December 19, 2011   ∗   4 Responses   ∗   by marie

Three Popular Primers from Benefit Cosmetics

Many people fall into two camps: those who believe in the power of primers, and those who don’t. If you’re a member of that second category, I’d recommend reconsidering — especially if you want to look your best in all those upcoming holiday photos!

As many a makeup professional will tell you, the foundation for any great makeup look (and for transforming into your most photogenic self), is healthy, flawless skin. But for those of us not born with the complexion of a Victoria’s Secret supermodel, primers can swoop in to save the day. My current faves are by Benefit Cosmetics, which come in quirky, retro packaging and are easy to use.

On the days I look in the mirror and realize my skin looks dull and pale, the “That Gal” Brightening Face Primer is the one I reach for. It comes in a stick, and I twist the bottom to force a tiny amount of product through the grid at top. Then I use my fingers to apply it to my face, smoothing upward and outward. The formula is pretty light and adds some subtle radiance, providing that extra something to make me look and feel more awake. In the future, though, I hope Benefit changes the packaging to a tube, because using a stick to dispense a product that’s more of a liquid than a semi-solid doesn’t make a ton of sense to me. Also, if you have a pinkish complexion to start, this may not be the best option, as the formula is already slightly pink. Otherwise, this adds some much-needed color to my face, and I prefer not to apply anything over it for a fresh, natural look.

On days my skin needs a lot more help, however, I use Benefit’s The POREfessional. This little beauty came to me as a sample and instantly hooked me. First, it’s oil-free and doesn’t make my skin look greasy. Second, it’s silky, so my makeup glides on without caking. And third, the formula acts as a kind of filler, minimizing the appearance of pores and evening out my skin tone, blemishes and all. I do recommend still applying a moisturizer first, since its absorbing qualities might further dry out already dry skin. And I also recommend washing your face extra thoroughly when removing the product to prevent a breakout the next day.

My No. 1 favorite Benefit primer, though, is Dr. Feelgood. It’s a balm that comes in a little tin as with an application pad and has a very light but very pleasant scent. (My boyfriend even likes the way it smells.) Occasionally, I smooth Dr. Feelgood on underneath my regular makeup; it’s less heavy-duty than The POREfessional, but still mattifies my skin and reduces the appearance of pores somewhat.But more frequently, I use this after I’ve already applied my makeup, cheek color and all.
If you press the balm onto your skin, it really sets your makeup and will keep it perfect the whole day. (Soon-to-be-brides, take note!)

If you want to try out two of Benefit’s primers for a low investment, the brand has made available a cute combination set called One Prime Day, available exclusively through Sephora, and which contains The POREfessional, “That Gal,” and Stay Don’t Stray, an eye makeup primer that works all around your eyes to protect not only your eyeshadow, but your concealer too.