Hourglass Primer Serum Review 2025

Finding the perfect primer can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You want something that preps your skin, makes your makeup last longer, and actually delivers results. The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum has been making waves in the beauty community for years. But does this luxury product live up to its promises in 2025? This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about this cult favorite primer serum.

We tested it thoroughly, talked to real users, and analyzed the ingredients to give you the complete picture. Whether you have dry skin, oily skin, or combination skin, this review will help you decide if the Hourglass Primer Serum deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Key Takeaways:

Before you invest in this premium product, here are the essential facts:

Multi Purpose Formula: The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum combines the benefits of a primer and serum in one bottle. You can use it as a makeup primer, moisturizer replacement, or nighttime treatment. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to your routine.

28 Beneficial Ingredients: The formula includes 14 essential oils, 10 lipid rich plant oils, and 4 nourishing vitamins. These ingredients work together to soften fine lines, hydrate your skin, and create a smooth canvas for makeup application.

Best For Dry Skin Types: This primer works exceptionally well for people with dry or combination skin. The oil based formula provides deep hydration and creates a radiant, dewy finish. Oily skin types might find it too rich.

Premium Price Point: Expect to pay around $65 for 1 oz of product. This makes it one of the most expensive primers on the market. The question is whether the results justify the investment.

Long Lasting Makeup Wear: Users report their makeup stays fresh for 9 to 12 hours when using this primer. The formula helps foundation glide on smoothly and prevents it from settling into pores or fine lines.

What Is Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum

The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum stands out in the crowded primer market because it combines skincare with makeup preparation. This product launched several years ago and quickly became a favorite among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts. The name comes from its 28 beneficial ingredients that work together to nourish your skin.

This primer has a silky, lightweight texture that feels more like a facial oil than a traditional primer. When you apply it, the formula absorbs quickly into your skin without leaving a greasy residue. The product comes in a sleek glass bottle with a pump dispenser, making it easy to control the amount you use.

The formula contains 14 essential oils including lavender, geranium, rosemary, and vanilla. These oils provide aromatherapy benefits while you apply the product. The scent is natural and pleasant, though some people with sensitive noses might find it strong. The primer also includes 10 lipid rich plant oils that deeply moisturize your skin and 4 vitamins that support skin health.

What makes this primer different from others is its ability to serve multiple purposes. You can wear it alone as a treatment serum, mix it with your foundation for a dewy finish, or use it as a traditional primer under your makeup. This flexibility makes it worth considering despite the high price tag.

How the Formula Works on Your Skin

The science behind the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum explains why it works so well. The oil based formula creates a protective barrier on your skin. This barrier helps lock in moisture while creating a smooth surface for makeup application. When you apply foundation over this primer, it glides on effortlessly and blends seamlessly.

The essential oils in the formula provide immediate hydration. Oils like bois de rose, petitgrain, and amyris penetrate deep into your skin layers. They soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a more youthful look. The vitamins in the formula, including vitamin A and vitamin E, offer antioxidant protection throughout the day.

One of the key benefits is how this primer extends makeup wear. The formula repels water, which means your makeup stays looking fresh even in humid conditions. Users report that their foundation, concealer, and powder remain in place for 9 to 12 hours without touch ups. This makes it perfect for long workdays, special events, or any time you need your makeup to last.

The primer also addresses common skin concerns. It helps minimize the appearance of pores, smooths rough texture, and creates an even skin tone. The lightweight oils absorb quickly, so you do not feel like you are wearing a heavy product. Your skin looks natural and radiant, not greasy or shiny.

Top 3 Alternatives for Hourglass Primer Serum

If the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum stretches your budget, these alternatives deliver similar results at lower price points:

The Complete Ingredient Breakdown

Understanding what goes into the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum helps you appreciate its effectiveness. The formula features three main categories of ingredients, each serving a specific purpose.

The 14 essential oils form the heart of this primer. These include bois de rose, lavender, geranium, petitgrain, lemon, rosemary, vanilla, clove, amyris, and others. Each oil brings unique benefits. Lavender calms irritated skin. Geranium balances oil production. Rosemary provides antioxidant protection. When combined, these oils create a powerful blend that nourishes your skin.

