Posted Monday, August 22, 2011 by Jenny Paradise - Beauty, Editor

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Painters rely on primer to create the most ideal canvas for creating a masterpiece — and makeup application is no different.

Say sayonara to end-of-the-day smudges and oily sheen by prepping your morning skin with a primer. After washing, apply a dime-size amount of primer moving your fingertips in a circular motion. This extra step in your regimen reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores while evening out skin tone and texture.

• OILY - Makeup mavens with oily complexions should opt for an oil-free face primer to achieve a fresh-faced glow without looking greasy.
• DRY - If your skin suffers from chronic dryness, try a thicker cream-based formula to adequately smooth over dry patches. This beauty must-have gives skin a silky finish that covers unsightly under-eye circles and blemishes, while keeping powder and foundation from caking or streaking.
• ECO OPTIONS - Glam goddesses looking to go green have a variety of primer options that will help them score a flawless complexion without compromising their eco-friendly values. Save the planet and minimize your pores by choosing an all-natural primer without synthetic ingredients.
• DYNAMIC DUO’S - Tinted primers are the ideal choice for fair-skinned fashionistas who want a sun-kissed glow without harmful UV rays. Ideal formulas also include SPF for added protection against sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines.

Splurge on Photo Finish Primer by Smashbox (http://www.smashbox.com/primerguide/index.tmpl) for a long-lasting smooth complexion. For a solution that won’t break the bank, pick up E.L.F Studio Mineral Face Primer (http://www.eyeslipsface.com/studio/face/primer/mineral_face_primer).

Taming Your Mane
Not only will this product keep your face looking photo-ready from application to bedtime, but this serum also works to tame hair frizz that will attack your perfectly coifed ‘do in summer heat. 2 beauty solutions for the price of 1!

Lid-to-Lash Coverage
Eye makeup primer keeps impeccable cat peepers from melting into terrifying raccoon eyes. To apply, start with a clean canvas, and rub a small amount on each eyelid, from eyebrow to your eyelash line. Once the primer dries, apply your favorite shadow, eyeliner and mascara for wow-worthy look.

Finding Your Prime
No matter what your age, skin type, or complexion, test out and invest in a primer that will help your cosmetics look fresh from morning to night. Check out Sephora.com (http://sephora.com/) to find the product that is best for you!