Applying makeup is an intricate step-by-step process: foundation first, blush after…However, it would be erroneous to think that the Number 1 step in your makeup routine begins with foundation. Primers form the base for foundation, just as how foundation forms the base for blushers.

What is a primer?

A primer is used before you apply your makeup and is known to enhance and extend the wear of your makeup. It is a multi-functional makeup product that creates an extra layer between the skin and your makeup foundation. On one hand, a primer preps your face for a smooth foundation application, and ensures that your makeup stays on for a longer period of time. On the other hand, a primer also works as an extra barrier to protect your face from pore-clogging makeup, thus keeping blemishes at bay.

What kind of primer should I use?

Keep your makeup lasting all day with our wide selection of primers! Our extensive collection ranges from powders to liquids and is perfect for all skin types. Never underestimate the power of a makeup primer, and never go without it again once you use it as part of your makeup regimen! Find a primer that comprises this double action of both protecting and prepping one’s face for makeup. For those with combination or oily skin conditions, there's also a primer for you to tackle the shine!

What are the benefits of using a primer?

Purchase a primer that carries various other benefits aside from keeping your makeup long-lasting. A good primer also contains vitamins that nourishes your skin as you wear it, or SPF protection from the sun. A super primer also includes amazing effects like pore minimising and shine prevention - Reduce the appearance of your pores or absorb oil! These wonderful effects help you get youthful-looking, picture-perfect skin that stays on all day. Receive colour correction and balance in your skin tone with more professional, full-coverage primers, or find a lighter alternative which can help you to cover spots and imperfections at the same time. These primer options act just like a concealer, so why not use these multi-functional products and save time in your regimen?

What are the different types of primers?

Mattifying Primer: Soak it up

Do you suffer from oily skin? You’re likely in need of a mattifying primer. The purpose of primer is to create a buffer layer between your skin and your foundation. In the case of oily skin, this is all the more important. Excess oil that secretes your skin has a habit of seeping right through your makeup and making itself known. If you use oil-based foundation, you could even be exacerbating the problem. A good mattifying primer offers expert oil control, helping to fight shine and ensuring your foundation sits smoothly on your skin. You’ll achieve a matte finish in no time - none of that sliding away by lunchtime. Now how to slide out of the office just as subtly...

Pore Minimising Primer: Shrink ‘em down

Want to minimise your imperfections? Don’t we all! Thanks to Sephora’s range of blurring primers for pores, it’s easier than ever. Rather than applying endless layers of makeup like many people with enlarged pores or problem skin tend to, opt instead for a pore minimising primer. Such solutions offer an extra layer of coverage, dulling the appearance of pesky pores and skin imperfections. Apply a layer before your foundation for twice the protection and a fraction of the worries! For the perfect base and a flawless finish, we’ve got you covered… Literally!

Hydrating Primer: Moisture - more is more

There’s a perfect primer out there for everyone… Even those with the driest of skin. The best primer for dry skin is a hydrating one, equipped to moisturise your complexion as it preps for makeup coverage. Why settle for one function when you need both? Craft the perfectly hydrated base and your makeup will smooth on effortlessly. You can go about your day free from drying and flaking. Gorgeous!

Colour Correcting Primer: Correct colours

Suffer from redness or dullness? It’s best to start at the very beginning. Rather than disguise your complexion with a shade of foundation, focus on balancing your skin tone with a base coat - in other words, a colour correcting primer. The best way to bid goodbye to unwanted colours is to balance them out. Choose a shade at the opposite end of the colour spectrum for a dewy neutral finish. For example, you can dull skin redness with a green-toned primer.

Sephora offers an extensive range of primers and you are bound to find the best primer that suits your particular and personal needs. It would be criminal not to include this invaluable, multifunctional makeup product to your daily fundamentals! Regardless of your skin tone, type, and need, Sephora has all its options for you beauty and skincare lovers. If you haven’t already used a primer in your regime, why not start now and marvel at its benefits? Possess the secret to long-lasting, vibrant makeup daily now!