I’m obsessed with e.l.f.’s $10 face primer, and with more than 40,000 reviews, I’m not the only one — Here’s what makes it so great

Published January 16, 2025

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Living in a humid climate makes finding a reliable primer an uphill battle. So, when I saw the e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer with nearly 40,000 glowing reviews on Amazon, I figured it was worth a try. Spoiler: This one actually delivers.

e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer, $10

Amazon

First, let’s talk about the formula. This primer is packed with skin-loving ingredients include grape and vitamins A, C and E. Not only does it hydrate your skin, but it also smooths out imperfections, making it the perfect base for long-lasting makeup. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, so it won’t clog your pores — something crucial if you’ve got acne-prone or combination skin like me. Whether you’re layering it under a full-coverage foundation or just using a bit of concealer, it creates a flawless, silky finish every time.

One of my favorite things about this primer is how effortlessly it applies. As one reviewer says, “This goes on very smoothly and provides an excellent result. My foundation has never looked better.” They’re absolutely right — it glides on like a dream and fills in pores and fine lines without feeling heavy.

And if you’ve never used a primer before? This one is a great entry point. Another Another user summed it up perfectly, “This is the first primer I have ever used; I wasn’t expecting much. I am amazed at how easily my foundation goes on.” That was my experience, too. It completely changes how your makeup applies, making everything look smoother and more natural.

Bonus: It’s vegan, cruelty-free and super affordable, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality results. Pair it with e.l.f.’s Flawless Finish Foundation or Camo Concealer, and you’ve got a budget-friendly routine that holds up all day, even in the stickiest weather.

If you’re tired of primers that overpromise and underdeliver, the e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer is a no-brainer. It’s simple, effective and just works — exactly what you want in a makeup essential.

Maria Correa is a writer who loves making information accessible to others and good storytelling. She began her career as a copywriter intern who had to Google “What is copywriting?” but has since gotten the opportunity to create dozens of print and social media campaigns for well-known international and local brands in English and Spanish. She’s also well-versed in the world of SEO writing. When she’s not writing articles, you’ll find Maria walking around her neighborhood in Puerto Rico, filling out the pages of a coloring book, and writing fiction stories.