CRUELTY-FREE GUIDE TO PRIMERS

You may think a primer is an unnecessary step in your already too-long skin care routine, but there's a reason why industry experts swear by them. Primers don't just smooth and brighten skin, they ensure your makeup doesn't budge and add another line of defense against skin concerns like acne, uneven texture, and fine lines. A good primer is versatile and effective, and may just be your next skincare holy grail!

1. A primer acts as a barrier between skin and makeup, settling into the "valleys" or pores of the face to create a smoother surface for makeup to go on, while also preventing oil, makeup, and dirt from getting into the pores. If you frequently breakout from clogged pores, a primer is a great way to keep your pores clear.

2. A primer allows your makeup to go on smoother and last longer, especially in extreme weather. Your face may sweat more in hot, humid climates creating a slick surface that your makeup struggles to adhere to. Or dry, cold weather can cause our skin to become dehydrated, creating an uneven surface and resulting in cakey makeup. A primer solves both issues!

3. Who says you need an 11-step skincare routine? A primer can do dual-duty as a moisturizer, color-corrector, SPF and more. Pare back your regimen with a primer that does more. Our pick? Kypris' Heliotropic Pot of Shade SPF 30.

Standard primers can be packed with unwanted ingredients like synthetics and collagen from cattle bones. Our primers use seaweed-derived collagen and everything in our shop is always non-toxic and cruelty-free.

The logic of the primer can apply to your eyes as well! A good eye primer keeps eyeshadow in place all day and will ensure any concealing or correcting under the eyes won't budge. Apply ILIA Eye Primer on your lids and under your eyes after moisturizer and before any makeup. The white base dries clear but provides a brightening effect around the eyes.

BONUS

For fat, full-on lashes, apply a lash primer like Adorn's Mineral Eyelash Primer before mascara. The formula goes on white so you can see exactly where you've placed it. When applying mascara, wiggle the brush back and forth as your sweep up and out for an even coating. Be sure any white is completely covered for that true 'false-lash' effect!