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  4. 10 Best Lip Primers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed
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10 Best Lip Primers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed

Whether you're applying a sultry rouge, a neutral beige or a brooding midnight black, you want your lippy to stay put. That's where primers come in! Primers are not just a base for your foundation any more – the latest lip primers are there to keep your colour lasting throughout all the eating, drinking and kissing moments of your day. 


We've researched the best lip-plumping, colour-enhancing and moisture-locking lip primers in the UK, including drugstore bargains from Boots and Superdrug and cult buys from Maybelline, Clinique, MAC and NYX. Read on for our in-depth buying guide to finding the perfect primer for you, as well as our all-important top 10 recommendations.

Last updated 22/03/2024
Marie Dancer
Expert
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

As a professional make-up artist of ten years, Marie's job has taken her all over the UK working at top events, on TV shows and making up beautiful brides. For all her clients she loves emphasising their natural beauty by creating a flawless base that still looks like skin.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Marie Dancer

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Marie Dancer

As a professional make-up artist of ten years, Marie's job has taken her all over the UK working at top events, on TV shows and making up beautiful brides. For all of her clients, she loves emphasising their natural beauty by creating a flawless base that still looks like skin.


Find out more about Marie and what are her favourite makeup products are through her Instagram! She even shares some industry tips on makeup application too. And if you're interested in getting your makeup done by Marie you can contact her via her email found at the top of her page.

How to Choose a Lip Primer in the UK - Buying Guide

In this section, we'll be letting you in on all the shopping secrets that will arm you with the right knowledge to choose your perfect primer. Let's get stuck in!

1

Consider How Much Moisture You Need – Lip Primers Should Have a Buttery, Not Greasy Texture

Consider How Much Moisture You Need – Lip Primers Should Have a Buttery, Not Greasy Texture

Texture is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a lip primer. The last thing you want is for the product to sit uncomfortably on your lips. Too much moisture and it leaves your lips feeling miserably greasy, but not enough and it could leave them dried out and parched. 


One of the main reasons for wearing a lip primer is to create a smooth base layer for your lipstick, so for this reason, you want the product to feel nourishing. However, when a primer contains too much moisture, the greasy texture will cause your lipstick to slide around, which is not what we want.


When looking at the moisturising properties of a lip primer, you need to consider your lips' natural state first. Do they tend to crack easily and peel often, especially during winter? Or are they naturally smooth already? This will determine just how much moisturising composition you need in your primer. What's ideal for you might not be the same for someone else.

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

Unlike a lip balm which focuses on treating the lips, a lip primers main job is to elongate the wear and offer a smooth base. Naturally less oily with a waxy texture, lip primers will offer a quick-drying feature that provides grip to the lipstick. 


Some lip primers will contain ingredients such as silica which will fill in the lip lines to give a silky, smooth base. A derivative of silicone will naturally stick to itself, so a silicone-based lipstick will provide the longest wear in this case.

2

Look for Primers With Added Beauty Benefits

As well as doing the job that it has been designed for – keeping your lippy fresh and intact – a lip primer may be able to offer up one or two more worthwhile beauty benefits. From doubling up as an eye makeup primer to plumping your pout with peptides, here are some formula focuses to consider. 

A Hydrating Lip Primer Can Smooth Dry Lips but Is Best for Matte Lipsticks

A Hydrating Lip Primer Can Smooth Dry Lips but Is Best for Matte Lipsticks

Matte lipsticks tend to dry out your lips, clinging onto those natural fine lines and wrinkles and making them appear more cracked and dehydrated. If you're using a matte lipstick, you should look for a primer containing hydrating ingredients like beeswax, carnauba wax or castor oil


These ingredients combat the drying effect of matte lipsticks, leaving an overall much smoother finish. If you're applying a more glossy lipstick, you probably don't need as many moisturising components.

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

For matte lipsticks, a lightweight lip primer will provide a thin layer of hydration but also allow the lip colour to adhere to the lips. Too much slip and the lipstick may bleed and sheer down the colour to a glossy finish. 


Some lip primers will offer a smudge-proof base which you should allow to dry down before applying lipstick - check what finish the lip primer has and make the choice based on the condition of your lips and the style you want to achieve.

Consider a Primer That Preps More Than Lips

Consider a Primer That Preps More Than Lips

Some lip primers can only be used on lips, but if you don't want your makeup bag splitting at the seams from dozens of single-use products, why not try a multi-purpose primer


Some primers can be used for targeting various parts of your face as well as your lips, such as your eyes and cheeks. Having a multipurpose product not only saves you valuable space in your makeup bag, but it also saves you money and precious time during your morning routine.

