I got the question on my Instagram for Beauty Monday, “does using primer make a difference” and I’m here to tell you today, yes, it definitely does. A primer can be the difference in having a fresh face all day or needing a touch-up.

I’m going to answer a few questions for you guys…

The Different Skin Types

First, you need to know what kind of skin type you have. This way, you can understand what kind of primer to purchase. For your reference, I have combination skin.

Here is the kind of primer you will want for a fresh face, according to your skin type:

OILY SKIN – you’ll want something with a mattifying effect that will tackle unwanted shine

DRY SKIN – you will want a hydrating primer which you can put on top of your daily moisturizer

COMBINATION SKIN – means you have areas on your face where you are oily (probably your T-zone) and then some areas that are dry. You will want a good primer that moisturizes but does not leave behind an oily finish. I will mention my favorite primers closer to the end of this post!

Does primer make a difference?

Yes, primers help your makeup last longer.

With makeup primers, you can even use less foundation. A face primer is meant to create a barrier between the product and your skin and give you beautiful and long-lasting results. Makeup primers are essentially like a second skin and will keep your makeup looking fresh all day.

When do you apply primer?

After your skin care products in the morning. In my case, this would be after my moisturizer and SPF. After applying primer, you should apply foundation.

How do I apply primer?

In circular motions and make sure it’s worked into your skin. Let your moisturizer + SPF soak in first.

What ingredients do primers have that make it different?

Most are made from a silicon-based polymer that creates that smooth and even surface. As you age, a primer with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and oils will also be beneficial.

Will primer get rid of fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, it will! A good primer will also minimize larger pores. Since it makes your pores look smaller – you also end up needing less foundation.

Can I use moisturizer in place of primer for a fresh face?

You could, but when you are using primers you will probably notice a different consistency. Primers will be tackier and they are formulated in that way because they are meant to act as something that the foundation can hold on to. A moisturizer does not necessarily have those traits. Using a primer will guarantee that your makeup will stay in place.

Can you wear primer without makeup?

Yes, you actually can. You could just put on a primer like this TULA one that blends into the color of your skin and then put a translucent setting powder on top. If you’d like, you can also use a setting spray on top of that!

What are my favorite primers?

• TULA PRIMER – I love this primer because it really blurs out my pores and provides a smooth canvas to put on my foundation
• ELF PUTTY PRIMER – This one is extremely affordable and a GREAT option! My makeup stays put all day with this primer.

YOU CAN SHOP MY FAVORITE PRIMERS BELOW:

Can I make my own primers?

Apparently, you can! I’ve seen one recipe where you can mix your foundation, some aloe vera gel, moisturizer, and an SPF. Equal parts foundation + primer.

Homemade Primer Recipe:

+ one part foundation

+ one part aloe vera

+ 1/2 part SPF

+ 1/2 part moisturizer

What other primers should I use?

Since we are already on the topic, you could also use a primer for eye makeup and for lip stick. The same concept applies. They are useful for setting your makeup.

What primers do you use? Do you think it makes a difference?

If you are interested in beauty content, check out my other beauty posts here.

You can also view my Instagram beauty Monday here: Does Primer Really Work?