Is it possible to enjoy the benefits of a makeup primer even if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin?
What does a makeup primer do?
A makeup primer or face primer as it is sometimes called is a product that makes your makeup look more flawless.
Primers entered the beauty world a little over a decade ago. As more televisions came equipped with HD screens as standard and photo-centric social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram became more popular, the need for a makeup base that would smooth pores, control oily skin and ensure makeup stays hydrated increased. up lasts longer.
Today we have primers for all parts of the face, including the eyes, lips, eyelashes and facial skin. We also have different types of primers that are intended to do slightly different things. For example, some are more moisturizing than others, and some contain sun protection. Some contain extra ingredients that protect your skin from the harmful effects of pollution, while others help tame oily skin.
Overall, your makeup primer should help blur large pores, smooth unwanted texture, keep skin hydrated all day, and ensure your makeup stays put.
Primer for sensitive, acne-prone skin
If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, you may have tried a makeup primer and found that it makes your skin problems worse.
The problem is that many makeup primers contain ingredients that clog pores, making you more likely to break out.
For example, silicone is one of the most common ingredients in makeup primers. They make them feel silky and smooth and can keep your skin looking the same.
Unfortunately, silicones are occlusive, meaning they form a physical barrier on top of the skin to keep it moist and hydrated. This can work great if you have dry skin, but if you have oily or combination skin it can cause problems. Silicone-based primers can dry out and clog pores. As a result, they can cause pimples in some people. Some primers contain dimethicone or siloxanes (D4 and D5). These are skin irritants and can cause dryness and side effects, worsen acne and even be harmful to your health.
Even if your primer doesn’t contain any irritating ingredients, it can be heavy and greasy. If it has coconut oil for hydration – and coconut oil is a good moisturizer – it may be too much if you have oily skin.
Other primers may contain ingredients that “catch the light” and leave skin looking radiant. These ingredients create a shimmering effect on the skin, but again, they can clog pores and cause acne.
If your primer contains chemical fragrances, these can cause skin irritation and redness, especially if you have sensitive skin. Some people are allergic to certain fragrance chemicals.
Oil-based primers can also be problematic for sensitive, acne-prone skin. While natural oils are healthy skin care ingredients in many cases, some can be irritating to sensitive skin and cause redness and inflammation.
How to choose a makeup primer for sensitive, acne-prone skin
If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, does that mean you should give up primers?
Not necessary. Of course you don’t have to use a primer, that’s up to you. You can create a smooth base for makeup application by using a lightweight moisturizer. Remember that healthy skin is beautiful skin.
But if you like using primer, you can absolutely use one; you just have to find the right one.
Start with clean skin
Sometimes your breakout can be caused by bacteria trapped under your primer. Make sure you always start your makeup routine with clean skin. First wash with a mild detergent and then pat dry.
Tonifies and hydrates
Then use an alcohol-free toner to repair the skin after cleansing and prepare it for moisturizer. We recommend our Rescue + Relief Spray because it is cooling, healing and moisturizing. It is a non-comedogenic formula and helps balance the skin.
Finally, apply a high-quality moisturizer so that your skin is soft and supple before applying makeup. Our Calming Moisture is the perfect lightweight and breathable pre-foundation moisturizer as it fights inflammation and keeps skin healthy and hydrated all day long. It is designed to restore radiance to a dull complexion.
Caring for your skin before getting dressed will ensure it looks its best all day long.
Look for a lightweight primer with non-clogging ingredients
In general, look for silicone-free primers that are non-comedogenic so they won’t clog pores. They should be lightweight and feel refreshing when you put them on.
Also consider your skin type. If you’re feeling oily all over, check the ingredients list on your primer. You want something light without hiding the ingredients.
If you have combination skin, you may want a more moisturizing primer, but also make sure it is non-comedogenic.
Once you have the primer, try it alone on your skin for a day and see how it works. Sometimes finding the right primer is a matter of trial and error.
What if my sensitive, acne-prone skin doesn’t like primer?
If you find that your skin reacts to just about every primer you try, you have another option.
We recommend using our Calming Moisture as a primer. You can start by applying it as a moisturizer, letting it absorb into the skin and then applying another thin layer before applying your foundation. It can help keep your skin balanced so your makeup looks flawless. Best of all, it won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive skin.
Another option is to mix some Calming Moisture into your foundation before applying it to your skin. It helps soothe and hydrate the skin while enhancing radiance without clogging pores. It is also fragrance-free. Famous makeup artists often mix Calming Moisture with foundation for a beautiful, dewy, flawless-looking finish.
If your skin is red and irritated, use our Rescue + Relief Spray as a primer. They are naturally cooling and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will heal your skin as you go about your day. It is also a moisturizing spray, which will keep your makeup looking its best.
You can also use Rescue + Relief Spray as a setting spray. Spritz lightly over your skin before and after you apply your makeup for a dewy, healthy-looking finish.
Have you found a primer for your sensitive, acne-prone skin that works for you?
Featured image courtesy of George Milton via Pexels.
