Facial primer: what it is and how to use it. Rating of the best inexpensive primers for dry, oily and combination skin

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Published: 12/02/2021

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Today we will learn what a facial primer is, how to use it and how to choose a makeup base for dry, oily or combination skin. Girls and women want to master professional cosmetics in order to always look young and attractive.

Year after year, there are more and more such inquisitive females. But before, only real specialists, known all over the world, knew the secrets of cosmetics.

Progress in science and technology has reached such heights that each woman can independently model her facial appearance using decorative cosmetics.

All girls and women want their makeup to last all day. It’s unpleasant when it “slides” or “floats”. First, you need to apply a certain base to the skin.

Its correct name is primer. We need to consider what it is, what it is used for, and how to do it correctly.

• Facial primer: what is it and why is it needed?
• How to choose a face primer: expert advice How to choose a face primer by color

Facial primer: what is it and why is it needed?

A primer is a base that is applied under makeup. After this, decorative cosmetics are already applied to the dermis. His main task is to create an ideal tone, leveling it, masking possible defects, and veiling any imperfections.

This product is sold in liquid or cream form. The primer should hide those problems that ordinary foundation cannot deal with. We are talking about acne, pimples, blackheads, reddish spots, ugly skin tone, wrinkles.

The primer has such a structure that it evens out the surface of the dermis, filling in the smallest folds. All defects become invisible.

In addition, the product has a moisturizing and nutritional effect. It also protects the skin from the negative effects of sunlight. The primer performs another important task: it makes makeup as long as possible.

For what purposes is the primer used?

If we analyze all of the above, the primer should be used to solve the following problems:

• It serves as a link between skin and makeup. It binds cosmetic components, and because of this, makeup becomes durable. This means that a girl (or woman) will not need to apply a lot of foundation. And makeup can be created more natural.
• Make the skin texture even. Using a primer, you can make sure that neither wrinkles nor unevenness of the dermis are visible externally. Pores will visually appear smaller, as well as scars, post-acne and acne.
• To make the skin matte. Due to the presence of active absorbent components in the base, they absorb excess sebum. This fat begins to interact with cosmetics, as a result, its shade changes. And the primer, in contact with sebum, prevents this phenomenon. The cosmetics remain the same color as they were.
• Protect the skin of the face. When a makeup base is applied, a film forms on the skin. As a result, cosmetics cannot penetrate very deeply into the layers of the dermis.
• Smooth the skin. Due to the presence of silicone particles in the base, the light is scattered, and a gentle focus effect is obtained. Externally, the skin appears smoother.

Women value primer because it has an important quality - making wrinkles less noticeable. Possessing a unique composition and special consistency, it evens out the skin texture, filling all the smallest folds. Once the product is applied, no defects will be visible.

Definition

Primer is a new step in the fashion industry. Essentially, this is a corrector that has several colors (purple, yellow, pink, pearl, orange, lilac and others) and release forms. Different cosmetics manufacturers offer several consistencies and color shades of corrector in their line. Depending on the desired effect, one or another type of primer is used. Its task is to retouch skin imperfections: redness, dark circles, age spots, blackheads, small irregularities, and some scars. In addition, the product controls the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Makeup using this corrector will last much longer. Find out what types of powders there are in this material.

As mentioned above, primer is a powerful weapon in the hands of make-up stylists.

How to choose a face primer: expert advice

Since the primer is a delicate product, not very common at this time, in the everyday life of the fair sex, it would not hurt to familiarize yourself with the recommendations for its choice.

Apply primer in small doses. The layer on the face should be thin. A portion the size of a small bean is quite enough. The area around the eyes will require an even smaller dose. If there is a lot of product on the face, there is a risk that the makeup will begin to “float”. And very quickly.

Each primer requires a different application method. For one you need a brush, for the other you need a beauty blender.

The application method can be dry or wet. It would be nice if this information was indicated on the packaging. If there is no such information there, a professional consultant can help you. He will tell you what qualities a particular product has.

First, it should be noted that primers can have different textures. If the skin is oily, then it is appropriate to use a liquid product. For example, NYX Shine Killer has proven itself well.

The second option is to use a gel that saturates the skin with moisture - Honey Dew Me Up Primer. Having a light consistency that forms a transparent base for makeup, they create a protective barrier.

Oily skin has its problems. Among them is the intensive production of fat, the excess of which begins to come into chemical contact with cosmetics. As a result, the color of the cosmetics changes. The primer does not allow such a result.

