The Best Primer For Different Skin Types

Primer is a staple part of our makeup routines. But how many of us actually even know what primer does and how beneficial it is for our skin? Are we just adding in an unnecessary layer to bridge the gap between our makeup and skincare routines? At Beauty Base, we understand how important primer is for all different skin types, that’s why we’ve pulled together this handy guide to all things primer-related so that you too can learn why primer is essential and more importantly so that you can find the right one for your skin type.

What is primer?

Primer is a beauty product that is used to smoothen out your complexion before you apply your makeup. There are many different primers available, in lots of different colours and consistencies suited to many different skin types, so finding the best primer for your skin is essential in establishing how well it will perform for you. Primers sit somewhere between skincare and makeup, with many containing skincare properties such as moisturisation and SPF, added as extra protection for your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Primers are also great at nourishing your skin, giving it an extra glow and boosting the appearance of your makeup at the same time. 

What is face primer supposed to do?

The main objective of a primer is to prep your face ready for your makeup application. Primer is also really good as a standalone product if you want some form of coverage, but want to avoid wearing a full face of makeup, by evening out your skin tone and calming blemishes for a natural, no-makeup look. Primers also offer different benefits to different skin types. The best primer for dry skin and the best primer for combination skin will be worlds apart, so it’s important to find a product that works best for you.

Do you really need primer?

Although primer isn’t essential, it brings many benefits to the table in terms of adding to and enhancing your current skincare and makeup routine. Whether wearing it on its own or as a makeup base, here are the reasons to choose a primer:

Anti-Ageing Properties

Many primers include anti-ageing ingredients designed to restore that youthful glow that keeps you looking fresh-faced throughout the day. Primers will complement any anti-ageing products you already use in your skincare routine.

Colour Correction

Primers can be the perfect way to even out any changes in your skin tone such as dark circles or red blemishes. Primers that offer colour correction are great for use on those that suffer from blemished skin, reducing discolouration so there’s less need to apply as much foundation or concealer to colour-correct.

Moisturised Skin

Whilst the bulk of your hydration will come from specific moisturising skincare products, primer can keep that moisture locked in all day which not only means that your skin is properly nourished, but that your makeup won’t dry out throughout the wear either! Primers with moisturising qualities are particularly great for dehydrated and dull skin, giving it some bouncebackability! When skin is dry, primer can also add a protective barrier to the skin, to stop it from drinking the water base from your foundation and preventing it from having a dry, cakey appearance on your skin.

How to apply primer

Applying primer is easy and doesn’t require any extra makeup tools. Here’s how to do it;-

• Primer should complement your skincare routine, not replace it, so make sure that you begin by washing and cleansing your face
• If you have oily skin, make sure that you apply a moisturiser that suits your skin and will absorb properly to prevent pilling when combined with a primer
• Squeeze a small amount of primer (pea-sized will work) onto your fingers and dot around your face (forehead, nose, chin, cheeks)
• Lightly rub in the primer in a downward motion to create a thin layer
• Allow between 3 to 5 minutes for the primer to set

Which are the best primers for different skin types?

In this part of our guide, we want to help you choose the best primers for different skin types, so the next time you’re searching for a primer, you can be confident that you’ll be able to find the one best suited to your skin.

Best Primer for Normal Skin

If you have normal skin, you want your primer to add something to your routine, otherwise, there’d be no point in wearing it! Illuminating primers such as LA GIRL’s Pro.Prep Primer in Cool Pink are best for normal skin, as they can work to blur pores and create a nourished, dewy finish that will last all day.

Best Primer for Dry Skin

Finding the best primer for dry skin can be a difficult task, as dry skin tends to absorb moisture from any products you put onto your face. Try to avoid highlighting dry patches or smoothing them over with primer, by choosing a primer that’s moisturising and not too heavy. Alternatively, use a really good moisturiser for dry skin before applying your primer. In that case, the best primer for dry skin will be one that acts as a barrier and prevents your skin from absorbing moisture from your foundation.

Best Primer for Oily Skin

A mattifying primer is always the best choice for oily skin. Oily skin typically occurs when pores are on the larger side, and mattifying primers work to prevent skin from taking on that shiny appearance by minimising pores. Visit our skincare hub, for more products dedicated to enhancing the appearance of and caring for oily skin.

Best Primer for Combination Skin

Finding the best primer for combination skin can be tricky as you’re dealing with both dry and oily areas at the same time. Try to find a neutral primer that won’t minimise pores or highlight dry patches. Try out some primers first, or alternatively invest in two. Choose a mattifying primer for those areas suffering from oily skin and another primer for any dry areas of skin. 

Best Primer for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be irritated by so many environmental factors as well as the products you choose to use on your skin. The best primer for sensitive skin will provide an extra barrier between the skin and any allergens in the air that could cause irritation. Look for a low fragrance primer to minimise the risk of a skin reaction, or try a soothing primer containing calming. 

Find the best primer for your skin by exploring the full primer range available at Beauty Base and visit our skincare hub, to find amazing products carefully curated for every skin type.