Revolution Beauty recently launched a skincare-infused concealer that helps to hide blemishes whilst caring for your skin. If you’re wary of anything too heavy, go oil-free or try ones labelled as ‘non-comedogenic’. However, personal preference is key here, so it’s worth asking a Boots beauty specialist in store if samples are available so you can try before you buy. What’s more, there’s a wide range of formulas out there to suit any skin type, even oily skin when sometimes the thought of putting more product on your face can be worrying. From gels, creams and liquids to glowy and matte finishes, it’s never been easier to find your perfect match. Start light and build up if you need to, as a little goes a long way,’ says Mira. ‘Using too much primer can lead to patchiness, pilling and cakeyness.’

Be sure to use a good moisturiser under your primer to ensure a smooth base," Mira recommends. This will help skin look and feel healthier. There are also primers that have surprising (and welcome) skincare benefits. Ingredients like calming niacinamide, clay, tea tree oil and salicylic acid can be helpful if you’re conscious of clogged pores. Whatever your choice of formula though, always remember to thoroughly cleanse at the end of the day to keep skin feeling fresh and to help avoid congestion. Make sure your primer and foundation match in consistency," says Mira. "If you’re using a silicone primer, then use a silicone-based foundation. If you’re using a water-based primer, then use a water-based foundation." Mixing them can cause pilling (‘bobbles’ of product appearing on the skin). Time is another key part of your pilling-prevention plan. "Thirty seconds after your morning skincare routine, apply an even layer of your primer with your fingertips or a brush and leave it to settle for 30 seconds before applying make-up," recommends Lauren.If you’re looking to control shine, try a lightweight, mattifying primer," recommends MUA Lauren Murphy. These types of formulas also work great when worn without foundation (perfect for ‘no make-up, make-up’ days) – just dot onto shine-prone areas and you’re good to go. Mira favours matte finish, silicone-based formulas ‘to provide a flawless base and minimise the appearance of pores’. These provide a super-smooth surface that gives a base satisfying glide when applied on top.

Primers – they’re the beauty equivalent of velcro in our experience. Designed to give make-up valuable grip to see it through high temperatures or humidity, they can be a secret weapon for those of us with oily skin to make our handiwork all the more budge-proof.

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