The makeup will not float, and the inflammatory process on the skin becomes less noticeable. Why not take advantage of such a convenient tool?!

If a girl has dry skin, she should give preference to soft, creamy primers. Consider using NYX Professional Makeup Soft Focus Primer. These drugs have a softer, but dense, structure. They will improve the microrelief of skin prone to dryness. The dermis will be moisturized, and wrinkles will be well disguised.

If we are talking about mature skin, with visible wrinkles and obvious symptoms of ptosis, you need to use “silk” foundations for makeup. Thanks to the presence of proteins in them, not only visual defects can be removed, but also the condition of the entire skin can be improved.

Primers and concealers are distinguished by the tone of the base. With the help of pink ones, they get rid of yellowness. Using green ones hides red spots. This means they can be used for skin that is problematic or prone to irritation. The NYX Professional Makeup Color Correcting Liquid Primer line offers bases of all the most popular tones.

• Silicone primers. Their task: filling all the depressions (wrinkles, pores) and creating a smooth, without reliefs, base for makeup. Suitable for those with dry or oily skin. They are used both in specific areas and for the entire face as a whole;
• Primers with reflective effect. They contain microparticles that have light-scattering properties. Because of them, the face seems to glow from within. If the skin is light, it is appropriate to use cool tones; if the skin is dark and tanned, then dark shades should be used.
• Primers with minerals are ideal for those with oily skin. They make the skin matte and absorb excess oil well without polluting the pores. Since they have a green tint, they veil redness.

How to choose a face primer by color

A primer is not necessarily a neutral product. Recently, on the shelves of cosmetic stores you can find an unusual offer in the form of colored primers.

They are good because they solve skin color problems. Essentially, this is a combination product that combines the functions of a base and corrective products or foundation products.

1. Green primer. Copes with redness and rashes. But such a product should be strictly applied to the problem area. And in this case, a tone or at least powder is required, otherwise the “Shrek” effect cannot be avoided.
2. Pink shades of primer are suitable for giving the face freshness. It is also suitable for hiding yellow spots, and will also answer the question of which primer to choose for mature skin.
3. Purple and lilac primers are similar in their visual effect to their pink counterpart, but are more suitable for dark skin.
4. A yellow primer will perfectly lighten the blue under the eyes.
5. Primer in natural shades that adapt to the natural skin tone.

When choosing a primer shade, be guided by the color of your skin. Women with cool undertones should choose options with a cool glow. Warm options are suitable for dark-skinned beauties.

Using colored primers, you can do without concealers and correctors for the face, but here it is important to apply foundation. But the primer for neutral swelling does not need additional tone equalization; it is enough to fix the result with powder.

Concealer

The next product that should be in your makeup bag is foundation. There are also opponents of such cosmetics, who claim that the use of foundation causes the appearance of acne, clogged pores and premature wrinkles, but this is by no means the most correct point of view. It all depends on the quality of the product used. As mentioned above, good cosmetics combine decorative and care functions, so if used correctly, they will not cause harm. But if the quality of the foundation is in doubt, then the result can be very sad. Therefore, everyone can use high-quality foundation.

What is the difference between a face primer and a makeup base?

Let's talk about the difference between makeup base and primer, which everyone has heard about and which are actively used in the process of creating makeup.

Facial primer is a fairly liquid consistency that is applied to the face immediately before makeup to create a barrier between the skin and foundation.

It is colorless, quickly absorbed into the skin, and leaves no traces on it. While the makeup base is a cream of a thicker consistency, it can have color shades and is used to create a more saturated color for foundation, eye shadow or powder and emphasize facial features.

The base is not able to fully protect the face; it only affects the color of the applied cosmetics.

The differences between primer and base are colossal, but at the same time they perform the same functions - they are used before creating the main makeup. You can watch more about the differences and features of using primer and base for the face in this video:

Highlighter

While still a new and unusual product, it has nevertheless managed to earn recognition and popularity. It is enough to remember in what formats it is produced, and it will become clear that the demand for this product is great. Powder balls, better known as meteorites, compact powder, loose powder, cream, fluid, pencil - and this is not a complete list.

What is highlighter used for?

This tool actually has a lot of functions. Applying a thin layer over the entire face, the highlighter gives the skin a healthy, rested look. Applied more locally, the highlighter corrects facial features. For example, a small amount of product on the sides of a narrow forehead will make it visually wider. Highlighter, skillfully applied to the décolleté area, will add volume in the right places, or will draw attention to graceful shoulders if they are slightly “highlighted” with this cosmetic product.

