What it is: A lightweight, creamy gel that creates an invisible barrier between skin and makeup to prime your face for color. What it does: Worn under foundation, this hydrating primer creates a smooth, flawless canvas for application, allowing foundation to glide on easily and stay fresh, keeping color true for hours. Ideal for drier skins, this hydrating formula nourishes with moisture-rich vitamins to soothe and condition. It’s the first step to Laura’s “Flawless Face.” Dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, it contains antioxidants vitamins A, C, and E and hydrating properties thanks to glycerin and hyaluronic acid. What else you need to know: Just as a painter primes a canvas, Foundation Primer the original was created by Laura Mercier in 1995 to prime the skin. After creating the industry’s first primer, she “reinvented” it and made another version perfect for drier, dehydrated skin and customers who needed more hydration, moisture, and conditioning. She added soothing hydrators that offer anti-inflammatory benefits, help hold water in the skin, and nourish with a moisture-rich vitamin formula. The colorless gel acts as a buffer to outside elements, while vitamins A, C, and E act as antioxidants and protect the skin from the harmful, aging effects of the environment.

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Questions & Answers for Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Hydrating

Question

Problem with product separating

I really like this primer, my only problem is that the product has separated in the tube, and when i try to squeeze it out i get mostly liquid then some of the cream. It makes it a little difficult to apply to my face. Is this normal? I've tried shaking the tube to get the product to fully incorporate itself, but it doesn't work. Do I have an expired primer?

asked 2 years, 7 months ago

cathendy

(Oak Harbor, WA)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

9 answers

Answers

answer 1

Mine new primer separated too. I am so comforted to know that someone else experienced this problem. This is my third tube. Only this one has this problem. I will return it.

answered 1 year, 2 months ago

huntsy

(Pasadena, CA)

answer 2

I'm having this problem as well... I just bought this tube, came in the box 2 weeks ago. I'm planning to return it.

answered 1 year, 5 months ago

saba15

(Chicago, IL)

answer 3

I think I may have recieved an expired or faulty tube. I ordered another tube and didn't have the same problem. I don't know why it was bad, I never left it out in the sun, and I thought it was brand new.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

cathendy

(Oak Harbor, WA)

answer 4

i didn't have this problem.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

mercierlover

(oklahoma city)

answer 5

I too have had this primer seperate. Actually, I was on line to see if anyone had this happen. My tube is 2 monthso ld. I will assume it is expired and buy another. I really like this product

answered 2 years, 5 months ago

skipper40

(Virginia)

answer 6

Never had this happen. Did your product get left in the heat?

answered 2 years, 5 months ago

suzuki77

(Tucson,Arizona)

answer 7

I have never had this primer separate on me.

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

wendiannm

(Lansing, MI)

answer 8

I've been using this for a couple of years and that has never happened. Maybe it was a bad or old tube. It should always come out creamy!

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

hocc

(Dallas, TX)

answer 9

I think you have an expired tube. I've used this primer long enough that I've gone through several tubes, and I've never had that experience.

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

sephoraismymecca

(Birmingham, AL)

Question

adult acne

I have dry to combo skin which is very sensitive to breakouts. I'm not sure if it is adult acne or reactions to products. I will have clear skin for a while than bam...crazy! Anyway, been searching for a primer my skin could tolerate without making it look dry. Tried so many...a friend suggested this one, but I am wondering if anyone with "sensitive" or breakout prone skin had any issues. Thanks for any advice!

asked 1 year, 6 months ago

Anonymous

(cincinatti ,OH)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

9 answers

Answers

answer 1

Although my skin is changing, I still periodically get acne, very oily skin and very dry patches. The dry patches seem to be due to my rosacea which I've developed over the past 6 years or so. I just started using Laura Mercier primer after the store manager recommended it to me for hydration and sensitivity to rosacea (even products for rosacea irritate my skin). I have only used it for about 2 weeks but really like it. It applies fairly smoothly and evenly. It doesn't seem to cause any irritation and doesn't add to my oily nose area. It also really helps with my dry, flaky patches mostly under my chin and near my jawline. It's not perfect but the closest I've experienced.

