
Remember when eyeliner, bronzer and lip gloss were enough to make us feel as if we looked like a celebrity? Now, makeup tutorials are at our fingertips educating us on product knowledge as well as application and Sephora's are almost easier to find than a Starbucks. At some point, there was a shift in our brains telling us that those three products we depended on weren't enough... and one product that would soon be thought of as our saving grace was a face primer. But why? I'll be the first to admit, I had zero clue what a face primer even was until ten years ago when I purchased my very first Smashbox Photo Finish Face Primer. A staple in my makeup kit still till this day, I rarely use it or any other face primer on myself or my clients. Stop the gasping, let me explain... Primers are great. They do aid in makeup's longevity, blurring pores and skin texture, and some even help with color-correction as well as offering skin care benefits such as anti-aging additives. Primers can also be skipped. Again, why? Because of a good old-fashioned skin prep. I believe if skin is prepped well with proper cleansing, toning and moisturizing, the technology behind your long-lasting foundation, creaseless concealer, and mattifying setting powders will deliver. For most of my clients and myself, I only use primers to soften large pores or when I need help reducing excessive oil or shine. Primers can be replaced. Applying your moisturizer, eye cream and any other skin care treatment on lightly damp skin before applying your makeup will lengthen your makeup's wear, even skin's texture, and target any skin concerns such as anti-aging and acne when using the right products. For more understanding on skin care and which products may be best for you, read my previous blog post Understanding Your Skin Type. If there has been a bit of time between these steps and your makeup routine, refresh your skin with a mist of water and/or a hydrating spray. I like to use Evian Brumisateur Natural Mineral Water Facial Spray and/or MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Fix+. Once your makeup application is complete, mist your face again with a setting spray to lengthen your makeup's wear. So is it really a crime to prime your face? No, not really. BUT, I can assure you'll save a little bit of time and a little bit of money if you opt to relying on your skin prep. For those of you who rely on primers to smooth fine lines and pores, use the littlest amount only in those specific areas. Less is always more. Primers I do rely on in times of need are: Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Primer Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer

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