The beauty industry has seen exponential growth in recent years. It has advanced to the point of developing a product that creates a smooth, flawless base that stands the test of time—makeup primer.

We’ve got just one thing to say now: goodbye cakey face!

This innovation is incredibly exciting, but it can also be confusing. This is why we created this simple guide about the importance, use, and application of a product that can change the face of your makeup game.

What Is Makeup Primer?

A primer is a skin-prep product you can use to create an extra smooth layer between your skin and your makeup. This layer acts as a perfect canvas that can seamlessly hold all the makeup you apply, from your eyeshadow and lashes to lips and face.

Think about the looks you can create on the smooth canvas of your skin by using this preparatory product! The possibilities are endless.

And if you thought that the makeup industry has peaked, we’ve got another surprise in store for you. The best primer makeup offers benefits that extend far beyond its primary function. Aside from being the perfect first layer for your makeup, primers also moisturize and hydrate the skin, manage oil buildup, prevent excessive shine, add life and dimension to your complexion, and give your skin the protection it needs to battle the harsh rays of the sun.

Amazing, right?

Is Primer Necessary?

Yes and no. It all depends on your individual preference. If you already have smooth skin, and you don’t encounter issues when applying foundation, by all means, skip the product. You may be one of those lucky people who find that primers do little to improve your makeup application process.

However, if you want to elevate your makeup game, you may want to explore the primer world to find your holy grail. After all, the perfect product can boost your makeup’s staying power. Before you buy anything, make sure to try different formulas in-store to see how they work for you.

We understand makeup is not simple. The perfect product for one person may not work well for you. And there’s no telling whether or not something will work for you until you try it. So, if you’re unsure about whether or not you need to include a primer in your makeup routine, compare primer vs no primer makeup. That is bound to bring much-needed perspective that will help you make the best decision.

Importance of Primer in Makeup

Whether you prefer to keep a simple, no-makeup look or an over-the-top finish for a night out, makeup primer will help give your skin a smooth, flawless finish and keep your makeup on longer.

Primer can also help keep your skin safe and healthy. You can apply primer to protect your skin from harsh environmental elements like strong wind and snow—it keeps any blotchy and uneven occurrences in check. And if you lather on an SPF-infused primer, it can protect your skin from UV rays while ensuring a subtle radiance.

Shop Our 5 Favorite Makeup Primers

Benefit Cosmetics: The POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer

A cult-favorite, this blurring primer is designed to complement every skin type. It’s great for minimizing the appearance of large pores and fine lines, especially in the T-Zone area.

It contains vitamin E derivatives in its formulation, which offers antioxidant protection against free radicals. The best thing? A pea-sized amount is all it takes to work its magic. This primer is definitely worth the price!

e.l.f: Putty Primer

The e.l.f putty primer comes in 3 different formulations: poreless for blurring out the pores, illuminating to give your skin a natural finish, and matte for some quality oil control. The silky formula of this drugstore primer shows promise for staying power. Choose a formulation that best suits your skin's needs and watch how it easily smooths over imperfections.

Tatcha: The Silk Canvas Filter Finish Protective Primer

Tatcha’s Silk Canvas Filter Finish Protective Primer acts as a barrier between your skin and your makeup. Infused with silk extracts and silk powder, it effectively smooths over any bumps and uneven tones in your skin.

Its multi-tasking formula also prevents clogged pores, repairs immediate damage, and protects the skin barrier. With the range of benefits it offers, it is definitely worth the splurge!

Fenty Beauty: Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer provides an amazing filter-like finish to the point where your pores will look practically invisible. It also delivers a subtle peach tint to take your makeup game to the next level.

Its oil-free formula reduces shine by soaking up oil without making the skin look chalky, making it a top-tier choice for those with oily skin.

MILK MAKEUP: Hydro Grip Primer

MILK MAKEUP’s Hydro Grip Primer contains aloe, hyaluronic acid, cherry blossom, and hemp-derived seed extract that works to hydrate the skin. It has a sticky silicone and oil-free gel formula that keeps foundation in place and prevents it from sinking into wrinkles.

Blend a thin layer on your skin and let it dry before applying foundation and enjoy gorgeous, dewy skin all day!

 How to Use Face Primer for Long-Lasting Makeup

Now that you’ve found the best primer for your daily routine, the next step is to learn how to use it. Yes, there are right and wrong ways to apply and use makeup primer. Knowing the correct application method is the key to lasting effects and long-term benefits.

Here are some tips that can help you become a pro in primer application:

• Apply a light layer of moisturizer and let it dry before putting on the primer.
• Begin the application by rubbing a tiny bit of product between your hands to warm it up, then dabbing it evenly on your skin. It’s best to begin with your T-zone and smoothen the product outward to cover your entire face.
• Using your fingers or a makeup sponge, gently rub the primer in to ensure complete coverage.
• Allow the primer to dry before putting on foundation. Make sure to coordinate your choice of primer with your foundation—the two products should complement each other and work together!

Pro tip: If you are conflicted about what primer to use, remember, likeness works. If you’re using a water-based foundation, opt for a water-based primer. If you’re using a silicone-based foundation, opt for a silicone-based primer. Never mix and match.

Wrapping Up

Makeup primers can bring a host of benefits to your skin. The best one, perhaps, is their ability to elevate your makeup skills by giving you an ideal canvas to work on. They also provide much-needed hydration and protection against harsh elements.

There’s no doubt that makeup primers will be an excellent addition to your skincare routine. Tell us about your favorite one in the comments!

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