Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum Review: Is It Worth Buying?
Looking for a primer that actually loves your skin? The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum became a cult favorite for good reason.
This serum blends 14 essential oils with 10 plant oils and 4 vitamins. It hydrates skin while it preps your face for makeup.
Many fans praise its ability to minimize pores and smooth imperfections. Your foundation glides on better and lasts longer too.
But this product comes with a twist. It’s now discontinued, which makes it even more intriguing to review.
We’ll walk you through what made this primer serum special. You’ll learn about its texture, performance, and why people still search for it today.
Ready to see if it lives up to the hype? Let’s jump into the details and find out what made this formula so beloved by skincare fans everywhere.
In a Nutshell
Here’s the quick rundown on this cult favorite primer serum:
- Silicone based formula with cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone creates a smooth canvas for makeup application.
- This primer prolongs makeup wear while giving skin a soothing hydrating feel underneath foundation.
- Users loved the smooth radiant finish it left behind along with its pleasant silky texture.
- One catch: the formula needs full drying time before foundation goes on. Skip this step and you risk streaking.
- It’s also a non grippy primer, so it won’t help your makeup cling if that’s what you need most.
- Absorption is slower than other primers, so patience matters here.
- Sadly this beloved formula is discontinued and no longer sold by Hourglass.
If you’re hunting for alternatives, brands like Too Faced, Armani, and Urban Decay offer similar primers worth trying. Hourglass also makes its own replacements, including the Illusion and Vanish primers for fans missing the original formula.
Key Ingredients & Formula Breakdown
The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum stands out because it combines skincare and makeup prep into one product. This formula works hard to deliver multiple benefits at once.
Essential oils and plant extracts form the heart of this serum. The product contains 14 essential oils that work together to calm and soothe your skin. These oils help reduce irritation and inflammation before you apply makeup.
Plant oils make up another major component. You get 10 different plant oils in this formula. These oils deeply hydrate your skin and create a protective barrier underneath your foundation. They also help lock in moisture throughout the day.
The vitamin blend adds another layer of skin support. Four vitamins are included to nourish and protect your complexion. Vitamins work to strengthen your skin barrier and improve overall skin health while makeup sits on top.
The silicone base uses cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone. These ingredients create a smooth, even surface for makeup application. Silicones help fill in pores and fine lines temporarily. They also allow foundation to glide on smoothly without tugging or pulling.
What makes this formula unique is its serum texture. Unlike traditional primers, this product feels lightweight and nourishing. It blurs imperfections while hydrating simultaneously. The silky feel makes application pleasant, and many users enjoy how it feels against their skin.
The formula does have a slower absorption rate compared to other primers. This means you need to wait for it to fully dry before applying foundation. If you rush this step, your makeup may streak or become uneven. The product is also non grippy, so it won’t create extra grip for makeup adhesion.
This serum works best for people who prioritize skin health alongside makeup wear. If you have dry or sensitive skin, the oil and vitamin blend offers real benefits. The hydrating properties mean your skin stays comfortable all day long.
The combination of essential oils, plant oils, and vitamins creates a formula that does more than just prepare your face for makeup. It actually treats your skin while you wear your makeup. This dual action approach appeals to anyone seeking a primer that respects their skin barrier and keeps it healthy.
- Airbrushed, soft-focus finish: Delivers a translucent veil that blurs imperfections and creates a flawless...
- Skin-perfecting formula: Smooths and evens skin texture while minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- Oil-absorbing and shine-controlling: Balances skin by absorbing excess oil to help control shine all day.
Last update on 2026-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Texture, Application & Absorption
The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum has a distinctive texture that sets it apart from traditional primers. This formula feels like a lightweight serum rather than a thick, heavy base. The silicone base creates a smooth, almost slippery consistency that glides across your skin effortlessly.
When you first apply it, the serum spreads easily across your face. Your fingers or a brush won’t drag or tug at all. The formula feels silky and luxurious as it settles onto your skin. Many users describe the application process as genuinely pleasant and soothing.
Here’s where patience becomes important: absorption takes longer than standard primers. The emollient nature of this formula means it sits on top of your skin for a bit before fully setting. You’ll notice a slight sheen immediately after application. This is completely normal and expected with oil-based serums.
The key to success is allowing full drying time before applying foundation. If you rush and layer makeup too quickly, you risk streaking or pilling. Give the serum about two to three minutes to settle into your skin. This extra wait time prevents any slippage between the primer and your foundation.
Because this primer is non-grippy, it won’t create that sticky base some people prefer. Your makeup won’t cling aggressively to the serum layer. Instead, the formula creates a smooth, hydrated canvas that feels comfortable on skin. This works beautifully if you prioritize skin health and comfort over maximum makeup grip.
The texture remains consistent throughout the bottle. You won’t experience separation or any unusual consistency changes. The blend of essential oils and plant oils gives the serum a luxurious feel without feeling greasy once fully absorbed.
