Primer for skin smoothing

Cosmetics should not only lie beautifully and evenly on the skin, but also stay on it for a long time. Mattifying face primer is a special type of cosmetic product that is used as a base for basic makeup products.

What is a primer for?

Previously, instead of such products, they used the most ordinary moisturizing creams or BB compositions. But over time, it became clear that they clog pores, are not always able to ensure smoothness of the skin and the absence of roughness, and also tend to “flow”. Therefore, a special base for foundation was invented, the main task of which was to prepare the surface of the epidermis for further application of cosmetic products and protect pores from contamination.

Reviews claim that the primer provides greater durability of cosmetics and hides some facial imperfections (for example, a moisturizing primer eliminates the problem of flaking, and a smoothing primer hides wrinkles).

Primer for face

Benefits of using facial primers:

1. After application, you can be sure that your makeup is perfect. The foundation and powder are completely invisible and will not run even at high temperatures in summer (for this you need to choose a long-lasting concealer);
2. It's much easier to contour with a primer. Dark and light lines are shaded much better over the prepared surface;
3. The pores are not clogged. Most base manufacturers develop special formulas that make primers non-comedogenic. This is extremely important for problematic, combination or oily skin. It should be noted that Urban Decay helps normalize the functioning of the sebaceous glands, so after this base the face becomes even cleaner than before.

In addition, if you choose the right shade of primer, you can solve almost any facial problem.

Types depending on shade:

1. products for problem skin (green);
2. for grouting the eye area (pink or yellow);
3. to eliminate visible signs of aging (purple);
4. to give the face a white color (white, blue).

How to use

There are several types of primers, each company has at least 3 of them (for the face, lips, eyes, adding shine, etc.).

Depending on the area of ​​use and type, application methods vary:

1. Corrective and soothing. This is a green primer that is applied pointwise to problem areas. It ensures uniform skin color while relieving inflammation. Outwardly it looks more like a concealer than a base. This is Essence All about matt, MAC Prep + Prime Skin Base Visage (MAC);
2. Matting. Often it is mineral, because to guarantee a soft glow, the products are supplemented with tiny particles of various mineral compounds. This cosmetics is considered the most popular, because it guarantees the longevity of the makeup, its resistance to external influences and the evenness of the skin. Isadora Protect SPF 30, Max Factor Facefinity All Day Primer (Max Factor), Jafra Makeup Primer, E.L.F Studio Mineral Infused Face Primer;
3. Illuminating or highlighter. Few people know that, in essence, a highlighter is a regular base, simply supplemented with reflective particles. This is a universal product; it can be applied both at the beginning of makeup to ensure the inner radiance of the epidermis, and after, if you need to reflect light from a certain area. Revlon Photoready, Shiseido Refining Makeup Primer (Shiseido) and others

After this analysis, it becomes clear that the tinted product is applied only to problem areas, so its use does not exclude the use of another base, say, a mineral one. Highlighter is more of a way to complement your makeup than a necessary tool. And only a classic foundation is really needed for a beautiful look.

Instructions on how to apply primer to your face:

1. The skin is carefully prepared. All impurities need to be removed from the pores. To do this, it is recommended to wash your face with foam first. Afterwards, either scrub or wash your face with micellar water;
2. No creams, fluids or other foundations are applied under the primer. First, a small amount is distributed over dry skin: the cheekbones, apples of the cheeks and wings of the nose are traditionally lubricated first, followed by the forehead and chin. Cosmetics are carefully shaded. Professionals recommend using special pads or sponges for this, but your own fingers can also replace them;
3. The base seems to be driven into the pores with gentle movements. This guarantees an even base and beautiful shading. Do not rub the product over your face with your fingers - otherwise, streaks may remain, which will be more than noticeable after applying the foundation;
   
   
   
   Applying primer to the face
4. Once the process is complete, contouring and makeup can begin. Sometimes primer completely replaces foundation. This is also a good option, but only for dry, clean skin with tight pores. In any other case, he will not be able to hide his shortcomings.

