While the key purpose of a primer is to create a smooth base for whatever may follow in its path - in a similar way lingerie does for your body - there are a new set of primers on the block that take it one step further than simply prepping the skin.
Here are 3 new additions to the world of beauty that we're pretty excited to get our hands (and faces) on...
Pre-mask prep...With a trend for multi-masking and the reported surge in face mask sales throughout 2015, there's no doubt in our minds that masks are having a moment in the world of beauty. And now there's a game-changing primer to help us reap even more benefits from them. Origins Maskimizer comes in spray form, similar to a face mist, and is designed to prep your skin to be more receptive to your chosen mask (here's how to find the right face mask for your skin type). It promises to utterly saturate your skin with a mega hit of hydration, while essential ingredients like Marine Algae ensure your skin performs at its peak, so it's ready and raring to indulge in the mask's active ingredients. Origins Maskimizer, £18.50 at Origins
Added (blemish) benefits...On top of creating a soft focus finish, the silicone in this super light gel will mask your pores and help control oil production. But even better than that, it contains natural witch hazel, so if you suffer from blemishes it'll help promote clearer skin and heal existing spots, all while providing the perfect base for your makeup. Bravo Collection. Collection Powered by Witch Mattifying Pore Minimiser, £4.99 at Boots
Sun protection...While many primers now come equipped with a little sun protection, Giorgio Armani has gone the extra mile to offer our faces a skin defending primer that comes equipped with SPF50 to help protect your complexion from both UVA and UVB rays. Cleverly fusing smoothing skincare benefits with high UV protection, the ultra fine texture means it instantly absorbs into the skin for a non-oily finish. Giorgio Armani Maestro UV Skin Defense Primer SPF 50 PA++, £36 at John Lewis
