Prime time for skincare

The new breed of bases offer much more than a belt and braces way to set your make up, so lets get glowing girls

The Armani range has always been notable for its stand out complexion perfectors and foundations. A case in point is the

Luminescence BB Fluid

which uses a greige tone to even out skin and also works brilliantly as a primer, adding an immediate ‘just back from the spa’ freshness. You could stop there (and I often do at weekends), but for the ultimate fresh faced finish, follow with Luminous Silk foundation. Bonus points for the SPF 50. Giorgio Armani luminescence BB Fluid €65

MAC Mac Prep and Prime Natural Radiance

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. This one’s a great oil controller and comes in two shades for light or dark skintones. Pearl powders reflect light for an all day glow. €39.50

It’s hard to distract me away from my usual Clarins primer - Beauty Flash Balm, but the new

Instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base

has won me over with it’s dewy finish and hydrating formula. €30

Bourjois offers great bases at an affordable price point and the

Happy Light Luminous Serum Primer

melts into skin and plumps out pores, and the peachy shade perks up complexion. €15

Dry and mature skin will light up with

le Météorite Perles Light Diffusing Perfecting Primer by Guerlain

. The super hydrating formula means you can skip moisturiser and know your foundation will stay the course. €58

Fake a youthful glow with

No 7 Instant Illusions Rapid Radiance Balm

which combines pearl pigments to reduce sallowness while brightening complexion. €22 at Boots Chemists

pclarke@irishtimes.com