All Nighter Ultra Glow Face Primer
All Nighter Ultra Glow Face Primer
Product Description
Product overview
A hydrating, water-based gel primer infused with hyaluronic acid and agave extract that delivers a luminous, dewy finish while gripping foundation in place for up to 12 hours. Silicone-free, oil-free, and lightweight enough to wear alone for an effortless glow.
12-Hour Foundation Grip
Water-based polymer network grips onto foundation, preventing fading, creasing, and transfer for up to 12 hours of wear.
Texture & feel
SENSORY12-Hour Foundation Grip
Water-based polymer network grips onto foundation, preventing fading, creasing, and transfer for up to 12 hours of wear.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin, plumping fine lines and creating a smooth, hydrated canvas for makeup.
Agave Extract Nourishment
Blue agave tequilana leaf extract delivers deep moisturization and natural sugars that condition and soften the skin.
Effortless Dewy Glow
Creates a lit-from-within luminosity without shimmer particles. Wear alone for a natural glow or under makeup for dewy radiance.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. No known harmful ingredients for expectant or nursing mothers. Always consult your doctor.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort ingredient analysis.
Zero comedogenic ingredients detected. Oil-free and silicone-free formula is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Minimal risk of irritation. Free from common allergens, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Contains gentle preservatives only.
91% top-allergen free per SkinSafe analysis. Free of gluten, nickel, lanolin, and talc. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
As a water-based primer, it works best with water-based foundations. Mixing with silicone-based foundations may cause pilling or separation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 3.8–5.7%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Naturally present in skin, glycerin attracts water to the upper layers and strengthens the moisture barrier.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid at equivalent concentrations.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep skin plump and hydrated throughout wear.
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.15–0.6%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin. Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Function: Attracts and retains water in the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and creating a smooth, plumped surface.
- Absorption: Smaller molecules penetrate more effectively than standard hyaluronic acid, delivering hydration below the surface.
Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract <1%Promising
Extracted from the blue agave plant, this botanical ingredient is rich in natural sugars and fructans that moisturize and condition the skin.
- Function: Provides film-forming hydration, locking in moisture while creating a smooth base for makeup application.
- Source: Also used by Milk Makeup in their popular Hydro Grip Primer, pointing to its effectiveness as a grip-enhancing botanical.
Xylitylglucoside + Anhydroxylitol + Xylitol 2.3–3.4% combinedProven
A sugar-based moisturizing complex derived from beechwood and wheat. These three work synergistically to boost skin hydration from within.
- Function: Stimulates the synthesis of hyaluronic acid within the skin and strengthens the natural moisture barrier.
- Research: Clinical studies show this complex provides lasting hydration even after product removal by promoting the skin's own water-retention mechanisms.
VP/VA Copolymer + Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer 1–3% combinedFunctional
Film-forming polymers that create the grip technology in this primer. These ingredients form a flexible, invisible mesh on the skin that holds makeup in place.
- Function: Creates a tacky, breathable film that anchors foundation and prevents sliding, fading, or transferring for extended wear.
- Texture: Responsible for the gel-like consistency and the slight tackiness that signals the primer is ready for foundation application.
17 ingredients
Aqua / Water / Eau, Glycerin, Glycereth-7 Trimethyl Ether, Xylitylglucoside, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Phenoxyethanol, VP/VA Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, T-Butyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after moisturizer and before foundation. Allow 30–60 seconds for the gel to set and become tacky before applying makeup. Can also be worn alone for a hydrated, dewy no-makeup look.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
Start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply your usual skincare routine (toner, serum, moisturizer) and allow products to absorb fully before priming.
Dispense a Dime-Size Amount
Squeeze a small, dime-sized droplet onto your fingertips or the back of your hand. A little goes a long way with this concentrated gel formula.
Apply & Blend Outward
Using fingertips or a foundation brush, blend from the center of the face outward in gentle, even strokes. Cover the entire face, including under-eye area.
Wait for the Grip
Allow 30–60 seconds for the formula to become slightly tacky. This tackiness is the grip activating — it means the primer is ready for foundation.
Apply Foundation or Wear Solo
Layer your favorite water-based foundation on top, or skip foundation entirely for a natural, dewy glow. You can also mix a drop into foundation for a sheer, luminous finish.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a dewy, glowing finish under your makeup
- You need foundation to last 8–12 hours without touch-ups
- You have dry, normal, or combination skin that craves hydration
- You prefer silicone-free, water-based formulas
- You have fungal acne and need a safe primer option
- You want a primer that doubles as a lightweight moisturizer
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a matte, shine-free finish
- You have very oily skin that produces excess shine throughout the day
- You use silicone-based foundations (may cause pilling)
- You need pore-filling or blurring effects
- You want a primer with SPF or color correction
- You apply multiple heavy layers of makeup (may cause patching)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe hyaluronic acid and glycerin-rich formula delivers intense hydration that dry skin craves. Prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches and creates a smooth, dewy canvas.
