Makeup masterclass: primer

A primer is a product that is used to prepare the skin before foundation. For the most part they are all silicon based. The silicon in the product is used to fill in pores and fine lines, to create a smooth base for the foundation or other makeup to be applied. The main benefit of using a primer is that it helps the makeup last longer on the skin.

There are many types of primers available, in the same way that there are numerous moisturisers for different skin types. Primers work best on cleansed prepared skin and, if the skin is exceptionally dry, then a primer can be used on the skin after moisturiser.

Types of primers include hydrating ones used for moisturising dry skin, mattifying for oily skin to help control shine and primers to plump the skin for a more youthful appearance. Many also contain SPF. Primers can come in a range of textures, such as lotions, mousse, silicon gels, as well as mineral powder primers, specially suited for sensitive skin.

Professional makeup artists, particularly those in the fashion industry, tend to have a range of primers in their kits for use on different jobs. Although in the fashion industry we generally look after models with young, plump skin, and are able to be on set to do touch-ups in-between shots, there are still occasions when primers are needed, such as shooting an outdoor editorial where a primer with SPF is essential. Models with tired or dehydrated skin may require a hydrating primer to help smooth and smooth the skin.

Primers are popular in the television and film industry, where a range of different aged actors and presenters are used. In addition, being on set or on location and under warm lights for long periods of time requires makeup to last longer between touch-ups, so primer is ideal.

As powders can look sometimes look heavy, mattifying primers are ideal to help prevent shine and reduce the need for excess powder and continual touch-ups. On more mature skin, a silicon-based primer, such as Prep+Prime by MAC (£18.50) will help smooth over fine lines to form a smooth base for foundation to go more flawlessly on to skin. The Becca Line and Pore Corrector (£30) is a skin-tone, oil-free primer that can help minimise the pores and lines around the eyes and nose for a smoother base application.

2 to try: We love Clarins Instant Smooth primer in its cute red jar, £24; and Estée Lauder Face Primer Plus, 30ml £21
Plus: see the All About You best primers ever!

More makeup masterclasses
How to find the right foundation and concealer for your skin type

From Makeup is Art: professional techniques for creating original looks by Jana Ririnui & Lan Nguyen, makeup artists and founders of The Academy of Freelance Makeup training institute