Over the last year I have tried many face primers, thinking that they were an integral part of my daily routine that I was most certainly missing out on. I assumed that they were like eye primer - a step that I find impossible to leave out now, or I feel that something is missing. For the record, I use either a Mac paint pot or Urban Decay Primer Potion for my eye primer 99% of the time. I really do feel that eye primer makes a difference in the consistency, color, and wear of the eye shadow. I have always assumed that a face primer would work the same way, and once I found the right one I would always wonder how I "ever lived without it".As far as face primers go, I have tried silicone based primers, such as Smashbox Photofinish and Mac's Prep and Prime only to find that I am definitely allergic to something in these (the silicone maybe?). I break out into little white bumps that go away within 48 hours of discontinuing use of the primer. This has happened to me with certain foundations too, like Mac's Studio Fix Fluid and Nars liquid foundations.
I have also tried non silicone based ones, like Bare Escenutals Skin Rev-ver Upper, which is not a typical primer but basically is the same concept, and my newest one, Laura Mercier's Hydrating Primer. The Laura Mercier one apparently does contain silicone in it, even though I was told it did not when I bought it. It has an ingredient in it called "dimethicone" which is a silicone oil. Now... call me a hypochondriac but as soon as I found out it does indeed contain silicone I discovered a breakout on my forehead. Was it the primer or my imagination? Let's just say after continuing the use of the primer the breakout went away - so I'm not sure.
Even beyond the breaking out part, I have never really thought primers... did that much. I don't really understand the hype - in my opinion it makes my foundation apply worse! Obviously I just haven't found the right one, but I hate buying them over and over again only to be disappointed.
So my question is, are face primers that important? Does anyone have one that is part of their routine that they would never skip? Am I really missing out? And lastly - does anyone have one that does NOT contain silicone?
Elle Fowler
121 comments on "Face Primers - Yay or Nay?"
I wouldn't say missing out. but they can help a tad
I don't really think it's super important in a routine. I use Urban Decays Pore Perfecting on special occasions because it just makes me feel better. I love you, btw. :)
i've worked at mac for a year now, and we all agree that face primers are only even slightly necessary over the summer when you're worried about sweat. i wouldn't stress about finding a great one :)
I wear face primer 99% of the time - if I'm going to wear my face for more than four hours or so. I feel it really does help in how the foundation goes on and it stays until I take it off (I use MUFE primer and foundation). Unfortunately it is silicone based, so I'm not help there. Sorry!
I love using face primers because i find the foundation goes on much smoother when i use one. however most make me break out too! so its tough using them for a long length of time. Lorac apparently has one that does not contain silicone... i havent tried it though, i'll go on sephora later and check it out.
also BE primetime oil free has no silicone, and i always wanted to try the original primetime, so i might buy the oil free one. i actually really wanted to try the laura mercier one you got but since its breaking you out, i dont wanna now haha - megan
Have you tried LORAC AquaPrime Oil-Free Makeup Primer? Its silicon free and it works really good.
Try the Korres one! It's really good and it's pretty natural
I hardly ever use a face primer and I've felt the same way thinking I'm missing out on something that would add or improve my face make up but since switching to bare minerals make up and prepping with the skin rever-upper i realize that it totally does make a difference. I have not used/tried any other face primer besides this one but I think it totally evens out my skin tone when I'm not using a liquid foundation such as mineral make up. That being said, it probably really has a lot to do with the type of make up you're using. I feel that mineral powders just dont go on as well with out a primer than liquid foundation because of the texture.
I didn't use one for YEARS. Now I'm 21 and just started using one this year and will never NOT wear one! I notice that big of a difference. I used a Smashbox one that I got in a sample size and really liked it, but the price was too much to buy a regular sized one. Then I tried Rimmel's Fix and Perfect and I'm on my second bottle. I don't see a difference in that and Smashbox at all.
So for me, I think it's important. I notice a difference in the texture of my skin, the size of my pores, and the amount of foundation I need to use.
Rimmel's has Dimethicone in it. I don't know of one off the top of my head that is completely free of that or silicon, if any since that's the ingredient that 'smoothes' the skin. I think it is, anyway. Haha.
I've used "That Gal" by Benefit and I really like it! it does not contain silicone, happily for you. It brightens your face and makes skin appear smoother :)
I never used them until recently, and I think it does make a difference in how my makeup goes on and stays throughout the day. I am using NARS primer which is great because it has SPF, but I think it has a small amount of dimethicone in it. :( I also really like the Laura Mercier one.
Silicone makes me break out as well... I love the texture that face primers give my skin, though. The only one I've found that doesn't break me out is Too Faced Primed & Poreless (although I just checked and it does contain dimethicone). It does have retinol in it, though, so it's probably not the best if you use any topical medications or if you have very sensitive skin.
