How to Apply Face Primer the Right Way

Not everyone considers a face primer a beauty necessity, but we’re here to change your mind about that. Not only can most primers help your makeup stay put and smudge-free for hours, they can also improve the look of your skin and address common concerns like enlarged pores, rough texture, discoloration and excess oil on the surface. But in order to get the most out of this makeup-meets-skin-care product, you have to apply face primer correctly. Ahead, we share tips on the best way to apply primer and how to choose the right one for your skin.

Face Primer Tip #1: Choose the Right Product

First things first: You’ll want to find the best primer for your skin type. Take the time to examine your skin and decide what you’d like your primer to accomplish, whether it’s helping to reduce the appearance of large pores, boosting your radiance or mattifying your complexion. To help you narrow down your search we rounded up a few of our favorites.

The Best Primer for Makeup Gripping 

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Oil-Free Makeup Primer

To extend your makeup to the fullest, this oil-free makeup primer acts like a magnet for your base products — we’re talking foundation, concealer, blush, contour, the whole nine yards. And even if you’re not into heavy makeup, it helps to refine the look of pores and can be worn on its own to smooth your skin.

The Best Primer for a Matte Complexion

Dermablend Poresaver Matte Makeup Primer

If you have oily skin, the Dermablend Poresaver Matte Makeup Primer will be your best friend. It instantly minimizes the appearance of pores while helping to mattify a shiny complexion. Your makeup will look smooth and matte, while your skin stays hydrated.

The Best Primer for an Even Skin Tone

NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Perfecting Primer

Infused with hemp-derived cannabis sativa seed oil and centella asiatica, this primer calms and soothes skin for a more even skin tone. What’s even better is that the micro-pearl formula also delivers a luminous glow to your complexion. 

The Best Primer for SPF Protection

Giorgio Armani Maestro UV Makeup Primer 

The only thing better than flawless-looking skin is skin that’s protected against sun damage, and the Giorgio Armani Maestro UV Makeup Primer can help you achieve both. The SPF 50 primer is formulated with antioxidants and targeted fillers that help smooth the look of skin while protecting it against harmful environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. 

The Best Primer for Hydration

Lancôme Prep & Hydrate Primer 

If a hydrated, dewy complexion is your top skin-care goal, try the Lancôme Prep & Hydrate Primer. It contains two types of brightening pearl pigments to give your face an instant glow while hydrating your skin with a blend of hyaluronic acid and rose essence.

Face Primer Tip #2: Prep Your Skin

Now that you’ve found your perfect primer, let’s dive into the application process. Before you even think about applying this makeup prepping product, ensure all traces of dirt and impurities are removed from your skin by cleansing. 

Face Primer Tip #3: Moisturize Your Skin 

While many primers boast hydration, they’re not meant to replace your daily moisturizer altogether. Once your skin feels clean and refreshed, apply a lightweight moisturizer and allow the product to fully absorb before moving on.

Face Primer Tip #4: Measure the Right Amount of Primer

A little bit of product goes a long way when it comes to makeup primers, so you really won’t need more than a pea-size amount to cover your face and neck. This will ensure your foundation doesn’t pill and your makeup stays in place — like it’s supposed to.

Face Primer Tip #5: Blend Well 

Start by applying the primer to the center of your face using gentle circular motions and blending outwards — similar to how you would treat your moisturizer. Be sure to address areas like around your nose, your hairline and under your eyes to ensure smooth, even coverage.

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