Aging is an inevitable part of life, and with that comes the effects on your skin. As your skin ages you begin to have different skincare needs. When you go through the many cycles of your skincare needs as you age, once you reach 50 it is time to start using a primer (if you aren’t already). And not just any primer, either. There are a variety of primers to choose from –mattifying, tinted, silicone-free, color-correcting.
Why Primer Is Increasing In Popularity
If you’re new to the world of primer, you aren’t alone. Primer has become increasingly popular over the last decade, especially, although many makeup artists and professionals were using it far prior. Primers have become a sensation because it smooths out the skin for a flawless look. It also helps your foundation adhere to your skin and stay for longer periods of time, some people relate it to spackle or double-sided tape when it comes to makeup essentials. What primer does, specifically, for mature skin, is that it creates a barrier so your face won’t absorb all the water in your foundation.
Why Should You Use It?
When you have mature skin, you are typically dealing with fine lines, wrinkles and dryness. As you age, your skin becomes drier. Therefore, you should opt for a primer that is lightweight. This will sit on top of the skin, much like a moisturizer, but it doesn’t penetrate into the pores. You will definitely still need a moisturizer prior to applying primer. Primer also has an illuminating effect, where it can adjust the way the light hits your skin. If you have red or uneven skin, this can be a true miracle product for you as it will even everything out and blur any red spots. Mattifying and oil-free primers can actually make your skin look more dry instead of youthful and dewlike.
With age, many people will be tempted to add layers of coverage on the skin (foundation, powder, etc.), but mature skin often fairs better with a lighter touch. When you use a primer, you’ll need less of your foundation and other makeup products because primer really makes the most of what you have on. Note, primers with silicone can actually make your make up slide, so you will definitely want to avoid those.
How To Apply
When it comes to applying primer, you will want to apply moisturizer before, and then your foundation will go after the primer. It is popular and recommended to use your fingers for an application (as if you are applying moisturizer). The natural heat from your face will melt the primer into the skin, creating an ideal canvas for makeup application. Pay special attention to any redness, fine lines or other areas that you feel could use a little extra tender loving care.
So which are the best face primers for mature skin? Here is a list of some of our favorites:
- Tatcha the Silk Canvas Primer
This buttery multi-purpose primer can go on the face, eyes and lips. It will perfect your skin and act like a balm so your makeup glides on smoothly. Why is this primer such a hit sensation? Not only does it help makeup last longer, it also protects the skin by keeping makeup from clogging pores. Tatcha uses natural ingredients like real silk, pink and gold pearl and the company’s very own anti-aging superfood trinity, this primer nurtures dull skin while concealing the appearance of pores, wrinkles and other imperfections. This is why it is one of the best primers for aging skin.
- Maybelline Master Prime
This primer is often touted as “best for the money.” While it is a drugstore brand, it can still help refine the look of your skin because it is lightweight, hydrating and it has staying power. It’s a great first primer to try out if you are just venturing into the primer world. You can test how it works with your makeup and your skin type and compare the difference when you use makeup sans primer.
- NARS Instant Line and Pore Perfector
If your goal is to smooth fine lines and reduce pore size, NARS is your best bet. Line- and pore-filling microspheres instantly smooth the skin’s surface, while hyaluronic acid spheres gently plump to fill in lines and wrinkles. It’s enriched with vitamins A, C and E to add antioxidant protection. The non-greasy formula absorbs oil and mattes out shine without drying the skin, and it comes in an angular stick to provide artistic precision and convenience. You can even use it before or after your makeup!
- Benefit Cosmetics The Porefessional Pore Primer
Another lightweight product, this primer is also one that will diminish your fine lines and this translucent formula also contains vitamin E, which helps in protecting the skin. Suitable for all skin tones, this primer can be applied under or over your makeup. It’s been popular among many ages because of its capacity to shrink pores to a great degree. Benefit is also a famous name in beauty for producing excellent quality makeup.
- Revlon Photoready Perfecting Primer
Revlon has been a well-known name in beauty for ages. This is accurately named, as it diffuses light and provides a “photo-filter” finish. This pink tinted formula will brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of imperfections. This is another great primer if you are just starting out and experimenting with primer. And it’s also pocketbook friendly.
Conclusion
If you have been a primer user for a while, or if you are just stumbling upon it now, it’s a great addition to your makeup routine and you’ll likely see a tremendous difference in the way your makeup comes out and stays on your face for so long. Like most beauty products, there is a continuum of coverage, prices, quality ingredients and more. We always recommend selecting something that is paraben- and sulfate-free. If you are unsure about a primer due to special skin conditions, definitely ask your dermatologist for advice. We hope you’ll be feeling as fabulous and flawless with any primer you choose. When you look good, you feel good!
