Primers are the photoshop of the makeup world. They're used underneath eyeshadow, foundation, tinted moisturizer, and mascara to create a smoothing effect that enhances makeup coverage and helps your makeup stay on longer — all while targeting concerns like oily or dry skin.
You don't need makeup to wear primer, and you can use many primers on their own. What is this? If you are using a silicone-based primer, it'll leave behind an invisible layer that blurs the pores and smooth your skin. If you are using a water-based primer, it will help your skin stay hydrated and smooth.
“Primer is an essential step to make your makeup last and it acts like a protective barrier for your skin. The end result is more flawless, especially with primers that combine skincare and moisturising benefits,” says celebrity makeup artist Namrata Soni.
Primer can be used to enhance many parts of your beauty routine, including your eyes, face, lashes, lips, and nails. Face primer, for example, can be used to smooth out pores, create a base for long-lasting makeup, manage oily skin, or prevent excessive shine, explains Perreux.
Moisturizer and primer are two different products so using a moisturizer as primer won't give the same effect as a real primer. Depending on your skin type, you can skip primer and use moisturizer. If you have uneven texture or big pores, you need a pore-minimizing or smoothing primer like this affordable one.
Primer can act as a barrier between your skin and your makeup, which otherwise can get into your pores and lead to breakouts. Be sure to wash and tone your face after each day of wearing primer and other face products.
Can you wear primer without makeup? Um, hell, yes you can! If you're using a water-based primer, you're basically just adding another layer of moisture to your skin (and maybe even some color-correcting or brightening powers, depending on the formula you get), which is always a plus.
You can absolutely use a primer without makeup! They are fantastic for that “I'm not wearing any makeup” makeup look. They offer a smooth complexion without the heaviness of foundation, and they neutralize redness from acne and irritation.
In the standard beauty routine, primers are necessarily evil. They are needed because they lock in your base, help control oil and ensure a smooth and plump finish. However, they can sometimes obstruct your pores – leading to breakouts, especially if your skin is sensitive.
The best way to think of primer is as a barrier for your skin and your makeup products. Depending on the formula, it can add a mattifying effect or boost the skin with moisture to help your makeup look go the distance. On the other side, moisturizer is a skincare product that's formulated to moisturize your skin.
If your pores are large or you break out from your makeup, you need to add primer to your daily routine right away! Without primer, makeup can get into your pores, causing irritation and breakouts.
When used properly, a great primer can be the difference between a lasts-all-day face and creased, faded makeup. Conversely, a primer not suited to your skin's individual needs — particularly for the acne-prone — can clog pores, triggering a wave of irritation and breakouts.
In short, yes you can.
“If the primer has been on all day, it's very damaging because all the pollutants are still on your skin," says Graf. "If it's smoothed on freshly cleansed skin and used for moisture, then it's okay." Sleeping in any type of lipstick will result in dryness and chapping, says Graf.
An easy way to remember the right order is to separate your products into two separate routines. Moisturizer (or sunscreen) should always be the last step in your skin care routine. Primer should always be the first step in your makeup routine.
Pro: Without Eye Primer, Your Shadow Has No Chance
"It will grab onto the eye shadow, and not only will it last you all day, but it will bring out the true vibrant color of whatever shadows you are using." Going without it will just rob you of a flawless makeup look.
What is a blurring primer? A makeup primer that's applied after skincare and before foundation which contains specific ingredients to create the appearance of a more even texture and an overall flawless complexion.
A primer smooths your skin and gives you an even skin tone. It controls acne, covers enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles, and controls excess oil.
“In fact overuse of makeup, especially foundations, can lead to skin irritation or acne breakouts. Taking a break from makeup can help the skin repair itself," says Dr. Zeichner.
If you have oily skin, you need a primer formula that can also effectively control excess oil, helping to keep you shine-free as well. A great mattifying primer will provide a flawless base, minimize the appearance of pores, and hydrate skin without clogging your pores or causing excess oil.
Although silicone based primers mask the appearance of large pores, regular use may actually increase pore size. As impurities fail to escape pores, buildup increases in pores causing them to stretch out in size.
You don't need an eye primer to protect the delicate skin under your eyes. In fact, a primer can clog the pores under your eye. You may have been told that an eye primer is a must to cover up fine lines and prevent your eye makeup from caking around your eyes.