Whether you’re a makeup pro or starting, you probably know that primers and moisturizers are musts for a flawless face. However, you might need to determine if primer or moisturizer should come first in your beauty routine.
While you can be flexible about when you apply some cosmetics, these two are different. It would help if you took care to achieve perfection when dealing with them. Follow along if you’re ready to determine whether primer or moisturizer should come first in your beauty routine.
Should You Apply Primer or Moisturizer First?
When applying primer and moisturizer, the general rule is to apply products in the order of thinnest to thickest consistency. This means that you should apply your moisturizer before anything else. This allows the moisturizer to hydrate the skin and create a smooth surface for the primer to work more effectively.
By applying moisturizer first, you are creating a hydrated and smooth base for your primer. This allows the primer to adhere to the skin better, making it effective in creating smooth canvas for makeup application. Additionally, applying primer on top of a moisturizer will help lock in the hydration and nourishment provided by the moisturizer.
If you have dry skin, you may want to apply a more moisturizing primer, or even a hydrating mist, before applying a moisturizer. This will help you lock in the moisture and hydration the moisturizer provides.
In summary, moisturizer should be applied first, and then anything else, to create a smooth and hydrated base for makeup application.
How Long To Wait Between Moisturizer And Primer?
After applying moisturizer, you should wait a few minutes for it to fully absorb into the skin before applying anything else. This allows the moisturizer to hydrate the skin and create a smooth surface for the primer to adhere to, making it more effective.
Typically, you should wait at least 2-3 minutes after applying moisturizer before applying anything else. It is important not to rush the process and let the moisturizer fully absorb into the skin before applying the primer to ensure that the skin is properly hydrated and primed for makeup application.
If you apply the primer too soon, it may not adhere properly, and you may not get the full benefits of the primer. On the other hand, if you wait too long, the moisturizer may dry, and the primer won’t adhere properly.
Additionally, If you have dry skin, apply a more moisturizing primer or a hydrating mist before applying a moisturizer. This will help you lock in the moisture and hydration the moisturizer provides.
Hydrating Primer vs. Moisturizer
A hydrating primer and a moisturizer serve similar but different purposes in a skincare routine.
It is formulated to hydrate the skin and create a smooth surface for makeup application. They contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera that help lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated throughout the day. Some of them have added benefits, such as filling fine lines and wrinkles and controlling oil production.
On the other hand, a moisturizer is used to hydrate and nourish the skin. Moisturizers are designed to lock in moisture and make the skin feel soft and supple. Moisturizers can also provide other benefits, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and protecting the skin from environmental damage.
Can I Use a Moisturizer As a Primer?
Technically, you can use moisturizer as a primer, but it may not be as effective as a specific primer. Moisturizers and primers are two different products with different functions and formulations.
A primer is specifically designed to create a smooth surface for makeup application and to help makeup last longer. It contains silicones, dimethicone, and other polymers that fill fine lines and wrinkles and create a smooth base for makeup.
On the other hand, a moisturizer is designed to hydrate and nourish the skin. While moisturizers can help create a smooth surface for makeup application, they are not formulated to provide the same benefits as primers. Moisturizers may not fill in fine lines and wrinkles and may not help makeup last as long as a primer would.
Additionally, using a moisturizer as a primer may not provide the adequate hydration that the skin needs and may leave the skin feeling dry and tight.
Is Primer The Same As Moisturizer?
No, they are not the same. A primer is a product applied before makeup to help create a smooth surface to adhere to and help makeup last longer. They can also have other benefits, such as filling fine lines and wrinkles and controlling oil production.
On the other hand, you can use a moisturizer to hydrate and nourish the skin. It helps to lock in moisture, making the skin feel soft and supple. It also helps to protect the skin from environmental damage and can provide other benefits, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
While they are both important for maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance, they serve different purposes and you should use both of them as part of a comprehensive skincare routine.
How to Prime and Moisturize Your Skin?
To prime and moisturize your skin, you can follow these steps:
- Cleanse Your Skin: Start washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Apply Toner: Use a toner to balance the skin’s pH and remove any remaining impurities.
- Apply Moisturizer: Use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. Apply a pea-sized moisturizer to your face and neck and massage it gently.
- Apply Primer: Allow the moisturizer to absorb fully into the skin for a few minutes. Then, apply a small amount of primer to your face and neck. You can use your fingers or a makeup brush to smooth it over your skin.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, primer and moisturizer function better when applied in the right order. Applying primer after moisturizer allows the moisturizer to properly hydrate and smooth the skin. This helps to lock in the hydration provided by the moisturizer and allows the primer to work more effectively.
Use products appropriate for your skin type and be consistent with your routine for the best results. It’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist for personalized skincare recommendations.