How to Decode Color-Correcting Primers
By Jennifer Velez, InStyle.com
Like a base coat for your manicure, face primers provide a canvas for smooth, even coverage. They fill lines, keep oil at bay, and give your makeup some serious staying power. So what’s going on with all the different colors? Each one tackles a different issue, from evening out areas of redness to brightening up a sallow complexion. And they only look that vibrant in the tube: As you apply, they blend translucently into skin, whether worn under foundation or on their own for a fresh-faced look.
Here, we’ve decoded 5 types of color correctors and how you can add them to your routine. Find the one that best works for you, below!
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Purple:
Sallow skin sufferers, this one’s for you. Primers in shades of lavender or purple like e.l.f.’s Studio Mineral Infused Face Primer (above, $6; eyeslipsface.com) counteract unwanted yellow tones for a brighter complexion.
Green:
Best for those who are prone to acne, green tints work like magic to conceal areas of redness. A pea-sized dab of Make Up For Ever’s Step 1 Skin Equalizer ($36; sephora.com) is all it takes to calm blemishes before foundation.
Pink:
Dealing with a dull complexion? Think pink—the color is known for adding luminosity to lackluster skin. Give Clinique’s Super Primer ($27; nordstrom.com) a try to achieve a natural, healthy-looking glow.
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Yellow:
Applying a tinge of yellow will warm your complexion, even out ruddiness, and erase signs of fatigue. Prep with Koh Gen Do’s Makeup Primer Base ($28; nordstrom.com) to instantly give tired skin a boost.
Peach:
Add a peach hue to your routine if you’re looking to disguise dark discolorations like veins, sunspots and under eye circles. We like Smashbox’s Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer ($39; sephora.com), which rejuvenates skin with vitamins A and E.
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photos: Courtesy
