Today in our Makeup 411 we are going to talk about primers. For those that are new to makeup, what is a primer? A primer is a base for your makeup foundation that allows it to go on smoother and make it last longer. So why do we need it?

I cannot tell you how many people told me I didn’t need to use a primer as I started out with makeup. What I can tell you now is that I do not know how I could live without it. What a good primer does is allow you to get better coverage with your foundation and use less makeup overall. It does a great job helping to cover wrinkles and anything else we do not want to show. It helps you avoid that “caked” makeup look when we are trying to coverup things we do not want such as facial hair. I never received one compliment on my makeup until I started using it.

So here are my top 3 picks for primers. I found the best possible deals available through our new affiliate Amazon.com. As always make sure you are moisturizing first when getting out of the shower. Wait for it to dry before applying primer.

Smashbox Photo Finish
Smashbox Photo Finish – Click the photo to Buy it Now at Amazon

Photo Finish by Smashbox

This is by far my favorite and the one I am recommending most. Though it is a little pricey the tube goes a log way. You only need to use a dime sized amount during each application. What I love so much about this one is it continues to hydrate and makes my makeup last longer. I find I use less foundation with it and it gives me a smooth and healthy look with my makeup. The best part is I no longer feel like I have makeup on my face. I use this product almost every day.

 


Chanel's Le Blanc De Chanel Multi-Use Illuminating Base
Chanel’s Le Blanc De Chanel – Click the photo to Buy it Now at Amazon

Chanel’s Le Blanc De Chanel Multi-Use Illuminating Base

Chanel’s Le Blanc De Chanel Multi-Use Illuminating Base is able to create a matte look for your skin while also providing a dewy glow. It does not give the slightest hint of sparkle or shimmer and it evens out discoloured areas. Many fans of this primer mix it with foundation for extra radiance and staying power. This is the priciest of the group.

   

 


 

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer – Click the photo to Buy it Now at Amazon

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer

This primer helps create the look of luminous and youthful skin. Use it all over the skin for a dewy glow, or apply to cheekbones, the bridge of the nose and the forehead for a subtle but noticeable radiance. If you are looking for glow this may be the primer for you.

 

    

 

Next Week on Makeup 411:

All About Foundations

 

Mila Madison Circle Logo 1

Mila Madison

I am a big fan of the Smashbox primer though the Chanel and Mercier also come highly recommended. Smashbox is also the primer I used in my profile picture. The Chanel is great but at double the price I am not sure you will see better results than the Smashbox. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. I will always look for the best prices and value for our readers. Now go make yourself shine!