Naya

Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primers, Review

It all starts with a perfect base

Foreword

To prime or not to prime? That is the question. Truth is - similarly to mascaras, primers are very personal. We all have different skin types and even more different skin concerns or needs. This is exactly why Laura Mercier (pioneer of face primers) created a new silicone-free line not only good for makeup, but most importantly - great for your skin. Curious to know more? Then please keep on scrolling.

About the Collection

Laura Mercier was always known for having a very rich selection of face primers. However, as the beauty industry expands with a speed of sound, more customers come forward asking for makeup formulas that have a skincare element to them. Thankfully, the brand came out with six new primers, all of which have various skin-loving ingredients and (drum roll please) no silicone.

Not that all silicone is bad, but it can certainly clog pores and sit heavily on the skin (not to mention that it doesn't really get absorbed and can move underneath certain foundations causing unnecessary makeup havoc).

So what are the six new primers?

Perfecting - primes and brightens thanks to Green Tea Extract and Vitamin C
Illuminating - primes and adds luminosity thanks to micronized pearls and Porcelain Flower
Hydrating - primes and hydrates thanks to Olive Extract and Marine Hydra Botanicals
Blurring - primes and mattifies, minimizing the appearance of pores and lines thanks to Microalgae and blurring powders
Protecting - primes and offers broad spectrum SPF 30/PA++, containing Vitamins C & E to further protect the skin
Power Primer Supercharged Essence - primes and helps achieve smoother, firmer and youthful-looking skin thanks to Peptides

All of the primers, except Illuminating which is made in Italy, are made in the USA and retail for 38 USD containing 50 ml/1.7 fl.oz. each. Power Primer Supercharged Essence retails for 55 USD and contains 30 ml/1 fl.oz. It also happens to be an exclusive product that is not available on sephora.com, but you can find it on nordstrom.com and lauramercier.com

As you can see, these new primers come in pastel tubes, so that even if you own more than one - you won't have issues differentiating between them. From what I can tell - they are all water-based and tint-, scent-free (at least I didn't detect anything), which is something that many makeup lovers will appreciate.

From my experience Pure Canvas primers feel equally weightless on the skin and this being a water-based line also means that you can take your time to work them into the skin, without worrying about any possible peeling or balling up of product. Naturally, depending on what primer you end up going for, you will get a distinctive finish. For example: Blurring Primer applies creamy, but sets to quite a satin/matte, skin-like finish showing no sheen. Unlike most silicone primers, this one won't make your foundation look thick or heavy. Illuminating Primer adds a universally flattering sheen, that is quite eye-deceiving yet undetectable at the same time - you don't see any shimmer or glitter, only the most youthful luminosity that will look gorgeous on all skin tones.

As far as application goes, I do recommend using a pea-sized amount (if not less) for your entire face and work it gently into the skin, giving your primer a good minute to get fully absorbed before going in with your foundation. Fingertips are your best friends here.

I do want to highlight Power Primer Supercharged Essence as a separate entity though, as this formula has more power to it than your usual face primer. I would go as far as saying that this could be a beautiful addition to your skincare prep routine. This product has a much creamier, milky-white texture to it that feels uber refreshing and hydrating. Similarly to a rich serum, it instantly melts into the skin, preparing it for the most flawless makeup application. Think of it as the Rolls-Royce of primers. A wonderful option for my beauties of a particular age.

Which one is best for your skin type?

Now, I am sure some of you might feel overwhelmed, but fear not! I have prepared a little guide so that, depending on your skin type/needs, you could meet your primer match in no time:

Normal Skin = Perfecting Primer

Dry Skin = Hydrating Primer + Illuminating Primer

Oily/Combination Skin = Blurring Primer

Dull Skin = Illuminating Primer

Textured Skin = Blurring Primer

Mature Skin = Power Primer Supercharged Essence

All Skin Types = Protecting Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

I have dry/sensitive skin and have been loving both Hydrating Primer and Illuminating Primer for my skin; I also enjoy Protecting Primer, because unlike most sunscreens, it blends out like a dream leaving no white lines and it also has no flashback, so you don't have to compromise between wearing a flawless makeup base or protecting your skin. This one also feels quite hydrating on the skin, so I couldn't ask for more!

Verdict

To summarize my thoughts on Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer Collection, I have to say that while I loved the brand's original primers in the past, these new guys somehow outperformed them. I do enjoy all of the new formulas a lot and think that there is something here for everyone. Now, of course whether you want to use one or not is totally up to you, but I will say that these face primers will have a beautiful impact on both: how your makeup applies and wears throughout the day. What is even better is that every single formula is now infused with skin-benefiting ingredients, so you really get the best of both worlds. I am particularly grateful that there are no silicones here, which means you get equally skin-smoothing results, yet without any clogged pores or dehydration over the course of use. In two words: highly recommend and give this new range my A+!