Create a Flawless Base Using Face Primer – Makeup 101
Today, in transgender makeup 101, we want to discuss the topic of makeup primer and why you should be using it as part of your full feminine face routine. First things first, if you haven’t been using one before then what is a face primer? A face or makeup primer is a base for your foundation that allows it to go on much smoother and also makes it last a lot longer.
Do I really need a face primer and can it improve my finished makeup?
If you ask any of your transgender or crossdresser friends if they wear makeup primer, be it in person or online, the probable response is either they haven’t tried or they don’t use it. I relate to this, when I first starting wearing makeup all I would do is apply a little moisturizer and then apply my full coverage foundation. However, since having a professional makeover a few years back, seeing the amazing difference it made to my finished makeup, I am a convert to face primer and would now never be without it.
The benefits of using a good makeup primer include; you use less foundation as it goes on much smoother and you get better coverage, it will allow foundation to ‘stay put’ even in extreme temperatures, also you can better cover dark facial hair and unsightly wrinkles. The joint layer application of primer + foundation helps you achieve a smoother and more flawless makeup finish, which thankfully means you can say goodbye to the ‘caked’ makeup look.
I now get regular compliments about my makeup, this just after having started using a good makeup face primer.
Applying makeup primer is simple and straightforward; use your fingertips for the main application and a concealer/lip brush for small areas or spots. You will find that by also using primer on your eyelids it is possible to make those fine lines and creases better disappear.
Makeup primer is available in a variety of formulas including gel, cream and powder. I don’t honestly think their is much difference in the effectiveness of the primer whichever formulation you use.
I am a convert to face primer and would now never be without it.
Makeup Tip: Primer is a lifesaver in extreme temperatures and weather, it will allow your makeup to stay put and look fresh – If you go out in the middle of a hot summers day, you wear makeup in the gym, or you go out clubbing or partying then do make sure you apply a good primer underneath your foundation.
So, if you are in search of a good makeup primer, here are my 4 personal favorites; You will find an Amazon link, listed alongside each product, I would recommend you also read their product information and take a look at the corresponding customer reviews.
Top 4 Makeup Primers:
BareMinerals Original Prime Time Foundation Primer
This is a really good makeup primer, it makes my foundation stay put all day long and gets rid of any oily patches, I do have oily skin so the Matt finish on this primer works wonders for me. You only need a really small blob of this product on your fingertip, it glides on effortlessly. I love bareMinerals and their makeup does not cost the earth.
Click for More Information (Amazon)
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer
This primer gives my skin an amazing all over glow and it applies onto my face really easily. It contains vitamins that hydrate and revitalize the skin. I always use this primer when I feel tired and need a bit of radiant glow, making me look fresh again. Laura Mercier make great makeup products and their primer range is no exception, this is good to have in your makeup bag.
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Dermalogica Skinperfect Primer SPF 30 Broad Spectrum
This is my overall favorite face primer. I am addicted to ‘Skinperfect’ as it makes my finished makeup look absolutely flawless. It makes fine lines and wrinkles almost completely disappear, allows a perfect foundation application, and can be worn on it’s own or with foundation. Girls, be warned this product is addictive in your makeup regime.
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Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
I have been using ‘SmashBox’ primer on and off for a few years, it is slightly more expensive than my other favorites. However, it is a really good overall face primer and you can get skin types & tinted colors to perfectly match your skin tone, the pink tone is great for hiding darker facial hair areas and makes your skin look really healthy. I still love this primer and always keep a tube in my makeup bag.
Click for more information (Amazon)
You may also want to take a look at our article titled ‘Create a Feminine Face with Full Coverage Foundation – Makeup 101‘ which offers advice on using and choosing full coverage foundation products.
Enjoy your makeup routine and remember to stay looking good girls 🙂
