does a lip primer last?
This depends on the quality and type of lip primer you’re using. Generally, a good lip primer should last anywhere from 8 to 12 hours before needing to be reapplied.
Should I use lip primer before or after lipstick?
It’s best to apply the lip primer first, then let it dry before adding your lipstick. This will help ensure that your lipstick lasts longer and doesn’t bleed.
Can I use concealer as lip primer?
No, it’s not recommended to use concealer as a lip primer. Concealers are heavier and may cause your lipstick to look cakey or heavy. It’s best to stick with a product specifically designed for the lips.
Best Lip Primer For You
All in all, the five products we’ve shared with you are some of the best lip primers on the market today. They’ll help to keep your lipstick looking its best from morning until nightfall no touch ups necessary. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give one (or more) of these amazing products a try. We promise you won’t be disappointed.
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