by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024So you've watched a few makeup tutorial videos and now you're ready to try applying primer for the first time. Great idea! A primer is a makeup essential that can make a world of difference in how your makeup looks and lasts. Using a primer is one of the best ways to create a smooth base for your foundation and help keep your makeup looking fresh all day. But with so many primers on the market, how do you know which one is right for you and when you should use it? Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll walk you through the basics of primer and give you tips for choosing and applying the perfect primer for your skin needs. By the end, you'll be well on your way to mastering this makeup must-have.
What Is Primer and Why Is It Important?
Primer is a product you apply before painting that helps the topcoat of paint adhere better to the surface. Using primer provides several benefits:
•It creates a smooth base for the paint to stick to. Primer fills in tiny cracks and imperfections in the surface, creating an even layer for the paint. This results in a smoother, professional-looking finish.
•It blocks stains and marks. Primer can prevent marks like water damage, smoke stains, or crayon from bleeding through the new paint. It acts as a barrier between the surface and the paint.
•It allows for better paint coverage. Primer helps the paint go on more evenly and prevents the underlying surface from showing through. Fewer coats of paint are needed, saving you time and money.
•It bonds different materials. Primer helps paint adhere to problematic surfaces like glossy paint, glass, tile, and metals. The primer etches into the slick surface so the paint has something to grip onto.
•It prevents peeling. Primer helps the new paint bond strongly to the underlying layer so it's less likely to peel or chip off over time with exposure or weathering.
Using primer may require an extra step, but it's worth it for achieving long-lasting, professional results. For the best outcome, do some tests to determine if primer is needed for your particular project. When in doubt, it's best to prime before you paint. Your patience will pay off with a high-quality finish.
When to Use Primer - On Bare and Painted Surfaces
Primer is essential for preparing surfaces before painting or refinishing. It helps new paint adhere properly to the surface below. Without primer, the final finish may not last as long or look as uniform.
When to Use Primer - On Bare and Painted Surfaces
For bare surfaces like drywall, concrete, or wood, primer is a must. It seals the surface and provides a uniform base for paint. On drywall, primer prevents the drywall surface from absorbing too much paint. On concrete, it prevents the alkali in the cement from bleeding through. On wood, it seals the grain and any knots or imperfections.
Even for previously painted surfaces, primer can be useful. If you're painting over dark colors with a lighter shade, primer helps provide coverage in fewer coats. It also comes in handy when patching cracks or holes in existing paint. The primer helps blend the new paint in with the old.
For major surface issues like peeling or chipping paint, primer is essential before repainting. It binds to the remaining paint and provides a new surface for the topcoat to adhere to. Without primer, the new paint will likely just peel off again quickly.
In some cases, you can get by without primer, for example when touching up paint or repainting in the same color family. But when in doubt, it's best to prime. The few minutes it takes to apply a coat of primer can save hours of work and frustration down the road. Your paint job will look better and last longer with a good primer as the foundation.
Choosing the Right Primer - Oil vs Latex, Stain Blocking, and More
Choosing the right primer depends on the surface you want to paint and the type of paint you plan to use. For most DIYers, latex or oil-based primers will work well for most needs.
Oil-based primer
Oil-based primer is good for painting over surfaces where stains might bleed through like wood or metal. It creates an effective barrier between the surface and the paint. However, oil-based primers have strong fumes, take longer to dry, and require the use of solvents for cleanup.
Latex primer
Latex primer, or water-based primer, is a good all-purpose choice for most indoor surfaces like drywall, concrete, and previously painted walls. It has low odor, dries quickly, and cleans up easily with soap and water. Latex primer works well under latex or alkyd paint. For the best adhesion, choose a primer and paint in the same base.
Stain-blocking primer
If you need to paint over water stains, smoke damage, or other tough stains that might bleed through regular primer, use a stain-blocking primer. These are formulated to block stains from oils, tannins, and other chemicals before you paint. Stain-blocking primers provide an impenetrable barrier so stains do not show through your finished paint job.
Other primers
In some situations, you may need a primer specifically designed for the surface, such as drywall, wood, or masonry primer. These are tailored to the porosity and pH of the surface to provide maximum adhesion. For high-gloss or dark paint colors, tinted primer can also help provide better coverage in fewer coats.
Choosing the proper primer for your project may require a little research but will ensure the best results. Once you determine the right type of primer, thoroughly clean and de-gloss the surface, then apply 2 coats of primer before painting for the most professional-looking finish. The extra effort will be well worth it when you end up with a paint job that lasts.
Prep Work Before Applying Primer
To ensure the best results when applying primer, it’s important to properly prepare the surface. The prep work you do before applying the primer will help it adhere better and provide a smooth base for your paint.
Clean the Surface
Wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. For stuck-on messes, you may need to scrub the area with an abrasive sponge or scrubber. Rinse well with water and let dry completely.
Lightly Sand Rough Surfaces
If the surface is rough, uneven or damaged, lightly sand it to smooth it out. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth. This gives the primer an even, intact surface to grip onto.
