8 best brightening primers that will give your complexion the glow it needs

This skin-brightening treatment is loved by many for its ability to reduce redness, pigmentation and the appearance of dark spots, all while giving the skin a subtle glow. Pop it onto your skin after your daily moisturiser application to create a smooth base for a flawless foundation application. Bonus: this primer has anti-ageing effects so after long-term usage, signs of ageing will be reduced your skin will be visibly brighter.

Get that glow with this silky pink primer that blends easily into your skin and visibly brightens your complexion, even through the high-coverage foundation layers. Formulated with light-reflecting pigments, this primer is perfect for those who struggle with particularly dull skin. Radiant complexion? Yes please.

Hydrate, illuminate and prime in one step with this all-in-one serum from Stila. We love how this paraben- and sulfate-free primer helps with reducing the appearance of wrinkles and smile lines, so you can achieve a clear, healthy-looking complexion. Pick this primer up especially if you’ve got dry skin, so you can ramp up on the hydration and feel moisturised all day.

Love fresh, fruity scents? This primer is infused with watermelon extract not just for the delicious smell, but also to promote hydration for your skin. Its brightening properties is also a winner as it provides a subtle radiance through your makeup so you look extra fresh. Tip: if you’re running late, this can be doubled up as a primer and a moisturiser. Or, you can use it after your moisturiser for extra soft skin.

As the name suggests, this primer is perfect if you’re ready to do a full glam look as it smooths your skin, turning it into a canvas for all the contouring and highlighting action you’re about to do. This water-based, silicone-free formula also acts as a protective barrier over the skin and helps prevent signs of ageing. It’s infused with vitamin C as well, which helps to perk up dull skin to achieve a brighter, more even skin tone.

This fan-favourite primer has earned the praises of beauty gurus everywhere and with 4.5 stars on Sephora, it’s constantly out of stock so if you see it in stores, grab it while you can. Not only does this primer illuminate your skin and extend the wear of your foundation, it also has SPF 15 to shield skin from the sun. Its silky and weightless formula also repels water so your makeup look stays fresh all day.

Elevate your look and achieve that effortless, glowy complexation with this primer that doubles up as a moisturising face oil. Formulated with plant extracts, chamomile and jojoba oil,  this fast-absorbing primer oil promises to brighten skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines. Tip: use a beauty blender (here’s how to clean your beauty blender and brushes effectively) and pat it on your cheekbones over makeup for that extra dewy look.

This hybrid primer doesn’t just transform your skin into a smooth base for makeup application; it also has nutrients to promote skin cell replenishment, so your skin looks rejuvenated and illuminated after frequent use. Formulated with antioxidants and skin retexturing ingredients, your complexion will appear fresher, brighter and less tired. Bonus: a little goes a long way with this product and you only have to use a small amount each time, which makes it worth the high price tag.

Read Next

8 brightening cleansers for a more radiant complexion

5 commonly used brightening ingredients you need to know about

The lowdown on pigmentation and how skin-brightening ingredients work their magic