To me they don't really do anything. The only one I like is Benefit's that gal primer, but i use it more as a brightener cause you can use over makeup but I don't find it does anything when used as a primer, but it does smell good haha. I don't have the little pamphlet anymore so I can't tell you if it has silicone in it, sorry! :(
For skin that tends to break out quite easily, facial primers may be a challenge. I personally feel that facial primers create a barrier between your facial moisturizer and your makeup. Applying foundation or face powder onto your skin after it's been moisturized, kinda defeats the purpose of the moisturizer. Moisturizer won't feed your skin the moisture if you're just going to have it absorb all the makeup you're applying directly over it.
have you ever tried this...
http://www.drugstore.com:80/products/prod.asp?pid=139254&catid=26832
lol yeah it sounds gross i know but read the reviews people said it's an amazing face primer...who knows it might work for you :)!
Using one can help a lot but it's not as important as an eye primer.:D
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I've just recently started wearing face primer daily. Probably the past month and a half. I have two I switch on and off. One is Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher. You're supposed to apply it before your moisturizer. The second one is Sheercover Base Perfector. This one you put on after moisturizer. These were both just laying around my house, so I started using them. They both feel silky.(Ha ha, I guess that all face primers might feel that way? I don't really know. These are the only two I've tried.) There's also this moisturizer I use that is by the brand Lacura. I get it at Aldi's for like four dollars or something like that. I think that it says on the container it's ideal as a base, but I've never used it as one. Although, I don't know if these products have silicone in them. So far, I can't really tell a difference between using a primer and not using one, so I'm not real sure if they're worth it at all. I'll proabably just finish up the ones I have and not buy them after they're used up.
Korres has a silicone free primer :) it's around $28 at sephora.
I don't really think a primer is worth it. If it makes u break out, then don't use it!! It's ok. And if ur foundation applies fine without it, than u probably don't need it.
Hope I helped!!!
Love, me!!
I use too faced's wrinkle injection. Used to use that gal and loved it, but discovered it has some oil in it and I'm not supposed to use that. I like the wrinkle injection, feel it helps even out my skin tone and make the foundation go on more smooth, and use less of it. Not sure if it has silicone, though :/
I don't think face primers are really necessary. I've tried some and all of them, even the ones that arent silicone based, break me out like crazy. I have super oily skin as well but after many years of searching I finally found the perfect foundation for my skin and a great moisturizer that pretty much acts as a primer. Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation does NOT come off during the day. I have to wash my face at least twice at night to get it off but its worth it because I know my makeup isnt going to move during the day. I even mix it with moisturizer for a lighter coverage and it STILL doesnt move. Its just a great foundation. lol And i find that my Clinique Dramatically Different Gel moisturizer primes my skin perfectly for makeup. maybe its the gel formula? I'm not sure but my foundation glides on like a dream with it.
Australis Primer is silicone free..I really like it.
I can send you some if you wish to pay postage and cost of the primer..it's NZ $20, which is about US $10. It was a cult fave in the Australian Edition of Vogue. Don't be fooled by the low price.
You should try Primed and Poreless by Too Faced, it's amazing and makes my skin feel velvety and my face makeup just glides on. Plus it has Vitamin E and A so it's also moisturizing.
I Only Use Them On Certain Occasions.
They Don't Really Do A Whole Lot For Me.
But The One I Use Is By Avon.
It Is The Magix Face Perfector, And Its Like $10 For I Think An Ounce. So You Get A Lot For Your Money!
You should try Korres Face Primer. It smells so nice and it helps with the application of tinted moisturizers and liquid foundations. It doesnt have silicon and it also isnt greasy in any way. Its all natural too I believe
Have you tried Korres face primer? It is supposed to be made from all natural ingredients and I have heard good things about it.
The Nars face primer is awesome and silicone free!
I have the Korres. It's silicone free :) & works great! so natural <3
I have tried the smashbox photo finish primer.....hateee ittt! it does nuh-thing @ ALL except make my face sticky, slimy, or greasy. it highlights under eye bags and make me get pimples....def def DEFINITELY NOT worth the price....it should sell for something more like $3 in MY OPINION...but that's just how it worked on ME.
I know that conventional make-up uses primers but have you tried BB Creams? It is mainly use in Asia & acts as a primer, foundation, moisturizer, anti-again & so on (depending on the product that you choose). It might suit you.
I have tried a lot of BB Creams, but it just did not suit me..too bad though because i love the finish!. it gives me that flawless look in just a couple of minutes. I made a review of it HERE A lot of girl, swear by that it helped improve their skin..sadly, in my case it's not...
anyway, it's worth checking out.
Im currently using the Philosophy's the present clear makeup. I don't have any bad effects from it, though no benefits too. It doesn't give the airbrushed skin that it's suppose to give, but it's ok with me, since i have a very sensitive skin & i break out with almost 80% of the products that i have tried. So im already glad that this doesn't make me break out
^_~
I always use a face primer, cause mine has spf in it. I'm currently using one by Shu Uemura - it comes out as a foam. there's more info about it on their website - http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/base/uv-underbase-spf-10.htm
I've also used another one by Shu Uemura, again it has an spf but this one is a fluid. http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/base/uv-under-base-fluid-spf-20.htm
They both make my skin really smooth, and they come out with a slight of skin-toned colour so it helps even out skin tone/texture, but I find the fluid one gives a tiny bit more of coverage. It's not a foundation so it's not really gonna give you full coverage, but it just helps even out skin tone a tiny bit. Most of the time I just use this without foundation. It's really light and not greasy - it feels like you've got nothing on. It makes your foundation easier to put on. I really recommend either of these primers - I've been using the foam one for about 2 years now and i really like it.
I hope this helps!
I bought (and have used twice) Rimmel London's Fix & Perfect Foundation primer and I'm undecided if I think it's worth it...I don't know if it is silicon based I don't SEE it on the label...I see Cyclopentasiloxane...but the first ingredient listed is water sooo it may not be...The few times I've worn it I find it does seem to smooth out my pores and make my skin feel soft and it def. makes my foundation last longer and blush seems to show much easier. (I don't have to layer the poo out of it to see color) But I wore it today because I felt my skin looked poopy and I kinda noticed that makeup sat in some of my pores like lil dots...I didn't see it the first time I used it so maybe I just put too much of something on today. I wouldn't use it everyday...only when I'm having one of those poopy skin days where you just know looking at it before you put anything on that make-up is just a no-go in terms of co-operation.
If you want to try it just go to a drug store it was about 8 bucks for me (Canadian) So it will be a few dollars cheaper for you. I'd say if you can go day-to-day with your make-up looking just fine and being satisfied with it...it's more of a "Bad skin day" or Special occasions type of product.
P.S. WARNING! This product is a weird color...it is kind of...orange. I saw a review of it on youtube were they called it apricot but yeah, its a dark orange. It blends in pretty well (I have REALLY fair skin. I'm either the fairest shade of foundation or the next one down) and I can blend it in fine.
Hope that helps!
Interesting post! :) I always love your blog posts. To answer your question, I really don't think you're missing out. I never use face primers because I feel as if I don't need to add another layer to my combo-oily skin. It's just not that comfortable to me. Good luck searching but don't worry about spending the money of finding a (good) face primer.
I use the Arbonne Virtual Illusion Face Primer. This is my HG product! I feel like when I don't wear it, my foundation is really cakey, doesn't last, and doesn't apply well. It's a clear milky color and is the softest thing you will ever feel! Even I rubbing it between my fingers I can't even feel it. Arbonne is sold like Mary Kay, or Avon, but MUCH better! They are vegan certified, cruelty free, premium botanically based skin care and cosmetics products. If one person has an allergic reaction to a product, it is taken off the market until further testing. Definintly (lol!!!!) try them out!!
I wear Bare Minerals and find it a very necessary step in my routine.
I use the Skin Rev-er Upper under my moisturizer as it is full of vitamins. Then I use the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. After that soaks in a little, I will use the Prime Time Foundation Primer and let that sit for a minute or so. With all that, my makeup has never been better. It glides on smoothly and stays on for the day. I even put the primer in the eye area and don't have issues with my regular eye makeup creasing. :)
You should be able to walk into a Bare Escentuals store and request a sample. I also think Sephora will randomly have samples for you on hand.
ive tried some different face primers too, but i never stuck with them for long! they make my face feel really cake-y (i dont wear a lot of makeup as is). i live in ca where it gets pretty hot during the day and i work out a lot, so sweating off cake-y-ness is never fun! i would say go without :) i really do love translucent powder or pressed powders though. they really make a difference in the finish
try korres vitamin e face primer. i had the same problems that you've had but i really like this one. its 99% natural, silicone free and smells really great! its almost like a moisturizer. plus ive noticed a difference in the way my face makeup wears throughout the day. everyone is different obvi but i think this one is def worth a try if ur up for giving primers another go
Elle, i dont think face primer is necessary for make up. At first i used Sally Hansen face primer for like a couple of weeks, but it breaks my face out. then i stop using it, til now. well you use face primer probably to make your make up stay out all day long.. but honestly, i do not use any face primer but my make up stays 12 hours, not kidding:) and i use tinted moisturizer..
I think face primers are an important step if you want your makeup to last.
I can't use a silicone based primer everyday myself so instead I use Clear Aloe Vera Gel as a primer. The results are great!!
For photographic use though, I always use Smashbox Photofinish.
