I have become quite picky about base products because I want my makeup to look fresh without feeling like I have added five unnecessary layers underneath it.

For this test, I compared primers, glow products and setting sprays in groups of three, paying more attention to how easily they fitted into my routine than to dramatic promises. Some favourites were obvious almost immediately, while others surprised me after a few uses.

1. Primers

Maybelline Grippy Serum took first place because it gave me the balance I wanted between skincare-like comfort and a properly prepared makeup base. I liked that it felt fresh rather than overly heavy, and foundation sat nicely over it. NYX The Face Glue Gripping Primer came second. It definitely felt more noticeably “grippy” to me, which I appreciated on longer makeup days, although I personally preferred the lighter feeling of the Maybelline formula. The Beauty Crop Glow Milk Glass Effect Primer finished third. I enjoyed the luminous finish and would still use it when I wanted extra glow, but for everyday makeup I found myself reaching for the other two more naturally.

2. Glow And Base Products

My first choice here was Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint. I liked how quick it was to swipe on and blend, especially on mornings when I did not want to spend much time perfecting my base. The finish looked soft and polished without feeling too formal. L’Oréal Lumi Glotion came second because I enjoyed using it when my complexion looked a little flat. It added noticeable luminosity without forcing me into a full foundation look. Rimmel Multi Tasker Better Than Filters ranked third. I liked the effect, but compared with the first two, I had to think slightly more about how much I applied to get the finish I wanted.

3. Setting Sprays

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray was my number one in this group. I kept reaching for it because the fine mist fitted effortlessly into my routine and never made the final step feel fussy. ONE/SIZE Powder Melt Glass Setting Spray came second; I particularly liked it when my makeup looked slightly too powdered and needed a fresher finish. The Beauty Crop Glow Milk Skin Lock Setting Mist placed third. It was pleasant and easy to use, but I preferred the overall feel of the other two.

After testing all nine products, I noticed that my favourites were rarely the most dramatic ones. I kept choosing the formulas that made my makeup routine feel easier, more comfortable and a little more polished without demanding extra effort.