Face primer – the quintessential layer of protection between your skin and make-up. Just as its name implies, face primers preps your skin before make-up so you look your best.
Purpose of Face Primers
Primers are not a moisturizer or toner, and definitely not a foundation. Although some face primers in the market today have some moisturizing and tinting qualities, primers are aimed at giving your skin a lovely boost. It is applied after moisturizing and before foundation. Face primers provides the base for your foundation and the rest of your makeup to be applied smoothly.
In fact, using a primer means you use less foundation to create a flawless finish. Best of all, primers help to even out skin tone and make-up stays on longer too.
How to Choose Face Primers
There are plenty of choices available in the market. However, there are some basics that you need to know about.
- For oily skin – choose mattifying primers that are long-wearing and helps to control sebum production.
- For dry skin – choose hydrating primers that prevents your makeup from settling into rough patches or dry lines.
- To cover large pores – choose pore-minimizing primers that minimize the size of the pores.
- For dull skin – choose illuminating primers that will make your foundation look like natural skin.
How To Apply Face Primers
Simply use your fingers or make-up sponge or brush to apply the primer from the centre of your face outwards in gentle motions. If you are used to rubbing it in circular motions, stop that! It actually causes some primers to clump together and hence, foundation to clump together as well.
Another beauty trick is to apply a little on the lips before applying lipstick for longer-lasting colour stay. Most importantly, let the primer sit for a few minutes before applying foundation and make-up.
Good face primers don’t have to break your bank so here are our top primers that are good and affordable!
Missha – Layer Blurring Primer Long Lasting
This silky, long-lasting primer glides over your skin and prevents makeup from separating due to excess sebum or oil. Perfect for long days out, the Missha primer also helps to prevent flakiness and creates a smooth veil over your skin, giving you the perfect canvas to work on!
Price: RM19, was RM23
Aritaum – Pore Master Sebum Control Primer
If you suffer from excessive oil production throughout the day, then the Aritaum primer will be your answer. The Aritaum primer leaves a silky finish that is shine-free and helps to control sebum production throughout the day. The product also contains green tea, which we all know is able to calm skin, allowing your makeup to look flawless even at the end of the day.
Price: RM35
Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Primer
If you face issues with enlarged pores and excess sebum, the Innisfree Primer will serve as a great barrier without congesting pores. It contains natural minerals and mint for a calming and long-lasting moisturized effect as you go about your day!
Price: RM36
Banila Co – Prime Primer
Banila Co never disappoints, and it is also one of my favorite brands! This silky formula leaves an airbrushed finish so you will not need that Instagram filter for the perfect shot. While it helps to keep sebum production at bay, it is still hydrating (thanks to the eco-herb water complex) and gives you a healthy glow that lasts throughout the day.
- For oily skin: Matte/Sebum Fix Prime Primer
- For normal skin: Instant Fix Prime Primer
Price: RM82
VDL – Lumilayer Primer
If you are looking for a fuss-free primer, the VDL Lumilayer Primer will be your go-to! Luminous violet pigments are infused into the primer for the sun-kissed, healthy glow, and the hydrating formula plumps and preps your skin for makeup. Truly simple, yet high-performing.
Price: RM79
Onsaemeein – Magic Skinny Primer
While Onsaemeein is not as well known to the general public, their high quality products are still favored by beauty gurus. The Onsaemeein primer has a more runny consistency which allows it to be easily absorbed into the skin and gives a plumping effect for smooth and subtle skin. Apply your foundation with ease as the primer will keep your makeup flawless for the whole day!
Price: RM38
Discover the best in beauty from top global brands at Sephora. Keep a lookout out for Althea discounts and promo codes to maximize your savings. Looking beautiful should not cost a bomb.
Note: The information presented in this article is correct at time of publishing and may be subject to change without prior notice.
Article was originally published on 4 Dec 2019 and updated on 9 Jul 2020.
