Can I Wear Primer by Itself?
Primers are a great way to make your makeup last all day and apply more evenly. However, there are benefits to using a primer on its own too.
Primers are often packed with nutrients and SPF to protect the skin plus additional ingredients to help manage skin concerns. Find out why it's a good idea to wear primer alone for a finished, natural look.
Boost natural radiance
An illuminating primer such as M.A.C Cosmetics Strobe Cream, can add a natural-looking glow to your skin, even if you aren't wearing foundation on top.
M.A.C Cosmetics Strobe Cream
A lightweight formula that promotes luminosity and radiance. This brightening face cream is infused with antioxidants, botanicals and nutrient-rich vitamins. Designed to banish dull, flat or tired skin, this unique brightening moisturiser will smooth, improve clarity and hydrate skin. Available in pink, peach, silver and gold, this cream can be used on all skin types.
Control oily skin
A mattifying primer helps to control oil and reduce shine, whether you wear makeup or not. We recommend MAKE UP FOR EVER Shine Control Primer.
MAKE UP FOR EVER Shine Control Primer 30ml
Tame the shine to keep your makeup looking flawless throughout the day. MAKE UP FOR EVER Shine Control Primer reduces the appearance of pores, evening out the skin tone while preventing shine from making an appearance throughout the day.
Hydrate dry skin
Whilst you can pack your skincare routine with hydrating products, there's no harm in using a moisturising primer for that extra kick. Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base is packed with moisture-rich ingredients and vitamins to condition dehydrated skin.
Available in 50ml and 15ml, this best-selling formula contains vitamins C and E to help pretect the skin. Carrot extract and vitamin A complex to help smooth out and minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Add a natural-looking tint
Tinted primers can soften the look of hyperpigmentation and even out skin tones. We recommendDermalogica Age Smart Skinperfect Primer SPF30
Provides minimal coverage and smooths skin's texture for a flawless but natural finish. Plus broad-spectrum protection to keep skin safe from those harsh UV rays!
Even eyelid discolourations with a tinted eye shadow primer
If you prefer to skip coloured eye shadow, you can use a tinted eyelid primer to even out your eyelids for a fuss-free, no-makeup look. theBalm Put A Lid On It Eyelid Primer combats redness with yellow hues and make your eyes look refreshed.
theBalm Put A Lid On It Eyelid Primer 11.8ml
Light reflecting particles help brighten and enhance the skin creating a smooth, smudge-proof canvas.
Condition your lashes
It's always important to be gentle around your eye area. Frequent mascara use and removal can weaken eyelashes. Use a conditioning lash primer to nourish and strengthen lashes even on no-mascara days. Tinted lash primers such as Benefit They're Real! Tinted Eyelash Primer also provide subtle definition and colour.
With a light and nourishing formula this lash primer lifts, seperates and conditions to maximise lash definition. Available in two sizes
Are there any primers I should avoid wearing alone?
Whilst there won't be any negative side effects of using any primer on its own, certain products are intended to work specifically with makeup. You won't necessarily benefit from wearing these primers alone. This goes double for primers with SPF - make sure you're wearing proper sunscreen underneath them, because even with a primer with a high SPF level, you're probably not applying enough to get the full sun protective benefit.
Primers formulated solely to ease makeup application and extend its wear offer little benefit to the skin. If you're using a primer on its own, it's best to use one that has its own additional perks.
