It camouflages discolourations and skin imperfections, smoothes the skin, preserves makeup. Makeup primer: what is it, what properties and types do you have and how to choose the most suitable for your skin type?
What is the makeup primer and what properties does it have?
A makeup primer, is a cosmetic that is to be applied to the face before applying the foundation. The makeup primer is designed to extend, even by 12 hours, the durability of makeup by limiting the direct contact of the skin with the foundation.
Makeup primer – a variety of types:
- silicone makeup primer – works well with light, water-based foundations. It is most recommended for a dry and mature skin.
- oil-based makeup primer – works in a similar way to the silicone one; it creates a layer on the skin to which the foundation can ‘adhere’. The product can be used by women with dry as well as oily skin.
- glycerin-based makeup primer – it is good for water-based foundations, however, it makes mineral foundations separate and flaky.
- gel makeup primer – does not create an oily layer on the skin, it reduces the visibility of pores, it smoothes out and moisturises the skin. It can be used with long-lasting or mineral foundations. The product is recommended for women with oily skin because it reduces excess sebum secretion.
- drying makeup gives a strong mattifying effect. Its main component is talc, aluminium, magnesium aluminium silicate or boron nitride. It forms a layer on the skin that reduces the appearance of pores and absorbs sebum. Such primers are not intended for dry skin, because they emphasize dry skin patches, but are suitable for people with oily skin.
- makeup base with silica has a matting effect. It smoothes out the complexion and reduces the visibility of imperfections. Silica can emphasize dry skin patches and if used for a longer period of time, it can dehydrate the epidermis. Silica-based primers are well-combined with light foundations.
Makeup primer – how to match it to a particular skin type?
- Dry and combination skin type requires the use of a primer, which will ensure its smoothness and will not emphasize any dry skin patches. Silicone, oil and glycerine based primers are perfect for dry skin.
- Oily skin requires the use of a primer that will collect excess sebum and give it a matte finish. Silica, powder, drying and gel-based primers perform well in this role.
- Mature skin is the type of complexion where the silicone makeup primer works best.