The 10 lipid rich plant oils provide deep moisturization. These oils mimic your skin’s natural sebum, allowing them to absorb quickly without clogging pores. They create a smooth, supple surface that makes makeup application easier. The oils also help plump up fine lines, giving you a more youthful appearance.

The formula includes 4 essential vitamins that support skin health. Vitamin A promotes cell turnover and helps fade dark spots. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting your skin from environmental damage. These vitamins work overtime while you wear your makeup, treating your skin throughout the day.

The primer is free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. This makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin or those who prefer clean beauty products. The formula is also cruelty free, aligning with ethical beauty standards. All these ingredients work together to create a primer that does more than just prep your skin for makeup.

Application Tips for Best Results

Getting the most out of your Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum requires proper application technique. Follow these steps for optimal results.

Start with clean, dry skin. Wash your face with your regular cleanser and pat it dry. If you use a toner, apply it now and let it absorb completely. The primer works best when applied to a clean canvas.

Dispense one pump of product onto the back of your hand or directly onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this primer. One pump is usually enough for your entire face. Using too much product can make your skin feel greasy.

Massage the primer into your skin using upward, circular motions. Focus on areas where you have large pores, fine lines, or dry patches. Press the product gently into these problem areas. The warmth from your fingers helps the oils absorb better.

Wait 2 to 3 minutes before applying makeup. This step is crucial. The primer needs time to absorb fully into your skin. If you apply foundation too quickly, the products might pill or separate. Use this waiting time to do your brows or apply eye primer.

You can apply the primer over moisturizer or use it alone. If you have extremely dry skin, layer it over your regular moisturizer. For normal to combination skin, the primer provides enough hydration on its own. Some users even skip moisturizer entirely and just use this primer.

For a dewy, luminous finish, mix a drop of the primer with your foundation. This creates a custom tinted moisturizer that gives you glowing skin. For extra hydration, apply the primer at night as a treatment serum. Your skin will absorb the beneficial oils while you sleep.

Performance on Different Skin Types

The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum works differently depending on your skin type. Here is what you can expect based on your specific needs.

For Dry Skin: This primer is a game changer. The oil based formula provides intense hydration that lasts all day. Your makeup glides on smoothly without clinging to dry patches. Users with dry skin report that their foundation looks more natural and their skin feels comfortable throughout the day. The primer prevents that tight, uncomfortable feeling that sometimes comes with long makeup wear.

For Combination Skin: You will likely love this primer if you have combination skin. Apply it all over your face or just on dry areas. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly on normal areas while providing extra moisture where you need it. Your T zone stays relatively matte while your cheeks look dewy and healthy. This balance makes combination skin look more even and harmonious.

For Oily Skin: This primer might not be your best choice. The oil based formula can make oily skin look too shiny or greasy. Some users with oily skin report that their makeup slides off faster when using this primer. If you have oily skin and want to try it, use a tiny amount only on dry patches around your nose or mouth. Consider the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer instead, which is specifically formulated for oily skin types.

For Mature Skin: The primer works beautifully on mature skin. The hydrating oils plump up fine lines and wrinkles, making them less visible. Foundation sits on top of the skin rather than sinking into creases. The radiant finish gives mature skin a youthful glow. Many users over 40 say this primer makes their skin look 10 years younger.

For Sensitive Skin: The natural essential oils provide benefits but might irritate very sensitive skin. The strong fragrance from the essential oils can trigger reactions in some people. Do a patch test before using this primer all over your face. Apply a small amount to your jaw line and wait 24 hours to see if any redness or irritation develops.

Makeup Compatibility and Foundation Pairing

One concern many people have is whether the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum works with their foundation. The good news is that this primer pairs well with most formulas, though some combinations work better than others.

Liquid Foundations: The primer works beautifully under liquid foundations. Both oil based and water based formulas glide on smoothly over this primer. The key is letting the primer absorb completely before applying foundation. Users report excellent results with foundations like NARS Sheer Glow, Hourglass Vanish Foundation, and Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk.

