Foundation 101: Primer

If you've ever painted a wall you may have used a paint primer to help your paint color adhere to the wall better and make it look as nice as possible for a long period of time. Face primer is the same thing, a layer between your skin and foundation to help it apply smoothly and last longer while filling any fine lines or pores. Some people don't use primers, which is fine. If you have a problem you're looking to fix with makeup, a primer that targets your issue is probably a good investment!

Primer should be placed as a thin layer all over or where you need it. 

Be careful to only use a small amount to have maximum benefits. 

Water Based Primers - Lighter weight product that preps most skin types by hydrating and adding glow.

Silicone Based Primers - Great for sensitive skin and allergic skin by creating a barrier between the skin and the foundation which helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

                 ** Silicone based Primers should ONLY be used with Silicone based Foundations**

                            

But Haley, how do I know if it is silicone based? 

    Great Question! Most primers will have Water as the first ingredient but if Cone/-methicone, and/or -siloxane is seen in the first few ingredients, it is probably Silicone based. 

By mixing a silicone based primer with a water based foundation the products can start to "pill"

Think of Silicone & Water like Oil & Water.

They Don't Mix! 

Below are Different Types of Primers

(both silicone & water based)

NYX Pore Filler $14

Pore Filling Primers - These primers tend to be heavier and work better when used sparingly. Use pore filling primers around your nose and cheeks where your pores may be larger and a different primer around the rest of your face. Use a tapping motion to push this into your pores to create a flawless look.







Hydrating - Dry or Normal skin types benefit from a hydrating primer that sinks into and nourishes the skin. These TEND to be water based, some contain oil so check ingredients if acne prone! Rub this all over your face or apply with a brush!

Becca Ever Matte Poreless Priming Perfector $38

Mattifying - This is an oily girls new BFF. Seriously mattifying primers can be intense. Use a little at a time because if you over do it the primer will begin to clump up, but gentle rub this into your T-Zone, Chin, or wherever you produce oil and it will help your foundation last all day with less touch ups!





Smoothing - Almost always Silicone based. Smoothing primers help by making fine lines and textured skin "disappear" or almost disappear. Really can help create a flawless look!


Color Correcting- These add a sheer color to help with any pigmentation issues you may have

• Green/Yellow Cancels Red
• Purple/Pink/Peach Helps Dullness and Adds Radiance  

Makeup Forever Colored Primers $37

Revlon PhotoReady Color Correcting Primer

$12.99

Illuminating - Great for that summer time glow thats so popular right now! Illuminating primers add a light shimmer or hydrated glow to the skin.

              L'Oreal Paris Magic Lumi Primer $11

Remember, it's just makeup. If you don't like it, wash it off and start again.