I’m Buying the $17 Skin-Plumping Makeup Primer Shoppers Say “Smooths Away” Wrinkles

Sophie Wirt

July 30, 2024 at 5:00 PM·3 min read

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Per another fan, “Plump is an understatement.”

Almost invariably, I regret the mornings I skip makeup primer, particularly on sweaty summer days; doing so leads to mottled, melted foundation by lunchtime. So why not wear primer every day, you ask? In addition to adding an extra step (atop countless other products) in my morning routine, primer can feel overly heavy in the warm months. Not to mention, many formulas have mattifying finishes—which somehow feels incongruent with the dewy, glowing complexion I envision for my summertime self.

Recently, I stumbled upon the Plump Right Back Plumping Serum and Primer from NYX. Given its skincare-spiked, routine-streamlining formula—plus its lightweight feel and decidedly dewy finish—I believe I’ve just discovered the best makeup primer for the season, perfect for anyone seeking longer-lasting foundation and bouncier, dewier skin.

NYX Plump Right Back Plumping Serum and Primer

The NYX Plump Right Back Plumping Serum and Primer is a deeply hydrating, skin-smoothing base for makeup. The lightweight formula contains anti-aging skincare ingredients, too, which improve skin hydration and tone over time. Immediately, the formula smooths fine lines and quenches dryness, leaving skin with a bouncy, youthful glow. Plus, it grips makeup, locking it into place for budge-proof, all-day wear.

Whereas many primers are mattifying, NYX’s prizes hydration, and delivers a glassy glow as a result. Hyaluronic acid, a humectant, is primarily to thank for the formula’s dew-inducing, plumping power. A moisture-loving molecule, the ingredient floods even the driest skin with hydration—in turn, smoothing the appearance of fine lines (which appear more prominent when skin is thirsty).

Joining hyaluronic acid: Vitamin E, an antioxidant with skin-smoothing effects. Vitamin B5, a.k.a. pantothenic acid, is also present, and doubles down on suppleness. Better yet, B5 strengthens the skin barrier, in turn, preventing transepidermal water loss and boosting hydration levels over time.

NYX’s plumping primer lives up to its title, per reviewers. As one shopper noted, “plump is an understatement,” adding that their skin feels firmer “right away,” and wrinkles appear significantly less prominent when they use the product. Another reviewer, who has dry skin, said their makeup “doesn’t cake up…like it used to” thanks to the hydrating formula, while another fan said it leaves their skin “fresh,” and “smooths away” wrinkles. Finally, myriad shoppers reported their makeup lasting “all day” thanks to the formula. And really—what more could one want from a primer?

For dewy, smooth skin in seconds, and foundation that appears freshly applied throughout the day, all from a lightweight, hydrating formula, shop the NYX Plump Right Back Plumping Serum and Primer at Amazon, where it’s $17. Peruse more primers, below.