Actress Marion Cotilard and her stunning skin. Photo: Getty
The latest priming products to hit the market are just as big on concealing imperfections, like redness, dullness and enlarged pores, as they are helping your face paint to glide on and stay put. Here are three to suit every budget.
1. Maybelline NY Dream Smooth Primer, $15.95.
What they say: It’s the latest installment to Maybelline’s biggest selling makeup range, the Dream line. In keeping true to the collection, it boasts a weightless gel texture that promises to help lock in moisture and mask flaws, without it looking like you’re wearing any makeup at all.
What we say: If you’re new to primer, bring your lunch from home on Monday and spend your money where it matters: on this pocket-rocket. The gel formula not only glides on in next to no time, but a little goes a long way so the pot will last you through winter, and then some.
2. Almay Smart Shade Perfect & Correct Primer, $25.95.
What they say: More than just a pretty face, the intricate swirl design is made up of a green ribbon that focuses on neutralising redness, while the lilac thread works to brighten the skin for a more even-looking complexion. Plus, it’s oil and fragrance-free to boot.
What we say: Yes, it’s hydrating, but the real hook is the colour-correcting technology which essentially helps to cut down on the amount of product, like concealer and foundation, that’s needed to cover up imperfections. The instant brightening benefit of the lavender serum also makes it especially handy for masking dark circles around the eye area.
3. Estee Lauder Illuminating Perfecting Primer, $48.
What they say: It’s packed with soft-reflection optics that help to bounce light off the skin to minimise the appearance of pores and uneven skin tone, while Vitamin E, shea butter and rice bran extract helps to keep the skin feeling hydrated and soft.
What we say: The Prada of primers. The beauty of this product is that unlike most creamy-based primers, it manages to hydrate without feeling greasy or thick. Although it’s dewy, it doesn’t look overly shimmery on, which means you can get away with wearing it under a matte foundation without it interfering with the finish.
Hot tip: “Use your foundation brush to apply your primer after moistursing and make sure you give the product plenty of time to settle before starting on your makeup,” advises makeup artist Fern Madden.