Fill Any Cracks or Holes
Use a spackle or drywall compound and putty knife to fill in any cracks, holes, dents or imperfections in the surface. Let the filler dry as directed, then sand smooth. Repeat until the surface is even.
Apply a Primer Sealer
For porous surfaces like drywall or concrete, apply a coat of primer sealer. This seals the surface and provides a uniform base for your primer. Let it dry as directed before applying primer.
Tack Off the Surface
Use a tack cloth to wipe the entire surface and remove any remaining dust, debris or particles before applying your primer. This final wipe down will ensure strong adhesion between the primer and the surface.
Choose the Right Primer
Select a primer formulated for your specific surface type, whether it’s drywall, wood, metal or masonry. The primer product page will indicate what surfaces it’s suitable for. Applying the right primer for your surface is key to achieving optimal results.
With the proper prep work completed, you’re ready to apply your primer. Taking the time to thoroughly clean, smooth and seal the surface before priming will provide the best adhesion and a flawless finish when you apply your paint. Your patience and diligence will pay off!
How to Apply Primer Properly - Brush, Roller, or Spray
The method you choose to apply primer depends on the type of surface you’re priming and your personal preferences. Each has its pros and cons, so consider them carefully before you start your project.
Brush
Applying primer with a brush gives you a lot of control and works well for small, detailed areas or uneven surfaces. Use a high-quality brush designed for painting and primer. Apply in even strokes, making sure you cover the entire area. Let each coat dry as directed before applying another coat. Brush application tends to require more coats to get an even finish.
Roller
For large, flat areas like walls, rolling on primer is efficient and effective. Use a roller designed for primer and paint. Load the roller with primer and roll it onto the surface using vertical strokes until covered. Then, use horizontal strokes to ensure even coverage. Let each coat dry completely. Rolling typically provides better coverage than brushing, so you may need fewer coats. However, it can be difficult to get into corners and edges.
Spray
Spraying primer is a convenient approach for large areas, especially ceilings and trim. You’ll need an airless spray gun or compressor and protective gear like a mask, goggles, and gloves. Apply in light, even coats about 6 to 8 inches from the surface. Move your arm steadily across and down. Let each coat dry completely. While spraying is fast, it can be messy and difficult to control. It also requires masking off any areas you don’t want to prime.
The best approach is often to combine methods. For example, roll primer onto walls, then brush trim and edges. Or spray ceilings and larger areas, then roll and brush the rest. Take your time and don’t rush the priming process. Proper priming provides a strong foundation for your paint, so do it right the first time!
Primer Drying Times and Recoat Windows
When painting or staining wood, primer helps create an ideal surface for your topcoat to adhere to. But how long do you need to wait before adding that topcoat? The answer depends on several factors, including temperature, humidity, primer type, and topcoat product.
Oil-based primer
Oil-based primer takes the longest to dry because the solvents in the primer need time to evaporate. At 70-80°F, oil-based primer can take 6-8 hours to dry to the touch and 24 hours before recoating. Colder weather or higher humidity will prolong these times. Make sure the primer is fully cured before adding your topcoat—if it still feels tacky, it’s not ready. Apply a solvent-based topcoat like oil-based paint.
Latex primer
Latex primer dries faster than oil-based, typically within 1-2 hours at 70°F. However, it can still take 3-4 hours before recoating for the best results. The longer you wait the better, up to 24 hours. Use a water-based topcoat such as latex or acrylic paint. High humidity or cooler temperatures may require longer dry times.
Shellac-based primer
Shellac primer has the fastest dry time, often 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, the topcoat window is shorter—only 2 hours. The shellac can become too hard for good adhesion if you wait too long. Use any topcoat with shellac primer.
Quick-drying primer
As the name suggests, quick-drying primer can dry to recoat in as little as 1 hour at 70°F. These primers use fast-evaporating solvents to speed up cure times. They work with most topcoats but have a shorter recoat window of 2-4 hours.
The key is not to rush the process. Always check if the primer is dry before adding your topcoat. It may feel dry to the touch but still not be ready to recoat. Patience will result in better adhesion and a smooth finish. If needed, consider using a quick-drying primer and topcoat system to speed up the project. But whenever possible, give your primer adequate time to dry for the best results.
Common Primer Application Mistakes to Avoid
When applying primer, it’s easy to make mistakes that can ruin your end result. Avoid these common primer application errors:
Not cleaning the surface thoroughly
For primer to adhere properly, the surface needs to be clean and dull. Wipe away any dirt or debris and sand any glossy areas. Prime any exposed wood or metal to prevent tannins or rust bleeding through the finish.
Not using the right type of primer
Use the proper primer for your specific paint and the surface you’re painting. For example, use oil-based primer for oil-based paints, latex/acrylic primer for latex/acrylic paints. And for difficult surfaces like glass or tile, use a primer specifically designed for adhesion to those materials.
