To prime or not to prime before I apply foundation …this is the question? I often wonder if it’s absolutely necessary to splash out and buy a good primer in order for my makeup to stay longer and look better. I asked celebrity “green” makeup artist Geoffrey Roderiguez about his thoughts on the matter.
Sophie: Do we really need to use one?:
Geoffrey: Not necessarily. While primers can be effective to keep make up from disappearing/absorbing, I personally don’t feel that they are always necessary. Primers do work well to fill in larger pores and facial lines, and if you need to maintain make up longer, then they are absolutely ideal. Otherwise and generally speaking – skin that is properly exfoliated and hydrated is far more important.
Sophie: What about using a primer under mineral powder foundation?
Geoffrey: That shouldn’t be a problem however the primer must be allowed to set before applying mineral powder.
Sophie: What are the ingredients you look for in a good primer?
Geoffrey: Aloe Vera gel, jojoba oil, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Sophie: What are the ingredients you avoid in a good primer?
Geoffrey: Silicon, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, benzenes and urea.
Sophie: Finally, if I want my face to go naked when I’m not working, would you recommend a BB creme? If so, which brands are your favorites, and why?
Geoffrey: I highly recommend BB creams for the simple fact that they contain many of the same ingredients as primers do but are sheer and luminous which in my mind looks more natural and radiant and the best way to go for everyday beauty. Currently, I am absolutely loving Pacifica’s BB (and CC) Cream as well as Jane Iredale’s Glow Time BB Cream.
