I Just Discovered This Controversial Product Is the Secret to Makeup That Lasts Beyond 3PM

What's more, if you struggle with makeup pilling on your skin as you apply it, using a silicone-based primer can make a big difference. When layered together, silicone-based primers and foundations bond together, preventing pilling and reducing patchiness.

What are the disadvantages of silicone-based primers?

Like anything in beauty, silicone-based primers are not without their drawbacks. If layered improperly (for example freshly-applied skincare or water-based makeup products), silicones can ball up and pill, ruining your makeup application. For this reason, if you're using a silicone-based primer then it's important to let your skincare absorb entirely before applying makeup, and to use a silicone-based (not a water-based) foundation.

Since silicones form a barrier on the skin, some people find that they feel heavy or greasy. While silicones themselves are generally non-comedogenic, this occlusive barrier can trap other pore-cloggers like sweat, oil and dirt, potentially worsening breakouts for acne-prone skin types. For this reason, it's important that they're removed properly, with thorough double cleansing with a good face wash.

How we tested the best silicone-based primers

The great thing about testing primers is that even with just one day's wear, it's really easy to pick up on their benefits and drawbacks. When testing, we made notes on their ease of application, the way they layered with other products, how good our makeup looked throughout the day, and of course, how long it lasted. What's more, the team tested on a variety of different skin types, so we were able to assess which products would work best for different skin concerns and goals.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.