Asian girl in Halloween costume and makeup

Makeup primer is a product that you apply on your face right after skincare and before applying makeup. It preps the skin and creates a smooth canvas that is as flawless as it can be. Primers come in different formulations — smoothing, hydrating, prepping, color correcting, concealing. Its main role, though, is keeping it in place and looking fresh for as long as possible. Of course, good skin is still the foundation of amazing makeup, but with makeup primer, we all stand a chance.

Applying makeup primer is an essential step in creating a solid everyday look. It's the foundation for . It may sound like such a tedious extra step, but trust us, it’s worth it. Here are all the ways using a makeup primer can elevate your and makeup.

It Keeps Your Makeup from Sinking into Creases

Makeup primers, specifically silicone-based face primers, are effective at and keeping makeup from sinking into pores and creases. When you have makeup primer on, foundation glides on your skin, allowing for an even application. While this step may not be necessary for everyday looks, Halloween costume makeup could use it. 

It Can Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Makeup primer creates an additional protective layer on your face. On top of this, it Properly moisturized skin is less likely to overproduce sebum. Therefore, this step keeps your skin from getting too oily and prolongs the freshness of makeup. For most Halloween looks, the face paint or makeup is the costume. These are usually highly pigmented and can either make your skin really dry or really oily. Without primer, this type of makeup can also stain your face temporarily.

It Makes Eyeshadow Pop

If you’re using regular makeup in more intense shades instead of face paint, applying makeup primer can help bring those colors out. Some eye makeup primers come in skin tone shades that even out pigmentation. They also and prevent powders and eye crayons from sinking into creases. This enhances the intensity of pigments and even glitter.

It Makes It Last

The natural oils in our skin break down makeup. When you apply makeup primer, you create a smooth, matte canvas for makeup to stick to. It’s essential on humid days, or if you’re going to be under bright, hot lights — ring lights included! Even if you’re using long-wearing products for your Halloween look, you’d still benefit from adding makeup primer to your routine. 

How to Apply Makeup Primer

Clean your face thoroughly with your favorite facial wash so your makeup looks fresh. After washing, proceed to skincare. Use POND's Bright Miracle Day Cream Detox, a skin-perfecting formula that brightens, smoothens, and hydrates skin. It can also double as a primer if you prefer a lighter formula.

After skin care, apply your makeup primer. Rub a small amount on the back of your hand to warm the product, then smooth it on your face. If you want an extra radiant finish, dab a creamy highlighter on areas where light naturally hits the face. These include the tops of the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and brow bones.

Enhance your Halloween look by prepping your skin correctly with makeup primer and products that smooth and hydrate. Try practicing beforehand to see what works best for you.