Primer + Base
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EUR8,47 per piece for 2 units EUR292,07/1l
essence Jelly Grip Hydrating Primer
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Jelly Grip Extreme: This primer packs a punch (and I don't mean that in a positive way)
15.1.2026
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Natalie Hemengül
Primers have to do a lot of convincing before I welcome them into my routine. After all, they cost me an extra step when applying make-up. Does Essence's "Jelly Grip Extreme Hydrating Primer" qualify?
Just hearing the name makes me want to test it: «Jelly Grip Extreme Hydrating Primer». The new, stronger version of Essence's favourite base has been available since December. The brand describes it as follows:
«The transparent jelly texture refreshes and nourishes the skin while providing an ultra-strong grip that sets make-up. The refreshing formula conditions, hydrates and provides a radiant finish - all day long. Ideal for all skin tones, maximum performance - a sticky star with addictive potential. Same jelly vibe, but extra.»
I take note. Let's see how extra this stuff is.
A hurdle race
The first setback comes right at the beginning: the pump dispenser goes on strike. No matter how many times I press or reposition the attachment - nothing comes out. The plastic packaging looks extremely high-quality and robust. Then it's different. I unscrew the head and use the riser tube as an applicator. Not exactly hygienic.
Dosing
I follow the instructions: apply and then wait a few seconds before applying the foundation. The gel is cooling, smells of cucumber and feels thick and heavy. As no quantities are given, I apply far too much the first few times. My fingers literally stick to my face and the make-up application is anything but smooth. The result is blotchy. I use less primer each time until I end up with a wafer-thin layer. As always, I apply my vitamin C serum and sun cream underneath. Non-negotiable for me.
Finish and hold
I can't really make heads or tails of the primer. To put it in a clumsy pun: it's just not grippable. I get a different result with every application. I test two different foundations. The base tends to have more trouble with a thick, opaque stick foundation than with the lightly pigmented, liquid version. The former looks cakey after a short time and doesn't blend into my skin at all.
When the sun, moon and stars are right, the result looks really great - provided you like extreme shine. But three times out of five, it just makes my make-up look thick and mask-like because the extreme grip makes it difficult for me to apply the foundation evenly and thinly.
Powder? As sticky as my skin is, I'd rather not. Even hours after applying foundation, I feel like I've sucked on a lolly with dust fluff and other things stuck to it. When there's a light breeze, it's my strands of hair that go cuddly with my cheeks. But does the make-up at least last longer? I don't think so. It could be because every time I accidentally touch my face or something else touches my face, my make-up sticks to it and wears off.
To top it all off, nothing works without a thorough exfoliation before application. With primer, skin flakes are emphasised more by the foundation than without it.
Starting with the extreme version was probably not my best idea. Maybe I'll try these milder alternatives in future and carefully try out Essence's primer line:
In a nutshell
A sticky fiasco
The Jelly Grip Extreme Hydrating Primer was one thing above all else for me: an extreme disappointment. From the dysfunctional packaging to the dodgy finish. I'll keep my hands off it in future.
Pro
- has a refreshing effect
- Moisturises
Contra
- My pump dispenser does not work
- feels too heavy and very sticky on the skin
- Does not harmonise with every foundation
- makes make-up application more difficult
Header image: Natalie Hemengül
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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