Beauty Dictionary: What is a face primer

Beauty Definition: Face Primers

I’ll be starting a little mini series about going deeper into certain makeup items or trends. I understand that not everyone may know what a contour is or how to highlight. So for a few weeks I’ll be talking about face basics. Today I’ll be introducing you to the world(s) of primer.

What the heck is a primer?

If you’ve ever painted a wall then you may know that you may need to put a layer of primer on it. This way the color you put on top adheres better and lasts longer. In many ways you’re kind of doing that to your face. Usually primers are there to let your foundation glide on smoothly as well as make it last longer.

Primers are typically used by oilier skinned people, because foundation has a tendency to slide off and show the shininess by the end of the day.

Okay, so how do I use it?

You use primers after you’ve put on moisturizers. This is so there is a barrier between your face and the makeup you’re applying to it. That is another purpose that primers serve. After you’ve applied your primer, I recommend you wait around to let it sink in. This is so when you apply your foundation it isn’t slipping around. You don’t have to, if you’re in a rush. Then you go ahead and apply your foundation, or concealer if you only use that.

Where can I buy this so called primer?

Face primers are typically found in higher end makeup brands such as MAC or in makeup speciality stores such as Sephora. There are a few drugstore options.

1. Rimmel London Stay Matte (purple cap): This is geared towards oily skinned people. You don’t have to wear foundation or makeup to use this primer. You could put this on after moisturizer to soak up any excess oil. You could even put some translucent powder on top to help keep shine at bay for much longer

2. Rimmel London Fix and Perfect Pro Primer: This is probably best for normal-dry skin types. I use this, and I find it okay. It’s great for someone wanting to dabble into primers.

3. L’Oreal Magic Perfecting Base: Claims to be for all skin types

4. Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer: Also supposed to be geared toward oily skin types

5. L’Oreal Studio Secrets Magic Lumi Primer: This is a suppose to give glow to your face, so it’d be great for dry skin types.

Here is some primers so you can get an idea:

The Rimmel London one has more of a lotion kind of feel, while the Smashbox has a slick feeling. The Smashbox full size retails for about $36 and is geared toward those who have oily skin. But you can a get a travel size (like the one I have above) for $15. The Rimmel London costs about $6

I hope this introduced you guys to maybe a better step to your makeup game! I’ll see you next week when we talk about setting powders!

Somayea is a junior at UT and an aspiring beauty blogger.

Edited by Jessica Carr