Skin Prep: Skincare is Primer

An unfortunate truth that a lot of us don’t like to grapple with is that our makeup likely won’t look good if we aren’t taking proper care of our skin. Skin prep is the base for any successful makeup application, whether you prefer a natural look or full glam. Makeup primers are controversial in many ways; some say they are totally unnecessary, while others swear by them. Primers are intended to create a smooth, flawless base for makeup to sit on top of. Some even extend the longevity of your makeup. But with the many different types of primers out there, and the variety of claims attached to them, many question whether or not makeup primers are necessary at all.

            The short answer is yes, primer is a vital step in our makeup routines. However, “primer” can (and should) look different for everyone. If you struggle with your makeup fading, creasing, or looking dry throughout the day, you may want to reassess how you are priming your skin. The primer you use should depend on your skin type and skin concerns. These are the main types of primers:

1. Hydrating Primers: Ideal for dry skin types that need additional moisture before makeup.
2. Mattifying Primers: Intended for oily skin types to reduce excess shine throughout the day.
3. Blurring Primers: Meant to target large pores and smooth out the skin.
4. Glow-Boosting Primers: Rather than hydrating the skin, glow boosters contain ultra-fine shimmer particles to add a shine to targeted areas.
5. Eyeshadow Primers: Provide a tacky base for eyeshadow to grip onto and blend over.

This list may seem a little daunting but know that you don’t need to use each and every type of primer. In fact, you probably shouldn’t. In truth, a product doesn’t have to be labeled as a “primer” to properly prep your skin for makeup.

            The bottom line is that “primer” is just a marketing term assigned to products that are intended to improve the appearance of makeup. This isn’t to say that primers are bad or useless, we love primers! However, it does mean that products that aren’t labeled as primers can also prep your skin for makeup in the same or similar ways. So, here at Paris Laundry we look at primers in a broader sense, considering them to be anything that creates a longwearing, makeup-ready canvas, whether it is referred to as a primer or not. With that said, below are our top three favorite products to prime our skin with before makeup application.

1. RMS ReEvolve Radiance Locking Primer: If you’re looking for an all-in-one primer to lock in your skincare, grip onto makeup, and hydrate your skin all day long, the ReEvolve Primer is the one for you. This non-oily gel primer features skin-firming Tightenyl™, squalane, and fruit extracts. So, while it does noticeably extend the wear of makeup, the ReEvolve Primer is an extension of your skincare routine. It’s honestly the best of both makeup and skincare worlds.
2. Paris Laundry Bliss Hydrating Cream: There’s not much worse than applying makeup onto dry, dehydrated skin. Not only does the Bliss Cream hydrate the skin before makeup, but it also removes existing dead skin. Apple extract and lactic acid gently exfoliate, so flakey skin will be of no concern when applying makeup. Organic aloe and green tea calm the skin in preparation for foundation and other base products. Looking to simultaneously soothe, brighten, and nourish your complexion pre-makeup? This is the product for you.
3. Paris Laundry Nourishing Facial Oil: They say you can’t fight fire with fire, but you can fight oil with oil. The Nourishing Facial Oil actually helps to balance the body’s natural sebum production while simultaneously restoring a youthful-looking glow, making it the perfect base for makeup. Rich plant oils moisturize while turmeric brightens. Apply just a few drops onto the skin before applying makeup; a little goes a very long way. Or try mixing one to two drops into your foundation for a more sheer, dewy base.