It’s another layer of stuff to put on your face, so I was at first a little reluctant to make it a habit but I’d really recommend using a primer if you can. I have used the Chanel Blanc primer before  underneath foundation when I’m performing in a concert and I want a luminous aura but, if I’m honest,  I don’t really see what difference it makes.

Then, having seen testimonials that raved, I bought Smashbox Photofinish More Than Primer, (More Than what??) from the almost bewildering Photofinish range. I bought the type that says it treats dark spots, as I was hoping it might help me with the hyper pigmentation on my cheeks.

I don’t know how it does it, but just a little bit spread all over the face after moisturiser and before makeup has a fantastic effect on the application of foundation. Skin is smoother and well prepared for your foundation and because of this, I use much less than my usual squirt and a half of, in this case Chanel’s Vitalumiere. I don’t know whether it does have any temporary or permanent effect on dark spots, but it really enhances the look of my face, grabs hold of the foundation and keeps it on all day. I also find that makeup has not visibly sunk into my pores by the end of the day to leave little pointillist pools of Beige 50. Selfies, of course, look far more polished.

The only problem with this is that once you’ve tried it, you wouldn’t contemplate your daily make-up without it.

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I wrote about Urban Decay’s Naked eyeshadow palette recently. I do like the colours and they’re fab for everyday, but the eyeshadow just doesn’t last for any reasonable amount of time before creasing into my eye sockets. It’s almost as if it’s crying out for something to fix it to the eyelids. Something like, erm, Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion. Hm.  Some might say that this is a cynical marketing manipulation but then you try using the primer and all is forgiven.

You spread a tiny amount over the eyelids, and I use it under my eyes too. Once you apply your eye makeup, bingo! It doesn’t budge all day. It’s another layer that you now would not want to skip but a little goes a long way and it’s quite a nice thing to spend on your eyelids.

I bought the anti-ageing version, which is supposed to reduce the visible signs of ageing. Now, you will be familiar with my scepticism about this and I don’t have any evidence, but I’d still say that this little tube of primer is indispensable for an all-day-long groomed finish.

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