Want to achieve that no-hulas makeup look? A good primer can help you combat the challenges of the Philippine weather, like humidity and sweat while keeping your makeup fresh and flawless all day. Local primers are specially formulated to suit Filipina skin tones and address common concerns such as oiliness, visible pores, and uneven texture.
Whether you’re gearing up for a long day at work or preparing for a special occasion, primers can make a huge difference. With so many options available on Lazada and Shopee, it’s easier than ever to find one that fits your needs and budget!
Quick List - Top Local Primers
Happy Skin
A Tinted Sunscreen-Primer Hybrid That Gives You a Flawless, Natural Look
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
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While not everyone considers primers essential, they are particularly useful for those with oily skin, uneven texture, or who want makeup to last through long commutes, events, or hot weather.
Whether you’re aiming for a natural, dewy finish or a polished full-coverage look, primers can enhance both the appearance and performance of your makeup.
Because primers address so many concerns, different brands and products have varying strengths and weaknesses. There are a lot of considerations you should have when deciding on a local primer.
You can check the ingredients on the back or box of the primer to determine if it can help you reach your makeup goals.
Silicone-based primers, with ingredients like dimethicone and cyclopentasiloxane, create a velvety layer that fills pores and fine lines for a smooth makeup base. They’re ideal for oily or textured skin, keeping makeup intact even during humid commutes and long events like weddings.
Sensitive or acne-prone skin may react negatively to silicone, so patch-testing is recommended. Additionally, remember to pair silicone primers with silicone-based foundations to avoid separation.
Water-based primers, made with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or aloe, are lightweight and refreshing—ideal for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin. They’re also great for oily skin, offering hydration without clogging pores or feeling heavy, perfect for Filipinas who want a fresh, natural finish.
To ensure long-lasting makeup, pair water-based primers with water-based foundations. Hybrid primers that combine water and silicone work well for balancing oil control and hydration. These primers are great for daily wear, even in humid weather.
Choosing a makeup primer that matches your skin type is essential for achieving a flawless makeup look that can last throughout the day.
For oily skin, primers that control oil, mattify, and extend makeup longevity are essential. Silicone-based primers are often the top choice, especially for their pore-blurring and long-lasting properties. Alternatively, some water-based primers with mattifying agents like kaolin clay also work well to combat shine.
This is especially useful for Filipinas who deal with midday T-zone oiliness during humid afternoons or long workdays. Look for primers labeled “oil-free” to ensure they don’t contribute to excess shine.
Dry or dehydrated skin needs primers that add moisture and prevent makeup from clinging to dry patches. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to create a plump, healthy-looking base.
These primers are great for Filipinas working in air-conditioned spaces, where skin can dry out quickly, or for those who want a luminous, dewy finish.
Combination skin benefits from primers that balance oil control and hydration. Depending on your needs, you can choose a primer that mattifies the T-zone while keeping your cheeks hydrated and smooth.
For Filipinas who experience different skin behaviors depending on the season, a versatile primer is key to maintaining a consistent makeup look.
In addition to skin type, you can consider other skin concerns you want to address with a good performance and appropriate primer.
Primers designed to minimize visible pores smooth the skin and create a flawless base for foundation. Silicone-based primers are the most effective for filling pores and reducing texture, offering a soft-focus effect with light-reflecting particles.
These are ideal for Filipinas with morena skin tones, as they provide a seamless base without emphasizing texture. Pairing these primers with a mattifying setting powder can further reduce the appearance of pores throughout the day.
Color-correcting primers are a must if you’re dealing with redness, uneven skin tone, or other discoloration concerns like dullness or sallowness. Green-tinted primers are designed to neutralize redness caused by irritation, rosacea, or breakouts, helping you achieve an even-toned complexion.
If your concern is dull or yellowish skin, purple or lavender primers brighten and add vibrancy to your look. Meanwhile, peach or orange-toned primers work well for Filipinas with morena skin tones to conceal dark spots, under-eye circles, or hyperpigmentation.
SPF-infused primers are a must-have for Filipinas due to the tropical climate and daily sun exposure. They can simplify your routine by combining sun protection with a makeup base, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays during long commutes or outdoor activities.
Look for primers with broad-spectrum SPF to ensure complete protection. These are perfect for busy mornings when layering multiple products isn’t practical. Lightweight, non-greasy formulas work best for hot, humid weather to keep your makeup intact while staying protected.
An illuminating primer can make a huge difference if you want to brighten up a dull complexion. These primers contain light-reflecting particles like mica or pearl powder and hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin to add instant radiance and improve overall skin appearance.