I use gosh's velvet face primer. I wouldn't say its a must for everyday but I do feel it helps my foundation go on much smoother and makes my skin soft.
did you sell your laura mercier primer on your recent blog sale? if not and you want to get rid of it let me know! :)
I love using a primer because it makes everything feel smoother going on. I have the same issue with most brands, ie SMASHBOX, where it makes me break out because of the ingredients. That is why I love PRIME TIME FOUNDATION PRIMER BY BARE MINERALS.. It goes on super smooth and is made of all natural ingredients that don't make me break out! Give it a try! <3 Jess
I use my face primer every day and I love it. Even if it does nothing for my foundation (which I think it does), it feels WONDERFUL on my face (I have dry/sensitive skin). I use the Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer. Smells great, goes on silky and looking at the ingredients i see no silicone. Personally I LOVE this product. good luck!
aah sorry, just looked at my Napoleon Auto Pilot and it DOES contain Dimethicone :( too bad
You should deffinatly try "That Gal" from benefit cosmetics!:) it works really well, it smells super good and it doesn't contain silicone. (i'm also allergic to silicone)
Personally, I don't like caking my face with liquid foundation/BB cream, so I don't find face primers that important. I usually apply moisturizer and sunblock on my face and occasionally some mineral foundation powder and that's pretty much it. So, face primer is definitely not part of the routine I would never skip. :D
I've been using the Benefit That Gal primer for a while now and it's been doing really well for me. I'm the same way when it comes to primers. The Smashbox one completely broke me out and so did a few others. But with this one, it feels very hydrating and it does the job.
Honestly I feel a bit like you, always on the search for the perfect primer because I feel like its going to make my foundation do amazing things. I have also tried tons of products and found that the silicone makes me break out in cystic acne. The Laura Mericer one did nothing for me, I didnt like. On my last trip to sephora I was given a sample of Skin FX primer and I have to say it is amazing. It was developed by dermatalogists not a makeup company, so it is actually good for your skin. Its a little pricey but I think its worth it.
i use the clinique sheer city block in spf 25 and its also a face primer and it helps alot in making my make up stay. i use a mineral foundation cause i just need shine control and not coverage.
Hi Elle,
A primer that is very famous here in Australia is the 'Napoleon Perdis - Auto Pilot'. I'm pretty sure Napoleon is available in the states. I love it personally! You should check it out.
x
i dont use face primers coz i read silicon is the culprit of break outs, but I wanna try one though for special occasions only..
Im a making artist as well as a makeup wearer. I think for everyday use, moisturizer is the perfect primer, but for nights out clubbing or partying or weddings where you will be sweating alot, the laura mercier primer is the best one ive tried yet. i had done a girl who marched in a wedding and danced and sweated through a pumpin party and she fell asleep with her makeup on. when she came over the next morning, her face was still in tact. complete with foundation and blush. i was amazed. try the oil free primer.
I personally do not like them. I use to wear the smashbox primer as well as the benefit 'that gal' primer. After I stopped using the primers, my foundation felt so much lighter and the application was still there 10-12 hours later.
I use a primer from makeup forever and to be honest it does not make a huge difference. But it makes it easier to apply my foundation evenly and the foundation stays on longer.
Would I repurchase a face primer? Probably not, I think I'm better off buying a better setting powder.
- Johanna
I've told you this before. You really need to get Paula the cosmetic cop's book or online subscription. It's worth it's weight in gold in what you will save at the cosmetics counter. She talks about primers and says that silicone is not a skin irritant in any way shape or form. It is most likely some other ingredient like a plant extract that is irritating your skin. Also, the guru "talkin makeup" with no g has a recent youtube video on face primers that I found very helpful. Good luck.
I really love Make Up Forever's HD primers. My foundation applies a lot smoother, especially over my nose. I honestly don't see a difference in the longevity of my foundation I notice a smoother application. Also, because MUFE primers have color correctors, I find that the yellow one hides my blemishes or healing scars a lot better than if I wore foundation on my own.
Korres face primer is amazing. It smells awesome and it doesn't contain silicone. I have dry skin and the lady at Sephora recommended it for me. It works kinda like a moisturizer cause they said you could use it in place of your moisturizer or with it as well. The price is kinda high but it's well worth it. It's definitely my everyday go-to face primer. It doesn't make me break out and helps with my dry skin.
I have to say that I was worried at first about trying a primer, because I have terribly oily skin that's very blemish-prone, and I read ingredients like the good hypochondriac jewish girl that I am :-)
However, after I realized I'm NOT allergic to MAC Studio Fix Fluid (thank heavens coz that was pricey!) and that I really like their Studio Fix Powder foundation (oily skin + sweat + liquid foundation = mess!), I thought I'd try their Prep & Prime to see how my skin likes it.
I was amazed at how well it worked on my skin! I always feel sad for anyone who ends up allergic to products, because I can't use anything with corn starch or oil in it and all sorts of other things, and it's limiting like hell.
I use my face primer now in 2 way - as its own layer under powder foundation (it makes it so natural that I don't have to "de-powder" my face with Fix+ or anything), and I also mix it with a tiny spot of liquid foundation and make like a "tinted primer" for days when I don't feel like full coverage.
I would like to try different products, but since my piggy bank is kinda empty I'll wait until mine runs out (it's my little project 1-pan phylosophy, which means only buy stuff when you run out of the previous one).
That Gal by Benefit! No silicone and it will brighten your face beautifully! =]
hey elle! that's a really interesting blog! i like reading you! i just wanted to ask you if you want to stop by my site (http://www.theresastarinmypurse.blogspot.com/) just to say hi! it is written in italian, so probably you won't understand a word, but you know.. just to say hi! i have just reopened it and i need some reader! =)
thanks!!!
The Bare Minerals skin revver upper isn't their primer, their primer is prime time. Maybe you could try that? I can't remember if it contains silicone but it's meant to be mineral so that would surprise me. It should be easy to find out online or at a counter. Secondly, you have to bear in mind that a breakout will start to disappear after about 48 hours anyway. It sounds like you're sensitive to something but, in my experience, it can be really difficult to narrow it down. I use Benefit's That Gal usually but my skin has been super sensitive lately so I'm using Clinique's pore minimiser as a primer. It's not really designed to be used as such but it's gentle enough for me. I suggest using the revver upper and then prime time. I have both of those on the way so I will be trying them too. :-) x
primers are important to me just because I have very oily skin. I love my mufe hd primer in green because i tend to have redness on my face and it keeps my foundation on longer since it keeps my face from becoming way too oily throughout the day. I guess if you don't really have problems with your skin, then primers are not a must
i just put a little face lotion and a then use my foundation, works for me ive never used a primer, hope tt helps! :)
I feel like it's just an extra step that you don't need. Obviously if you find one that works amazing on you wear it! But otherwise, it's not like you're going to the red carpets every day :)
Hey- :)
Just wanted to let you know that I LOVE Face Primers. They really do make your makeup go on smoother and make your makeup last longer. MY favorite (and the only one I use) is the Bare Escenutals Prime Time Face Primer. Rather expensive, but worth it! Try it out!
♥ Steph
Hey! :)
I think face primers do make all the difference in the world.
Bare Escenutals Prime Time Face Primer- best one around, and it doesn't make my extremely sensitive skin break out.
i have the smashbox photofinish primer and i love it, but its only because its green tinted so it helps with redness. i dont really see a difference in the wear of my foundation but it does make my skin smoother because its silicone based. i dont think its necessary to wear a primer, unless you want to!
I have been using a primer all this week and my make up has looked awful! it looks more flawless and nicer without it.
I wear Make Up Forever primer in 1 (green) and it's really good for tonign down my redness, as i sometimes suffer from bad skin xx
I've tried MANY face primers, and by far my favorite is the regular Laura Mercier one...I tried the oil-free one and absolutely hated it so I went back to the original one. I also like Benefits That Gal. I have very acne prone skin and neither of these primers have made me break out like others.
I think the overwhelming consensus at least between me and my friends is that we just don't need them.
like you i have sensitive skin, and almost every primer i've evvvvvvvver tried has broken me out.
the only primer i have tried that hasn't done that (it actually listed it as being oil free, and non-comeodogenic which is RARE in a primer) is the maybelline studio effects one that just came out.
but even though it didn't break me out, it still seems like the waste of an extra step in the morning.
and the truth is i think my moisturizer does me just fine.
hope this helped!
Elle-
Instead of face primer, I use a moisturizing cream and it works fabulous! It does the sam job as a primer by making my make-up last all day, however at the same time it hydrates my face and leaves it feeling very clean. I use Ponds dry skin cream and it is hypoallergenic, it won't clog your pores, it is formulated for sensitive skin or dry skin and it is dermatologist tested. All in all I love it! and i think you would too! And i believe it does NOT contain silicone (: Happy Hunting!
xoxo,
crazyforcouture19.blogspot.com
Unfortunately, face primers are as hard to buy as moisturizers or jeans! Everyone has different skin and many of the primers mentioned in the comments I have tried and hated, either because they broke me out, or because they did NOTHING at all to make my pores disappear or to keep shine away or make the foundation last longer.
Recently, I have abandoned the search and am going without primer. So far, all good :)
I never use face primers, it's a waste of money for me :/
I use Bare Esscentuals Barevitamis "Prime Time" Primer. I also have the Rev-ver upper. I find that the rev-ver upper doesn't work as well and makes my skin break out, but the prime time one doesn't. It does help my foundation stay on all day. Moisturizer right before applying your foundation can work pretty well too.
I use Bare Esscentuals Barevitamis "Prime Time" Primer. I also have the Rev-ver upper. I find that the rev-ver upper doesn't work as well and makes my skin break out, but the prime time one doesn't. It does help my foundation stay on all day. Moisturizer right before applying your foundation can work pretty well too.
I use Bare Esscentuals Barevitamis "Prime Time" Primer. I also have the Rev-ver upper. I find that the rev-ver upper doesn't work as well and makes my skin break out, but the prime time one doesn't. It does help my foundation stay on all day. Moisturizer right before applying your foundation can work pretty well too.
Hi Elle -
I totally get what your saying about primers. I bought (literally) into all the hype with the Smashbox photo finish primer... and honestly, I don't get it. I don't think my makeup works any differently with it on or off, so unless I'm going to a dance or something "important" I never wear it... I don't really see what the point is.
You should try the Kanebo Sensai Aqua Primer... it has no silicone in, only silk proteins! very good.
give it a try
I've only tried one primer and it was That Gal by Benefit which I thought would be cool because it was supposed to brightening. The effect of brightening wasn't very noticeable, the little I saw was probably my imagination. The priming effect, well I didn't see a difference. I didn't like how it felt either, idk it just wasn't right. I don't think I need a primer really but I do want to try some for the summer time. Or when I have some extra money and no other beauty wants.
I use Lorac's Aquaprime primer which is silicone free and i love it. I cant use silicone either because it gives me cystic acne. I did a review on my blog and called it "a silicone-free wonder" You should check it out sometime!
the korres one is amazing, silicone free...it just makes my face feel soft and nice and smooth before i put my foundation or tinted moisturizer on...im sure the make up would look just as good but i was at a weekend cheer competition and was sweating continuously throughout the days and found my make up stayed on very well and i was mostly just using tinted moisturizer. hope this helps! :)
I really like Estee Lauder's Spotlight Skin Tone Perfector, which I use like a primer. It says it's for all skin types & is non-acnegenic. You put it on over your moisturizer, or you can use it as a moisturizing lotion before putting on your foundation. I find that my foundation & concealer will go on a lot smoother over this. It also smells great & is supposed to improve the appearance of your skin over time.
I generally don't use primers much, but when i feel like i need it, i use the 'that gal' primer from benefit. It's pale pink so it gives a pretty glow(which is great for you) And you can apply it alone or under or over make up. I don't think it has silicone in it either. so if you want to try i good one,that would be one i say doesn't disappoint:)
I think you really don't need face primer because you have dry ski. I have oily skin so I use them to matify my skin
I use Korres silicone FREE face primer an i love it. it's super rich and moisturizes really well. I highly recommend it. I bought mine at Sephora.
Hey, Elle! I would have to agree with you, I have never felt like face primers were that important. However, I do use one almost every day, just because it's also a good moisturizer. I wouldn't really care if I was never able to use it again-like I said, I don't think it does much to "prime" my face. Anyways, I use the Korres Face Primer. It doesn't have silicone, parabens, etc. and it's natural. I'll be honest, that sort of enticed me to buy it! I'm not saying I don't like it, I just wouldn't mind skipping the priming step (I actually do sometimes)...but if you are still on the search, maybe try the Korres one. I got mine from sephora.
As far as the appearance of your foundation I don't think a primer makes any noticeable difference. The lasting power of your foundation, however, can be improved by using a primer. I live in south Florida and with the humidity I can see a noticeable difference.
Victoria's Secret Primer is great! I love it, and it feels like silk, makes my makeup last through workouts even. Also, makeup doesn't sink into my pores or creases.
I'm blonde, like skin, very similar to you!...except I have dry skin...not oily.
I've found that face primer really does help me. It evens out my acne scars and helps my foundation blend. I use the Sephora primer (not the color correcting one), but I'm almost positive there is silicone in it.
I started using Urban decay complexion primer potion about a month ago and its made a huge difference to the application of my makeup, it goes on a lot more smoothly and lasts a lot longer. I use Maybelline Dream Satin liquid foundation over the top which is also a fantastic product. Maybe its getting the combination of primer and foundation right?hmmmm?
Also I remember you saying you have issues with finding the right eyebrow products, I had the same problem too! I have very light brown eyebrows that weren't very defining. I bought urban decay brow boy a few weeks ago and its amazing. so simple, and easy to match to your colouring. You should definately give it a try if you haven't already.
Much love
Frankie
x
Recently i've switched most of my make up to more natural and organic products. For primer i'm really loving Josie Maran Argan Primer Mist. It's natural and creates a smooth canvas for long-lasting make up. It contains organic argan oil that hydrates and smoothes your skin. On sephora.com, it states that there are marine extracts in this product that treat uneven skin tone & redness. Plant Stem Cell Technology is used and this product contains high concentrations of rare antioxidants that help to reverse signs of aging. I usually spray my face with this argan primer & smooth it all over. Then i'll apply Josie Maran's Tinted Moisturizer & follow with Bare Escentuals mineral foundation. I've noticed that my face looks flawless and my make up holds all day. It's worth a try & if it doesn't work, you can always return it back to sephora! I hope you give it a try! xoxo
Hi Elle, I use Clinique super city block 30+ as a primer. Its technically a sunscreen but it goes on really light and gives a really nice base before foundation. I have sensitive skin too and this doesnt break me out :)
Hey Elle,
I enjoy the Laura Mercier products as well. I switched to oil-free products (they do have an oil-free primer). I'd suggest buying the Oil Free Flawless Face Kit from Sephora.
