Primer- a sheer based product, used after moisturizer before makeup application. Provides a barrier between skin and makeup. Gives skin a flawless smooth look by smoothing and filling in any fine lines, wrinkles, pores and skin imperfections
Base- used on eyelids before applying eyeshadow. Gives a true to color application. Helps prevent creasing. (example: ever purchase a really fun color and then when you apply it to yourself, it doesn’t even show up?) Using a base will give you the pop needed. So you can achieve maximum color pigmentation!
Confusion between the two- To be honest, at the end of the day both primers and bases can do the same things for your eye shadow, but not always because “technically” they’re not the same, despite being referred to as such. Most eye shadow primers or bases will specifically point out if they prevent creasing, smudging, loss of wear, etc. If a product doesn’t state these things, then don’t expect it to. Bases don’t normally keep your eyeshadow from creasing. They will give you a true to pigment color.
If you’re reading this and saying, "PHHT I’m the exception, my eye shadow still creases, smudges, etc. and I use NOTHING BUT THE BEST." Then you are either
- Not applying enough!
- Applying too much!
- You may just be allergic to some the ingredients
In some cases when you’re the lid is very oily, you can use both primer and base before you apply your shadow. Remember to use the primer first, then the base, then the eye shadow themselves.
You have to find out what works for you. Remember that a little goes a long way.
Good luck this summer and hopefully this is one less thing that won’t melt this summer!