Application works best with your fingertips or a damp beauty sponge. Avoid rubbing or massaging the serum into your skin. Instead, gently press it into your face and let it do the work. This method ensures even distribution and prevents unnecessary friction.
The absorption rate does mean this primer works best for people who aren’t rushing through their morning routine. If you have time to let products settle and work properly, this serum delivers exceptional results. The smooth, radiant finish it creates makes the wait worthwhile for many dedicated fans.
Skin Types & Suitability
Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum works for all skin types, making it a versatile choice if you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin. The formula’s balanced blend of oils and vitamins means no single skin type gets left behind.
If you have dry skin, this primer delivers real benefits. The plant oils and essential oils in the formula provide hydration that sits under your makeup all day. Your skin won’t feel tight or uncomfortable. The soothing properties help reduce irritation, which matters if your skin feels reactive.
Oily skin users should know one important thing: this primer has a slippery texture. You’ll need to wait for complete drying before applying foundation. If you skip this step, your makeup may streak or slide around. The non-grippy formula means it won’t create that sticky base some oily skin people prefer for makeup grip.
For combination skin, the serum approach works well. You get hydration where you need it without the heavy feeling that thick primers sometimes create. Apply it to dry areas and use less on your T zone if needed.
Sensitive skin tends to respond positively to this formula. The absence of harsh chemicals and the presence of soothing plant extracts make it a gentler option. Always patch test first, especially if you react to essential oils.
One major note: this product is now discontinued. Hourglass stopped producing the No. 28 Primer Serum, so availability is limited to existing stock only. If you’re considering this primer, check that it’s actually in stock before purchasing.
The slower absorption time affects how well this works for your routine. If you have a quick morning schedule, this primer demands extra time. Users who move slowly through their skincare steps find it pairs perfectly with their routine.
The silicone base makes this primer suitable across the board, but the emollient quality means your skin type determines how you’ll experience it. Dry skin types love the hydration boost. Oily skin types need patience with drying time. Combination skin types appreciate the balanced approach. Consider your morning routine length before committing to this primer, since rushing defeats its purpose.
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Last update on 2026-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This serum gives your skin a glowing, hydrated base before makeup application. The formula contains Japanese botanicals that help your skin stay plump throughout the day. You’ll notice your foundation sits smoother when you use this product first.
The serum absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feeling. Your skin feels refreshed and dewy, which many people love. It works well for dry or combination skin types that need extra moisture.
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This primer creates a smooth canvas for your foundation. The formula grips your makeup so it stays put for hours. Your skin feels soft and primed, ready for full coverage.
The primer works on all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin. It reduces shine and keeps makeup from sliding off. Many people appreciate how it extends their makeup wear time significantly.
Each of these products serves a different purpose in your routine. Some work best as pre-makeup steps, while others set your finished look. Choose based on what your skin needs most right now.
Results & Makeup Longevity
When you use Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum, your makeup stays put throughout the day. The formula extends wear time significantly, which makes this serum stand out from basic primers that fade quickly.
The silicone base creates a smooth foundation for your foundation. Cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone lock makeup in place without feeling heavy. Your base won’t shift, crack, or separate as the hours pass.
Makeup application feels seamless when this primer is fully dry. The serum prepares your skin so foundation glides on evenly. You get a radiant finish that looks fresh, not cakey or overdone.
One thing to remember: the emollient texture means you must wait for complete drying. If you apply foundation too early, streaking happens. Once dry, the primer grips makeup effectively despite its non-sticky feel. This is where patience pays off in longevity.
The 14 essential oils and 10 plant oils keep your skin comfortable under makeup. Your complexion stays hydrated throughout wear time, which prevents that tight, uncomfortable feeling some primers create. This matters because comfortable skin means better makeup performance.
For people with dry skin, makeup lasts longer because the primer prevents your base from clinging to flaky patches. Oily skin users see extended wear because the silicone base controls shine without adding extra slip. Combination skin benefits from balanced hydration that supports makeup adhesion everywhere.
The vitamin blend supports your skin barrier while makeup sits on top. This means your complexion stays healthier even during full wear time. You’re not just extending makeup longevity—you’re protecting your skin simultaneously.
Results depend on full drying time. Rush this step and you’ll experience streaking or patchiness. Give it the time it needs, and your makeup performs beautifully. The primer creates an invisible layer that holds everything in place.
One important note: this product is now discontinued. If you own a bottle, make it count. The formula’s combination of hydration and longevity support makes it worth using carefully. Your makeup will reward that patience with all-day wear and a radiant appearance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Hydrates and soothes skin while keeping makeup intact all day
- Minimizes pores and smooths imperfections for a flawless base
- Creates a radiant, even finish that feels silky to the touch
- Works well for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin
- The blend of 14 essential oils and 10 plant oils keeps skin comfortable under makeup
Cons
- Absorption takes longer than most primers, so you need patience before applying foundation
- The slippery, emollient texture requires complete drying to avoid streaking or patchiness
- Not ideal for people who rush through their morning routine due to slow dry time
- This product is now discontinued and no longer available for purchase
Who Should Buy It
This primer works best for people who have dry or sensitive skin. The formula contains 14 essential oils and 10 plant oils that comfort your skin throughout the day. If your skin feels tight or reactive, this serum approach offers real relief under makeup.
