What is a Foundation Primer? And Do I Need it?

If you've ever wondered how models have such glowing, flawless skin, the answer may be in their makeup primer.One of the highly asked question to me is what is a primer and why is it important?I mean, if your makeup stays put solo, why put the extra layer, right?

Makeup primers are one of the most important yet often ignored product that can make a whole of difference in the makeup application. Primers act as one of the most important steps when it comes to create a perfect smooth skin for makeup application. It's a multi-tasker, it not only helps the makeup stay put longer by smoothing the surface of the skin and, it also works forming a protective barrier over the skin and makeup, as well as seals in and protects any treatment products used during your daily skincare regimen.So, primer actually seals in the moisturizers or any other product that you have layered on the skin before using it,ensuring that all the products you layered on actually keep on working ,while you still apply your makeup over it. Some primers have SPF which will guard you skin from harmful UV rays.

 A makeup primer is used after your moisturizer and before your foundation. It works its way to create a smooth surface in which to apply makeup and have it last longer, this is thanks to the silicone, which is the primary ingredient found in makeup primers,(if you silicone allergic don't worry there are many out there without it ). It smoothes fine lines and wrinkles by filling them in, also helps fill in facial scarring to some extent unless its very deep. In short primers even out uneven skin tone, a to create a flat even canvas! Silicone in the primer also helps trap in moisture to keep your skin hydrated."Many primers contain minerals that can even out skin tone, decrease breakouts and prevent dryness. Silica, also known as silicone dioxide, is the mineral commonly found in primers to control shine [source: Cosmetics Info]. In addition to silica-type ingredients, primers that contain waxes and polymers help makeup stay put by creating a stronger bond between your skin and your foundation."

A primer will also provide a protection from some of the elements found in makeup by tightening your pores, therefore diminishing the production of oil, creating a clean base before applying foundation, concealer, powder, blush, etc. Makeup will adhere to your primer base, not directly to your skin, which aids in preventing enlarged pores and/or breakouts.

Many color correcting primers are also present ,which work on the color theory .The four basic types are:
Peach -Orange-based and peach formulas are made for olive and darker skin tones. The hue helps hide freckles, sun spots and acne scars. Peach corrector also cancels out hyper pigmentation.

Yellow - Yellow primers and concealers effectively cover up purple tones in the skin, including scarring and dark circles under the eyes.

Green - Green illuminates the skin while concealing redness caused by rosacea and blemishes. This color is best suited for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Lavender- Lavender color correcting products give skin a fresh, illuminating glow and works best with yellow-toned skin. It brightens and reduces sallowness

For example anyone having a inflammed skin can use a green primer to cancel out the redness and provide a much more even tone.

Primers do act as the initial step for foundation application but as it caters the task for skin smoothing it can also be used on its own if your just looking for even out your skin texture and don't need to work out on your skin complexion. 

In conclusion if you want:

- Makeup that lasts longer

- Maintain skin hydrated

- Protect your skin from chemicals found in all your makeup products

- Even out skin tone

- Even out skin texture

- Protect your pores

- Control oil production

- Use less foundation


I'm a big fan of primer. Not only does it make my makeup go on more smoothly, but it also keeps makes my gignatic pores less visible and control oil making things look cakey.
Learn How to apply primer the right way here.
Stay tuned for my next for the list of best primers for different skin types.

Stay Gorgeous,