answered 1 month, 3 weeks ago

mnm14

(Highland Park, NJ)

answer 2

Its perfect! I'm 21 and have slightly sensitive skin and this has not caused any breakouts, nor does it make me look/feel oily

answered 3 months, 2 weeks ago

Anonymous

(Edmonton, AB)

answer 3

I too have sensitive skin, and this has just been the best product. No breakouts or irritations!

answered 4 months, 2 weeks ago

vanita

(Brookings, OR)

answer 4

My skin can be sensitive. I have had no reaction with this primer. It is very light weight, possibly because it is water based.

answered 1 year, 3 months ago

missjan

(Dover, DE)

answer 5

My skin is VERY sensitive and I've never had a reaction to this primer.

answered 1 year, 3 months ago

nicbeane

(Washington, DC)

answer 6

I have sensitive skin and tend to break out easily with most products but have yet to have any issues with this one. I have been using it for about a month and love it - I use very, very little as it spreads out so easily. Literally just under a pea sized drop for my entire face and neck.

answered 1 year, 4 months ago

debe8

(Ridgecrest, CA)

answer 7

I have very similar skin -- very dry, very sensitive, prone to breakouts, and acne scarred to boot -- and this stuff is the absolute best. I don't even have to use a moisturizer half the time because the hydration factor is ideal and really helps. And it feels like heaven.

answered 1 year, 4 months ago

henke

(Atlanta, GA)

answer 8

I have slightly dry skin and sensitive, and I loved it this product, until it separated and got all gross. I am fairly certain that the reason it separated is because I took it to school one day and kept it in my car and it got cold. I loved it until then, so I would recommend if you keep it inside.

answered 1 year, 5 months ago

chellybear

(IL.)

answer 9

I have sensitive skin and have found that this product works really well with my skin. It feels soft and smooth on my skin and really helps make my foundation go on smoothly and evenly.

answered 1 year, 6 months ago

aec484

(Boston. MA)

Question

Can this be used around the eyes?

asked 2 years, 5 months ago

Anonymous

(East Hanover, NJ)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

7 answers

Answers

answer 1

I'm not sure if you meant as an eye shadow primer or just into the physical eye area. I use this all the way up my cheeks to my lower lash line, but I would not use this as an eye shadow primer. It won't burn or sting your skin if the area under your eye is sensitive.

answered 1 year, 8 months ago

ctrlaltmuffin

(Reisterstown, MD)

answer 2

i have actually used this on the upper lid to prime my eyes before eyeshadow and haven't had an allergic reaction. I have also used this under my eyes as well. It was fine on my eyes, but I am sure it is different for everyone.

answered 2 years, 2 months ago

whimsicalgirls

(New York, NY)

answer 3

Yes

answered 2 years, 3 months ago

yankees7

(Syosset, NY)

answer 4

i use it around (under and on top of the lids). it makes my eye shadow and concealer last longer.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

shoelover6

(new york, ny)

answer 5

I do use it under my eyes, I apply it the same way I do my moisturizer.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

indyboyzmom

(North Vernon, IN)

answer 6

Yes! I use it around my eyes. I would be careful putting too much of it close to it. Take a small amound on the tip of your finger and rub it with the rest of your fingers and apply. There might be a little stinging but it goes away immediately. Which is why I say don't use a lot.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

kiwistar

(Chicago, IL)

answer 7

yes

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

mercierlover

(oklahoma city)

Question

MATURE SKIN

How does this primer work on mature skin, does it prevent foundation from settling into fine lines and wrinkles?

asked 2 years, 7 months ago

lola01

(modesto,ca)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

7 answers

Answers

answer 1

It will definitely help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles because it will slightly fill them in, but depending on what type of makeup you are using over it and how deep your lines are it may still crease. If you're 35+ mature it will help, but if youre more into the 55+ range you will probably still have some creasing.