Silicone Based Foundations: You might experience some pilling with heavy silicone formulas. When oil and silicone meet, they sometimes do not play well together. If you love silicone foundations, use a very small amount of this primer or choose a different option. However, many users report no issues when they let the primer set properly before foundation application.

Powder Foundations: This combination works, but you lose some of the primer’s benefits. The dewy finish gets covered by powder, so you do not get that radiant glow. If you prefer powder foundation, this primer might not be necessary. Consider a mattifying primer instead.

BB Creams and Tinted Moisturizers: This pairing is perfect. The primer enhances the light coverage of BB creams and tinted moisturizers. Your skin looks naturally beautiful with a healthy glow. The primer adds hydration that makes these lighter formulas blend seamlessly.

Stick Foundations: The primer works well under stick foundations. The oils help the product glide across your skin without dragging or skipping. Users with the Hourglass Vanish Foundation Stick report excellent results when paired with this primer.

The primer also enhances other makeup products. Cream blushes blend beautifully over it. Highlighters look more natural and glowing. Even powder products seem to adhere better and last longer when you use this primer as your base.

Longevity and Value Analysis

The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum comes with a premium price tag. You pay approximately $65 for 1 oz (30 ml) of product. This makes it one of the most expensive primers available. The question becomes whether the results justify the investment.

Product Longevity: One bottle typically lasts 3 to 4 months with daily use. You only need one pump per application, which means the product goes a long way. Some users report their bottles lasting up to 6 months when using it just a few times per week. This extended use helps offset the high initial cost.

Cost Per Use: Breaking down the math, each application costs approximately $0.50 to $0.70. This is comparable to or less expensive than a coffee shop drink. When you consider the multiple benefits (primer, serum, and moisturizer in one), the value proposition improves.

Results Versus Price: The primer delivers noticeable results. Your makeup lasts longer, looks better, and applies more smoothly. Your skin receives treatment benefits while wearing the product. These factors make the high price more acceptable for many users. The question is whether these improvements matter enough to you personally.

Investment Considerations: Think about your priorities. If you wear makeup daily and want it to look perfect, this primer might be worth the splurge. If you only wear makeup occasionally, a less expensive option makes more sense. Consider your budget and how much you value premium beauty products.

Comparable Products: Drugstore primers cost $8 to $15 but may not deliver the same results. Mid range primers like those from Smashbox or Too Faced run $32 to $42. The Hourglass primer sits at the very top of the price range. You are paying for the luxury brand name, premium ingredients, and exceptional performance.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage helps you get the most out of your Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum. The oil based formula requires some care to maintain its effectiveness.

Storage Location: Keep your primer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and light can break down the beneficial oils, reducing their effectiveness. A bathroom drawer or vanity cabinet works well. Avoid storing it in a hot car or on a sunny windowsill.

Temperature Considerations: The primer performs best at room temperature. Extreme heat can make the oils separate. Extreme cold can make the product too thick to pump easily. If your primer gets too cold, let it warm to room temperature before use.

Shelf Life: The product typically lasts 12 months after opening. Check the packaging for a small jar symbol with a number, which indicates months of use after opening. The natural oils and lack of harsh preservatives mean the product does not last forever. Using it within the recommended timeframe ensures you get the full benefits.

Signs of Expiration: Watch for changes in smell, color, or texture. If the pleasant essential oil scent turns rancid or off, the product has expired. If the texture becomes very thick or thin, or if you see separation that does not mix back together, it is time for a new bottle. Using expired product can irritate your skin or cause breakouts.

Hygiene Tips: The pump dispenser helps keep the product sanitary. Always apply the primer with clean hands or a clean applicator. Never pump product directly onto dirty fingers or tools. This prevents bacteria from contaminating the bottle.

Addressing Common Concerns and Issues

Some users experience challenges with the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum. Here are common problems and their solutions.

