Do you actually need to use a transparent base layer cream -
otherwise known as a primer - everyday? We got three make-up artists to
give us a primer on primers
Such is the conveyor-belt nature of the beauty industry, a new
product comes along quicker than the time it takes us to understand the
last. Primers, which are silicone-based, transparent creams used
post-moisturiser and pre-foundation to create an even canvas, exist in
this grey area. Are primers actually useful, or like the cool setting on
a hairdryer, simply unnecessary? We asked three of the world's best
make-up artists for their advice.
Charlotte Tilbury, founder of an eponymous
cosmetics range, and make-up artist to stars including Penélope Cruz
and Jennifer Lopez
"You can't have a beautiful painting without a beautiful
canvas, so primers are great for preparing the skin. There are some
amazing high-tech formulas that soften lines, pores and imperfections to
even out the skin tone and help your make-up stay put all day. Look out
for brightening primers that boost the skin's radiance. I never start
make-up without my Gisele‑in-a-jar,
Wonderglow
(£38.50,
Selfridges
) - it re-emits natural light through the skin,
illuminating and smoothing for a gorgeous, lit-from-within effect."
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Sharon Dowsett, backstage supremo at London Fashion Week and make-up ambassador for Maybelline New York
"You probably don't need to use primers everyday, but
they are great when you want that 'poly-filler' effect on your skin.
They smooth the skin and make pores appear less visible -
Maybelline's Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Lightweight Primer
(£7.99,
Boots
) gives this effect instantly. The trick is to look for a
mattifying primer if you have oily skin, and an illuminating primer if
you have dry skin. They aren't necessary for day-to-day wear, but for
that completely perfect make-up look, they can boost your foundation's
lasting power and give you more of a 'photoshopped' finish."
Charlize Theron and Taylor Swift are primer fans
Rebecca Restrepo, make-up artist and Elizabeth Arden global ambassador
"Primer is especially good for women with active days -
the business woman with back-to-back meetings, or the bride who is being
photographed and needs to look fresh in every shot. When I use a primer
I focus on areas where there is most movement on the face. I start at
the laughter lines, then move to the edges of the eyes and in between
brows and the centre of the forehead. I like
Elizabeth Arden's Good Morning Retexturizing Primer
(£26,
Debenhams
)."