answered 1 year, 8 months ago

ctrlaltmuffin

(Reisterstown, MD)

answer 2

Works well on aging skin

answered 2 years, 5 months ago

georgia2319

(Kennesaw, GA)

answer 3

I still have to use my Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch over my smile lines for them to not be noticeable. I use the Laura Mericer primer first, then the Clarins, then my foundation and concealer.

answered 2 years, 5 months ago

northwestbeauty

(seattle, WA)

answer 4

I dont have "mature" skin, but I do have a few lines under my eyes. This product definitely helped my foundation glide over them instead of settling into them!

answered 2 years, 5 months ago

kayteen

(Lake Cowichan BC Canada)

answer 5

I find that it helps foundation float on the skin, rather than settle into creases and lines.

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

wendiannm

(Lansing, MI)

answer 6

I particularly like it for my more mature skin. It's moisturizing and that makes your skin feel more supple when you're wearing it. I wouldn't use it if it felt dry.

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

hocc

(Dallas, TX)

answer 7

Does keep makeup smooth. I only use lightweight products in both primers and makeus

answered 2 years, 7 months ago

venturagirl

(Ventura, CA)

Question

does this minimize pores?

i have large pores, i dont notice it until after i have my foundation on, but does this help minimize pores?

asked 2 years, 4 months ago

klu102609

(Sumner, IL)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

7 answers

Answers

answer 1

If you're looking to minimize pores, I suggest looking for a toner as well. This won't minimize the pores, but it will hide them. I have large pores around my nose and this just makes them appear to be gone.

answered 1 year, 8 months ago

ctrlaltmuffin

(Reisterstown, MD)

answer 2

I think it doesn't diminish pores, but, it fills in the pores, and it makes the makeup glide over the pores, so they are less noticeable.

answered 1 year, 11 months ago

patticaker

(Scottsdale, AZ)

answer 3

If your "bumpy" skin is caused by oil, I would not recommend this product.

answered 2 years ago

funbonnie

(Sylacauga, Alabama)

answer 4

I think it does

answered 2 years, 1 month ago

krun

(Kennebunkport, ME)

answer 5

Using this primer I have noticed that my pores do seem to appear smaller. Skin appears smoother all over as well.

answered 2 years, 2 months ago

tenne

(San Diego, CA)

answer 6

I have large pores on my nose moreso than my cheeks and I love this primer. That's my main complaint about other primers is they didn't "hide" my pores. I think this is the best I've found and you don't have to cake it on to get good results. Sometimes I notice some of my pores after I've applied my foundation and I simply rub that area just slightly to blend in the foundation (I use the mineral foundation and apply it with a brush) and it's perfect. This primer helps "set" your foundation so it really stays where you put it. I don't get lines or creases throughout the day either. Sometimes, for extra coverage, I'll add a tiny bit of the primer on top of my foundation and that helps too. I definitely recommend giving this a try, I don't think you'd be disappointed!

answered 2 years, 3 months ago

rds94928

(Rohnert Park, CA)

answer 7

It doesn't minimize pores but it does keep my makeup looking fresh all day.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

indyboyzmom

(North Vernon, IN)

Question

does this make you break out

i heard the oil free primer caused breakouts, does this one?

asked 3 years, 10 months ago

Emmi16

(whittier, CA)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

6 answers

Answers

answer 1

not at all, it actually protects your skin from the make-up you apply over it. It works as a barrier between your skin and the application of foundation and other oil-based products.

answered 5 months, 4 weeks ago

shaiimint

(NYC)

answer 2

I am typically sensitive to cosmetics, but this primer did not make me breakout. I still use it today.

answered 5 months, 4 weeks ago

MackensieK

(Washington, DC)

answer 3

I've personally never had any breakouts from using this, I've been using it for a little over a year. I have combination skin, and this actually prevented clogged pores caused by my foundation.

answered 1 year, 8 months ago

ctrlaltmuffin

(Reisterstown, MD)

answer 4

Every person's skin is different. I can't say "This won't break you out". I'm prone to blemishes but I haven't had ONE breakout since using this product. You'd just have to see for yourself really.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

kiwistar

(Chicago, IL)

answer 5

I have the most sensitive skin in the world, I believe. However, I think that oil free makeup tends to irritate the skin, (in my case however), more than any other. However, this primer does not cause breakouts or rashes, it actually feels like my skin is getting better. This primer feels calm and just right for sensitive, dry skin.

answered 2 years, 10 months ago

sammmie

(Los Angeles, CA)

answer 6

Not at all! In fact, I did experience some breakouts prior to using this, but have had none since!

answered 3 years, 10 months ago

Joates

(Lapeer, MI)

Question

dry skin - is this product plus tinted moisturizer enough?

Does anyone with dry skin wear this with tinted moisturizer, and no additional moisturizer underneath?

asked 3 years, 9 months ago

ellabean

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

6 answers

Answers

answer 1

you shouldn't need any other moisturizer this helps provide the essential hydration and primer functions you need before applying foundation.

answered 5 months, 4 weeks ago

shaiimint

(NYC)

answer 2

I have dry skin and Iuse this primer with the Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer.

answered 5 months, 4 weeks ago

MackensieK

(Washington, DC)

answer 3

I have dry skin but I'm no fan of "tinted" moisturizers. I wouldn't suggest it simply because if your skin is dry then I'm sure that additional chemical in it to provide color would probably dry it out even more. I would suggest getting your skin hydrated first before applying tints.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

kiwistar

(Chicago, IL)

answer 4

No, I still wear moisturizer underneath.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

mercierlover

(oklahoma city)

answer 5

I have dry skin. I use a moiturizer underneath and a moisturizing powder foundation on top and my skin has never looked or felt better.

answered 3 years, 9 months ago

dkmiami

(miami beach,fl)

answer 6

In the winter, I apply another moisturizer under this and then wear a tinted moisturizer over it. In the summer, this product provides enough moisture on its own.

answered 3 years, 9 months ago

BFaye

(Elkridge, MD)

Question

How does this compare to the original LM foundation primer?

I've tried the original LM foundation primer and like it but would like something a little more moisturizing.

asked 3 years, 3 months ago

SephoraNewbie2

(Centralia,WA)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

6 answers

Answers

answer 1

You must try this product then. It primes and moisturize the skin at the same time.

answered 1 year, 1 month ago

luvxlin

(Fresno, CA)

answer 2

It is more hydrating, but it is a little bit thicker and heavier than the original primer. This one is a white lotion, as compared to the thinner Original version, which is more translucent and feels lighter going onto the skin.

answered 1 year, 6 months ago

susiel2012

(Las Vegas, NV)

answer 3

It is wonderful and has more moisturizing qualities than the regular primer.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

indyboyzmom

(North Vernon, IN)

answer 4

This is much more moisturizing than the original!

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

mercierlover

(oklahoma city)

answer 5

I have found it to be very hydrating

answered 2 years, 6 months ago

wendiannm

(Lansing, MI)

answer 6

I find the hydrating primer does help supply the extra touch of moisture that my dry skin needs and, because I have such VERY dry skin, I even apply a light moisturizer to my face before the hydrating primer. I had tried the regular LM primer, also, and it is a good product, too, but this one is better for me due to the added hydration factor. It is not oily at all, though.

answered 3 years, 3 months ago

Lollie

(Carmel, CA)

Question

Do you still need a moisturizer?