How to apply highlighter?

If the product is necessary to give the skin a sleek look, then it is applied in a thin layer to the entire face or other areas of the skin. You can focus on a specific area, for example, on the apples of the cheeks or the shoulders already mentioned above. To correct facial features, you need to know how to use highlighter correctly and practice several times to achieve a believable result.

What is facial primer and how to use it. Step-by-step instructions with photos

The base is applied exclusively to moisturized skin. This must be done so that peeling is not noticeable. In addition, you need to thoroughly remove impurities from the pores. Pay special attention to areas such as: chin, cheeks, forehead, nose.

According to experts, in order to apply primer according to the rules, it is advisable to use sponges or pads (with pores) specially designed for these purposes.

Photo: how to apply facial primer, diagram

Stages of application:

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1. Using lotion, you need to cleanse the skin. The second option is to use micellar water. After slightly moistening the sponge, apply the product to the skin. You need to “go” from the eyes towards the cheeks. The product is driven in slowly. There is no need to rub it on your face.
2. The product is shaded. The first zone is the nose area, the second is the chin, the third is the forehead. Areas where there is redness are treated using a green product.
3. To disguise unsightly circles under the eyes, use tones of yellow and pink.
4. Wait for the composition to be absorbed. Only after this apply foundation.

There are times when a foundation is used instead of a primer. This can be done by girls (or women) who have dry skin with barely noticeable pores.

How can you replace face primer?

When girls and women, after the above advantages of the primer, still do not want to purchase it, they can use alternative means.

You can become the owner of perfect skin using men's aftershave balm. More and more girls are using this method. Most of them prefer the Nivea brand. Due to the fact that it contains glycerin, it can be used as a base for makeup.

You can use day cream for the face, you can use zinc ointment. It is important that it is chosen correctly, taking into account your skin type. It is better not to use fatty ones. Once the cream is applied, you need to wait a few minutes. Remove excess product from the face using a regular napkin.

If a female representative has an oily skin type, she can use a roll-on antiperspirant. It will act as a matting agent. The skin will be prepared for the application of cosmetics.

Cosmetologists have made an important discovery: ladies with dry skin can consider using badger fat (or bear fat). The skin will be nourished, moisturized, and wrinkles will be smoothed out. This base for makeup is an ideal option.

Creams containing bear or badger fat have proven themselves to be effective.

Using foundation, you can veil the outer non-ideal areas of the skin. And the price of this product is lower. Foundation is a popular substitute.

What is the difference between concealer and primer

What a facial primer is and what it is intended for has been described in detail earlier. But not many people know how it differs from concealer. Both of these products perform one common task: mask skin imperfections.

Concealer is a cosmetic product with a loose structure, most often natural or close to it in color. In fact, this is also a makeup base, but it differs only in higher coverage and the presence of more pigment.

At the same time, the concealer is intended for a targeted solution to a particular skin problem. With its help you can hide a pimple, hide facial wrinkles, disguise redness and remove dark circles under the eyes.

It is important to understand that concealer only masks problems and does not fight them.

The primer's task is not so much to hide imperfections on the skin, but to become an invisible barrier and protection for it.

He is also able to cope with the following tasks: even out facial tone; add a little shine; hide pores, small expression wrinkles and disguise imperfections.

The concealer is not applied before the foundation, like a primer, but on top of it.

In addition, the concealer is applied directly to the primer. That, perhaps, is all the differences between these funds. Any girl who wants to look perfect and well-groomed must have a product such as a face primer in her arsenal. This cosmetic product is simply indispensable for creating long-lasting and beautiful makeup.

Mechanism of action

Primer is a multifunctional product that has a beneficial effect both on the final result of decorating the skin and on the structure of the epidermis as a whole.

• The base smoothes out fine wrinkles;
• As noted above, masks inflammation, scars, and facial roughness;
• Gives the skin a radiant and fresh look;
• Controls the production of sebaceous glands, creating a matte surface;
• Extends the flawless look of makeup up to several hours;
• Protects the outer and inner layers of the epidermis from drying out.

