We're Breaking Down This Internet-Favorite Makeup Primer — Spoiler Alert: It Lives Up to the Hype

Published on 8/19/2020 at 9:25 AM

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e.l.f. Cosmetics

e.l.f. Cosmetics

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It's one thing to be known as the "primer that broke the internet," but it's another thing entirely to be the No. 1 bestselling primer in the country. The former suggests immediate wow factor, but it's the latter that declares actual staying power; it's a product worth coming back to. When both catchlines are used to describe the same product, well, it must be damn good.

The e.l.f. Cosmetics Putty Primer needs no introduction in the beauty world. With three vegan and cruelty-free formulas (poreless, matte, and luminous) that target different skin concerns and a unique putty texture that glides over the skin to blur pores and grip makeup, it's often the first step to creating any makeup look. You've likely seen it in YouTube tutorials and all across TikTok through fun hashtag challenges. But what's it really like? In other words, how do you apply it, where do you apply it, and what are some different ways to use it? We break it all down ahead.

How to Apply the Putty Primer

First, you'll want to scoop a pea-size amount of product and rub it between your fingers to warm it up before applying. Once the product has warmed up, use your fingers to gently press it into your skin, starting from the center of your face and pressing outward. Don't forget to let the primer set for 30 seconds before applying your makeup!

Where to Apply the Putty Primer

Most people start applying around their nose, which is a common problem area for larger pores. From there, you can press the product outward onto your cheeks, around your eyes, and onto your forehead and chin — anywhere you want a smooth canvas for applying makeup or want to minimize pores.

Different Ways to Use the Putty Primer

Similar to priming your lids for eyeshadow, did you know you can also prime your lips for lipstick? Simply press the primer onto your lips just like how you would apply the product on the rest of your face to achieve smooth-looking and long-lasting lip color.

Primer doesn't always need to be worn under makeup — sometimes it can be the makeup! Even if you don't wear foundation, you can still apply the primer alone to smooth out your pores and achieve a flawless finish.

You can also use each of the putty primers on different areas of your face to target specific needs. For example, apply the Poreless Putty Primer in areas where you'd like to minimize the appearance of pores, then follow up with the Luminous Putty Primer in areas where you'd like to be more radiant and glowy.

Matte Putty is great for absorbing excess oil for a shine-free finish. You can also mix the putty primer with powder eyeshadows to create a creamier texture — this will help the shadow glide effortlessly over your lids.