Primers

Whether you feel more comfortable with a full face of makeup or you prefer the barely-there look, then you should still be using a primer before applying any form of makeup. Incorporating a face primer into your routine will help to prep your skin for the application of makeup and ultimately transform the appearance of your skin. Primers hold an array of purposes; they fill in fine lines, blur the signs of any visible pores and can help to keep your makeup looking fresh all day. Available in cream, gel and liquid formulas, a face primer can even be worn completely on it's own to give your skin an airbrushed finish! 

What Are The Benefits Of A Makeup Primer?

Face primers come with an array of benefits, one being that they seal pores. Foundation, in particular liquid formulas, can make pores appear much larger and more visible; a primer can help to prevent this. By sealing larger pores, a face primer can blur the appearance of the skin, creating flawless finish. Using a primer also helps the skin to appear much more youthful by filling in any fine lines or wrinkles, this will also allow for a much smoother makeup application. A face primer can also act as a protective layer to the skin. As well as decreasing sweating and oil production, using a primer before makeup application can also shield your skin from dust and water, allowing your makeup to stay in place for longer. Finally, most primers are also non-comedogenic, meaning that the formula will not irritate your skin, clog your pores or cause you to break out. 

Best Primers For Oily Skin 

benefit POREfessional: This silky, lightweight balm will provide you with translucent coverage that will blur the appearance of pores. Completely oil-free, this primer is ideal for oily skin and will leave you feeling smooth and looking flawless. 

NARS Cosmetics Pore & Shine Control Primer: If your skin is often left looking shiny, then the NARS Cosmetics Pore & Shine Control Primer is the perfect solution. This mattifying primer contains a pore-minimising complex which will refine the look of your pores, whilst combating shine. 

Illamasqua Matte Veil Primer: This cream-gel formula will maintain moisture levels and limit oil production, therefore improving the longevity of your foundation. After using this primer, your face should feel silky and soft. 

Best Primers For Dry Skin

Estée Lauder The Illuminator Radiant Perfecting Primer + Finisher: For dry skin that needs some extra hydration, use the Estée Lauder Radiant Perfecting Primer + Finisher. Delivering a radiance boost, this primer will not only prolong makeup but also provide you with a healthy and dewy glow.  

MONU Illuminating Primer SPF15: Reduce imperfections and achieve the perfect base with this illuminating primer, formulated with Mica to provide you with a natural glow and Zinc Oxide to protect against UV damage. 

Zelens Illuminating and Hydrating Satin Primer: Transform dull and dehydrated skin with Zelens. This oil-free formula contains amino acids to maintain your skin's moisture levels and provide you with an even complexion.