A gorgeous makeup look is all about the perfect prep, which is why it’s so important to understand your skin’s needs, so you can prep it properly.
Makeup is only as good as its base, making primers (and skincare!) a key component in the creation and longevity of your foundation and concealer. We’re rounding up the different kinds of primers on the market and which one you should use based on your skin type and concern.
For Combination Skin Types
Physician’s Formula Softlight Blurring Primer: $14.95
This universally flattering primer has a super soft touch while smoothing the skin and absorbing unwanted oils for an airbrushed-looking finish. We also love that it’s enriched with antioxidants and oil-absorbing kaolin clay to reduce the appearance of fine lines, pores and blemishes.
(via Physicians Formula)
For Oily Skin Types
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer: $36
If you have super oily skin, primer is crucial to keep your makeup in place all day long. Smashbox’s clear primer gel feels velvety smooth and makes the skin look flawless.
(via Sephora)
For Dry Skin Types
Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer Mini: $22
A velvety primer balm that’s the ideal liaison between skincare and makeup–Tatcha’s Silk Canvas smooths skin without clogging pores and makes makeup last longer. The silk extracts nourish the skin and make makeup glide on so easily. It doesn’t make the skin look or feel dry either, which is a major plus.
(via Tatcha)
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer: $30
This super-hydrating primer from Milk Makeup is great for dry skin types and is loaded with hemp-derived cannabis and blue agave extract for all-day hydration and hold. It’s also really easy to apply on-the-go and can be used as a shiny skin spot treatment in a pinch.
(via Sephora)
For Brighter-Looking Skin
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Face Primer: $36
If dullness and uneven texture are your concern then this vitamin C-infused face primer is just what your skin’s been missing. This illuminating face primer has banana powder-inspired pigments that deliver radiance while still keeping makeup in place for extended time periods.
(via Sephora)
For Glowy (But Not Greasy) Skin
Farsahli Unicorn Essence Antioxidant Primer Serum: $54
This water-based serum has two purposes: it helps protect skin from environmental stressors and smooths skin for makeup application. It contains four super fruit extracts which leave skin hydrated without a greasy residue.
(via Sephora)
Becca First Light Primer: $39
Say hello to the glow! This illuminating primer smoothes out imperfections with light illuminating qualities that make the skin look hydrated without being shiny. The translucent cool violet color also helps even skin tone and diminish redness.
(via Sephora)
For Improving the Appearance of Pores
Fenty Beauty by Rhianna Pro Filt’r Mini Instant Retouch Primer: $16
This shine-stopping formula is perfect for blurring pores and making them appear smaller and tighter. Perfect for that Insta-glowy finish.
(via Fenty)
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