Are Primers Necessary?
Why Use Primer?
It seems like everyday makeup companies are telling us we need to add their new “revolutionary new product” to our routine. Or else it’s doomsday, and basically all our faces will melt off. Okay that was a bit dramatic, but that example is actually true when it comes to using primer. A makeup primer sets the base for all of your makeup to follow.This creates a more even texture and surface for your makeup to stick better to. Because you are giving it a more uniform base, it gives it a stronger staying power than when skipping the primer. Adding Primer and a Setting Powder/Spray to your makeup routine will leave your makeup looking as flawless as when you applied it in the morning.You will never have to experience fear again when you wear a full face of makeup on a hot and sunny day.
Primers have so many benefits, but because you’ve managed to survive your entire makeup wearing years without it, and managed to survive life without, you never glance twice at it at the makeup counter. Let me tell you why you should start paying attention to this little powerhouse. “The primer is the powerhouse to the makeup look.” I just made that up, but maybe that phrase will be all you learn from me, and remember 15 years from now. At least I know you will be priming that face.
Primers fill in fine lines and pores giving you an even texture. It softens the skin and has almost a velvet feel to it. Most primers are one size fits all, but some companies have created new primers with other benefits besides smoother makeup and a stronger staying power.
Acne Primers
If you have acne, there are primers that are formulated specifically for your skin type. Acne or zits raise the skin where it is inflamed, and give your skin there a shiny surface that makes it difficult for makeup to stick to. When I break out, I prime my entire face with my usual primer, and then spot treatment prime my troubled areas. My favorite primer for this is the Cover FX Mattifying Primer with Anti Acne Treatment. This primer not only cancels out that spot specific shine, it also has salicylic acid in it to help clear up your face and still be able to wear
makeup.
Anti Redness Primers
If you have rosacea or just red and pink undertones, using a primer with green in it will color correct while priming so your foundation will be applied to a neutral colored base. It’s a little scary when applying it because it really is green you are rubbing all over your face, but as you cover you’ll see it work its magic and just take all the redness out. Even if you don’t have rosacea, you can still use a primer with a green base to help cover your sunburn. Being very fair, and traveling to tropical islands regularly, I always get sunburned no matter how diligent I am with my sunscreen. I like to use L’Oreal Studio Secrets Anti Redness Primer.
Anti Aging Primers
Every skin concern is fully represented in the world of primers and anti aging is no exception. Anti Aging Primers fill in pores, fine lines, and wrinkles like your typical primer, but most of them also include skin tightening and firming ingredients as well. A good product to use here is Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer. That particular primer is infused with vitamins C and E which are the good vitamins when it comes to skin. It is also very moisturizing and older skin tends to thin out as it’s losing layers of subcutaneous tissue and is more susceptible to being dry.
Under Eye Primers
The skin surrounding your eyes is the thinnest skin you have so you have to treat it gentler. Unfortunately this is also a common main areas of concern to most of the population. If you are like me, you naturally wake up every morning with dark circles that resemble black eyes. I use plenty of concealer to hide them but color correcting primer specifically formulated for under eyes is a must. The shades are typically a salmon or pink color such as the Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eye Primer. Smashbox has really made a name for itself in the primer field offering a million different types.
Eyeshadow Primers
The gateway to face primers. I have been using the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion for years. I never have to worry about my eyeshadow becoming less vibrant or creasing as the day goes on. Just make sure to set these primers with a shadow color similar to your skin tone before starting your eyeshadow master piece.
So yes, primers are necessary. If you are currently not using one you should actually add this step to your makeup routine.
