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Are Primers a Necessity or Just an Extra Step?

Are Primers a Necessity or Just an Extra Step?

Nov 14, 2022

Reine Africaine

If you have ever gotten your makeup done by a makeup artist. I’m sure you may have wondered why they religiously put on this product before applying foundation. The product is called a face primer. Primers come in various formulas and may appear to be milky or clear and thick or lightweight.
 

In this post:

  • What is a primer?
  • Why primers are a must
  • Types of face primers
  • Our top picks 

What is a primer?
First of all, it is important for us to note that there are different types of primers. 
The main goal of a primer is to make the particular product applied over it last 
longer. There are primers used as the base for foundation, eyeshadow and
lipstick. In this article, we are focusing on face primers. Face primers are usually applied after moisturisers and just before the foundation. It is part of the ‘skin  prep’ stage. Here are 4 benefits of face primers:

  • Helps foundation last longer 
  • Smooths the surface of the skin
  • Makes the skin tone even
  • Reduces the appearance of pores 

Still not convinced?
Well, we have got expert advice for you, and this just may be what convinces you to never forget to use primers. 

 Why primers are a must ?
Have you ever wondered how makeup artists achieve that flawless finish and the skin work
looks so clean? According to Nigerian makeup artist, Doyin Adunfe (@doyinadunfe onInstagram), the ‘skin prep’ stage is the explanation for that. She stated that your skincare routine is important when it comes to makeup, and the ‘skin prep’ stage is an extension of the everyday routine. 
This additional step is what will take your makeup game to another level. There are different types of face primers. Choosing a primer is down to your skin type as well as makeup goals. 

Do you like a dewy finish or a matte finish? Is your skin naturally dry?These are the questions to ask yourself when looking for the perfect primer to get what we call the ‘makeup artist beat’. That is a makeup beat that will have friends thinking you got your makeup done professionally. 

                
Types of face primers
     1. Mattifying primer
Mattifying primers are used to reduce the appearance of pores and reduce oil. It is suitable for individuals with oily skin.
     2. Hydrating primer
 Hydrating primers add that extra hydration to the face, whilst also providing a
smooth surface for the skin. It is suitable for individuals with dry skin.
     3. Pore reducing primer
Pore reducing primers are focused solely on reducing large pores. These primers are usually silicone based.Now that you know the different face primers. Here are three primers to try today:

                                 Zaron Face Primer (₦6,150.00)

The Zaron face primer is for normal to combination skin. If you are still wondering what your skin type is check this out The Ultimate Guide To Different Skin Types – www.reineafricaine.com. It has more of a matte finish. What we love about this primer is the size. It is 40ML and perfect for jetsetters to carry on the plane.

                          Yanga Beauty Prym Matte (₦5,500.00)

This is a light weight, transparent, gel based primer with a silky texture that glides into your skin smoothly and effortlessly. It leaves your skin matte.What we love it because it is lightweight, therefore your face doesn’t feel too heavy before applying the other products.

                            Tara Mattifying Face Primer (₦3,300.00)

The Tara Mattifying face primer is silicon based, and also leaves the skin matte. It helps the makeup last longer. What we love about this primer is how affordable it is. It is important to note that most Nigerian makeup brands only produce mattifying primers. This is due to the weather, the heat in tropical countries means that you are prone to sweat more. Mattifying primer is more effective in preventing makeup from shifting.