What Does Primer Do? The Secret Of No-Makeup Makeup

Most of us use who foundation, powder, and concealer on a daily basis could probably benefit from adding a primer. Many people, especially those new to makeup, question the purpose of a primer, but using a primer can have real benefits in makeup application. Let’s explore the role of makeup primers in your beauty routine, with insights from professional makeup artists.

 

What Does Primer Do?

Makeup primers serve as a base layer underneath makeup such as eyeshadow, foundation, lipstick, and mascara, ensuring a seamless application and prolonged wear throughout the day. Additionally, primers can streamline makeup application and reduce the amount of product needed by creating a protective barrier between your makeup and your skin, resulting in flawless and long-wearing makeup looks.

 

Can Primers Be Used By All Skin Types?

Primers are versatile products suitable for all skin types! They prolong the longevity of makeup while also providing skincare benefits. According to makeup artists, their primary function is to enhance makeup wear, but primers also provide additional benefits through other ingredients added. Primers cater to diverse skin needs, so it’s important to look for a primer that addresses your specific skin concerns. For oily skin types, look for mattifying formulations, while those with dry skin can benefit from hydrating or replenishing primers.

 

How To Choose A Primer

Makeup primers come in a variety of finishes, including hydrating, mattifying, luminizing, and redness-reducing. Brands have been expanding their primer offerings, so they address specific skin concerns while preparing the skin for makeup. When selecting a primer, consider your skin type: oily skin may benefit from oil-free and mattifying options, while dry skin may require hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. For acne-prone skin, seek primers with salicylic acid or those formulated to be sheer and oil-free.

Additionally, choose a primer that complements your desired makeup finish. Oil-based primers create a dewy look, while mattifying options control excess oiliness. Compatibility between primer and foundation is also crucial for a seamless finish. Pairing silicone-based primers with silicone-based foundations, for example, ensures silky-smooth, flawless makeup. While adding a primer may lengthen your makeup routine, its benefits, including makeup longevity and a flawless finish, definitely outweigh the cons.

 

 

How To Apply Primer

After moisturizing your face, allow it to dry for a few minutes. Start applying a light layer of primer from the center of your face, gently blending it in with your fingers or a makeup sponge. Let the primer set for a few minutes before applying foundation. Make sure your primer and foundation are compatible; using a silicone-based primer with a water-based foundation may cause "pilling" on the skin's surface. For optimal results, pair a silicone-based primer with a silicone-based foundation, and a water-based primer with a water-based foundation.

 

 

Do I Really Need To Use Primer?

The answer is: it’s really a personal preference! Primers can definitely offer benefits, depending on the season and occasion. They can help keep your makeup in place during warmer temperatures and protect against elements messing up your makeup. For special events like weddings, primers can prevent smudging or movement of makeup so you look perfect for your special day. For people with specific skin concerns, primers can definitely offer a host of benefits – those prone to oiliness, enlarged pores, or redness may benefit from primers to enhance their look and extend makeup wear time.

 

Best Primer For Mature Skin: Elemis Pro-Collagen Insta-Smooth Primer

This incredible anti-ageing primer bridges the gap between skincare and makeup. The advanced formula leaves the skin feeling quenched with hydration whilst delivering an immediate and long-lasting tightening effect for firmer-looking skin. This cooling primer glides easily over the skin to minimize the look of pores and blur the look of fine lines. It leaves the complexion looking smooth, flawless and prepped for makeup.

 

Best Primer For Large Pores: Yon-Ka Nude Perfect Fluide

This lightweight cream shields skin from modern daily stressors like urban pollution and blue light. It is formulated with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump, zinc and Vitamin A to regenerate and heal skin. Composed of 96% ingredients of natural origin, the mattifying formula smooths away visible fine lines and pores. 

 

Best Primer For Dry Skin: Paul & Joe Moisturizing Foundation Primer

Paul & Joe Moisturizing Foundation Primer contains orange flower water to condition skin and hyaluronic acid for superior skin hydration. With three universal shades to choose from, this primer enhances your overall skin tone for a clear complexion that stays fresh and smooth all day.

 

Best Primer For Glass Skin: Anna Sui Gel Foundation Primer

The ultra-hydrating primer conceals pores while the moisturizing the skin for a glassy, supple and dewy complexion. This product starts as a gel and smooths into a liquid to absorb evenly and instantly into your skin for a light-coverage 'no-make-up' look, or use it as the perfect base to your foundation.

 

Best Primer For Oily Skin: Avene Cleanance Mattifying Emulsion

This primer mattifies instantly, reducing shine and maintaining a matte finish for up to six hours, ensuring a flawless complexion throughout the day. It refines skin texture, smoothing away imperfections and visibly reducing the appearance of pores, but it also provides 24 hours of hydration, keeping your skin supple and nourished.