Picture this: you’ve spent the better part of your morning routine creating a perfectly precise makeup look. You’re all set to take on the day without any touch-ups, worries or hassles. But come afternoon, you check yourself out in the mirror, and your makeup has begun migrating away from its intended areas.

Instead of skulking away and starting over, we’ve found rescue in primers. The benefits of a primer include ensuring your makeup glides on smoothly in the morning and stays in place all day. And we’ve got a winning primer formula for everyone because not everyone’s needs (or desired looks) are alike! These face primers target specific skin types with specialised finishes, giving you a selfie-ready complexion that lasts all day and wherever the night takes you.

What is a primer?

So, what does a primer do? A primer is a crucial base makeup product that can completely transform how your foundation sits. Primer can smooth out pores and create a base for long-lasting makeup while creating a barrier between makeup products and your skin. Various formulas and textures are available, so no matter what your skin type, there is an option for you.

What are the benefits of a primer?

The benefits of a primer make it an integral step in any makeup routine. Applying a primer increases the longevity of makeup by giving your foundation something to cling to.

A good skincare primer will create a smooth, even base for makeup application by concealing pores and minor imperfections while helping to control oil and shine. Some primers can also enhance your makeup and make colours more pigmented. Select primers can also provide extra skincare benefits.

Estée Lauder’s new Futurist Peptide Power Serum Primer is infused with skincare ingredients to help soothe your skin. A blend of three pearl tones immediately gives the skin a natural radiance and translucency and melts into the skin, enhancing the quality and wear of makeup.

How to apply primer?

Primer should always come after your skincare routine and before applying any makeup products. Primer works best on clean, moisturised skin. Complete your skincare routine and apply a moisturiser. Then, apply a thin layer of your chosen primer, paying extra attention to areas that tend to see a build-up of oil throughout the day. Let the primer sit for a few minutes before applying your makeup to let the benefits of the primer sink in.

Best primer for oily skin

If excess oil is your skin foe, The Mattifier Shine Control Perfecting Primer + Finisher is your friend. The velvety texture of this product instantly evens out your skin’s surface and effectively controls and eliminates oil shine, making it the best primer for oily skin. This leaves you with a smooth, mattified look that’s the perfect canvas for your foundation.

Best primer for dry skin

On the other hand, if all you want is to glow, pick up Futurist Aqua Brilliance Watery Glow Primer. This ideal primer for dry skin ensures your skin stays hydrated and your makeup looks smooth. Moisturising primers are recommended for people with dry skin, leaving your face dewy and prepped for makeup.

For another great option for dry skin, check out the Futurist Peptide Power Serum Primer. Infused with peptides, HA and caffeine to strengthen and hydrate skin for a water-plump healthy glow, it instantly awakens dull skin, giving you a lit-from-within radiance.

Best primer for mature skin

Mature skin requires some extra love and care when it comes to priming. The best primers for mature skin are hydrating and will help to moisturise the skin’s natural barrier throughout the day. The new Futurist Peptide Power Serum Primer is infused with skincare ingredients to do just that. The lightweight serum primer works overtime to build collagen while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful, plump look that lasts.

Can you wear a primer on its own?

While primer is most commonly used under makeup, you can use it alone. You can blur pores and even your skin texture with a primer for a more natural look.

Now, there’s no going back to square once you’re out the door. Priming is an easy step to include after your skincare routine and before makeup to ensure your look remains crisp and in place, no matter what the day throws your way. If you’ve been wondering, “Is primer necessary?”, try out one of Estée Lauder’s best primers and see for yourself!