Good luck!
i never used a face primer before, i've been meaning to try the smashbox one but never get around to actually buying it! i just moisturuse my face really well and i think that does the job, and after reading your blog now i think i might as well skip the face primer and keep my money for something else that I would make better use of! thank for sharing that with us Elle. :D
I would only use primer if I was taking pictures for events like Wedding, graduation, etc. However, my is Photo Finish, silicone based. :(
I find that if I don't use a primer my foundation creases a bit :( I use "that gal" by Benefit and I quite like it :)
i always forget to use mine! i bought the revlon fix n perfect from target, and it was really cheap. i'm not too fond of it, but i don't think it has silicon in it. it doesn't have the same feel as a primer with silicon, so check the ingredients on that one! also, if you end up not liking it, just think you didn't spend too much on it! i prefer silicon primers though.
korres makes a silicon free one
I always use a primer. It's just a cheapy from the drugstore, but it improves the application of my makeup sooooo much! Before, my concealer under the eyes was a little sketchy, even though I was using a MAC concealer for under the eyes. I started using the primer, and it's such a smooth application, you can't tell Im wearing makeup at all! :D I would never skip my primer! x
I use mineral makeup so I have to have a face primer.
I like the Korres one which is silicone free. The one from Fresh is really nice to and it seems to brighten my face. I also really like both Urban Decay primers. I have combo skin so I use the brightening in the winter when I have dry skin and the pore minimizing one in the summer when I'm more oily. I got them both in the box of potions a few months ago.
I have not tried this but the korres face primer does not contain silicone. I think you can get it from Sephora.
i do notice a difference in my makeup staying power when i wear a primer. i have had only one primer that that is LORACaqua prime. DOES NOT CONTAIN SILICONE!!! i love it :)
I have rosacea (really red and easily irritated skin), so when i wear foundation, i use this primer from clinique: http://www.clinique.com/product/CATEGORY22403/PROD12612/Skin_care/Redness/Protect/index.tmpl
It covers some of the redness. If i didn't use it i'd have to cover most of my face with concealer before i put on foundation. The days the redness is really bad, it shows through all those layers anyways, so I usually end up washing it all off and letting my skin breathe. But for the not-so-bad days, this calms my skin down to normal and sometimes i can even get away with just powder!
a good face primer that is 100% silicone free is Korres' one ;)
ive started a month ago using rimmel fix n perfect i wasnt sure if it would make a difference but it really does i always have to exfoliate like 4 times a weeks and intensively moisturize cause my skin is that dry so when i put my foundation it doesnt look flakie! and the primer made my pores look really smaller and the flaky look is not a problem anymore so now i exfoliate 2 times a week like a normal person lol! so yeah primer can really make a difference but i dont think anybody needs it! so you might just be one of them!
check out Vapor Organics - I use this stratus skin imperfector which is like a face primer and is silicone free and organic!
http://www.vapourbeauty.com/Foundation-Concealer-and-Face-Makeup/Vapour-Organic-Beauty-Stratus-Instant-Skin-Perfector.asp
Hi Elle,
I have struggled to find the right primer for my skin for years. I have combination to oily skin and I want something that will keep me looking matte throughout the day. I've tried Smashbox 'PhotoFinish', MUFE 'HD Primer', Philosophy's 'Never Let Them See You Shine', Cover FX 'Clearprep FX Matte Foundation Primer and Anti-Acne Treatment' and Sephora brand '"Tricks of the Trade" Anti-Shine Primer' but none have lived up to my expectations. They are all gels, and those don't seem to do the trick! The one I find works wonders is Boots No7 Mattifying Make-Up Base but does have its own downsides. This product is more of a cream, and will keep you matte! However, if you apply too much, it won't absorb into your skin and will leave white streaks on your face - really not helping impress a date (don't make my mistake!). My suggestion is to apply it 5 minutes before foundation so that you can see if you've applied too much and can wash a bit off.
I know you have dry skin, Elle, so this might not work for you. But for those of us who have oily skin, this drugstore brand works so much better than high-end products!
i was looking at benfit brightening face primer and it appears to not have silicone so maybe you want to try that. hope that helps
I was watching one of your videos on cleansing your face and you said that your face got "tight". I have that feeling too after I wash my face. I guess we both have dry, sensitive skin. My solution is using "skin" (which is like a water but its supposed to moisturize your face) and a lotion on top (not like the heavy creamy lotion from like bath and body works). Usually, skin and lotion come in a package. I don't use make-up so this works for me. I don't really know if this will work for people who use make-up. But this is just a suggestion! Okay. Another thing: my friend has dry, frizzy, wavy black hair. Could you recommend anything to help her?
