I found the new Bobbi Brown Face Base+ better than the original

The Primer That’s Actually Skincare: How Bobbi Brown Redefined the Art of Face Prep

For years, many beauty lovers have viewed the line between skincare and makeup as blurry, and one product often sits perfectly in the middle. Enter Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base, a formula that expertly functions both as a hydrating moisturizer and a smoothing primer. It was the go-to choice for anyone seeking that essential layer of skin preparation before a full makeup look.

Now, the brand has taken this concept further with the introduction of Vitamin Enriched Face Base+, a smart reformulation designed to deliver even more holistic benefits. This update isn’t just about adding ingredients; it’s about meeting modern consumer demands for real, visible skincare advantages right at the start of their beauty routine.

The shift reflects a broader trend: consumers are no longer satisfied with products that offer only surface-level hydration. They demand that every step—even the primer—contribute to long-term skin health. As one product development director noted, the goal was to “elevate performance, while protecting everything people love.”

To achieve this performance boost, the formula underwent a significant transformation. The most notable change involved removing traditional silicones, such as D5 and dimethicone crosspolymer, which were responsible for the silky glide of the original product. This move aligns with growing environmental concerns, especially regarding regulations like those being introduced in the European Union.

Instead of relying on these silicones, Bobbi Brown recreated the luxurious, smoothing feel using a blend of lightweight emollients and advanced texture enhancers. This new approach ensures the base spreads effortlessly while softening skin texture and creating a superior canvas for foundation.

The skincare benefits have also received a major upgrade. The revised formula now incorporates powerful ingredients like niacinamide to promote brighter, more even-looking skin, alongside hydrating components such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. Furthermore, it includes acetyl glucosamine, an ingredient that gently works to refine the appearance of texture over time, positioning the product as a true investment in skin health rather than just instant makeup prep.

When it comes to the feel on the skin, the difference is palpable. Rather than feeling heavy or tacky, Face Base+ delivers a plush, cushioned moisture that spreads easily and leaves behind the perfect amount of grip for makeup application. This eliminates the typical tackiness associated with traditional primers.

Users report that this formulation helps prevent caking and flaking, allowing makeup to look smoother and more luminous throughout the day. Many find themselves using it as a light, mask-like treatment at night, enjoying deep hydration without the weight of a heavy cream. It has become a versatile staple, serving not just as a primer but as an essential step in achieving a luminous, balanced complexion.

By Ava Taylor