It’s the start of a new quarter, and the last thing any of us busy girls needs to worry about is coming home at the end of a long day to find that our makeup has not survived the day. So what is the key to keeping your makeup looking fresh and fabulous even after a grueling day of class and work? It’s simple: primer, primer, primer! Foundation and eye shadow primers help create a smooth canvas for the application of product and are crucial in making your makeup last as long as your hectic day!
For those unfamiliar with primers, it might seem like an unnecessary waste of time and money, but I can assure you they are worth every penny. Since virtually every brand at Sephora has their own kind of primer, it can be overwhelming to know what to try. I’ve narrowed down some of the best products to guide you in the right direction.
Smashbox Iconic Photo Finish Foundation Primer, $36
Smashbox’s original formula is a classic primer, and you can’t go wrong with it. They have other variations as well, from color-correcting to sensitive skin formulas. Amidst a sea of brands and types of primers, this one is a safe bet. Apply after moisturizing and before foundation, letting it set for 5-10 minutes, or however long you have to spare while running around and getting ready for class. Then apply your foundation and you are good to go.
Sephora Collection Perfecting Ultra-Smoothing Primer, $15
Sephora’s own brand makes a primer that I have used for quite some time after not wanting to pay the big bucks. It is clearly modeled off of the Smashbox product, with formulas for sensitive skin. At just $15, it is a steal. Apply the same way, before foundation and after moisturizing.
Tarte BB Tinted Treatment 12-Hour Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $34
For those who like more coverage, Tarte’s BB Tinted Primer is a great and unique option. Not only does it provide light coverage and SPF before you even apply foundation, Sephora’s website says it can be “worn alone or as the perfect base for makeup” and that the “12-hour, age-defying, oil-free primer offers light-to-medium, buildable coverage that helps even skintone and other skin imperfections.” Just make sure to use a good moisturizer before, as I have noticed it can accentuate dry patches on the skin.
Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray, $14
This setting spray is perfect for keeping your makeup looking fresh and in place all day or night, and is great to use before a special event when you really need your makeup to stay put. The smaller size is just $14 and lasts quite a long time when used just for special occasions! Spray your face 2-4 times once your makeup — both face and eyes — is completely done.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, Original, $20
Now for the eyes! Never again will your eye shadow fade by the end of the night or crease — Urban Decay’s Primer Potion is the holy grail of eye primers and will change your life if you’re not used to using one. Apply to clean eyelids before any eye shadow or liner, and you’re good to go for the whole day!
Time for a trip to Sephora!