Look for formulas enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E to protect and nourish your skin. Popular ingredients in illuminating primers include rose gold particles, champagne pigments, and iridescent pearls.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Formula Base | Formulation | Suitable Skin Type | Targeted Skin Concerns | SPF | Net Content | |||||
1 | Happy Skin Rescue Me Tinted Matte Sun Gel Primer SPF 40 | ![]() | A Tinted Sunscreen-Primer Hybrid That Gives You a Flawless, Natural Look | Silicone-Based | Balanced | Combination Skin | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Redness Reduction、Hydration | 40 | 40mL | |
2 | Sunnies Face The Perfector | ![]() | Perfect the Bare-Skin Look With This Dual-Ended Blur and Balm Stick | Silicone-Based | Balanced | Combination Skin | Pore Minimization、Glow Enhancement | 12g | ||
3 | Sola Foundation Primer SPF50 PA+++ | ![]() | A Lightweight Tinted Primer That Delivers an All-Day Glow | Silicone-Based | Balanced | Combination Skin、Oily Skin | Sun Protection、Redness Reduction、Hydration、Oil Control、Pore Minimization | 50 PA+++ | 30mL | |
4 | Ever Bilena Pro First Step Mattifying Primer | ![]() | The Perfect First Step for a Smooth, Non-Greasy Base | Silicone-Based | Matte | Oily Skin | Oil Control、Pore Minimization | 25mL | ||
5 | Teviant The Ultimate Skin Master Primer | ![]() | A Skincare-Infused Primer With Northern Truffle Extract | Water-Based | Hydrating | Dry Skin | Glow Enhancement、Hydration | unknown | ||
6 | Strokes Beauty Lab UV Veil Priming Sunscreen in Milk | ![]() | Protect and Hydrate Skin With This Oil-Free Priming Sunscreen | Silicone-Based | Balanced | Combination Skin | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Hydration、Redness Reduction | 35 | 20mL | |
7 | blk Cosmetics Daydream Soft Blur Primer | ![]() | Prep Your Skin Using This Sheer, Tone-Adapting Primer | Silicone-Based | Matte | Oily Skin | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Redness Reduction、Oil Control | 35 PA++ | 30mL | |
8 | Squad Cosmetics Melon Swirl 3-in-1 Base Primer | ![]() | Moisturize, Color Correct, and Prime With This 3-in-1 Beauty Essential | Water-Based | Hydrating | Dry Skin | Hydration、Color Correction | 30mL | ||
9 | Features & Shades Primer | ![]() | Get a Flawless Base With This Lightweight Primer | Silicone-Based | Matte | Oily Skin | Pore Minimization | 20g | ||
10 | Spotlight Prism Glow Illuminating Primer | ![]() | Stay Radiant on Your Busiest Days With This Illuminating Primer | Water-Based | Hydrating | Dry Skin | Hydration、Glow Enhancement、Sun Protection | unknown | 26g |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Balanced |
Suitable Skin Type | Combination Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Redness Reduction、Hydration |
SPF | 40 |
Net Content | 40mL |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Balanced |
Suitable Skin Type | Combination Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Pore Minimization、Glow Enhancement |
SPF | |
Net Content | 12g |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Balanced |
Suitable Skin Type | Combination Skin、Oily Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Sun Protection、Redness Reduction、Hydration、Oil Control、Pore Minimization |
SPF | 50 PA+++ |
Net Content | 30mL |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Matte |
Suitable Skin Type | Oily Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Oil Control、Pore Minimization |
SPF | |
Net Content | 25mL |
Formula Base | Water-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Hydrating |
Suitable Skin Type | Dry Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Glow Enhancement、Hydration |
SPF | |
Net Content | unknown |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Balanced |
Suitable Skin Type | Combination Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Hydration、Redness Reduction |
SPF | 35 |
Net Content | 20mL |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Matte |
Suitable Skin Type | Oily Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Sun Protection、Pore Minimization、Redness Reduction、Oil Control |
SPF | 35 PA++ |
Net Content | 30mL |
Formula Base | Water-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Hydrating |
Suitable Skin Type | Dry Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Hydration、Color Correction |
SPF | |
Net Content | 30mL |
Formula Base | Silicone-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Matte |
Suitable Skin Type | Oily Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Pore Minimization |
SPF | |
Net Content | 20g |
Formula Base | Water-Based |
---|---|
Formulation | Hydrating |
Suitable Skin Type | Dry Skin |
Targeted Skin Concerns | Hydration、Glow Enhancement、Sun Protection |
SPF | unknown |
Net Content | 26g |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Applying primer correctly ensures that your makeup goes on smoothly and lasts longer. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Start with clean, moisturized skin: Before applying primer, make sure your skin is freshly cleansed and well-moisturized.
Use a small amount: You don’t need a lot of primer. A pea-sized amount is usually enough for the entire face. Too much primer can cause your makeup to slip off or feel too heavy.
Apply to targeted areas first: Where do you find your makeup disappearing first? Focus on applying the primer to those areas.
Blend gently: Use your fingers or a makeup sponge to gently press the primer into the skin. Don’t rub too much—pressing helps the primer sink in and create a smooth base.
Let it set: After applying the primer, let it sit for a minute or two before applying your foundation. This gives the primer time to fully absorb and create a smooth, tacky surface for makeup to adhere to.
While good skin certainly makes it easier for makeup to go on beautifully, a primer still has benefits, even for those with flawless skin. You might still want to use it to create a smoother makeup base, have a longer-lasting makeup look, protect your face from the sun, or lock in the moisture on your face before setting out for your day.
You can skip the primer if you find that your makeup holds up well without it, but setting spray alone won’t provide the same smoothing, oil control, or longevity as primer. If you want a flawless finish and longer wear, using both is recommended.
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Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Happy Skin |Rescue Me Tinted Matte Sun Gel Primer SPF 40
No. 2: Sunnies Face|The Perfector
No. 3: Sola|Foundation Primer SPF50 PA+++
No. 4: Ever Bilena|Pro First Step Mattifying Primer
No. 5: Teviant|The Ultimate Skin Master Primer
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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