Oh. And ANOTHER thing: what apps do you have on your iPhone?
Hey Elle, great Blog!!
Like you, I'm in two minds as to whether Primers are really a necessity. I'm still not sure, but here is a mini review of the best two that I have seen.
1) Sephora's smoothing primer.
This left my skin silky, if slightly oily feeling and definitely improved the texture of my skin before I applied my foundation. However, the "oilness" of it meant I was kind of aware that I had my face covered in make up...if that makes sense. It felt a little cakey and oily and like you, I have dry skin so oilness is not really a problem I'd recommend for maybe an event where more full coverage was required as it did help my makeup stay, but the negatives outwieghed the benfits for daytime use. Oh and like the LM primer, it does contain dimethicone...
2) Clarins Beauty Flash Balm
Silicone free I do belive and made from a lovely mix of natural ingredients! I LOVE this product. I know that technically it isn't a face primer but i apply it after moisturising and before foundation and it works great.
It smooths skin and leaves it feeling silky soft yet not greasy and gives a great "glow" to my face. It keeps my makeup in place much longer than if I didn't use it and lets me use LESS foundation to get the same coverage as if I didn't use it. I would highly recommend getting some of this and trying it out because our skin types sound the same and I adore this product.
Please check out my blog (I'm just starting)
http://www.makemelovely.wordpress.com
xoxo
I am a huge Laura Mercier fan I only wear Laura Mercier products! I do use the foundation primer by Laura Mercier and i like it. I don't feel any difference when applying foundation, but I notice that if I don't have a primer on all my makeup will not last the whole day.
Elle have you tried Napoleon Perdis's Pre Foundation Primer from the autopilot range?
I did a review on it and honestly it's such a fantastic product and I've used it on the most sensative skin and it doesn't make anyone break out.
Check out my review here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=724OqVYG_wE
Hi elle , i am starting to learn about make up recently , and i from Venezuela , so i have a doubt. What is a face primer for? . I want to buy something here that i think is the same thing, but it's called make up enhancing gel and i have to use it before any make up so it will last longer and stuff like that..Is that the same thing as a primer? Please answer :( i don't know who else to ask this stuff jaja!
The LORAC one is amazing! I have issues with breaking out (not that I'm sensitive to silicone). This one was recommended to me because instead of sinking into your pores and exaggerating them, it sort of just protects your face from all the pore clogging stuff in your other face products. Primer is a must for me because I do have oily skin and otherwise, the makeup would just slide right off. This one is worth a shot if you have a sephora near you. They'll give you a decent sized sample so you don't have to waste $30 in case you hate it.
Make sure your make up is safe ladies!
and here is a list of primers, you might want to try the one with the lowest toxicity rating.
Coastal Classic Creations 'Refreshing Mist' Foundation Primer Base (foundation)
or
Alexami Cosmetics MATTIFYING EFFECT PRIMER - Foundation Primer (oil controller)
Hi Elle!
I use the MAC Prep and Prime Skin and absolutely love it. I have dry skin as well, and it helps to keep your skin moisturized throughout the day ANDDD keeps your makeup on. From your new post, you said the other Prep and Prime didn't break you out, so hopefully you'll give this one a try!
xoxo Meg
P.s. Here's the link to it on the MAC website. You can get it normally or you can get it with an SPF 30 (Because you have sensitive skin that may be better for you). I hope this helped!
Prep and Prime Face (Regular): http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/spp.tmpl?CATEGORY_ID=CAT160&PRODUCT_ID=967
Prep and Prime Face Protect (SPF 30): http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/spp.tmpl?CATEGORY_ID=CAT160&PRODUCT_ID=1544
I LOVE my benefit 'that gal' primer. It keeps my foundation on, moisturizes, and gives me a bit of a rosy glow. On casual days sometimes I just skip the foundation and powder and only wear my primer. Love, love, love!
I have sensitive skin too and it's never made me break out. I'd say it's worth trying. ;)
xoxo
Val
vals-closet.blogspot.com
I have combination skin and use Dr. Brandt's Pores No More on my T-Xone area and absolutely LOVE it!! I use the Smashbox Foundation and their green color corrector on my cheeks and am quite happy with the overall effect.
I don't know if Dr. Brandt's contains silicone. If you've heard anything about it or tried it, please let me know your thoughts.
Over the years i have used so many different face primers. About two or three months ago i was in The Bod Shop and came upon their face primers. They have two, a moisturizing and a matte. I tend to be on the oilier side so i chose the matte it. It works GREAT! Lol. I love it. It makes my skin so soft and it reduces the oiliness so much. It really helps keep your foundation on longer.
i am in love with the model co face base primer.. i use it daily and have used it for 3 years now ! definately worth a try xx
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