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Foundation Primer Types & Application

Foundation primer is an important part of many women's makeup regimen for multiple reasons. And while it may seem like foundation primer is just another way for cosmetic companies to push their products to make even more money, this is simply not the case.

Foundation primers do a number of things like smooth skin for easy foundation application, keep blush and bronzer from sliding off your face, and make makeup last for hours, depending on the formula of primer and your skin type.

If you have an uneven skin tone, a lot of redness, or have the tendency to develop dry patches of skin on your face, then primer might be your new Holy Grail makeup item. Makeup primer is found in all shades, including clear if you're just looking for a makeup base for long-lasting wear.

Tinted foundation primers are similar to tinted moisturizers; however, they're not the same because foundation primer fills in the fine lines, wrinkles, and even makes your pores less visible. If your skin isn't in need of heavier coverage, then the tinted foundation primer could be all you need. Add some bronzer and blush to put some color back in your face, and your face makeup is complete!

Look for a moisturizing face primer if your skin becomes dry throughout the day. You'll be able to reduce dry patches on your face that appear in the dry months of the year. If you have oily skin, makeup primers can help to combat oil and shine on your forehead, chin and nose. Always read the labels to be sure you're purchasing a primer that suits your needs.

Another point worth noting is that you'll benefit from using a foundation makeup primer if you are prone to clogged pores. The creamy, thick, and silicone finish of most primers allows your skin to breathe, and it prevents blush, bronzer, and other cosmetics from clogging your pores.

Tip for Dull Skin: If you feel as though your skin is dull after applying foundation, use a primer to make your foundation more vibrant. If you're using a foundation primer with a tint, you'll be able to disguise redness, small blemishes, scars, inflammation, and even-out skin tone more easily by using a base to build your foundation on. It's also worth mentioning that more and more cosmetics are adding SPF to their products, and the same goes for makeup primers. You'll be able to protect, pamper, and nourish your skin at the same time while saving yourself from harmful sun damage with an SPF of 15 or greater!

Homemade Primer

You may not believe, but homemade foundation primer is one of the easiest things to make, and costs only a fraction of what a bottle from the store does. You'll only need three ingredients to make it including pure aloe vera gel, thick body butter (or face cream), and your foundation is optional. You'll also want to have a teaspoon, a small airtight container and a mixing bowl handy.

  1. Take one teaspoon of aloe vera gel and one teaspoon of your thick moisturizer, and mix them together well.
  2. If you'd like to continue making a tinted face primer, add a very small amount of your foundation or concealer into the aloe vera gel and thick moisturizer until well-blended.

Store your primer in an airtight container; you can find small containers in department stores, or use an old eye cream jar or Tupperware. Look for clear aloe vera gel in drugstores and even in some supermarkets. Aloe vera is inexpensive and gives the primer the silicone finish you're looking for – plus some say it's great for fighting off aging!

To make foundation primer leave your skin with a glowy finish, add a small amount of iridescent powder into the mixture. You can also add bronzing powder to your mix for an extra pop of bronze.

Foundation Primers can be found in drugstores as well as online, and are offered in all price ranges.

Eyes Lips Face offers a foundation primer at only $3, and a mineral primer that costs $6. Laura Geller's Spackle Under Makeup Primer costs $25, and is getting high marks with women everywhere. Interestingly enough, some of the high-end primers cost more than a bottle of foundation, so keep your budget in mind when purchasing these products.

Your Options

There are so many different types of primer available to us today that come in various colors, textures and serve different purposes. You can choose products with mattifying primers, brightening primers, bronzing primers, primers that keep makeup on longer, and even SPF primers.

But as with any product, foundation primer isn't for everyone, and it may not be ideal for use in every season. You may also need to use a different primer for summer than the one you use in the winter just like with foundation. Another concern to be aware of is that you could grab the wrong type of primer if not careful, and it will end up being too shiny in the sunlight, or too dull inside.

Furthermore, not everyone will need to use a primer, so make sure you're using primer for a specific reason. With this being said, before you go out and buy just any primer, evaluate why you personally would need a primer, and always, always, always read the labels! By reading labels, you ensure that you're getting the desired product(s), which in turn saves you from hassling with returning foundation primer.

Application

Foundation primer is easy to apply, and requires little instruction!

All you need is a pea-sized amount to smooth onto your face before applying any concealer or foundation. You can even use foundation makeup primer on problem areas like your t-zone, or areas with wrinkles like your forehead and below your eyes.

After applying foundation primer to your face, you'll be able to enjoy the countless benefits of this product, and set yourself up for a successful makeup application.

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