STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

sophie · Kenneth Cole

foundation/primer?

atlgirl · Gucci

I just switched foundations and primers, and am in love with my new ones. I am currently using Chanel Teint Innocence (the liquid, not the powder) and under it the Smashbox primer.

Previously I'd been using the Chanel Pro Lumiere, which is super-heavy and I hated it. Also I'd tried the Laura Mercier primer that I've heard raves about, but felt that it did nothing to control my oily skin. I'd definitely look at using a primer, too, since you are oily. The gals at Sephora gave me a trial sample of the Smashbox one and I've been using it for about two weeks. I think it really does make a difference.

I put the Teint innocence on with a foundation brush and I feel like it makes my skin look nearly perfect - and natural. And my skin is nowhere near perfect. It's not inexpensive but IMO a great foundation is the best money I can spend on cosmetics.

Mitz · BCBG

I also have oily and acne prone skin. Because of my skin type, I have always worn oil-free moisturizer and foundation. I first put on moisturizer...I use Clinique's Dramatically Different moisturzing GEL (which is oil free). I let that sink in for a little while, and then put on foundation. I am currently using Lancome's Teint Idol foundation, and I love it...it gives good coverage but is light and not cakey at all. I then use a concealer over the foundation...I have been using Clinique's quick corrector. On top of that I use Lancome's Dual Finish Fregrance Free powder makeup. It sounds like a lot, but I really don't look like I am wearing much makeup at all.

I don't currently use a primer, but that Smashbox one looks like something I might try...

member · Hermes

I never used to use foundation because I was afraid it would break my acne-prone skin out. I tried several foundations, powder foundations, etc and they always broke me out. Just recently, I tried Laura Mercier Oil-free foundation and I am in LOVE! I've been using it for about a month and no breakouts whatsoever (knock on wood). It provides great coverage and gives you a really balanced look, but it's super lightweight and I can't even feel it on my face. I can't rave about it enough. Plus, if you purchase at Sephora and don't like it, you could always return it smile

I don't use primer, but I just put my Cetaphil moisterizer on first, then the Laura Mercier, and then dab concealor in whatever parts need touch ups. I then finish w/powder. HTH!

halleybird · Hermes

I really like Philosophy's The Present primer. I used to use it every day, and it kept my (powder) foundation in place all day.

wetbandit42 · Marc Jacobs

atlgirl wrote:

I just switched foundations and primers, and am in love with my new ones. I am currently using Chanel Teint Innocence (the liquid, not the powder).

I put the Teint innocence on with a foundation brush and I feel like it makes my skin look nearly perfect - and natural. And my skin is nowhere near perfect. It's not inexpensive but IMO a great foundation is the best money I can spend on cosmetics.

I also use this and love it, however, I don't use primer.

rosie_the_riveter · Gucci

halleybird wrote:

I really like Philosophy's The Present primer. I used to use it every day, and it kept my (powder) foundation in place all day.

ditto that.

subwolley · Kate Spade

So the primers really help keep foundation and powder from fading? I'm also looking for something to keep my foundation from disappearing after a few hours.

-- Edited by subwolley at 10:51, 2007-11-02

XtinaStyles · Marc Jacobs

sophie wrote:

I am having a big engagement party this Saturday and I'm doing my own makeup. I want my skin to look even and spot free in pics. I don't use foundation/primer. My daily regimen includes Kiehls blue herbal moisturizer and sometimes kanebo concealer and T Le Clerc pressed powder. I have oily and at times acne prone skin. What would be a good foundation/primer. I want to look as natural as possible. Can I use my moisturizer under the foundation and powder over? Does concealer go over or under foundation? Do I need both a primer and foundation? I've read a ton of makeupalley reveiws and I'm still confused. Help!

-- Edited by sophie at 00:43, 2007-10-31

I think for flawless skin, I would go with an airbrush formula. Used Mac's and liked it but its a little yellow for my pinkish skin. Dior also makes one as well.

I always use Smashbox's foundation primer under makeup for events where I know I'll be photographed. It really helps the makeup stay put, you won't get greasy or need to reapply.

Usually I apply moisturizer first, then primer, then foundation. You may not need powder if you are going for a natural look. Use sparingly, only in oily zones.

I apply concealer after foundation because it is meant to cover up what foundation doesn't. I find that sometimes if I do it the opposite way, I am not getting enough coverage. I think it depends on what your needs are and what you're trying to cover up. Practice makes perfect, good luck and congrats!

sophie · Kenneth Cole

Thank you for all the input girls!! I'll let you know how I make out.