The main role of primer in your natural makeup regime is to preserve the longevity of your foundation throughout the day or evening. It does this by creating a smooth and moisturised surface to apply your foundation on. You can use primer on your whole face, or just under concealer or eye makeup to give you longer lasting coverage and colour.

Many primers are multitaskers and have some SPF coverage.  Some of our best natural sunscreen products can double as a primer. Some are formulated for anti-aging, others for a matte finish or a radiant glow. Both Inika and La Mav have dedicated primers in their range. They also serve as a divine all round moisturiser for anyone who doesn’t need to address any specific skin concerns.

What is the best face primer for oily skin?

The important thing with primer and oily skin is that it's more important for someone with oily or combination skin to use a primer because, of all the different types of skin, it's this complexion that needs the most help. Why? The longer the day goes on and you start to get a bit of shine from excess oil build up, this is when your makeup will start to slide off.

What's the best way to apply face primer?

Make applying your face primer THE first thing you do. Before reaching for your concealer or your foundation, let your primer get to work. Place small amounts of primer on your face, 3 to 4 per cheek and your forehead, a couple on the nose and a couple on the chin and blend it in with your fingertips until it's absorbed.

Once this is done, you can cover your blemishes with concealer then apply your favourite foundation, BB Cream or just stay natural.

What are the different types of primer?

In mainstream skin care and makeup, you'll find the options are limitless. From mattifying primer to hydrating primer, colour correcting primer, makeup primer, lip primer, mascara primer and more, there's a product for every task. In the world of natural makeup, the choices are a lot more narrow. We only sell makeup primers and La Mav have a dedicated primer, but you can also use many face serums as a primer. No-one makes a dedicated SPF primer in the natural space, but our #1 choice is the Simple As That Natural Face & Body Sunscreen or the Wotnot Face Sunscreen.

What's the best lip primer?

Enhance the staying power of any lipstick shade you wear with these simple tricks. Firstly apply your regular primer to ensure your lips are well hydrated. Second, use a lip liner pencil or a lip crayon and then both line and colour in your lips with pencil. Apply your first layer of colour, dust with mattifying powder, then add another layer.