Should You Apply Primer or Moisturizer First?

Now it’s time to answer the age-old question — should you apply primer or moisturizer first? The truth is, you should always apply moisturizer before reaching for primer (seriously, always). As we mentioned above, the purpose of a moisturizer is to lock in moisture to keep dryness at bay. If you apply primer first, you run the risk of sporting dry, lackluster skin. Since primers are not formulated to provide skin with moisture, it can take a toll on your overall makeup look if it’s not used correctly, which is the last thing you need.

An easy way to remember the right order is to separate your products into two separate routines. Moisturizer (or sunscreen) should always be the last step in your skin care routine. Primer should always be the first step in your makeup routine. Your skin care routine always comes first.

Source: L'Oréal