Video: choosing a primer

Review of the best primer brands

Some girls try to make a primer with their own hands, for which they combine face cream and mineral powder. This product is not only not a good foundation, but can also cause acne breakouts or even rashes and subcutaneous pimples, so it is better to use professional cosmetics.

Let's look at the best primers for the face (the rating was based on reviews on the forums). The list is divided into inexpensive brands and expensive ones.

We present the best first budget primers, and the rating will open a popular facial product - MAYBELLINE baby skin pore eraser (Maybelline). This is one of the most popular products among most girls in the CIS. It disguises itself as a regular BB cream, but is a light base for combination and problem skin. If you can’t buy it, then the option from Mary Kay is no worse – mattifying fluid.

MAYBELLINE

If you need to choose an inexpensive but professional primer for tinting your face, then a Korean one will help out. Tony Moly Egg Pore Yolk Primer. It is quite cheap (costs about $10), but at the same time, incredibly effective and durable. It has the shape of a golden egg and contains mineral components, which gives the product a creamy structure. It is very economical to use and, thanks to its consistency, is easy to apply.

Tony Moly

Silicone primer Code Color also applies to budget products for the face. It is considered one of the most accessible means for sculpting. It is inexpensive - costs about $10. Despite the silicones in the composition, it applies smoothly and does not leave the feeling of a mask on the face. If you are against silicones, then PUPA Smoothing Foundation Primer can be a suitable replacement.

Code Color

Makeup base DIVAGE prime Facer – deeply nourishes, moisturizes, and evens out the epidermis. Able to fill the smallest pores and wrinkles, making the face smooth and fresh. Used for young epidermis. Costs 7 dollars.

DIVAGE

ALL-IN-ONE InstaBlur by The Body Shop – universal grout. This primer can be used both as a corrector and instead of a special foundation. The product has a photo filter 20, is characterized by a light consistency and a complete absence of parabens and silicones.

Primer Eveline Art Make Up for normal facial skin, you can buy it at any cosmetic store, its price on average is up to $10. It is very budget-friendly and is considered almost the most affordable. But it is not of high quality. The dense structure often causes other cosmetic products to simply roll off.

Eveline

Garnier Leveling base-corrector Optical corrector 5 sec refers to silicone, because apart from them, the composition is “empty”. Provides good facial preparation and has a thick cream consistency. Added with reflective particles. Its analogue is the slightly cheaper FancyMinerals Primer Perfection.

Network companies - Avon, Faberlic and Oriflame - do not have a clear division into primers and foundations (Avon Magix Face Perfector SPF 20 Primer and Oriflame Very Me Prep Me Perfect) are universal products. They mattify and fill pores without polluting them. The only difference is the available shade and cost. Avon is a little cheaper.

Expensive bases are often of higher quality and durability. In particular, the following should be highlighted: NICS, Clinic, Guerlain, Dior and others. Unlike the middle market, premium cosmetics are enriched with various vitamins and extracts, acids, compounds and other additional substances. This allows you to improve not only the appearance of the epidermis, but also the internal one.

NYX Angel Veil Skin Perfecting Primer (AVP) Provides perfect smoothness and matte color even when used on oily skin. The composition includes stearic and palmitic acid, which are responsible for non-comedogenicity. The product belongs to the middle market, its price is about $30. NYX Pore Filler is presented as an analogue, but Nyx positions the product exclusively as a filler for pores or wrinkles.

NYX

CLINIQUE Superprimer Face Primer is a series from Clinics with 3 products in the line. Available in shades Discolorations (peach - reduces redness and evens out color), Dullness (pink, refreshes and brightens), Redness (yellow, helps disguise acne and enlarged pores). They have a light fluid structure, can be used individually or together, and sometimes replace foundation or powder (if there are no serious problems with the epidermis).

