Makeup Artist Collier Strong Teaches Us How To Use L’Oreal’s Magical New Primer

When I see a product that bears the word “magic” on the label I generally have two competing reactions. First, I get really cynical and snarky. Then I want to try it immediately.

This was the case when I stumbled upon L’Oréal Paris’ new Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base. A few weeks ago I was finally cleaning out my goody bags from NY Fashion Week. As I emptied out the bag from the Project Runway finale show, I wasn’t surprised to see some L’Oréal Paris and Garnier products in there. We all know who the show’s sponsors are by now (no Piperlime shoes, unfortunately).

A small little pot of opalescent pink potion caught my eye. I don’t usually wear any base, foundation, or concealer, but for some reason I was intrigued by this. I swiped some on and swooned. Swooned, I tell you! I haven’t had a reaction like that since I tried Bobbi Brown’s pressed powder many moons ago.

I’m not usually a gusher and I strive for objectivity, but this product is worthy of a gush. It looks like a mini pot of Duncan Hines frosting, and feels like a thick moisurizer when you first touch it, sort of like Crème de la Mer. That is where all comparisons end, though.

When I put it on, it made my skin feel beyond smooth and silky. Then I looked in the mirror. Every fine line and pore had disappeared. My face was like Nicole Kidman’s in the Tom Cruise days. I quickly ran to every harsh and natural light source I could find. Yep. Perfect skin. And no heavy greasy feeling.

I wanted to know more about this product, so I rang up L’Oréal Paris. None other than the dashing Collier Strong, Consulting Makeup Artist to L’Oréal Paris–and Project Runway make-up guru–answered my questions. Unfortunately he didn’t come to my home for a makeover, so I settled for these tidbits via email:

First and foremost, depending on the condition of your skin, you can use this product alone to illuminate your skin and show a supple, hydrated finish. I like applying it with a sponge all over the face for a nice, even application. If you wear foundation, it is the perfect primer to apply beforehand, as it glides on the skin seamlessly. If you don’t wear foundation and only wear a touch of concealer, the same applies. If you wear both foundation and concealer, after you apply the Magic Perfecting Base, apply as little foundation as necessary for the amount of coverage needed. Then apply concealer only if more coverage is needed, for instance under the eyes, around the nose, etc. And finally, apply a light dusting of translucent powder on the skin to create a flawless finish.

In its October “Best of Beauty” issue, Allure named it the best primer, so clearly I’m not crazy. It retails for about $12.99, and a little goes a long way. I’m hoarding it in case it ever gets discontinued.