Is it a crime not to prime?

I've heard it said that it's a crime not to prime.  So let's talk about primers and see whether you really risk makeup persecution if you opt out of this step.

So many options!

There are a few reasons you may want to use a primer: a) to minimize the look of pores; b) to smooth your skin by filling in fine lines; c) to add radiance or to mattify your skin; and d) to help extend the wear time of your foundation.  Not all primers will accomplish all goals so you need to determine what your particular needs are and go from there.


The market is saturated with primer options and knowing what to look for can make it a little less daunting.  At the risk of over-simplifying things, I am going to break it down into two categories: those that blur imperfections and those that help your foundation make it through the day.  Each has a "magic" ingredient to look for. (Note: some primers will have both ingredients but in different proportions.)

Dimethicone Primers

Dimethicone is found in the silicone family.  You will know you have a primer with dimethicone in it because of its slippery feel (and because it's listed in the ingredients).  These primers help to fill in fine lines and pores.  Smashbox and Makeup For Ever each have great options. For a drugstore option, look to Revlon's PhotoReady line.  A word of warning: silicone-based primers can have the unfortunate side effect of breaking you out.  If you're new to the world of primers, I'd suggest opting for a less expensive brand or asking for a sample at your local Sephora. There are many silicone-free options as well; just be sure to check the label if you have sensitivity concerns.

Glycerin Primers

If your main goal is to ensure that your foundation looks as good at the end of the day as it does when you first apply it, look for a primer with glycerin towards the top of its ingredient list.  The glycerin helps to "grab" the foundation and keep it from separating throughout the day.  My favourite is a product that isn't even marketed as a primer: Nivea Men's Aftershave Balm in the sensitive formula. I give full credit to NikkieTutorials for this discovery.  MAC Prep and Prime Fix+ is another great option and is packaged as a convenient spray.

The Verdict?

There are definite benefits to using a primer (foundation applies more easily, makeup lasts longer, minor imperfections are blurred) but I would say that if you are looking to streamline your makeup application, this is a step that can be skipped.  If you decide to forgo primer, though, I would highly recommend ensuring that your skin is freshly moisturized as this will help to accomplish some of the same goals as the primer is intended to do.