Primer mechanism of action

Classifying by composition, the following mechanisms of action can also be distinguished:

1. Reflective usually comes in liquid form. The corrector is suitable for daily use on skin without serious defects or inflammation. The special particles included in the composition give the face an inner glow. Learn how to properly use bronzer and highlighter here.
2. Mineral primer with a creamy texture. This type of base is applied in a denser layer than the previous one, as it contains powder particles or mineral binders. You can find out more about mineral cosmetics here.
3. Silicone gel. Ideal for oily skin prone to inflammation. Does not clog pores and allows the epidermis to breathe.
4. Solid release form. This primer is considered professional, as it can hide any defect, including large scars.
5. One of the new products in the cosmetics industry: a primer with a pudding structure. The corrector is recommended for very oily skin, as it contains zinc and white clay. Their purpose: to slightly dry and relieve inflammation from the surface. You can learn about the features of choosing a foundation for oily skin by following the link.

Variety of primer consistency

Achieving the best effect occurs with the correct ability to use absolutely any cosmetic product, as well as with proper selection depending on seasonality and skin type.

How to make primer at home

Why not make this facial treatment while at home? This possibility exists if there is a need for a primer.

Many recipes have been developed for obtaining this drug in the form of standard powder.

If a woman has mature skin, she needs to use powder so that it is like silk and can give a matte appearance to the skin. It is important that it has an antibacterial effect, and the skin acquires the shine of silk;

• Those who have oily skin should give preference to powder with koalin or clay, or rice powder. Also - powder, which contains zinc oxide and corn starch. This will make it possible to obtain a remedy that is a good defense against inflammatory processes;

Skin with acne needs to be treated more carefully. For example, use green tea powder. The product is suitable for use both day and evening.

• To create a diffuse light effect, as well as to make wrinkles almost invisible and the skin to become smooth, you need to include the smallest beads of silicon dioxide among the components of the powder.

It is difficult to clearly answer the question of which primers to give preference: store-bought or home-made. Each of them must perform its own tasks.

When choosing a primer for the face, women think about which of the available products on sale should they buy so as not to make a mistake? There is this option: purchase 2-3 copies, and then choose the one that suits the most.

Maintaining hygiene rules

It is important to adhere to the rule: only using a personal brush should you apply primer to your face. In terms of hygiene aspects, a brush can be compared to a toothbrush. Everyone should have their own.

We need to pay attention! The main thing is to buy a primer that suits your skin type. But that is not all. You also need to purchase a sterilizer for the brush. Products intended for skin care can only eliminate primitive pathogens.

Carrying a sterilizer with you is not always convenient. Why not buy a set of brushes? Brushes will be needed. With their help, you can preserve the health of your facial skin.

Facial primer rating of the best

Most ladies are interested in: what brand of primer should I buy so that it makes the skin matte, the effect of use is long-lasting, and it does not clog the pores? Such a product will be classified as luxury category. Both medium and mass market cosmetics do not provide the opportunity to use components in their products so that they have the desired effect and, at the same time, provide skin care.

Primers for frequent use are not suitable for young girls. Usually, their skin is still young, without deep wrinkles or enlarged pores. But girls starting from 30 years old can already use this remedy. In general, this product is recommended for mature ladies.

Quite strange, but the primer, which serves as the basis for makeup, also needs a base. Paradox, isn't it? It is worth remembering to apply a moisturizer or protective cream.

You should not buy the product in large quantities. Since the primer is used sparingly and is not used so often, it will last for a long time. Once the product is opened, it will need to be used within 6-12 months. It is necessary to calculate so that you do not have to throw away the remaining product for which money was paid, since the expiration date has expired.

In the end, it must be emphasized that the debate about the advisability of using a primer continues to this day. This is due to the fact that there are many similar tools with similar functions.

Despite this, there will be a category of female representatives who will give preference to this beauty product.

It is important that the product is suitable for the woman and copes with its tasks, helping her facial skin look flawless.

In the photo: the best mineral budget primers for the face (with powder)

The best budget face primers with powder (mineral)

Mineral primers fall into this category. It is on them that we will concentrate our attention further. This type has a light and weightless texture that does not clog pores, allows the skin to breathe and effectively hides redness and other imperfections (acne, rosacea, irritation). This coating is completely invisible on the face.

We have prepared for you ten of the best budget primers with powder today. When selecting the rating, consumer reviews and opinions of experts from the beauty industry were taken into account.

Experts recommend carefully studying what type of skin this or that product is suitable for, what functions it performs and what composition it has.

• Heavenly (AF) Mineral Makeup ENHANCE

This primer contains green tea, vitamins A, C, kojic acid, which fights pigmentation, pearl powder and many other caring components.

