How A Makeup Primer Can Transform Your Face - With Or Without Cosmetics

If you've ever tried a makeup primer and been left feeling less than impressed, let me tell you something... Times have changed.

Clear, sticky fluids, skin-coloured pastes and watery gels have been sidelined by lightweight creams and serums packed with skincare ingredients you used to only find in high-end products.

As well as offering a great base for makeup, these on-trend essentials can be used to boost radiance even if you never wear foundation. They smooth and hydrate the skin for an all-day dewy look. And you can tailor the benefits to match your skin's needs by purchasing wisely.

Not only do they leave the skin feeling plump and properly prepped, they deliver balanced hydration to the skin and blur any imperfections. In fact, makeup primers are one of the easiest ways to minimise the appearance of pores and correct minor blemishes or uneven skin tone. They can also brighten and nourish your skin.

'A woman's face is her work of fiction.' - Oscar Wilde

What's All The Fuss About?

The new class of primer should not be confused with tinted moisturising creams. Unlike many BB products, the rising stars of the makeup primer market come infused with potent properties.

Super-good ingredients include:

• Ceramides

• Vitamins

• Hyaluronic Acid

• Charcoal

• Flecks of Gold

• Essential Oils
  

As well as delivering skincare benefits, you can address a range of skin concerns.

• Use a mattifying primer if you suffer from oily or combination skin

• Go for a product with a shimmer effect if you want your skin to glow

• Choose a product with plumping ingredients to fill fine lines and refine the surface of your skin

• Use a primer with charcoal to reduce excessive shine

• Some primers offer one-step correction for a whole host of concerns, including redness and dark spots

Budget Friendly Makeup Primer

Unlike some anti-ageing products, makeup primers are budget-friendly. You can buy a good all rounder from £7 to £25. I recommend Stila's triple helix One Step Correct, Revolution's similar Candy Haze and primers from Barry M.

How to use:

I apply my primer after toning with a caffeine or glycolic tonic. If you have mature or particularly dry skin, you may want to use your primer after you have applied a day cream.

What I love about these products is that they instantly boost radiance and make the skin feel amazing.

Try a primer for yourself and experience the difference.