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

Similar to an eye primer, some lip primers will also have a slight tint that will neutralise the colour of your natural lips. By toning down the natural lip pigment, your lipstick will apply true to colour for a bolder statement. 


The skin on the lips is 5 times thinner than the face so extra care must be taken when applying other products to this area. Consider an SPF infused lip primer if you are going to be in direct sunlight for extra protection.

Plump Your Pout With a Primer That Adds Volume

Plump Your Pout With a Primer That Adds Volume

The latest lip primers don't just smooth out your skin to create a good base for layering on makeup – many provide a 2-in-1 or even 3-in-1 action. If you're looking for a bit of plumping action, some primers are geared towards making lips appear fuller. These work brilliantly on their own and as a base for any coloured lipstick.


Plumping ingredients like peptides work by creating a subtle bee-sting type effect which often leaves a slight tingling sensation on your lips. Other compounds are often added too, such as silica, which works to fill out fine lines and make your lips appear fuller and more rounded.

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

Lip plumpers cause temporary swelling in the lips that can also give a gentle smoothing effect. Plumping lip primers work best under glossy finish products as the ingredients are richer in texture and linger on the lips for longer - this will give the ultimate pout. 


For a defined lip shape apply a lip liner first to the border of dry lips then apply a plumping primer on the centre of the lips. If you did these steps in reverse, the lip liner wouldn't be able to stick to the lips properly.

3

Lose the Chemicals if You Have Sensitive Skin

Lose the Chemicals if You Have Sensitive Skin

Beauty products are renowned for containing a whole host of potentially harsh ingredients, and if you suffer from sensitive skin, it is an even more important thing to consider. Some synthetic ingredients can harm your lips, dry them out or even flare up allergies


If you're prone to sensitivities, check that your product doesn't contain ingredients like fragrances, silica, alcohol and parabens. Happily, though, many beauty companies are leaving out the fragrance, creating hypoallergenic formulas, and beginning to come around to a more natural means of production. 


Consider using products that utilise mostly natural ingredients – for example, you could look out natural oils like olive, jojoba, argan, or coconut oil. Shea butter is also an fantastic natural skin softener. These ingredients provide deep moisturising nourishment for your lips without the possibility of irritation. 

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

Avoid plumping lip glosses if you are sensitive and opt for nourishing formulas rich in antioxidants. If you know a particular brand works with your sensitive skin then that will be your best bet. Everyone reacts differently so if you're concerned test out the product in-store if you can. Some formulas can also contain lanolin or beeswax, so if you want a vegan option check the ingredient list first.

4

Consider the Benefits of the Packaging

Consider the Benefits of the Packaging

Lip primers come in a whole range of forms from sticks and pencils to tubes to jars, with each one having its own pros and cons


Tubes are great for a mess-free way to apply as they go directly onto your lips, but they are also made of plastic which might not be as durable as a jar. Pencils are also a swift and easy way to apply lip primer, but let's not forget the woes of losing the lid and having pencil marks taint the inside of your handbag!


Then, you have jars. These primers have a much more luxurious feel; they also tend to last longer. However, you will need to apply them with either your finger, which can get a little messy (and for some people, feel less hygienic) or a lip brush, which requires another product being added to your makeup bag. Essentially, it comes down to preference.

Marie Dancer
Makeup Artist
Marie Dancer

Packaging can also depend on the formula; solid stick applicators will have a thinner consistency that will apply evenly. Pot components will usually feel richer in texture, you will have more control over the application - able to apply more or less depending on the condition of your lips. Some lip primers come in a chubby stick form that requires sharpening, which will lose product value and create a mess. 


Applying the primer with a lip brush will also be the most hygenic and effective way of using a non-direct applicator.

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Top 10 Best Lip Primers in the UK

Now that you know all the ins and outs of how to choose the perfect lip primer for you, let's dive into the recommendations. Here are our top ten choices for the best lip primers to buy online in the UK.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

