The Truth Is: 12 Honest Answers To The Top Questions About Makeup Base

Previously, this product could only be found in the cases of makeup artists, from which it is easy to conclude that the base (primer or makeup base) is the foundation of a "high-quality" make-up. It evens out the surface of the skin, facilitating the subsequent application of decorative products ─ creamy textures fall on the base like clockwork, and dry ones shade better ─ and prolongs the durability of makeup.

Today the database has become a more democratic product - for this we thank not only advertising, but also the significantly expanded functionality. The primer not only evens out the texture of the skin and "fixes" the cosmetics, but also gives a matte finish, corrects the color, "highlights" from the inside, and protects from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Why are there different bases?

They differ depending on the application.

The base for the face serves as the basis for makeup, especially for "complex" and persistent, but sometimes it can, on the contrary, lighten it, avoiding the application of foundation. If there are no tangible visual imperfections of the skin, the primer is still not a corrector or concealer! - pigmented bases of "standard" beige shades will help to bring the tone to perfection. If desired, supplement the product with a loose or compact powder finish.
If you like to experiment with color - wearing bright lipstick or colorful eye makeup - use a lip and / or eyelid primer. It enhances color saturation and prolongs its "wear" (shadows during the day will not roll down in the folds of the eyelid, and the matte coating on the lips will not be eaten within the next couple of hours).
Finally, the base for the lashes (usually white or transparent) prepares them for the application of mascara: lengthens, helps to fix the bend, "disciplines" the next layer of mascara (prevents prints on the eyelids, smudges and crumbles).

Can you replace a day cream with a base?

Hardly. Despite the fact that a lot of useful components can be found in the primer - plant extracts, vitamins, minerals, moisturizing agents - we must not forget that silicones are one of its main components. They easily cope with the "roughness" of the epidermis and provide the necessary long-term adhesion to the components of decorative cosmetics, but at the same time can dry the skin. Therefore, forgetting to apply a moisturizer after your morning wash is still not worth it.

How to choose a base?

Choose a primer according to your skin type and needs. A dense mattifying primer on dry or dehydrated skin (even a greasy type may differ in this feature) will coarse and “heavier” the makeup ─ highlighting all fine wrinkles and peeling, it will also create a feeling of discomfort due to excessive density. For such skin, products with maximum moisturizing and nourishing qualities, for example, light fluids or oily textures, will be relevant. On the other hand, for skin with a tendency to oily content, foundations with a mattifying effect are suitable - they absorb excess sebum well and eliminate oily sheen, prolonging the durability of the makeup.

Which texture is best?

It all depends on the individual characteristics and needs.

The creamy base is the most versatile. It is moderately dense and, if it contains toning pigments, can cope with masking minor skin imperfections (freckles, age spots, dilated blood vessels). Cream bases include BB and CC creams - they not only work to eliminate visible skin imperfections and prepare it for makeup, but also provide care.
A gel base is a good option for oily skin. It promises a light and "fresh" finish that - this is important above all - does not clog pores. It is often gel textures that have a matting effect.
Fluid is the most "liquid" base structure. Usually fluids are either slightly pigmented or do not contain any pigments. This texture is optimal for normal to dry skin without any serious imperfections.
The base in the form of a stick or a pencil is a traditional "story" for the eyelids and lips (for these areas a creamy consistency is also possible).

When should you apply the primer?

Makeup artists insist that you can do this immediately after applying the day cream, without waiting for it to be completely absorbed. Classically it is considered that you need to be patient for 15 minutes. Try both options and choose the one that is comfortable for you.

How to do it correctly?

Everything is simple here - like any other product "for the face", along massage lines, moving from the center to the periphery. You can use a brush, sponge, or your own fingers for this. The brush will provide a dense coverage (optimal for an evening rich make-up), a wet sponge - lighter, fingers - the most natural and natural (just do not rub the base into the skin, but as if "imprint" with light patting movements).

How much product is needed?

Focus on the volume that you usually use for tonal coverage (on average, this is a couple of taps with the dispenser). In case of a deficiency, the product will become stained, and the excess is likely to roll down and increase the risk that the makeup will quickly "float".

What is the color base for?

The tint base is a corrective product designed to solve the problems of skin tone (redness, yellowing and even "graying"). There is no need to be afraid of a color that may seem quite bright: when applied, a green, white or purple primer does not stain the skin, but only gives it a slight shade when merged. These products work on the principle of neutralizing color, so remember the drawing lessons.

The greenish undertone conceals redness and inflammation well.
Yellow pigment copes well with bruises.
Blue masks age spots and freckles.
The pink shade refreshes a dull gray complexion well and hides traces of fatigue.
Purple primer is suitable for correcting yellowish (or very tanned) skin.
White best brightens the skin by preparing it for tone application.

When do we use a pearlescent base?

With the help of a pigmented base with shimmery particles, you can give the skin the effect of a soft glow and “glow from the inside” (this is the main component of the continuing popularity of strobing). But in order to avoid the vulgar effect of oily sheen (and not to clog the pores), you need to use pearlescent primers carefully: it is better to do it in dosage - on those areas that you want to "highlight".

How often can the base be applied?

There are no strict restrictions (makeup artists have nothing against its daily use), but keeping in mind the "silicone" composition, it is better not to abuse it. So the need for a primer in a daily cosmetic bag is a matter of purely individual preferences. An important clarification: "basic" makeup should not remain on the face for more than 10 hours and, of course, one should not forget about the double (every morning and every night) ritual of cleansing and moisturizing the skin of the face ─ with or without a base.

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