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Imagine applying your makeup once in the morning and not having to touch it up all day. If you have oily skin, this probably sounds too good to be true. This is because your skin's oils can cause makeup to melt away long before the day is over. Fortunately, a silicone-based primer can be an oily skin girl’s best friend. Applying one prior to putting on make-up creates and adhesive base so that makeup lasts longer. Certain brands even control oil throughout the day.
Benefits
As if the promise of long-lasting makeup wasn’t enough, silicone-based primers can do many other things. They fill in fine lines, crevices and wrinkles to create a smooth, even surface for your skin. Primers can also help conceal blemishes and reduce shine. Depending on the brand some may offer additional benefits such SPF protection, the ability to minimize pores or the ability to fight acne.
Application
There are no tricks or hassles to applying a skin primer. Simply, start with your normal cleansing and moisturizing routine. You should wait a few minutes after applying your moisturizer to give your skin enough time to absorb it. Then, use your fingers to apply a dime sized amount of primer all over your face. Continue with your normal beauty regime from there. You should notice that your makeup goes on smoother and even provides better coverage.
Ingredients
If your skin is oily, you're likely prone to acne breakouts as well. This may leave you hesitant to put anything new on your skin. "Glamour" magazine advises that primers do not clog pores or cause breakouts. If you're still not comfortable, there are certain things you can look for on the label to ensure you're getting a silicone primer that's right for oily skin. Look for labels that say “oil-free" or “non-comedogenic.” These primers are designed for people with oily, acne-prone skin.
Where to Find
Silicone-based primers can be found just about everywhere from your local drug store to high end department stores. If you’re a beauty maven who feels comfortable choosing a product on your own, head to your local drug store to scour the labels and find the best deal. For those of you who need a little help, "InStyle" magazine named SmashBox, Photo Finish Makeup Primer the best primer in its 2011 beauty awards. The silicone-based primer is oil free. According to makeup artist, Mara Levarre, “Makeup lasts all day on top of it. Even on the most sweltering afternoons.”
