It’s midday, and you’re wondering why your foundation and blush have disappeared from your face. Maybe your issue is makeup that’s settled into your skin’s fine lines, giving your makeup a cracked look. The solution: It’s time to prime. Here are a few foundation primers that will correct these problems and more.
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light: This primer is oil-free, so it’s great for oily, acne-prone or sensitive skin. Vitamin C and peptides even out the skin tone as well as promote collagen production. This primer absorbs quickly and leaves the skin with a matte finish. It’s 60 percent water, so it doesn’t have that slippery feel you get from silicone-based primers. Smashbox was founded by the great-grandsons of Max Factor, who’s known as the father of modern makeup. It’s no surprise that Dean and Davis Factor are following in their great-grandfather’s footsteps.
Product price: $36.00
Available at Smashbox online, Sephora, Nordstorms and Ulta
Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primers: These colorful primers are designed to even out your skin tone. The apricot-colored primer is a blend that conceals under-eye circles, veins and sunspots. The green-colored primer is a corrector that minimizes any redness on the face. The lavender-colored primer is a color balance that neutralizes the sallowness in yellow skin tones.
Product price: $38.00
Available at Smashbox online, Sephora and Nordstroms
Nars Makeup Primer: This lightweight gel-cream primer absorbs quickly; it contains natural botanicals that reduce the appearance of redness. It’s a great product for men who suffer from redness after shaving. The French-born Francois Nars started his career as a makeup artist, working with top magazines such as American Vogue, Italian Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Elle. Women everywhere covet his successful cosmetic company. I am a personal fan of his Orgasm blush.
Product price: $33.00
Available at Sephora and Nordstroms