All women want to look their best, not just on special occasions but on a daily basis. A primer provides the best base coat for your makeup, giving you a smooth and even blank canvas to work from. If you have never used a primer before, you will be amazed at the results. In this section we offer a wide selection of primer makeup products to suit a range of skin types. What is a primer? | Purpose | Types | Choosing the right primer for your skin type | Application tips
A primer can be likened to an undercoat of paint. It is the initial layer to create a perfect canvas so makeup stays flawless and even looking for longer. It prepares your skin to allow your favorite tinted moisturiser or foundation to work at its best. Although not everyone needs a primer, they offer great benefits that anyone can appreciate.
What is the purpose of a primer?
Prepares the skin, creating a smooth and even blank canvas.
Extends the longevity of foundation and makeup.
Helps smooth the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles or prominent pores
Helps correct colour of skin and even out the skin tone
Prevents creasing on eyelids
What are the different types of primer?
There are two basic forms of primer - water based and silicone based. Water based makeup primer is great for extending the wear of makeup. Silicone based makeup primer is best for covering up imperfections (e.g. pores, fine lines, wrinkles). When makeup primers were first introduced, they were only used for foundation and the eyes to extend the wear of eyeshadow. But recently, additional types of primers have been introduced for the lips, eyebrows, mascara and decolletage. Primers also comes in various shades to suit different skin tones.
Choosing the right kind of primer for your skin type
Oily and combination skin works best with a water based primer, which can give you the smooth and even complexion your skin needs, whilst keeping you look matte and fresh.
If you have uneven skin tone you will benefit from primers with colour correcting properties. This type will help even out your skin tone as well as smoothing out any imperfections.
If you have dry skin choose hydrating silicone based primers. This type will help stop your foundation from caking and becoming patchy in those dry areas.
If you have prominent visible pores it is best to use a slightly tinted primer that will reduce the appearance of the pores, as well as matte down any shine.
Tips for using primers
If you have visible pores, brush your primer upwards but brush your foundation downwards. For more even coverage, apply your primer using a foundation brush. Wait for 60 seconds for it to dry after application.
For more tips on using primers, check out this video:
