Prime Time!

After answering the question of how to keep makeup in place all day, I wanted to take a deeper dive into the world of primers. We know they are supposed to help makeup have longer wear and create a smooth canvas for the makeup we apply over them, but how do we know if we are choosing the right one for our skin or specific needs.  

Like most makeup, there are endless options.  Primers not only come in different formulas- oil free, SPF, etc. but they also come in different colors and offer different benefits.  It's no coincidence that my favorite brands of primer also offer the most variety of formulas for a custom match for you.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer is offered in 10 different formulas: 
Original , light, blemish control, dark spot correcting, SPF with Dermaxyl, luminizing, hydrating and 3 color correcting options

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer is offered in 6 different formulas:  
Original, oil-free, SPF, hydrating, mineral and radiance

Make Up For Ever is offered in 7 different formulas: 
Neutral, green, mauve, carmel, blue, yellow and pink

How do you choose the primer that is right for you? This is my simple cheat sheet:

• Green = redness
  
• Purple = yellow tones
• Pink/peach = neutralizes skin 
• Oil-free or mineral = minimizes oil 
• Hydrating = reduced dryness
• Radiance/luminizing = brightens dull skin