top of page
Search

MAI's Glitz & Glam Makeup Corner: "Choosing the Right Primer"


Greetings and Good Evening Beautiful,


The last time we were together, I discussed the importance of having a daily skin care regimen. At that time, I expressed how I felt this is probably one of the most important steps in not only a great makeup application, but also for maintaining the healthiness of your skin. But, wait there's more! Another important step in creating a beautiful glam makeup application is choosing a great primer, and then your foundation. In doing research for this topic, I learned that some people find this step, choosing a primer, unnecessary and not as important when applying their foundation. Many, opt to skip this step, and I'll be the first to tell you, it shows in the final presentation of your overall look! In building a gorgeous makeup application, where your skin looks flawless, it is important that you choose the right primers and foundations for your skin type and skin tone.


When I first began using makeup regularly, I admit, I didn't always use a primer before my foundation. I also, believed that it was ok to skip, but that was before I truly understood it's purpose. When I bought my first real set of cosmetics, I chose to go to the MAC Cosmetics counter at my local mall, and have the salesperson tell me, show me, and sell me everything that I needed to get started doing my own makeup at home. However, when I did, this is when I stumbled upon several primers, and soon after I quickly fell in love with the way my foundation looked after using a primer. By the way, if you didn't already know, you should use your primer after your moisturizer and before your foundation [of course].


How to get started and what you need to know:


Purpose of a makeup primer is used to create a layer between your skin and the foundation. It also behaves as a barrier to keep the skin from absorbing the ingredients from the foundation. The primer layer essentially works to fill in the gaps between the pores and wrinkles, and creates a smoother and easier surface for applying foundation.


For Primers: We know that there are various types of primers for the different skin types, and in order for you to choose the correct one you need to know your skin type. Please refer to my previous blog post, "Daily Skin Care Regimen" to learn more about your skin type. Below is what you should be on the look out for when choosing the correct primer for your skin type.


Normal - This primer will be a light, creamy formula with sans silicones.

Recommendations: MAC Prime + Prep


Dry - Primers for this skin type, will be silicone-free formulas with a highly moisturizing formula.

Recommendation: Too Faced Hangover Rx Replenishing Face Primer


Oily - This mattifying primer that will contain silicone, creating a matte base for your makeup and fill your pores.

Recommendation: the POREfessional Face Primer


Combination - This skin type will need a primer that will mattify oily areas but also be moisturizing enough for drier areas of the face without pilling.

Recommendation: e.l.f. Mineral Infused Face Primer


Sensitive - Look for primers that are lightweight, water-based that moisturizes and prepares your skin for makeup. It is ideal because it's formulation does not contain oil, silicones, fragrances, or parabens.

Recommendation: NYX Cosmetics Skin Elixir Balance Tea Tree Primer


Now, if you noticed, I only gave you one recommendation for each skin type simply because, there are so many primers out there and it is up to you to choose which one you'd like to try. However, I attempted to pull some of my favorites amongst some of the best primers listed on the internet. My suggestion would be to try different ones to specific to your skin type, and to find the best one that your skin is most receptive.


Some of my personal favorite primers that I use daily, and is currently in my makeup kit are the following:



After applying my moisturizer, I use the Lancôme LA Base Pro Primer. I've been using this primer for at least 5 years now. It is so silky and smooth. My foundation always looks beautiful after using this primer. A little goes a long way, and so I never use more than a dime size amount of this primer. It's also lightweight and long-lasting.








I love this primer because, it gives me a golden glow under my foundation. It has a sheer, semi-matte finish. I've been using this primer for a while now, and I generally put this primer on in combination with another primer. It's usually on applied after using my Lancombe primer. I will say, this primer can be used for all skin tones, and it is recommended to be used on Normal, combination, oily, dry, mature, acne-prone skin types.





As for a drugstore brand, Black Radiance is one of my very favorites. The Black Radiance True Complexion Shine Control Primer is one that I particularly enjoy using in the summer months, when I have the tendency to be more oily and shiny. This sheer, lightweight, oil-absorbing formula minimizes shine, balances complexion, and preps skin to better hold foundation.







The Black Radiance HD Face Primer is wonderful because it contains SPF 15, and sometimes I mix it into my foundation applying them all at once. "This powerful multitasker works as a primer, light foundation, and sunscreen. Worn alone or as the perfect base for makeup, this oil-free primer offers 10 skincare benefits to enhance and refine skin radiantly." (Blackradiancebeauty.com)





Well, there you have it! My take on choosing the best primers for your skin type and for creating a smooth canvas for applying your foundation. I hope that you've found this reading helpful. Good luck with choosing the right primers for your skin. If you find one that you love, please share it with me; I'd love to hear your thoughts! Thank you for taking the time to visit and read this blog today!


Happy glamorizing!


Thank you for reading my blog this evening. Hey, do me a favor, if you like or love this post, comment on it. I’d love to hear your feedback. Also, please feel free to share it with your family and friends in the social media universe. I greatly appreciate the support.


13 views0 comments

Comments

bottom of page