CLINIQUE

Smashbox Photo Finish – quite expensive, it costs a little more than $20. It also contains vitamins A, E, tea tree and grape seed extracts. The description states that it does not contain silicones, parabens or other harmful additives. In addition, the base is odorless. It qualitatively evens out the epidermis, but a few hours after application it may begin to become very shiny. Very similar to this primer is a representative of the premium class – Clarins Lisse Minute Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch.

L'oreal Lumi Magique Base Concentre De Lumiere Pure Light Primer (L'oreal) Provides a soft glow and reflection of color from problem areas. Based on the principle of action, it is more reminiscent of a highlighter. It will not help in preparing a problem face, because it is very light. If you need to hide pimples or blackheads, it is better to take Lumene Beauty base Matifying and retexturizing primer.

L'oreal

Catrice Prime and Fine Smoothing Refiner It is considered another high-quality and dense pore grout. It is hard, similar in appearance to Tony Moly - has a solid shape and high density. Apply with a sponge and thoroughly rub into the pores. Quite expensive, but hypoallergenic.

Librederm (Librederm) introduced the first primer for problematic facial skin with hyaluronic acid. The product applies softly and evenly, fills all wrinkles and pores, soothes inflammation, hides acne and adds radiance.

When it’s summer outside, the problem of applying makeup for girls becomes more complicated: in hot conditions, low-quality cosmetics simply “flow” along with the secretions of the sweat glands. Therefore, it's time to talk about what serves the basis for flawless makeup, that is, about primers. We offer the TOP 10 makeup bases from the point of view of the fairer sex, omitting the superlatives used in advertising slogans.

Which makeup base is better: inexpensive or luxury?

The eternal question of whether to prefer an affordable price or buy something more expensive is something every woman decides for herself. It has long been proven that the most important thing in cosmetics is how it suits YOUR skin. Hence the relativity of compiling ratings - what has become a panacea for thousands of lucky women before you can fail on your face. However, the number of positive reviews indicates quality, so we explore women’s forums to evaluate makeup bases.

We take several indicators as a basis:

1. how effectively the base evens out the complexion, hides skin imperfections,
2. does it keep makeup in perfect condition for a long time,
3. Is it suitable for all skin types (if not, then what kind of skin owners should beware of purchasing),
4. Naturally, the cost.

The best makeup bases for any skin type: firming, moisturizing, mattifying

The multifunctional fixing base for makeup from the domestic brand Librederm provides complete hydration of the skin throughout the day. The primer is designed to even out the texture and complexion of the face, mask minor imperfections and mattify. For its ideal price-quality ratio, many Russian women in reviews recognized this primer as the best.

The texture of the base is quite thick, but on the face it becomes light and airy, spreading perfectly over the skin. The primer smoothes pores well, hides shallow wrinkles and lightens redness. It is not felt on the face, significantly extends the life of makeup, and prevents oily shine. But after applying the foundation, you need to give it time to absorb, and only then use foundation. Tube volume - 50 ml.

1. affordable price;
2. very economical consumption;
3. does not clog pores.

1. not detected.

The French makeup base of the Givenchy brand is presented in six transparent shades with different purposes: Milk (whitening and refreshing), Strawberry (healthy glow), Kiwi (disguising acne, redness and rosacea), Plum (neutralizing yellowness of the skin), Mango (for dark-skinned women ) and Peach (a universal primer for everyone). There is also a limited-edition Poetique Tulip shade with a subtle tan effect.

The texture of the base is weightless, fluid, with subtle shimmer. It gives the skin a natural glow and sleek look, significantly increases the durability of makeup, moisturizes, nourishes and softens. Suitable for local application. Tube volume - 30 ml.

1. possibility of individual choice of shade;
2. UV protection filter SPF15;
3. economical consumption.

1. impressive cost.

The Korean makeup base Sweet Cotton Pore Cover Base from Holika Holika contains a healing cocktail of extracts of cotton, purslane, orange, lemon, blueberry, lotus and noni. Thanks to them, the primer improves the condition of the skin, controls the activity of the sebaceous glands, heals and refreshes the complexion and is suitable even for problem skin.

The texture of the foundation is silky, delicate, slightly pigmented, but looks colorless on the face. The base is perfectly absorbed, does not give a filmy feeling, wonderfully moisturizes and evens out the skin, and layers well. However, to achieve maximum effect, you need to let the previous one dry before applying the next layer. Tube volume: 25 ml.

To create perfectly smooth and flawless makeup, you need to use the right products that will quickly even out your facial skin. A mattifying primer that hides pores and makes the skin beautiful, radiant, and velvety is popular.

What is a face primer?

Facial primer is a special base that provides complete protection for the facial skin, prepares it for the application of foundation, and also promotes good hydration. The primer is characterized by many varieties; it can have a gel, silicone, or liquid structure. Each variety is characterized by its own characteristics, but the main goal is the same - to prepare the face for makeup, as well as protect it from the negative effects of the environment.

Types of makeup bases

Bases come in different varieties, but they all have a positive effect on the skin of the face and cope with their direct responsibilities. Let's look at the main ones:

1. Gel base – suitable for porous and oily skin, helps narrow pores, allows the foundation to lie on the surface as tightly as possible;
2. Creamy base - allows you to hide age spots, rosacea, bruises and bags under the eyes;
3. Liquid base - creates a mattifying appearance to the skin, is a good option for girls who have small defects on the skin;
4. Shimmering emulsion is a modern product that creates a natural shine, making the skin more beautiful and radiant.

Preference should be given to the base option that ideally suits the structure, type and features of the face.

What to look for when choosing?

For many women, choosing cosmetics is a complex and lengthy process that requires taking into account all the characteristics of the skin, the level of allergic manifestations, and others. Let's figure out how to choose a primer for the face so that it is most suitable and fully copes with its responsibilities.

1. You should always study the composition of the primer; it should not contain harmful or allergic substances;
2. The primer is selected depending on the structure of the skin, enlarged pores, redness, age spots;
3. If you have combination or oily skin, it is better to pay attention to a matte colorless primer; it will nourish the skin well and also remove excess dryness.

If the primer is chosen first, it is worth visiting a specialized cosmetics store and using the help of a consultant who will definitely tell you how to choose the necessary product option.

It is better to choose a primer that is in demand and is one of the first primers in the rating. Also, numerous reviews will tell you how to choose the right primer, indicating all the characteristics, pros and cons, as well as recommendations.

Top luxury makeup bases

The best primers are not low in cost, so if you can only buy budget products, the list below will not be useful to you. The TOP best primers for the face were formed on the basis of numerous experiments, as well as due to the increased demand for products. You can be 100% confident in them, because these products are used by famous stars, artists and bloggers.

Primer Lancom

This version of the product is intended for aging skin, which has a lot of unevenness, wrinkles, acne and other negative manifestations. The product is characterized by a pleasant texture that is quickly applied to the face, absorbs well and guarantees maximum safety. The product is indicated for use after 30 years; sometimes girls use the base as a regular moisturizer at a younger age.

Primer Giorgio Armani

The product provides high protection for the face at any age, it prevents dryness after foundation, moisturizes well, and also protects from exposure to the sun, wind or frost. Due to its natural composition, the product does not cause irritation, soothes the skin, and maintains the effect of makeup throughout the day.

Primer YSL Beaut

This makeup base improves its positive properties every year. The primer provides fairly dense protection from weather conditions, as well as from the effects of decorative cosmetics. Thanks to the additional shades in the product range, you can hide any imperfections on the skin, remove fine wrinkles, and moisturize well, eliminating the formation of dryness.

Primer Mas

Mas cosmetics are popular in the modern world, including facial primer. It perfectly smoothes the skin, adds natural shine, makes the skin beautiful, smooth and perfect. It is enough to apply the product in the morning to enjoy its effect, results and moisturizing properties throughout the day. A few weeks after use, you may notice that your skin is less susceptible to dryness.

Top inexpensive primers

If it is not possible to use luxury primers, you can pay attention to inexpensive and budget products, which also have a rating. Below we will look at the rating of the best facial primers, which, despite their budget, guarantee high-quality results and safety for the face.

Primer Nyx

The primer is created on a silicone basis; it has reflective particles that give the face a new tone, shine and beauty. Primer Nyx Nyx ranks first in the ranking of budget funds, and is truly one of the best. After using it, the skin is well moisturized, a mattifying effect is quickly formed, which allows you to easily and evenly apply the foundation, avoiding the formation of a mask effect.

Primer L Oral Paris

If you have no idea which primer to choose for combination skin, it’s worth considering this option. It has an affordable price, has a dense texture that is easily applied to the skin of the face, is quickly absorbed, and creates complete protection for the skin. After applying it, you can safely use any foundation and be sure that your facial skin will not succumb to dryness.

Primer Maybelline New York

This is a silicone primer that is suitable for any skin type. It perfectly moisturizes, eliminates dryness, hides enlarged pores and allows BB cream or other foundation to apply perfectly evenly. Primer is suitable for use at any age, and after just a few uses you will notice that the skin is less susceptible to the negative effects of the environment, remains clean and protected.

Primer Essence

The budget option does not mean that it is ineffective. This product is aimed at combating dryness, redness and enlarged pores. It can be used at any age and is an ideal option for women over 35 who need constant hydration. Under the age of 30, cosmetologists do not recommend using it, because pores may become clogged.

The best makeup bases for oily and combination skin

Many women complain about having problematic skin that needs additional care and elimination of all these manifestations. There are many products that are suitable for both combination and problem skin. You just need to look at the rating of the best products and choose the most suitable option for yourself.

Makeup Revolution Ultra Face Base

The primer provides perfectly even coverage, evens out complexion tone, and eliminates roughness and dark circles under the eyes. Due to its pleasant texture, it quickly moisturizes and refreshes the face, and is a great option for use in the summer as sun protection. Characterized by an affordable price.

Revlon Photoready

The product is intended for problem skin, helps hide various defects, as well as age spots. Mattifies the skin, creates additional shine, does not cause irritation or rash. Ideal for combination skin, easy to apply, evenly distributed over all areas of the face.

Nolika Holika Puri Pore No Sebum

This is a mattifying primer cream for a face with enlarged pores, which helps to quickly narrow them and give the face a new look. Due to its natural composition, the product additionally nourishes the skin and guarantees complete protection at any time of the year. Thanks to its pleasant texture, which is quickly absorbed, foundation can be applied literally a minute after primer. The effect and complete hydration lasts for the whole day.

The best primers for dry skin

If a woman has dry facial skin, the selection of certain care products must be approached as carefully as possible. A primer for dry facial skin must meet all normal standards, and also be suitable for the individual characteristics of the skin, moisturize it as much as possible, preventing the occurrence of wrinkles. Consider below the most popular and effective primers for dry skin that guarantee the desired result.

Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base

This product option is the best option for dry skin that needs saturation, hydration and gentle care. Its composition allows the skin to additionally receive nutritional components and gradually combat dryness at any time of the year. After applying it, the skin receives additional care and hydration, and also responds adequately to dry foundations and powders.

Missha Layer Blurring

Looking through many cosmetics companies, it is worth paying attention to this brand. The primer really moisturizes and nourishes the skin, eliminates even the most severe dryness, and fights damage and imperfections on the skin. One use a day is enough to moisturize damaged skin, making it even, smooth and velvety.

Clarins Eclat Minute Base Illuminatrice de Teint

To make your skin glowing and beautiful, you need to pay attention to this primer. It adds radiance, moisturizes well, saturates the skin with vitamins and useful minerals. A primer that gives radiance is no longer a luxury, it is available for purchase to all women with dry skin. Its composition is natural and nourishing, so the skin additionally receives beneficial properties.

The Saem Eco Soul Aqua Master

A nourishing and moisturizing facial primer suitable for dry skin of any age. It is aimed primarily at an audience of 35+, but is also actively used at a younger age. After it, the skin of the face becomes moisturized, literally comes to life before our eyes, getting rid of dryness and flaking. It does not cause allergic reactions, therefore it is widely used by many girls who always want to be on top.