I just got this, and I really like it! I'm wondering if this is supposed to be used like other primers, though. Do you still need to use a moisturizer before putting this on since it is hydrating? I am prone to break outs, but my face is pretty dry right now because of the weather. I use Bare Minerals moisturizer and wonder if this will cause my face to become too oily looking if I use both, or will it cause me to break out?

asked 3 years ago

lane12356

(Alabama)

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

6 answers

Answers

answer 1

Wow...Bare Minerals primer is NOT good. I used to use it. I wouldn't use an additional moisturizer since it IS hydrating (Laura Mercier). It keeps my skin hydrated and I use the Bare Minerals foundation. I used to break-out from the BM primer.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

kiwistar

(Chicago, IL)

answer 2

yes, i would still use a moisturizer if you are in a dry climate.

answered 2 years, 4 months ago

mercierlover

(oklahoma city)

answer 3

I use moisteriser, just let it dry before using the product. It is not haevy at all on my skin.

answered 2 years, 9 months ago

strecozzza

(Quincy,Ma)

answer 4

I "listen to my skin". If my skin as been feeling dry I use a moisturizer before applying this primer. If not I've used it by it'self and it seems to be fine.

answered 2 years, 10 months ago

Krisalis

(Moore, OK)

answer 5

I personally have a very dry skin, so right after I wash my face I apply moisturizure right away to prevent it from drying out.
I use clinique moisturizure (about 2 pumps) and apply that all over my face, then put this primer on.

since I already applied moisturizure I don't need to use a whole alot of primer so that I don't have to re-purchase them as often.

If I use moisturizure before applying this "hydrating" primer then what is the point???

like I said my skin gets dry, VERY dry.. it's really sad (I scrub once a week too) I tried numbers of moisturizures some turns out to be oilly and greesy and some didn't last long enough.

when I used this primer after I applied my daily moisturizure, it stayed hydrating ALL-DAY-LONG. and also it kept my skin very smooth so when I applied foundation, it seemed smoother too.

This product is like a life-savior for me cuz with other moisturizures, my skin went dry again after a few hours!

hope this helped!

answered 2 years, 11 months ago

student111

(St. Louis, MO)

answer 6

Yes, you can use both a moisturizer followed by the Primer. I too have dry skin and benefit from using both without the hassle of breakouts. Good luck!

answered 2 years, 11 months ago

honeygal

(Stratford, ct)

Question

i have bumpy skin, will this diminish the look of that?

asked 2 years, 4 months ago

alyyk123

on Foundation Primer - Hydrating

6 answers

Answers

answer 1

Yes. I have small bumps that are not colored (just like, uneven area of skin), and I definitely feel that this smoothed it out.

answered 1 year, 6 months ago

luxe212

(Washington, DC)

answer 2

The primer will physically even out your skin as well as hide the bumps. The layer of primer under your foundation will make it look as though you have smoother skin.

answered 1 year, 8 months ago

ctrlaltmuffin

(Reisterstown, MD)

answer 3

I have adult/hormonal acne under jaw and neck, so I always have bumps. It will not clear up or remove any bumps of course, but it does reduce the appearance of them when you use this under your makeup. When I put it on, I always imagine it putting on a light, protective film over my whole face, helping my makeup to stay put longer. If you want to get rid of bumps, try the Peter Thomas Roth Max or Gentle Complexion Correction pads. I'm in love with them and they have absolutely made my troubled skin smoother. Good luck!

answered 1 year, 9 months ago

chloegirlnyc

(New York, NY)

answer 4

it will even it a little bit, but not noticeable enough. if you want to even our bumpy skin, try the porefessional from benefit

answered 2 years ago

gleon

(ABQ, NM)

answer 5

this product protects the skin from foundation usage,as well smooths out the skin for an even canvas and application. if you have really bumpy skin, I am not sure just how much smoothing it will do. it does leave a smooth, matte canvas.

answered 2 years, 2 months ago

whimsicalgirls

(New York, NY)

answer 6

No, this won't help hide the texture of your skin.

answered 2 years, 3 months ago

nikkibowie

(Minneapolis, MN)

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