Ideal result: how to choose the right makeup base?

What is a makeup base?

A makeup base or primer is a product that makeup artists recommend applying to the skin before using foundation, after or instead of moisturizer, depending on the function of the product. Why do you need a makeup base?

• It evens out the skin texture.
• Helps achieve a perfectly even complexion.
• Moisturizes, mattifies, adds shine and hides color defects depending on the purpose.
• Ensures even distribution of foundation.
• Prolongs the durability of makeup.

Needless to say, it is extremely difficult for a makeup artist to do without such a lifesaver? As we have already said, there are several types of primers, each of which performs its own function and is suitable for a particular skin type.

Types of makeup bases

Smoothing with a natural radiance effect (Radiant). This primer is a must-have for every makeup artist - it helps hide flaking and other unevenness, while creating the effect of skin illuminated from within. It will be much easier to achieve an even shade after using such a base.

Reflective (Luminizer). This makeup base gives a pearly glow. As a result, the skin looks rested, fresh and healthy. These primers can be used locally or applied all over the face, depending on the shade and size of the shimmer particles.

Mattifying (Pore Minimizer) . This base can not only mattify the skin, but also fill and smooth out enlarged pores. After using this primer, the skin becomes silky, and the foundation applies much better. It is important to use a tone with a mattifying effect - in tandem, these two products work with the best efficiency.

Tint (Color Correcting). Such bases can neutralize unwanted pigment on the face and adjust the skin tone - making it more uniform, healthy and beautiful. Top makeup artists advise choosing translucent textures so that the result is natural. Tinted makeup bases are available in several shades: pink, green, purple, yellow and peach.

How to choose a base based on your skin type?

Normal skin. For girls with this skin type, smoothing bases with a moisturizing effect and reflective primers are great - they will provide ideal skin texture and an even tone.

Dry skin. In this case, we give preference to moisturizers that fill the skin with moisture and help retain it inside. Choose products that are light in texture, with a shiny finish if desired.

Oily skin . Makeup bases for oily skin should control sebum production and the appearance of shine. Therefore, we choose mattifying and pore-narrowing products that will help cope with the problems inherent in this skin type. Often, such beauty products add ingredients that “block” inflammation - ideal if your skin is acne-prone.

Combination skin. If the client has combination skin, a mattifying primer should be applied to the T-zone. The rest of the face can be treated with a smoothing base, especially if longevity of the makeup is important.

To understand this topic even better, we asked practicing makeup artist Evgenia Elisova for feedback on makeup bases.

Evgenia Elisova , professional Makeup Artist & Stylist, works with such stars as Jamala, Laura Marti, Yasya Minochkina, Yulia Magdych, Mira, Maria Yastremskaya

The main task of a makeup base is to improve the adhesion of the foundation to the skin. Soft and smooth skin allows the tone to glide on and distribute evenly.

To easily apply the tone, the base should be chosen based on your skin type. Mattifying makeup bases are presented in the form of gels or dense mousses. Mainly used in the T-zone. They contain magnesium, which tightens pores and stops the secretion of sebum.

There is another category of primers that contain shimmering particles - they reflect daytime and evening light. The effect on the skin is visible immediately: it takes on a moist appearance, and a highlight is clearly visible on the highest points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, brow ridges). Bases with shimmering particles are most often used to create the effect of healthy, glowing skin. This base can be applied independently or added to the tone.

In my work I use very light makeup bases. The less primer and tone there are on the skin, the longer the makeup lasts. After applying the base, wait 3-5 minutes, then apply foundation - this will make the primer work more effectively.

To soften the skin, I use Tolerian Ultra Moisturize from La Roche-Posay. For light hydration, Guerlain's L'or Radiance Concentrate base is ideal. Both products are quickly absorbed and do not leave a sticky layer on the skin. My latest find for creating the effect of glowing skin is Pupa Glow Obsession Highlighter: I add a liquid fluid with shimmering particles to the tone. When it comes to mattifying products, I like the way Revlon Photo ready Prime+Antishine balm works. I apply this dense mousse both on top of the tone and on the T-zone before applying foundation.