You should buy this if you want makeup that lasts all day. The silicone base locks your foundation in place and prevents your base from moving around. This matters most if you work long hours or attend events where your makeup needs to stay flawless.
People with combination skin will appreciate the serum texture. It hydrates dry zones without making oily areas worse. The formula balances your skin before you apply foundation, so your makeup sits evenly across your entire face.
You should skip this product if you rush through your morning routine. The slower absorption time means you must wait for complete drying before applying foundation. If you apply makeup too quickly, you’ll experience streaking or patchiness. This primer demands patience and a calm morning schedule.
Makeup artists and beauty professionals benefit from this primer’s pore minimizing effect. The formula smooths skin texture and reduces the appearance of imperfections. Your foundation goes on more seamlessly when your base feels this smooth.
This primer is not ideal for people who want a quick, grippy formula. The emollient, slippery texture creates a different experience than traditional primers. You need to understand that this works differently and adjust your application method accordingly.
Important note: This product is now discontinued. You cannot purchase it from retailers anymore. If you loved this formula, you may want to explore similar alternatives like the Hourglass Vanish Primer or Hourglass Illusion Primer from the same brand.
Consider this primer if you prioritize hydration and skin comfort over speed. The vitamin blend supports your skin barrier while makeup sits on top all day. You get a radiant, even finish that feels silky to the touch. However, the discontinued status means you’ll need to act fast if you find remaining stock or explore comparable options that offer similar benefits.
Final Verdict
The Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum earns its reputation as a cult favorite. Its blend of oils and vitamins gives skin a comfortable base. Many users loved how it felt on their face.
This primer set a trend for serum style bases in the beauty world. Brands took notice and started creating similar hybrid formulas. That influence still shows in newer primers today.
Sadly, this product is no longer in production. You will not find it on shelves or official retailer sites anymore. Some sellers may list leftover stock, but availability stays unpredictable.
If you loved this formula, look for similar options. Hourglass Vanish Primer offers a comparable hydrating feel. Hourglass Illusion Primer also brings a smooth finish with a lighter texture.
Outside the Hourglass lineup, you have choices too. Too Faced Hangover Primer gives a hydrating boost for dry skin types. Armani Primer and Urban Decay Extra Glow Primer both focus on radiance and smooth application.
Think about your skin goals before choosing a replacement. Some primers grip makeup better. Others focus more on glow and hydration like this one did.
This primer worked best for people who valued comfort and finish over speed. If your routine allows time for full drying, you likely enjoyed smooth results every day.
For those who need fast, grab and go products, this formula never fit well. The slow dry time always stayed a tradeoff for its silky payoff.
Overall, this primer holds a special place in beauty history. It combined skincare benefits with makeup prep in one step. That combination felt new when it first launched.
Its discontinued status now makes it a nostalgic product for many fans. If you still own a bottle, use it wisely since restocks will not happen.
For everyone else, explore current alternatives from Hourglass or other brands. You can likely find a formula that matches your skin needs and makeup style just as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum still available to buy?
Unfortunately, this primer is discontinued and no longer in production. You won’t find it on official retailer sites or store shelves anymore. If you loved this formula, you’ll need to explore alternative primers instead.
What skin types work best with this primer?
This serum works for all skin types. It shines most for dry and sensitive skin because of the 14 essential oils and 10 plant oils. People with combination skin also enjoy the lightweight serum texture. The hydrating formula keeps skin comfortable under makeup all day.
Why does this primer take so long to dry?
The emollient, slippery texture needs full drying time before you apply foundation. This happens because of the silicone base and plant oils. Rushing the process causes streaking and patchiness. If you need a quick primer for busy mornings, this formula wasn’t the right fit.
Does it really minimize pores and reduce imperfections?
Yes. The serum formula creates a smooth, radiant finish that blurs pores and imperfections. Many users appreciated the pore minimizing effect, especially makeup artists and beauty professionals. The result feels silky and even across the face.
What should I use instead now that it’s discontinued?
Consider other Hourglass primers like the Illusion Primer or Vanish Primer. Outside the brand, try Too Faced Hangover Primer, Armani Primer, or Urban Decay Extra Glow Primer. Think about your main skin goal: hydration, speed, or grip. This helps you pick the right replacement serum.
I’m Danica, the voice behind StyleSense! As a passionate explorer of all things fashion, beauty, and wellness, I’m dedicated to helping you navigate the overwhelming world of style and self-care products. With years of experience testing and reviewing everything from trendy fashion pieces to innovative beauty solutions and health supplements, I bring you honest, detailed insights that you can trust.
