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Primer can also be layered with eyeshadow, lipstick, and mascara.

Meet the Experts

What Is Primer?

Latina Woman with Creamy Moisturizer Swatch on her Cheekbone

Stocksy

Makeup primer is used as a base to help improve makeup utility and finish.

Trop often opts for an all-in-one primer to minimize the number of products she uses.

We recommend using Rare Beauty Always an Optimist Illuminating Primer as an all-around primer.

Rare Beauty Always an Optimist Illuminating Primer

Rare Beauty

Rare Beauty

Do You Have to Use Primer Before Makeup?

Whether you decide to use makeup primer is at your own discretion.

However, it may be beneficial in several instances.

Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer

Benefit Cosmetics

For example, eye makeup primer can help eyeshadow stay on for long periods of time.

Primer can also be beneficial for special events.

Trop recommends Benefit CosmeticsThe POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer.A pea-sized amount is all you better create a flawless base.

MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot

MAC

Plus, it is formulated with avitamin Ederivative, which helps protect the skin.

MAC

Mascara Primer

Perreux recommends using Honest BeautyExtreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer.

It also helps hold a lash curl and prevents smudging," she says.

Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer

Honest Beauty

“Most primers for oily skin have pore-minimizing and mattifying properties.

These products work best when only applied in needed areas,” says Alise.

If you are looking to control shine, Perreux also recommends using powder or blotting papers.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Primer

Anastasia Beverly Hills

She also recommends using Makeup For EverStep 1 Primer Shine Controland MACStudio Fix Mattifine 12hr Shine-Control Primer.

In the winter, dryer skin can become even more dehydrated."

Can I Use Primer On Its Own?

Yes, you’re able to use primer without applying makeup afterward.

Color correcting primers can even help tone downrosy cheekswhen used on its own, she adds.

Does Primer Clog Pores?

It can prolong the wear of your makeup and help you reach your makeup goals more easily.