It never ceases to amaze me that some of the most powerful makeup items are ones that are completely invisible. Primer is one of these magical secret weapons that goes under foundation in a completely transparent layer, giving you a near flawless canvas.
Although primers have been around for years, they were mostly only found on the desks of beauty editors and in the kits of Hollywood pro makeup artists. More recently, they’ve entered the mainstream with every skin type and problem being catered for. Primers act as a very fine barrier that fills pores, smoothes fine lines and blurs imperfections, leaving an impeccable base that’s ready for the perfect application of foundation. This means that coverage is more even, lasts longer and stays put whatever the weather. The key to choosing the perfect primer is to pinpoint your main problems. Whatever your need- from colour correction to pore coverage, oil-control to dull skin, there’s a primer that will tame your skin into baby-soft, silky smooth submission.
These are five of my all-time favourites that work wonders for most complexions.
Guerlain Météorites Perles Light-Diffusing Perfecting Primer
Radiant looking skin without and obvious shine is hard to achieve but this primer gives skin a “lit from within” quality that’s glowing not shiny. The gel formulation is super light and easily applied with fingertips.
BareMinerals Prime Time Oil-Control Foundation Primer
If shiny skin is your gripe, this primer absorbs excess oils helping to keep grease at bay and help makeup to stay put. The formula is infused with minerals making it perfect for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Dolce & Gabbana The Primer Sheer Radiance Makeup Base
This primer is great if you want a plumper-looking complexion. It’s refreshingly hydrating, gives skin a visible glow (that look amazing even without foundation) and best of all it contains SPF 30 so no need for an extra layer of sun protection. Love!
MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance Base Lumière
This primer is a multi-tasking wonder product. Not only does it moisturise and boost radiance, it also works to prevent greasy shine. Because it keeps skin well hydrated throughout the day, your foundation stays looking fresher for longer.
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
Smashbox are the kings of primers. Whatever your skin issue, they have a primer that blasts it. This original formula is a great all rounder. It contains vitamins A and E, grape seed extract and green tea in a silky, oil-free formula that reduces the appearance of lines and pores and gives skin a velvety finish.
Do you prime your skin? Which is your favourite product?
