Makeup Primer: Is it Really Worth the Extra Step?

The chicks at TotalBeauty.com

"Not to prime is a crime!" says celebrity makeup artist, Napoleon Perdis. And if he is right, I've been a criminal on the loose for far too long (see the other top ten makeup felonies here).

Face primer is a new development to my rapid-fire morning makeup routine due to the fact that Perdis almost popped a capillary in an interview when I told him I didn't "get" primer. Like, why go through that extra step when I could be doing constructive things like guzzling copious amounts of coffee? Is primer really making a difference?

Well, turns out obvious foundation streaks, noticeable pores, redness around my nose, and excessive oil could all have been avoided by simply adding this step. As a new primer convert and in an effort to repent for my criminal past, I have rounded up 12 makeup primers that other women say have given them a new lease on their makeup life (my fave actually made the list too!).





Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex, $42

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 7.9*
Why: Readers call it the "best primer on the market," because it "makes my skin feel so soft. My foundation went on very smoothly, evenly, and lasted much longer than it does alone." Another says, "I've used this primer for over a year now … and can't live without it. My makeup stays on all day and night. And, it also minimizes my pores, which is a plus." One woman says, "It keeps your face in place. I got this for my wedding, and tested it by running errands on a 90+ degree day when I knew I'd be sweaty -- normally prime conditions for a makeup meltdown. But it lasted all day and didn't get greasy!"

Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.


Bare Escentuals Prime Time Brightening Foundation Primer, $21

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8*
Why: One reviewer says, "This product is fabulous at evening out my skin and creating a flawless palette for [my] foundation and colors. It's smooth, quick-drying and most importantly, non-irritating." Others say, "I have tried many primers and this one actually does what it says! I am a mineral makeup girl, and this definitely sets it for the day." And another woman says, "before I began wearing Prime Time it was impossible to keep my mineral makeup on all day long." And one reader simply says, "It's heavenly."

Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.



Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer, $39

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8*
Why: "People kept complimenting my 'dewy complexion.' I definitely credit this primer. It's a slam-dunk for dry skin, offering hydration and a smooth surface to apply foundation resulting in a more natural look," says one reader. Another says, "This primer is so unique and it totally delivers. I love the fact that it's gel-based and has vitamins and herbal extracts." And one reader says it's all she needs: "Auto Pilot is by far my favorite primer on the market. When I travel, I even use it in place of moisturizer. It sets my makeup so beautifully and it gives my skin the smooth texture it really needs."

Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.



Tarte Clean Slate Primer, $27

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.1*
Why: Readers like how "it truly does exactly what the name says: Gives your skin a 'Clean Slate.' I don't find it to be oily or greasy in any way, it's just a great product that glides over my skin." One woman likes how "it works well under every type of foundation I've tried it with: mineral powder, liquid, pressed, and cream. My skin doesn't get irritated by it, it doesn't clog my pores, and it leaves such a nice finish on my face." One reader says, "I love, love this primer. I like how it absorbs right away into my skin. It feels so soft, like silk, and my skin has a nice matte look to it after applying it, which I also love! The price isn't too bad either and it keeps my mineral makeup on all day."

Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.


Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Oil-Free, $30

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.1*
Why: Readers say the product "goes on light and absorbs in seconds and keeps makeup in place for hours. No more makeup sliding off your face in the humid summer weather. And, it also helps foundation glide over lines, rather than settling in them and making them more noticeable." Sounds like a huge plus to us. Another agrees saying, "My skin looks absolutely beautiful when made up with these products. I have mature skin and the primer smoothes pores and even light wrinkles to let the foundation do its magic."

Agree? Disagree? Write your review here.

*At time of publication


So what do you think? Is primer worth the extra step? If you think so, see the rest of the top twelve primers here.


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