Reader Q&A: Do I really need a makeup primer?

Posted 05/09/11 at 03:34PM by Audrey Fine

This week's reader-submitted question comes to us from Angie R. from Arizona who wants to know whether she really needs a makeup primer?

Well Angie, that all depends on your complexion. As celebrity makeup artist Molly Stern says, "Not everyone needs a primer but if you have texture issues (bumps, wrinkles, acne, scars, etc.), it can help smooth your skin and provide a better canvas for the rest of your makeup."

Primer also works to keep your makeup on longer and control excess oil, minimizing the need for touch-ups. Apply it with a dry makeup sponge after your moisturizer has fully absorbed and then move on to your foundation or tinted moisturizer.

Some primers (like Murad Hybrids Skin Perfecting Primer -- Dewy Finish, $35) have color in them so you can opt not to use foundation.

Hope that information helps clarify things for you Molly and, if you want to submit a question, you can do it on the My Beauty Life main page. And, if you're wondering how all those celeb types manage to look great with "no makeup" on, you'll want to know all about mastering the no-makeup makeup look.

And the survey says...

1-6 of 7 Comments

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Posted by taryn.romero on 10/06/11 at 11:49am

I love primer, it really helps everything stay in place.

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Posted by andra_stefania on 06/27/11 at 10:52am

doesn't it feel too heavy under foundation? seems like a lot of layers to add to your skin.

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Posted by kitty317 on 05/25/11 at 09:52am

I def. need a primer because i have almost all those imperfections (minus the wrinkles) and i do see that it helps my foundation look a lot more flawless..

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Posted by AmandaAmanda on 05/22/11 at 04:21pm

great advice, i have texture issues and victoria secret primer is a must for me. it makes a big difference!

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Posted by BellezzaBeauty on 05/22/11 at 12:20pm

As a girl with very oily skin and uneven texture, I find that primer is a must.

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Posted by LipglossandSpandex on 05/17/11 at 08:13pm

I used to think I needed primer, but I really just needed a better foundation. I haven't found a primer that works for me.

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