Pilling Problems: If your makeup pills or balls up over the primer, you are not waiting long enough. The primer needs at least 2 minutes to absorb. Set a timer if needed. Also, use less product. Sometimes one pump is too much, especially if you have smaller facial features. Try using just half a pump.

Too Greasy Feeling: If the primer feels too oily on your skin, you might be using too much. Start with half a pump and add more only if needed. Also, make sure you are massaging it in completely. The product should not sit on top of your skin. Press it in using patting motions to encourage absorption.

Makeup Sliding Off: This usually happens when people with very oily skin use the primer all over their face. Use it strategically instead. Apply only to dry areas like your cheeks and avoid your T zone. Or switch to the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer, which better controls oil.

Strong Scent: The essential oils create a noticeable fragrance. If you find it overwhelming, apply it earlier in your routine. Let it absorb while you do your hair or choose your outfit. By the time you finish getting ready, the scent will have faded significantly. The fragrance does not linger on your skin all day.

Breaking Out: If you experience breakouts after using this primer, you might be sensitive to one of the oils. Stop using it immediately and let your skin clear up. Then do a patch test on your jaw before trying again. Some essential oils can be comedogenic for certain skin types.

Not Seeing Results: Give the product at least 2 weeks of consistent use before judging its effectiveness. Some benefits, like improved skin texture and reduced fine lines, develop over time. Also, make sure you are using the correct application technique. Proper use makes a significant difference in results.

User Reviews and Real World Experiences

Looking at what actual users say provides valuable insight into the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum performance. We gathered feedback from multiple sources to give you a complete picture.

Positive Experiences: The majority of users with dry or combination skin love this primer. They report that it transforms their makeup routine. Foundation applies more smoothly, looks more natural, and lasts significantly longer. Many users say they cannot imagine going back to their old primers. The hydrating benefits make their skin feel pampered and nourished.

Makeup Artist Opinions: Professional makeup artists frequently recommend this primer for clients with mature or dry skin. They appreciate how it creates a flawless canvas for makeup application. The primer helps foundation blend seamlessly and photographs beautifully. Many makeup artists keep this product in their professional kits for special occasions and bridal makeup.

Long Term Users: People who have used this primer for years remain loyal to it. They report that their skin texture has improved over time. The regular use of beneficial oils seems to have cumulative skincare benefits. Long term users say their skin looks healthier and more radiant even without makeup.

Disappointed Reviews: Not everyone loves this primer. Users with oily skin often find it too heavy and greasy. Some people dislike the strong essential oil scent. Others feel the high price is not justified by the results. A few users experience sensitivity or breakouts from the essential oils.

Neutral Feedback: Some users find the primer works well but is not revolutionary. They appreciate the results but do not think it dramatically outperforms less expensive options. These users often switch between this primer and drugstore alternatives depending on the occasion.

The overall consensus is that this primer works exceptionally well for its target audience: people with dry to normal skin who want a hydrating, skin nourishing primer. It is less successful for those with oily skin or those seeking a mattifying effect.

Comparing Hourglass No. 28 to Other Hourglass Primers

Hourglass makes several primers, each designed for different needs. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right one.

Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer: This is the brand’s most popular primer. It has a gel like texture that mattifies skin and blurs pores. It contains SPF 15 for sun protection. This primer works better for oily and combination skin types. It creates a smooth, slightly matte finish. The Veil Mineral Primer costs about the same as the No. 28 Primer Serum.

Key Differences: The No. 28 is oil based and hydrating, while the Veil Mineral is silicone based and mattifying. The No. 28 gives a dewy finish, while the Veil Mineral gives a natural to matte finish. Choose the No. 28 for dry skin and the Veil Mineral for oily skin.

Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Primer: This primer focuses on blurring imperfections and creating a soft focus effect. It has a lightweight, breathable texture that works for normal to oily skin. The finish is more natural than matte. This primer costs about $58, making it slightly less expensive than the No. 28.

Comparison Points: The Vanish Airbrush Primer provides light hydration without the heavy oils. It creates a filtered, airbrushed look in real life. The No. 28 offers more skincare benefits and works better for dry skin.

Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer: This is a 2 in 1 product that combines moisturizer and primer. It provides hydration similar to the No. 28 but with a lighter texture. It works well for all skin types except very oily. The price point is similar to the other Hourglass primers.

Best Choice: The Illusion Priming Moisturizer sits between the No. 28 and the Veil Mineral in terms of hydration. Choose this if you want moisture without the heavy oils. Choose the No. 28 if you need serious hydration and do not mind an oil based formula.

Seasonal Usage Recommendations

Your skin’s needs change throughout the year. Here is how to use the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum across different seasons.

Winter Use: This primer shines during cold weather. Dry winter air strips moisture from your skin, making the hydrating oils essential. Apply a full pump to combat tight, uncomfortable skin. You can even layer it over your regular moisturizer for extra protection. Use it morning and night as a treatment serum.

Summer Considerations: Hot, humid weather changes how this primer performs. If you live in a humid climate, you might find the oils too heavy in summer. Switch to using it only on dry patches or reserve it for air conditioned environments. Some users mix it with a lighter primer to customize the formula for summer.

Spring and Fall: These transition seasons are perfect for this primer. The moderate temperatures allow the formula to work optimally. Your skin benefits from the hydration without feeling greasy. Use it as part of your regular routine during these months.

Climate Adaptations: If you live in a dry climate, use this primer year round. The constant need for hydration makes it valuable in all seasons. If you live in a humid climate, save it for indoor occasions where air conditioning dries out your skin. Airplane travel also makes your skin extra dry, so apply this primer before flying.

Adjusting Amount: Use more product in winter and less in summer. Your skin needs change with temperature and humidity levels. Listen to your skin and adjust accordingly. If your makeup slides around, you are using too much for current conditions. If your skin feels tight, increase the amount.

Mixing and Customization Techniques

One of the best features of the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum is its versatility. You can mix it with other products to create custom formulas.

Foundation Mixing: Add 1 to 2 drops of the primer to your foundation before applying. This creates a custom tinted moisturizer with a dewy, luminous finish. Your foundation becomes more hydrating and easier to blend. This technique works especially well with full coverage foundations that can look heavy on their own.

Illuminating Booster: Mix the primer with liquid highlighter for an all over glow. Apply this mixture to your cheekbones, down your nose, and on your cupid’s bow. The combination creates a natural, lit from within radiance that looks healthy and youthful.

Spot Treatment: Use the primer as a targeted treatment for extra dry areas. Apply it only to your cheeks, around your nose, or anywhere you experience flaking. This allows you to use different primers in different zones based on your skin’s needs.

Night Serum: Apply a full pump before bed as an overnight treatment. Your skin absorbs the beneficial oils while you sleep. In the morning, your complexion looks plump, hydrated, and glowing. This technique maximizes the skincare benefits of the formula.

Hair Treatment: The product works on dry, damaged hair too. Apply a tiny amount to split ends and fly aways. The oils smooth frizz and add shine. This multi use application adds extra value to the product.

Body Highlighter: Mix a pump with your body lotion for glowing skin on your arms and legs. This works great for special occasions when you want your whole body to look radiant. The essential oils also provide a pleasant aromatherapy experience.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Modern beauty consumers care about more than just product performance. The ethical and environmental aspects of the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum matter too.

Cruelty Free Status: Hourglass Cosmetics is certified cruelty free. The brand does not test on animals and does not sell in countries that require animal testing. This makes the primer suitable for consumers who prioritize ethical beauty practices.

Vegan Formula: The No. 28 Primer Serum is 100% vegan. It contains no animal derived ingredients. All the oils and vitamins come from plant sources. This aligns with vegan lifestyle choices and reduces environmental impact.

Packaging Concerns: The product comes in a glass bottle which is recyclable. However, the pump mechanism is plastic and more difficult to recycle. The outer packaging uses cardboard from sustainable sources. Hourglass has committed to improving packaging sustainability.

Ingredient Sourcing: The brand claims to source ingredients responsibly. The essential oils come from sustainable harvesting practices. However, the company does not provide detailed information about every ingredient’s origin. Consumers who want complete transparency might find this frustrating.