Pupa Professionals Smoothing Foundation Primer

Primer for dry skin is a professional product; it is actively used when creating professional makeup. Such a professional line will definitely guarantee a good result and give the skin hydration and radiance. Among all professional brands, this primer is considered the best for dry face. It has an immediate effect and can be used not only as a makeup product, but also as a moisturizer.

The best primers for normal skin

Every woman values ​​the skin of her face and tries to provide it with maximum care, especially if there are certain problems or defects. That is why you need to know about the best facial primers that will allow you to get maximum saturation, nutrition, and hydration. Below is a list of tools that are worth paying attention to.

Librederm hyaluronic

Every woman knows about this skin primer, because the company actively launches advertising and has its own buyer. The primer is intended for skin during age-related changes; it sufficiently moisturizes and prevents the appearance of wrinkles and dry skin. It is used under makeup and is also indicated for use in the evening, relieving fatigue from the skin.

Pura Smoothing Foundation

Women over 30 years old should pay attention to this primer. Its delicate and light texture will ideally moisturize the face, make it beautiful, and rejuvenate it. The primer has a pleasant smell, is evenly distributed on the skin of the face, and provides quick results.

Colorescience Spf 20

This line is intended for the young category of girls, whose facial skin also needs additional moisturizing and protection from the negative effects of the environment. The light texture moisturizes well and prepares the skin for applying foundation. It is worth noting that the product is used even after 30 years and gives good results.

The product never provokes allergic reactions.

Isadora Under Cover

Natural composition, dense texture, light moisturizing and refreshing effect - these can characterize this primer. Its action lasts all day, just apply it to your face in the morning and enjoy its hydration all the time. The primer is used as a base for makeup, and even in this case, it constantly protects the face from dryness, as well as from direct rays of the sun.

Holika Holika Sweet Cotton Pore Cover Base

A unique product for women with combination and dry skin. It provides maximum hydration and rejuvenating effect, spreads evenly on the skin of the face, and protects. Suitable for women of any age, does not cause allergic reactions, guarantees a good effect. Can be used both in the morning before applying foundation and in the evening to relieve fatigue. The effect appears after a few days of use.

Reviews of facial primers

Facial primers are used daily by all women, which is why there are many reviews that you should pay attention to when choosing a particular product. In most cases, they are all positive, because the primer is a truly effective and irreplaceable tool. Let's look at its biggest advantages:

1. Adequate nutrition;
2. Daily hydration;
3. No allergic manifestations;
4. Suitable for any skin type.

There are also small disadvantages, as a rule, these are individual intolerance or the overpriced cost of some of the products.

Before choosing a primer, you need to familiarize yourself with its composition, as well as consumer reviews.

Makeup artist answers to frequently asked questions

Women always have many questions regarding this or that product; below we will analyze several of them in detail.

Who is not suitable for silicone primer?

According to makeup artists, silicone primer is a universal product that is suitable for any skin type. In most cases, its use is recommended for those with dry skin, for whom a primer without silicone would not be appropriate. The silicone option may not be suitable only for those with excessively oily skin, but everything is individual.

Why are reflective particles added to the primer?

To create an additional beautiful, shiny, vibrant tone for the skin, as well as to hide minor imperfections in the form of unevenness or wrinkles, a reflective primer is used. Its shimmering particles quickly transform the face, making it bright and youthful.

Do I need to moisturize my skin additionally before using primer?

Primer is a means for complete moisturizing, and there is no need to use any additional means. By applying it to your face, you can completely moisturize your skin and prepare it for full makeup.

Makeup artist and blogger Maria Viskunova shares basic knowledge about makeup and makeup basics:

Conclusion

Facial primer is a product that deeply moisturizes the skin and protects it from the effects of cosmetics or the environment. Its use is indicated at any age. There are many varieties that are worth paying attention to, studying their composition, advantages and disadvantages, and only then making the right choice.