The world of makeup is inundated with different types of products, formulas, textures and colors, each promising to do something bigger and badder than the next. But no matter what you choose for your makeup, you need to always start with good skin, and the one staple product that will help you achieve that without fail is primer (there’s a reason why experts often refer to it as the magic potion for perfect makeup).
Primer does more than what you may think. Sure, it sets the stage for your face makeup, but it also minimizes imperfections, fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it gives staying power to your foundations and powders. “Without a good primer, makeup can appear cakey or slippery,” says Liliana Pennington, director of education and global artist for Youngblood cosmetics.
And, just like you use different makeup products on your face than you do on your cheeks and lips, the same goes for primer. “The eye area is very delicate and has a different texture than your face, so you should use an eye primer with a concealer brush and be as delicate as possible on your lids. Then, use a regular face primer for your entire face, like the Youngblood primers,” says Pennington.
Pennington suggests picking a primer that contains naturally derived silica and not silicone. “This gives a silky smooth base for applying your foundation.” A mattifying primer is more ideal for oily/combination skin to help soak up excess oil.
While it’s standard to apply a primer directly to skin before applying makeup, Pennington offers up this tip, which we can’t wait to try out. “Mix our Liquid Mineral Primer ($41) with a few drops of liquid foundation to create an amazing lightweight mousse for your skin. And, if you make a mistake with your mascara or eyeliner, use the primer with a Q-tip to erase any mistakes.”