Suitable for all skin types and shades: from light to dark. Can be used not only as a primer for makeup, but also after moisturizing and cleansing the skin before bed, as it saturates the skin with beneficial components.

• Dream Minerals Perfection Powder Foundation

It contains mica, rice powder, silk and other components. The product is easy to apply, ideally preparing the skin for applying mineral makeup. Suitable for all skin types.

• Mineral primers Etheria

Primers of this brand are divided into 2 types:

1. for dry and normal skin types;
2. for oily and problem skin.

The product has a pleasant, light texture, perfectly tightens pores and evens out the surface.

• Corrective yellow primer Yellow SkinPrep

Thanks to its color, the primer helps to neutralize and correct redness, dark circles, bruises, and blue skin tints. Pleasant texture makes it easy to apply. Suitable for all skin types. Can be used all over the face, T-zone, spot-on, or on the eyelids as a primer under mineral shadows.

Photo: the best luxury face primers

Rating of the best luxury face primers

Reviews for the same database are very different. However, we were able to find several products for you in this price range, each of which can be said to be the best primer.

• Clinique Superprimer Face Primer mattifying

The base is in the “luxury” category, sold in a mini version of 15 ml, a full volume – 30 ml. Available in a soft tube with a tightly screwed cap. The primer is non-greasy and prepares the skin well for applying foundation, smoothing the surface of the skin and evening out its color.

Available in 6 color options, including universal transparent, pink, yellow, brown, peach and lavender shades. The consistency is medium thick, similar to a mixture of cream and gel. The base makes the makeup last for a very long time, and oily areas do not show up. The composition also includes components that have soothing and moisturizing properties.

• MAC Prep Prime Skin Base Visage

The product is presented in the form of a light, thin lotion, available in a bottle with a dispenser for convenient and economical consumption. Suitable for all skin types. The texture is almost weightless and does not create any unpleasant sensations on the skin, including heaviness.

The composition contains a few particles of shimmer, which gives the product reflective properties. The product does not clog pores and prevents the appearance of oily shine.

And, the most important property is that it copes well with the function of a foundation; cosmetics adhere well and stay on the skin for a long time, and do not “leak” during the day. In terms of cost, it is considered an expensive primer, given the volume of 30 milliliters.

Photo: inexpensive primers for oily skin

The best primers for oily skin

• Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser by Maybelline New York

Perfect for a beginner who wants to get familiar with the basics but doesn't want to spend a lot of money. It has a gel texture, tightens pores and mattifies.

• Bio Helix by Markell Cosmetics

A representative of Belarusian cosmetics was created to mattify and also prolong the durability of your makeup.

• Librederm

The product "Limbriderm" from a domestic manufacturer with hyaluronic acid masks uneven skin and acne, eliminates oily shine, and fits well on the skin.

It costs about 900 rubles in brand stores, but is used quite economically, a tube lasts for several months. It has a calming effect, makes wrinkles less noticeable, neatly hiding them.

• Magix Face Perfector Primer SPF 20 from Avon

An excellent budget product, mattifies and tightens pores.

• Very Me Prep Me Perfect by Oriflame

Like its predecessor, it copes well with the characteristics of oily skin.

• Facefinity All Day by Max Factor

An inexpensive product for those with skin with increased activity of the sebaceous glands. It provides matte finish for up to 12 hours. The texture of Max Factor is thin, soft, and suitable for daily use. Additionally, it provides UV protection (SPF 20).

Created for those who do not have time to frequently touch up their makeup. Suitable for any type of facial skin, it has a light texture, due to which it does not pill, maintaining the effect throughout the day. The price of the base is about 600 rubles.

• Angel Veil Skin Perfecting Primer by NYX

A wonderful budget primer for oily skin. Mattifies, fills pores, makes makeup more durable, and also helps get rid of existing pimples and prevents new ones from appearing.

Photo: the best primers for dry skin

conclusions

There is no clear advice: which brand, color or release form to choose. For each lady this is an individual question. We advise you to keep in your cosmetic bag the entire color palette of primers, in several release forms.

Our skin has properties that change depending on the weather, temperature conditions, and exposure to the sun. So in summer you need a lighter, weightless texture, in winter you need a dense, creamy texture that will serve as additional protection for the surface from the cold. In the urban rhythm, as a rule, traces of lack of sleep, poor nutrition and stress appear on the face. Color correctors - primers are designed to make your face flawless, masking signs of fatigue and poor health. This product applies much better to foundation or BB cream and lasts better throughout the day.