Makeup primers create a barrier between your skin and your makeup. Primers help to ready the skin for makeup application, by creating a smooth surface. There are several primers on the market suitable for all skin types—to reduce redness, enhance dewiness, and control oil. But most makeup primers are very expensive. Here are some multipurpose alternatives that can also be used as a makeup primer. You may even already have some of them in your medicine cabinet!
Milk of Magnesia
While typically used to soothe stomach pains and help with constipation, this drugstore favorite can also be used as a makeup primer. Yes, we’re telling you to put a laxative on your face! It has super oil-absorbing abilities, making this makeup primer alternative great for people with oily skin. The primer creates a matte finish that’s the perfect base for your look du jour. For application, use a cotton ball to apply it directly onto the skin.
Men’s Post Shave Balm
While it’s targeted towards men, this post shave balm from Nivea Men also works great as a primer. The balm was made popular on YouTube by beauty guru Nikkie tutorials. The product contains glycerin, an ingredient found in most makeup primers that acts like glue on the skin to effortlessly lock in the foundation. The product is extremely lightweight so a little bit goes a long way. It’s marketed for sensitive skin, but is also heavily fragranced so keep that in mind if you have sensitive skin or nose!
Aloe Vera Gel
This alternative is better suited for those of us with drier skin. Aloe vera has great moisturizing and soothing properties and its antibacterial, so it won’t irritate the skin—perfect for us acne-prone babes. Filled with Vitamins C and E to help keep the skin healthy and hydrated, it’s also great for getting rid of redness and giving your foundation a dewy finish. Let the product sit for a few minutes before applying your foundation.
Chafing Powder Gel
We know it may seem a little weird to use a product for *down there* on your face, but trust us with this one! The silicone-based gel has the same consistency as an expensive Smashbox Photo Finish primer. The silicone gives your skin a silky smooth base, virtually eliminating fine lines and hiding those pesky pores. Its soothing properties are designed to not irritate or adversely react with skin, so it’s perfect for those with more sensitive skin.
by Melissa Lee