Is there really a difference in primers?

depglass · ‎03-10-2010

Outside of tinting or an SPF, how can a primer be different? Aren't they all silicone?

Lipstickdiva · ‎03-10-2010

Yes there is a difference. Primers can be mattifying and fill in pores, some are moisturizing and provide hydration, some provide a lot of slip, some are tacky and sticky.

Bottom line is not all primers are silicone.

Shanus · ‎05-17-2010

@depglass wrote:
Outside of tinting or an SPF, how can a primer be different? Aren't they all silicone?

@depglass Primers are definitely not all the same and all do not have silicone. In fact, the silicone ones sometimes cause foundations to slide instead of stay in place...not my favorites. There are mattifying primers, some are hydrating, others have a radiance built in like Laura Mercier's. If you look at the line up of primers, just the ones available by Smashbox, you'll see how many variables there are in primers. All of Bobbi Brown's moisturizers especially the Vitamin Face Base have a primer built in to save a step.

SilleeMee · ‎05-22-2016

Some sunscreen products make good primers, too, and those don't usually contain silicone either.

Lipstickdiva · ‎03-10-2010

I'm not a big primer user. Right now I am using the Rodial Soft Focus Glow Booster drops. I am only using that because it came in a Boxy Charm. I really love this product but I won't replace it at $60.00 for the bottle. I'm hoping to find something similar for cheaper.

I also use the Elemis Superfood Glow Priming Moisturizer. That is a primer and moisturizer in 1 that contains no silicone. Again, it was included in a Boxy Charm and I really like it but I won't replace at $49.00.

@SilleeMee , I do have a question since you brought up sunscreen. If I were to use a primer and sunscreen, I'm assuming I would put the sunscreen on first. How long should I wait before applying the primer so I don't disturb the sunscreen? TIA

SilleeMee · ‎05-22-2016

@Lipstickdiva wrote:

@SilleeMee , I do have a question since you brought up sunscreen. If I were to use a primer and sunscreen, I'm assuming I would put the sunscreen on first. How long should I wait before applying the primer so I don't disturb the sunscreen? TIA

@Lipstickdiva

Just make sure the sunscreen has dried to the touch and is not tacky. I use my fan.

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

My fave is Photo Shoot by smash box

CherryHugs · ‎07-21-2014

I liked the Skinn Orchid Gel primer the best. But had started using the YBF primer.

I feel it makes a difference and my foundation goes on smoother and skin looks better with a primer.

Since not wearing foundation during this pandemic I will buy new later on.

Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light. —Helen Keller

Abrowneyegirl · ‎03-15-2010

LOVE Hourglass Veil Mineral.

Hate the $$$

But it is the only primer that keeps my make-up set and in place for 12 hours plus.

I have oily/dry combo skin so make-up can disappear, break down or oxidize on my skin if I am not careful. I don't have time to fuss with powder and touch-ups so a primer it is.