Ideal match for normal skin types. Adds a healthy glow without overloading the skin, and keeps foundation looking fresh all day long.
Works well on dry areas and cheeks. May add extra shine on oily T-zone, so consider pairing with a mattifying powder on oily zones.
The dewy finish may amplify shine on very oily skin. If you still want glow without excess oil, use a setting powder on your T-zone or try the original matte All Nighter Primer instead.
Minimal, clean formula with only 17 ingredients. Free from common irritants, fragrance, and allergens. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
Zero comedogenic ingredients detected. Oil-free, silicone-free, and fungal acne safe. One of the cleanest primer options for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
2–4 WEEKSInstant Dewy Glow
Skin looks visibly hydrated and luminous right after application. The clear gel imparts a lit-from-within radiance and creates a smooth, tacky surface for makeup.
95% noticedFoundation Still Locked In
Makeup remains fresh and vibrant without fading or creasing. The grip technology keeps foundation anchored while the dewy finish persists through midday.
88% noticedAll-Day Wear Achieved
Most users report their makeup still looks fresh at the end of the day. Minimal touch-ups needed. Hydration levels remain comfortable even in air-conditioned environments.
75% noticedImproved Skin Texture
With consistent daily use, many users report that the hydrating ingredients improve overall skin texture and smoothness, making skin look better even without makeup.
60% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Delivers a beautiful, natural dewy glow without shimmer or glitter
- Keeps foundation in place for up to 12 hours
- Incredibly clean formula — only 17 ingredients, no silicones or oils
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (0/5)
- Works beautifully worn alone for a "no makeup" glow
- Suitable for sensitive skin, pregnancy, and breastfeeding
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without heaviness
Criticized
- Too dewy for very oily skin — can amplify shine
- Small 30 mL bottle is expensive at $39 ($1.30/mL)
- Can pill when paired with silicone-based foundations
- Some users report it makes layering multiple products difficult
- No pore-filling or blurring effect
- Neutral scent that some users find slightly off-putting
- No SPF included — sunscreen must be applied separately
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESWater-based jelly formula with similar hydrating and dewy properties. Shares 9 ingredients in common. Also fungal acne safe and cruelty-free. Less grip and shorter wear time but excellent value.
Affordable water-based jelly primer that gives a dewy, hydrated finish. Contains hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract. Less foundation-gripping power but great for casual or minimal makeup days.
Ultra-affordable hydrating primer with a lightweight gel texture. Simpler formula without agave extract. Provides basic hydration and smoothing but lacks the long-wear grip technology of the original.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENARS Light Reflecting Primer
Fenty Beauty Grip Trip Primer
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use to prevent the gel from drying out.
Squeeze tube with a screw cap. Allows controlled dispensing and easy access to product.
Yes — 30 mL is well under the 100 mL carry-on liquid limit. Compact squeeze tube fits easily in any travel bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This primer does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The 17-ingredient formula is minimal and gentle. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes. This primer is confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort ingredient analysis. It contains no ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that are known to feed malassezia yeast. It is one of the few prestige primers on the market that is fully FA-safe, making it a popular choice in the fungal acne community.
Yes. This primer contains no active exfoliating or treatment ingredients, so it will not interact negatively with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs in your skincare routine. Apply your actives first (serum step), allow them to absorb, then follow with moisturizer and this primer as the last step before makeup.
This primer works best for dry, normal, and combination skin types that want a hydrated, dewy finish. It is excellent for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic, oil-free formula. It may be too dewy for very oily skin — if you have oily skin but still want glow, pair it with a mattifying setting powder on your T-zone.
You'll see immediate results — the dewy glow and smooth, hydrated canvas are visible right after application. Foundation-gripping performance is instant as well. Over 2–4 weeks of daily use, the hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, xylitol complex) can improve overall skin texture and moisture levels.
This primer goes after your entire skincare routine (cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer) and before foundation. It is the bridge between skincare and makeup. Apply it as the last step of skin prep, wait 30–60 seconds for the tacky grip to activate, then apply your foundation or concealer.
No. This primer has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. No comedogenic ingredients were detected in the formula according to WIMJ analysis. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains none of the common pore-clogging ingredients found in many primers. It is one of the safest options available for acne-prone and breakout-sensitive skin.
The primer has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal performance. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. If the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably, discard the product even if it's within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Glow Face Primer is a standout choice for anyone seeking a hydrating, dewy primer with an exceptionally clean formula. With only 17 ingredients, zero silicones, and confirmed fungal acne safety, it fills a unique gap in the prestige primer market. The hyaluronic acid and agave extract deliver genuine hydration, while the polymer grip technology keeps foundation locked for up to 12 hours. It loses a point for its premium price per mL and its unsuitability for very oily skin, but for dry, normal, combination, and acne-prone skin types chasing that lit-from-within glow, it's hard to beat.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-7 Trimethyl Ether
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Humectant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Xylitylglucoside
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|




