What Is a Makeup Primer and Do You Really Need It?

Whether you like to apply a full face of makeup every day or prefer a more simplistic approach to beauty, primer may be the best new addition to your makeup bag. If you’re someone who completely skips the use of primer, you’re not alone! In most cases, we either aren’t sure how to use it or just don’t think that we need it. To get more specifics on the importance of primer, we spoke with Nashville-based makeup artist Chelsea Reynolds, who creates looks for fashion, beauty and special events.

What Is a Makeup Primer?

A makeup primer is a cream, gel or liquid designed to create a smooth base for your makeup. Just like your foundation, it comes in a variety of finishes---dewy, satin or matte---and works to fill in pores, absorb excess oil and even out your skin texture so your foundation goes on smoother, appears more natural and lasts much longer. Some makeup primers offer a little bit of coverage for minor skin imperfections, while some deliver additional skin care benefits like hydration, anti-aging and sun protection to enhance your skin over the long term.

Primers, however, don't just apply to foundation---and they go beyond makeup. Here are the different types of primers, what exactly they do and why you need them.

3. jane iredale PureLash Extender and Conditioner (0.3 oz.)

jane iredale PureLash Extender and Conditioner (0.3 oz.)

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If you’re looking for stronger, thicker lashes (aren’t we all?), eyelash primer is a great choice for you. Eyelash primer lengthens your lashes, and, in some cases, can also stimulate lash growth. It also creates a nice base for your mascara to grab onto, making it last longer. Reynolds says, "I love eyelash primer because it is great for conditioning lashes and getting them ready for mascara." To enhance your lashes from root to tip, we recommend PureLash Extender and Conditioner by jane iredale.

4. Smith & Cult Basecoat - Basis of Everything (0.5 fl. oz.)

Smith & Cult Basecoat - Basis of Everything (0.5 fl. oz.)

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Primer is not just for perfecting our makeup. Primer can also be a game changer for our nails. This multi-use product helps our polish stay on longer and protects our nails from chipping. “I love nail primer because it helps strengthen my nails and protect them from the polish, so there isn't any discoloration,” says Reynolds. Our favorite long-lasting nail primer is Smith & Cult's Basis of Everything.

5. R+Co TWISTER Curl Primer 5 oz

R+Co TWISTER Curl Primer 5 oz

21 reviews

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A hair primer creates a barrier to help protect hair from heat styling, humidity and more. “Hair primers are great for creating an additional layer of protection,” explains Reynolds. She also recommends using a hair primer to “minimize heat or chemical damage.” Some hair primers, like TWISTER Curl Primer from R+Co, will also add moisture and definition to your hair while protecting it from heat damage.