Do the Best Primers Make a Difference? A Guide to K-Beauty and J-Beauty Primers
For those who strive for flawless makeup application, the debate over primers rages on. Do these products make a difference, or are they another marketing trick?
What are primers?
Primers are makeup products applied to the face before foundation, concealer, and other products. They come in various textures, from lightweight lotions to silky gels, and serve multiple purposes.
Primers minimise the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, creating a smoother surface for makeup application. These makeup products help your makeup last longer throughout the day by creating a barrier between the skin and makeup,
Oil-control primers are a lifesaver for oily skin, absorbing excess sebum and preventing makeup from melting or becoming patchy. Some primers have a tint that evens skin tone and neutralises redness or sallowness.
Do you need a primer?
The truth is primers aren't essential for everyone. If you have naturally dry skin and your makeup applies well without budging, you might be able to skip them.
However, primers are a game-changer for oily skin, large pores, or concerns about makeup longevity.
Here's a breakdown of who might benefit most from using primers:
- Oily skin: Primers with mattifying properties control shine and keep makeup in place.
- Large pores: Primers can fill in pores, creating a smoother appearance.
- Uneven skin texture: Primers minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes.
- Dry skin: While some primers are mattifying, others are formulated to be hydrating. Choose a hydrating primer if you have dry skin.
- Long-lasting makeup: If you want your makeup to last all day, a primer can be a great way to achieve that.
How to use a primer like a pro
Getting the most out of your primer comes down to proper application:
Start with a clean, moisturised face. A pea-sized primer is usually enough for the entire face. Apply too much, and you risk creating a barrier that prevents makeup from adhering properly.
Dot the primer onto your forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. Use a beauty blender or brush to dab and blend the product outwards in circular motions. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying your foundation. This usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute.
Top primers for different needs
Korean and Japanese primers focus on achieving a dewy, natural-looking complexion. Here are some of the best primers for various concerns:
- For a radiant glow: HEIMISH Artless Glow Base is a lightweight, water-based primer that leaves a dewy finish and subtle radiance, perfect for dry or normal skin types.
- For oily skin: INNISFREE No Sebum Blur Primer is a mattifying primer that controls shine and conceals pores. Its gel texture feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin.
- For pore minimisation: A'PIEU Start Up Pore Primer is a popular choice for those with large pores. This primer has a slightly thicker consistency that fills in pores and creates a smooth base for makeup.
- For hydration: J-beauty CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel is a weightless, water-based primer that hydrates the skin and leaves a dewy, radiant finish. It's perfect for those with normal or dry skin.
- For colour correction: Korean brand NUMBUZIN offers No.3 Porcelain Base-Skip Tone Up Beige. This multi-tasking primer evens skin tone, corrects redness, and provides a brightening effect.
Primers can make a difference
While primers aren't a magic solution for flawless skin, they enhance your makeup application, making it last longer. You can choose the proper primer to achieve the desired results by understanding your skin type and makeup needs.
Whether you're looking for a dewy glow or a flawless, matte finish, the K-beauty and J-beauty worlds offer a variety of primers to elevate your makeup routine. Remember, a little experimentation goes a long way.
Please note, that while primers help makeup last longer, setting powders or setting sprays, such as SKINFOOD Peach Cotton Multi Finish Powder, are still vital to lock everything in place, especially for oily skin or long days.
Primers are a valuable tool in your makeup arsenal. By understanding their benefits, how to use them effectively, and exploring the vast options available in Korean and Japanese makeup products, you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting makeup look that complements your unique skin type and makeup goals.