Carbon Footprint: As a luxury brand, Hourglass products travel globally, increasing carbon emissions. The premium price point also means fewer people can afford the product, which could be seen as limiting accessibility to quality skincare.

Clean Beauty Standards: The formula is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. This meets most clean beauty standards. However, some people prefer completely fragrance free products, and the essential oils provide significant scent.

Professional Makeup Artist Insights

Makeup artists who work with diverse clients daily provide valuable perspective on the Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum.

Bridal Makeup Applications: This primer is a favorite for wedding makeup. The hydrating formula ensures foundation looks flawless in photos. The radiant finish creates that coveted bridal glow. Makeup artists appreciate how it helps makeup last through long wedding days, emotional tears, and multiple lighting conditions.

Photography Considerations: The primer photographs beautifully. It does not create flashback in photos, which some silicone primers do. The natural finish looks like real skin in pictures rather than a mask. Professional photographers notice the difference when makeup artists use this primer.

Client Skin Preparation: Makeup artists use this primer to rescue dry, dehydrated skin. When a client arrives with flaky skin that seems impossible to work with, this primer transforms the situation. It provides instant hydration that makes makeup application possible.

Limitations for Professional Use: Some makeup artists note that the primer is not ideal for all situations. For stage makeup, TV appearances, or situations requiring complete matte finish, other primers work better. The dewy finish can look too shiny under bright lights.

Kit Must Have Status: Many professional makeup artists keep this primer in their kits specifically for mature clients and dry skin types. They appreciate having multiple primers available to customize their approach for each client’s unique needs.

Application Speed: In professional settings where time matters, makeup artists appreciate how quickly the primer absorbs. They can apply it and move to eye makeup while it sets. The 2 minute wait time fits well into professional workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum every day?

Yes, you can use this primer daily. The gentle, nourishing formula is safe for regular use. Many people apply it both morning and night to maximize the skincare benefits. The natural oils condition your skin over time, so daily use actually improves results. Just make sure your skin tolerates the essential oils well. If you notice any irritation, reduce usage to every other day.

Does the primer work under sunscreen?

The primer works best when applied as your final skincare step, after sunscreen. Apply your regular SPF product first and let it absorb completely. Then apply the primer over it. This order prevents the oils from interfering with sunscreen effectiveness. However, the primer does not contain SPF, so you must use a separate sun protection product.

How long does one bottle last?

Most people get 3 to 4 months of daily use from one bottle. The pump dispenser helps control the amount, preventing waste. If you use the primer twice daily or have a larger face, you might go through it faster. Using it just for special occasions can make one bottle last 6 months or longer.

Can men use this primer?

Absolutely. The primer works for all genders. Men who wear makeup benefit from the same smoothing and extending properties. Men who do not wear makeup can use it as a nourishing serum. The formula helps with dry skin, rough texture, and fine lines regardless of gender.

Is this primer safe during pregnancy?

The essential oils in this primer require caution during pregnancy. Some essential oils are not recommended for pregnant women, especially during the first trimester. Consult your doctor before using products with essential oils while pregnant or nursing. Safer alternatives include fragrance free, simple formulas.

Does it work on acne prone skin?

This depends on your specific skin. The oils might be too heavy for active acne, potentially clogging pores and causing more breakouts. However, some people with acne prone skin find that the right oils actually help balance their complexion. Start with a patch test and use it only on clear areas if you are concerned.

Can you return it if it does not work for you?

Return policies vary by retailer. Sephora offers returns with receipt within 60 days. Department stores have their own policies. The official Hourglass website allows returns of unused products. Always save your receipt and packaging until you are sure the product works for you.

How does it compare to drugstore primers?

This primer offers more skincare benefits and higher quality ingredients than most drugstore options. The results typically last longer and look more natural. However, drugstore primers like ELF Poreless Putty Primer or NYX Marshmallow Primer deliver good results at a fraction of the cost. Whether the luxury version is worth the extra money depends on your priorities and budget.

Last update on 2025-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API