Dear Carissa- Finding the Right Primer

Monistat Chafing Relief Powder Gel as a Primer

I was way too excited to receive my Monistat from Drugstore.com so I could try it out as a primer for my foundation.

First, make sure you get the exact same product shown- the Chafing Relief- a silicone based product that creates a barrier on the skin to protect from chafing. Used by runners, and as a post wax soother, it quickly became a cult favorite among makeup … Read More…

M.A.C. Cosmetics 187 Due Fibre Brush

Finding the perfect liquid foundation is difficult, finding the right foundation brush is a no brainer with the 187 brush from M.A.C. So it isn’t technically a foundation brush, but it’s set up perfectly to do the job with a blend of both natural and synthetic fibers to gently lay down foundation, and blend it in at the same time without streaking… Read More…

There’s A Serum For That…

Between cleansing and moisturizing lies an opportunity to make big changes to your skin by using a serum. Since the nature of a moisturizer is to be heavy and thick so it can soften the skin’s surface, its ingredients struggle to make their way down into the skin where they can make changes. A serum however, is a liquid with potent ingredients that can imp… Read More…

Body Scrubs; Erno Laszlo, Caudalie, La Mer

Body exfoliator is something you’ll always find in my shower. Keeping your skin young isn’t restricted to your face, so sloughing off dead skin so the new, bright skin underneath can show is as important to your routine as anything else. Plus it’s a totally relaxing spa-like experience, especially if you’re using something fant… Read More…

Dear Carissa,

I had the pleasure of reading through your site and I love your recommendations.

I know on your site, you recommend monistat, but I have heard that this can aggravate people with acne prone skin.

I am 35 now I have noticed my pores around my nose and cheek area are enlarging, and all foundations seem to just emphasize them.

I have tried a few primers, but they are either too oily or too dry (making mineral makeup catch on dry skin), or make me break out.

What would work for me?

Best Regards,

Andrea

Well Andrea, here are a few of my favorite primers along with what skin types might benefit most from their use.

Monistat Soothing Care Chafing Relief Powder-Gel;

Who can use it?

- Most skin types except for acne prone

- Women who don’t use a primer most days, but would like something for times when they want foundation to stay put

- Gals on a beauty budget

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer SPF 15;

Who can use it?

- All skin types

- Women who want a finished look but don’t wear foundation daily, use it alone to soften the look and texture of skin.

- Those looking for an extra SPF boost with anti aging benefits as well.

Jane Iredale Absence Oil Control Primer;

Who can use it?

- Sensitive, oily, and acne prone skin

- Mineral makeup users

- Women who find their makeup tends to change color during the day

Peter Thomas Roth Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel;

Who can use it?

- Incredibly oily skin that needs powder after an hour of makeup application

- Those who don’t enjoy applying more powder during the day for shine, just rub a bit between your fingers and press it into your t-zone to bring down shine without looking cakey.

- Skin prone to breaking out

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