Why Prime?

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Why Prime?

If you read my recent post where I shared five tips from my makeup artist, I mention that priming the skin is one of the key tricks to elevating your makeup routine.  Prior to having my makeup lesson from Aradia Vive, I thought that primer was an unnecessary step and just another product that was being pushed on me.

Once I started using primer, I immediately noticed a difference in how my foundation looked on my skin and how long my makeup lasted. And so did others.  Once I started using primer, instead of looking completely washed out by the end of a long work day, my makeup was actually still on.  

There are a wide variety of primers on the market…gel, cream and powder based. The most important thing is to find one that you like and works with your foundation. It will help smooth out problem areas, fill in wrinkles and even add another layer of SPF.  The ones featured are three different primers I use. Be sure to buff them into your face with a brush…I like the Sigma Kabuki F80 Brush, which is also the brush I use for applying my foundation.

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Lightweight

If you are sensitive to how formulas feel on your face, then this Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is an excellent option for you. This weightless, silky formula looks beautiful under all foundations and even tinted moisturizers. It corrects redness, fills in smooth lines and contains SPF 15 for added protection. Available at www.netaporter.com. 

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Medium

I like to use this Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer when I am meeting friends for drinks or for date night with my husband. There is something very flattering with the natural finish it creates on the skin.  There are a variety of options in this primer-color correcting, radiance and a version that contains SPF.  Available at www.sephora.com.

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Thicker
The POREfessional face primer from Benefit Cosmetics is a beauty cult classic. This primer is much thicker than the others and has a consistency that is more like a balm. While it may have a thicker feel, it is extremely effective…it definitely helps my makeup last all day.  As advertised, it truly minimizes pores and gives your skin a smooth appearance. It can also be applied on top of your make up (dabbed on in specific spots) if you need to further reduce pores.  I use this for long days at the office or when I am traveling so I can maintain my foundation as long as possible.  Available at www.ulta.com.

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Eyeshadow Primer
I apply this NARS Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base while my face primer is drying. This keeps my eyeshadow looking as fresh at the end of the day as it does at the beginning. You only need to use a tiny amount for application…for reference, one of the tubes lasts me approximately six months.  Available at www.sephora.com.

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If you have not tried priming before, give it a try, your makeup will definitely look better! 

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography