What is makeup primer, and how should you use it?

If you’re like most women, you probably think of makeup primer as a necessary step in your beauty routine. But what is primer, and why should you use it? In this blog post, we’ll answer those questions and more. We’ll also share our tips on how to use a primer to get the most out of it. So keep reading for all the details!

What is makeup primer?

Primer is a liquid makeup that is used underneath other cosmetics. It prepares your skin to hold on to other makeup products, which makes your makeup look smoother. Primer also helps cover large pores, correct discoloration, and even out rough textures on your face.

It also enhances makeup coverage and helps make your makeup last much longer. Primer can help keep your makeup from sliding off of your face, cracking, or creasing along your fine lines.

Makeup primer works by creating a barrier between your skin and makeup. Many people know that wearing makeup clogs your pores and causes acne flare-ups, effectively ruining your skin. That’s where wearing a primer is helpful. The barrier created by the primer helps keep your skin smooth and healthy by regulating your skin’s natural oils and keeping makeup and bacteria out of your pores.

Primer also helps target any skin concerns you may have, such as dry or oily skin. These concerns may make it harder for your skin to hold onto makeup. As with all cosmetic products, you should always take a look at the ingredient list for your primer and ensure you’re opting for gentle, natural makeups with ingredients you know. 

What kinds of primer are there?

There are two main types of makeup primer: face primer and eyeshadow primer. Eyeshadow primer is used only on your eyelids. It helps prime your eyes for eyeshadow application and pigmentation. Face primer is used on your entire face and helps create a smoothing effect for your base makeup.

Silicone-based primers help make your face appear smoother by filling pores and erasing fine lines. It is an excellent type of primer for those with average or oily skin.

Hydrating primers are great for those with dry skin. They often use key ingredients like hyaluronic acid to hydrate your skin and keep it soft and smooth.

There are also types of primers designed to target certain skin concerns. For example, you may see mattifying primers designed to eliminate shiny skin or color-correcting primers designed to eliminate skin tone discoloration. There are also primers for people with different skin types, like sensitive skin.

Why should I use makeup primer?

If you want to create a smoothing effect and have your makeup last longer without getting shiny or messy, you should use primer. In addition, if you have concerns about dry or oily skin, unwanted texture, discoloration, or large pores, using primer is the solution. Think of it like a real-life Photoshop for your face. 

Now you know what makeup primer does and why you should use it. Let’s talk about how to use a primer. 

How to Use Makeup Primer

Before using makeup primer, make sure to wash your face and apply moisturizer and sunscreen. You want to apply makeup primer before you put on makeup, but after the rest of your skincare routine. Allow your moisturizer and sunscreen to absorb into your skin, then apply your primer. 

The best way to use primer is to rub it onto your skin using circular motions. Use your fingers rather than a brush to apply it. Once it is fully absorbed, which usually takes a couple of minutes, then you are ready to apply your makeup over the primer. 

Note that you don’t have to wear makeup to use a primer. Even without traditional cosmetics on top, the primer will still help give you a smoother complexion that lasts all day. It’s a great way to achieve the ‘No Makeup’ makeup look. 

How can LMI help?

Teaching the art and science of makeup artistry to the next generation of makeup and special effects artists since 2010, the L Makeup Institute offers classes covering all styles of makeup artistry in Las Vegas and Dallas. There are thousands of cosmetology schools, but only a handful of schools like L Makeup Institute, focus exclusively on preparing you to work as a professional makeup artist immediately upon graduating. Discover why LMI is well known in the MUA community as producing talented, well-rounded, and sought-after graduates.