A primer makes your makeup last a very long time, blurs fine lines, fills pores, color corrects and reduces oiliness or dryness. The newest generations of primers contain SPF; ingredients that make skin, more radiant, and have temporary plumping effects. To the uninitiated, it’s easy to find the world of primers somewhat intimidating so here is a list of the products that are going to change your beauty life.

Who needs primers?

If your skin is very oily and you have a hard time getting makeup to stay put or if foundation and concealer is a part of your daily routine, then a great facial primer could revolutionize your beauty game. If your lips chap or fine lines cause your lipstick to crack then lip primers will definitely help you.

If you want much fuller lashes, then a mascara primer is for you.  For the busy woman who is always getting photographed, a primer will keep you looking amazing in every shot.

How to use them

Primers are generally either silicon or water-based, with silicon products being the best for “filling in” for people with large pores, scars and lines and water-based primers excelling at extending wear.

Think of these as the base for your base and apply it before you apply your makeup. After washing and moisturizing your skin, apply your primer. A pea-sized drop should be ample for skin, and make sure lips and eyelids are totally covered. Once it no longer feels sticky, tacky or wet, apply your foundation/mascara/eyeshadow/lip color on top.

The primers you must have

MAC Matte

This may seem too slippery for oily skin, but don’t be fooled. This will hold your makeup in place and provide significant oil-control for hours and its lightweight formula means it won’t break you out, which is brilliant.

Clinique Lash Building Primer

Not only does this primer thicken and lengthen your eyelashes without giving you that awful spider-legged look, it also helps keep your mascara on your lashes throughout the day.

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer

If you want a multi-tasking water-based primer that will give you outrageous staying power, you cannot go past Laura Mercier’s OG formula. Unbelievably light and smooth, this vanishes into skin and holds makeup tight for practically ever and also works on eyelids and lips.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

Just like its name suggests, this primer will give you a photoshopped-in-real-life look. Fine lines are blurred, pores are smoothed, minor scars are filled in, and foundation is given a supremely velvety finish that lasts all day.

Neutrogena Shine Control Primer

This is an excellent product for those with a limited budget. Though it’s quite thick in texture, Neutrogena’s primer goes on smoothly, evening out skin and providing a fantastic base for foundation.