MAC

Prep + Prime Lip

MAC Prep + Prime Lip 1

£14.40

Mid

The Handbag Staple to Keep Your Lips in Check

2

NYX Professional Makeup

Lip Primer

NYX Professional Makeup Lip Primer 1

£6.50

Low Mid

A Creamy, Moisturising Primer With Instant Results

3

Clinique

Pop Lip Colour + Primer

Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer 1

£14.87

Mid

Colour and Prime in a Range of Shades

4

Elizabeth Arden

Advanced Lip-Fix Cream

Elizabeth Arden Advanced Lip-Fix Cream 1

£18.00

High Mid

A Fragrance-Free Fix That Smooths Dry Lips and Locks in Colour

5

Mary Kay

TimeWise Age-Fighting Lip Primer

Mary Kay TimeWise Age-Fighting Lip Primer 1

£15.99

Mid

Combat Fine Lip Lines With an Anti-Ageing Primer

6

e.l.f Cosmetics

Lip Primer & Plumper

e.l.f Cosmetics Lip Primer & Plumper 1

£4.50

Low

The Cinnamon Infused Primer for Extra Volume

7

Rimmel London

Conditioning Lip Balm

Rimmel London Conditioning Lip Balm 1

£5.49

Low Mid

A Nourishing Balm Primer at a Reasonable Price

8

NUXE

Reve de Miel Lip Moisturising Stick

NUXE  Reve de Miel Lip Moisturising Stick 1

£6.15

Low Mid

The Moisturising Stick for Cold Windy Winters

9

Tatcha

The Silk Canvas Protective Primer

Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer 1

£89.94

High

The Luxury Buy to Prime Your Entire Face

10

Artdeco

Beauty Balm Lip Base

Artdeco Beauty Balm Lip Base 1

£16.95

High Mid

Liquid-Based Primer With Added Vitamin A and SPF

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

MACPrep + Prime Lip

Prep + Prime Lip 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£14.40
Mid
Reference price
£14.40
Mid

The Handbag Staple to Keep Your Lips in Check

This cult buy from MAC is a prime staple in many makeup bags and one of the best sellers from any MAC collection. It reduces feathering, has an impressive staying power and it's fragrance- and oil-free, as well as dermatologist tested


The formula provides enough moisture to leave the lips feeling silky smooth, but not enough to leave them feeling greasy. This amazing primer works incredibly well under almost any lipstick or gloss but is especially useful as a base for matte lipsticks. All this for a very reasonable price!

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No.2

NYX Professional MakeupLip Primer

Lip Primer 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£6.50
Low Mid

A Creamy, Moisturising Primer With Instant Results

NYX is another giant in the makeup industry, producing some of the UK's most beloved handbag staples, but their professional lip liner is undoubtedly one to take note of. The formula is excellent at combating feathering and providing a smooth surface, but best of all, it's completely affordable. 


With just one quick swoop of this creamy primer under any lipstick or gloss, the shade of your lips will be enhanced, leaving them looking full, vibrant and airbrushed. You can almost instantly notice the difference.

No.3

CliniquePop Lip Colour + Primer

Reference price
£14.87
Mid

Colour and Prime in a Range of Shades

Clinique has an almost uncountable amount of lip products, but this is one of our favourites. Taking the form of a lip primer and a lipstick all in one, this is a fantastic buy if you want to cut down on the number of products you carry around. 


The lipstick is available in a whole range of shades, and with its built-in primer element, the colour stays vibrant for hours to come. The texture has a beautiful buttery finish without feeling or looking shiny or greasy, leaving your lips feeling full, nourished and moisturised.

No.4

Elizabeth ArdenAdvanced Lip-Fix Cream

Advanced Lip-Fix Cream 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.00
High Mid
Reference price
£18.00
High Mid

A Fragrance-Free Fix That Smooths Dry Lips and Locks in Colour

Elizabeth Arden's products maybe a little more expensive than your average drugstore buy, but according to millions of users around the world, they are certainly worth the extra buck. The Advanced Fix Lip Cream has been touted as one of the best lip primers around, and best of all, you only need a teeny dot for it to do its job.


The fragrance-free, deeply nourishing formula provides an excellent base, especially for cracked, dry or peeling lips, and works particularly well under matte lipstick. It also helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as locking in the colour of any lippy brushed on top.

No.5

Mary KayTimeWise Age-Fighting Lip Primer

TimeWise Age-Fighting Lip Primer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.99
Mid
Reference price
£15.99
Mid

Combat Fine Lip Lines With an Anti-Ageing Primer

The age-fighting lip primer from Mary Kay is one of the best choices for combating wrinkles and fine lines. The formula is hypoallergenic and contains a whole host of anti-ageing and antioxidant ingredients including vitamin E and sunflower oil. 


In addition, this is a perfect pick if you have peeling, dehydrated or cracked lips as it glides on smoothly and locks in moisture for the whole day. It's also very good at preventing feathering, bleeding and increasing the longevity of your lipstick – win-win!

No.6

e.l.f CosmeticsLip Primer & Plumper

Reference price
£4.50
Low

The Cinnamon Infused Primer for Extra Volume

E.l.f cosmetics have produced a super-handy dual-action stick which not only primes but plumps as well. This is great if you're looking to add a little volume to your pout. Using mostly natural ingredients and vegan beeswax alternatives, this is the perfect formula if you are prone to allergens or have particularly sensitive skin.


