Every woman should have products that make her feel beautiful, and that doesn’t stop after 50! There’s arguably nothing that can change the way you feel like makeup can.
But many women over 50 are missing a must-have tool that can transform your base completely. The secret? Primer.
What is a primer and what does it do?
Applied under foundation, primers are amazing tools that can make your makeup last for hours. Other than face primers, there are ones designed for lips that prevent lipstick smudging, and ones for eyelids that stop eyeshadow from creasing. More importantly, they smooth over imperfections, making your skin look gorgeous as a result.
Here are some great benefits of primer:
- Helps makeup look great and last all-day
- Keeps shine at bay by soaking up excess oil
- Fills in wrinkles and lines
- Helps treatments or serums penetrate better
- Foundation applies easily and evenly onto skin
- Works to minimize large pores
- Makeup doesn’t look cakey
- Different options can help brighten skin or reduce redness
How to apply primer
The process is like applying primer to your walls before you paint over them. Primers are applied before you apply foundation. Let the primer dry before you apply your base, then set with a powder.
Apply primer to your face using your fingertips. Most makeup artists recommend this approach, as the warmth from your fingers helps the product blend into the skin better than using a brush. As the primer melts and applies softly, the result looks more natural.
Remember one rule: make sure your foundation and primer base match. Water and oil don’t mix, so if you’re wearing an oil-based foundation, use an oil-based primer. If you don’t follow this rule, your foundation may look too thick or cakey.
When to apply primer
It can be confusing to know what order your skincare and primer should be applied in.
Always apply primer after you have completed your skincare routine. Primers have the added benefit of creating a barrier over your skin. This means that any serums or moisturizers applied before your product will absorb into your skin better.
If you use sun protection, it should go on before your primer as well. After moisturizing, use SPF as your last skincare step, then apply your primer.
Is primer good for older skin?
You want your primer to work with your skin, not against it. Choose an option designed for your skin type. Women over 50 may benefit from an option that hydrates dehydrated skin or moisturizes dry areas.
Remember that your skin type changes over the years. New environments, aging, and menopause can all affect your skin. If you had combination skin ten years ago, you may not now.
There are lots of quizzes where you can find out what your skin type is, but if you’d prefer to speak to someone, head to your nearest department store and ask the beauty counter assistants for help. You can also ask for different samples of primers to see which ones work best for you.
What type of primer is best for mature skin?
As we age, the proteins that are responsible for keeping our skin firm decrease. As collagen and elastin break down, our skin loses elasticity and smoothness as a result.
Choosing a primer for mature skin depends on your concerns. Look out for words like ‘anti-aging, ‘hydrating’ and ‘moisturizing’.
If you’re concerned about nourishing your skin, look out for products labeled as ‘anti-aging. Anti-aging primers are full of antioxidants, which work well to prevent collagen breaking down.
If you’re more concerned about covering imperfections, a hydrating option may be better for you. Hydrating primers help to fill in wrinkles and smooth over lines.
Primers: Anti-aging or hydrating?
If you’re still unsure over which primer to go for, don’t worry. Mature skin looks different on different people, your needs aren’t the same as another woman over 50! When you’re looking at your primers, think about these points.
Bad habits: If you’re low on sleep, constantly stressed, and don’t drink enough water, hydrating primers are a good choice. If you smoke and don’t wear sunscreen, anti-aging ones are a better choice. Do remember that the best way to help mature skin is to quit smoking and consistently wear an SPF.
Skin type: If your skin feels tight with dry patches, a hydrating primer will help combat the dryness. If you get oily areas or feel like your skin is normal, anti-aging one’s may be a better choice.
Environment: If you are exposed to a lot of sun, cold or dry air, hydrating primers could be better for you. If you live in a city with a lot of pollution, try an anti-aging option, as this will work to prevent your skin from losing elasticity.
Conclusion
A primer is a must-have tool for women over 50. It keeps your skin and makeup looking amazing. If you haven’t tried a primer yet, head to a beauty counter for some samples. Try a few out and see how they work on you. You may just find a new favorite!