Not applying enough coats
It’s tempting to skimp on primer to save time, but for the best results, apply two coats. The first coat soaks into the surface, while the second coat provides an even base for your paint. Some surfaces like woods with tannins or porous surfaces may require three coats of primer.
Not allowing proper drying time
Follow the instructions on your specific primer product for proper drying times between coats. Drying times can range from 1 hour to 24 hours depending on the type of primer. Rushing this step can lead to primer not fully hardening, lack of adhesion, or an uneven finish.
Not sanding between coats
Lightly sanding between primer coats gives the next coat something to adhere to. Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) and wipe away dust before applying the next coat.
Painting too soon after priming
Even after the last coat of primer is dry to the touch, you need to allow adequate time before painting for it to fully cure. Follow the recommendations on your primer’s label for the time required before painting, typically at least 24 hours. Painting too soon will prevent proper adhesion between the primer and paint.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll end up with a primer base that provides maximum adhesion and an ultra-smooth finish for your paint. Your patience will pay off with a professional-looking end result.
Achieving the Best Results With Primer
Primer is key to achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish when painting. Applying a primer coat before your topcoats of paint helps in several ways:
Provides Tooth for the Topcoat to Adhere To
Primer adheres well to bare surfaces, creating texture for the topcoat of paint to grip onto. Without primer, the topcoat wouldn’t have much to adhere to and may peel or chip off easily.
Seals and Protects the Surface
Primer seals the surface you’re painting and provides a protective barrier. This is especially important when painting over bare wood or drywall, as it prevents moisture damage. Primer also blocks stains from bleeding through the topcoat.
Creates an Even Base Layer
The primer coat helps create an even, uniform surface for the topcoat. It fills in any small cracks, holes or imperfections in the surface so you end up with an smooth, professional finish.
Improves Topcoat Appearance
Using a primer, especially one tinted to a similar shade as your topcoat color, helps provide more even coverage in fewer coats. It prevents the topcoat from soaking in unevenly, which can result in a blotchy, uneven appearance. Primer also allows richer, truer colors to shine through.
Saves Time and Money
Applying a coat of primer before painting may add a small amount of time up front but will save you time in the long run. Fewer coats of topcoat paint will be needed to achieve an even, opaque finish. Using less paint also means lower costs for your project.
When it comes time to paint, don’t skip the primer. One coat of quality primer followed by two coats of topcoat paint will give you a professional, long-lasting finish and help you achieve the best results. Primer really is the foundation for a superior paint job.
Primer FAQs - Your Top Questions Answered
What is primer?
Primer is a base coat that provides a surface for paint to adhere to. It prepares surfaces that have never been painted before or have been damaged. Primer seals and protects the surface, providing a uniform base for your paint.
When do you need to use primer?
You'll want to use primer in several situations:
- Painting over bare or untreated surfaces like drywall, concrete, or wood. Primer helps the paint stick better to these porous materials.
- Covering dark colors with a lighter paint shade. Primer prevents the dark color from bleeding through.
- Painting over stained or water-damaged surfaces. Primer blocks stains and moisture damage from ruining your new paint job.
- Changing the sheen level of your paint, like going from flat to glossy. Primer creates a smooth base for your new sheen of paint.
What types of primer are there?
The most common types of primer are:
- Latex or acrylic primer: For most indoor surfaces like drywall, wood, and stucco. It's water-based, low-odor, and dries quickly.
- Oil-based primer: For areas that need protection from moisture like bathrooms, basements or outdoors. It takes longer to dry but provides the best protection.
- Stain-blocking primer: Prevents stains like water damage, smoke, markers or wood knots from bleeding through your paint. It's ideal for covering dark colors or stains.
- Masonry primer: For porous surfaces like concrete, brick, and stucco. It penetrates and seals the surface to provide a good base for paint.
How do you apply primer?
Applying primer is similar to painting. You'll want to:
- Clean and lightly sand the surface to rough it up. Wipe away dust.
- Apply 1-2 coats of primer, waiting 2-4 hours for it to dry between coats. Follow the directions on your specific product.
- Let the final coat dry completely, usually 3-6 hours.
- Lightly sand any drips or imperfections. Wipe away dust.
- You're ready to paint! Apply at least two coats of paint for best results.
Using primer may require an extra step, but it will provide a durable, long-lasting paint finish and save you time in the long run. With the right primer for your surface, your paint will go on smoother and last for years to come.
Final Thoughts
So now you know the basics about primer and why it's so crucial for your makeup routine. Don't skip this important first step if you want your look to last and your makeup to go on smoothly. With the right primer for your skin type and needs, you'll see and feel the difference instantly. Your makeup will glide on effortlessly and stay put for hours without fading or creasing. And your skin will thank you for the extra hydration and nourishment.
While primer does add an extra step, the rewards to your skin and your makeup results make it well worth the time. So start with a clean face, add your primer, then apply your makeup as usual. Check yourself out in natural light to see your freshest, most flawless complexion yet. Your makeup will love you for it! Once you start using primer regularly, you'll never go back.