Prime Time

After you've cleansed, exfoliated and appropriately moisturized around your eyes, face and neck, what do you do next? Will you apply your favorite make-up? What about a make-up primer? What is it and why should you use it? I first discovered primers a few years back. This is a product that you apply BEFORE you apply your foundation, eye shadow, blush and finishing touches. It is usually a clear substance made up of botanical elements in a silicon base that glides on over your face to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, your primer will help to set your make-up for the day giving it much less chance to melt away. This is especially good in the hot summer months.
Primers do not come cheaply, but thankfully, a little goes a long way so a full-size bottle can last quite a few months. My favorite primer is Smashbox Photo Finish. It sells for $36 at Sephora or you can purchase in at QVC or QVC.com. If you go to Sephora.com, and type in primer, you will see four pages of various brands pop up. Paula Dorf is a very poplular brand as well as Estee Lauder's primer. The best buy at Sephora though is it's very own brand selling for $12.00. This particular primer will also has a slight rosey glow which is not only great for under your foundation to make it pop just a little, but is great all by itself if you are in a rush to get out the door, but don't want to go out bare faced. It's truly a bargain!