Cinnamon, the plumping stick's key ingredient, is loaded with antioxidants and acts as a natural lip plumper. When applying the primer, the cinnamon gives you a tingling sensation, but this does go away after a few minutes. 

No.7

Rimmel LondonConditioning Lip Balm

Conditioning Lip Balm 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£5.49
Low Mid

A Nourishing Balm Primer at a Reasonable Price

Rimmel is always an excellent option if you're looking for a quality product with a low price point, and their lip conditioning balm is no different. Again, this isn't technically labelled as a primer, but with so many makeup artists and influencers swearing by its use, we think it makes the cut.


It can be used alone to nourish your lips or added as a base under any lipstick (especially matte types) to provide staying power, moisture and to lock in that all-important colour. The built-in SPF protects from potential sun damage, too. Unfortunately, as far as other ingredients go, that's all the brand's website provides!

No.8

NUXE Reve de Miel Lip Moisturising Stick

Reve de Miel Lip Moisturising Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£6.15
Low Mid
Reference price
£6.15
Low Mid

The Moisturising Stick for Cold Windy Winters

The Lip Moisturising stick from NUXE may not be specifically marketed as a lip primer, but the reviews claim that it's one of the best on the market to do the job. Plus, it provides double use – wear it as a moisturising lip balm, or use it as a base coat for your favourite lippy.


Containing natural and nourishing ingredients like shea butter, honey and sunflower, this is a real saviour on those cold, windy winter days, and a great choice for those with cracked, dry or damaged lips. The product also has a refreshing citrusy scent to top off the experience.

No.9

TatchaThe Silk Canvas Protective Primer

The Silk Canvas Protective Primer 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£89.94
High
Reference price
£89.94
High

The Luxury Buy to Prime Your Entire Face

The silk canvas protective primer from Tatcha is not just for lips but for the entire face – perfect if you want to carry around fewer products in your makeup bag. Packed with natural ingredients like green tea, algae and sake, the formula is specifically designed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin feeling silky, velvety and moisturised.


Due to its luxury price tag, this product might not be for everyone, but if you can afford to part with the cash, you will be rewarded! Just be aware that there are claims that the product can make oilier skin feel more greasy as the day wears on, and for this price, that's not what you expect.

No.10

ArtdecoBeauty Balm Lip Base

Beauty Balm Lip Base 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.95
High Mid
Reference price
£16.95
High Mid

Liquid-Based Primer With Added Vitamin A and SPF

The liquid base primer from Artdeco lays a solid foundation for any lipstick or gloss. After application, make sure that you leave it to dry completely before adding on your layer of lippy. The product dries clear and neutralises your natural lip colour, creating the perfect clean canvas for your choice of tint.


The formula contains SPF which is always handy, as well as vitamin A and corn extract for providing that extra natural nourishment. Unfortunately, there are quite a few claims that the product is too thick and doesn't last that long.

What Is Lip Primer?

What Is Lip Primer?

Lipstick is one of the quickest ways to add a little glamour to your look. But as we go about our typical day or night with our lips in motion, our lipstick inevitably tends to fade. Enter lip primer: a simple stick or balm that acts as a base for your lippy, clinging onto the product to increase the longevity of your chosen colour. 

 
Working just the same as a regular primer that layers on under your foundation, add a slick of lip primer before applying your lipstick or gloss. This instantly increases your lipstick's lasting time, but depending on the product chosen, it can also reduce feathering, add hydration and provide a little plump to your pout. 

Marie's Tips on Prepping Your Lips

Marie's Tips on Prepping Your Lips

"Exfoliating using a lip scrub will eliminate dead and dry skin. This is an important step if you find your lipstick looks textured or dry. For maximum results complete this step the night before, finishing with an overnight lip balm to nourish your natural lips. Keeping up with a regular skin-care routine including lip-care will mean you won't use as much product."

Ace Your Base With More Priming Products

Ace Your Base With More Priming Products

What did we ever do without primers? These magical formulas are a must-have for any makeup wearer, sparing you having to reapply your face multiple times a day and essentially saving you money on product! Check out more of our primer recommendations below. 

Summary

We hope you've found this buying guide on lip primers useful and that you're now armed with all the information you need to make an informed decision on formula, format and any other benefits. Any on our list which have already caught your eye?


Author: Roxy Pratley


Buying Guide Reviewed by Marie Dancer

Top 5 Lip Primers

No. 1: MACPrep + Prime Lip

No. 2: NYX Professional MakeupLip Primer

No. 3: CliniquePop Lip Colour + Primer

No. 4: Elizabeth ArdenAdvanced Lip-Fix Cream

No. 5: Mary KayTimeWise Age-Fighting Lip Primer

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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