We all know the feeling of walking outside into a wall of humidity and feeling your foundation slide off your face.

It’s both a right of passage for anyone living in the tropics and often leaves you asking – why even bother in the first place?

However professional makeup artist Sevi Kantros, who’s currently working in Darwin but also spent years in Far North Queensland, said primer can be the difference between a lasting look and a look which doesn’t last much beyond your front door.

She swears by three primers, and uses them on her clients pending their skin type.

“Having worked in the NT and Tropical North Queensland over the last 10 years, I have found these three primers to work the best in our hot humid climate,” she said.

“A good primer really makes the difference, and you will always find these products in my makeup bag.”

1. Normal to Combination Skin – Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base ($42 – $105)

This is a primer and moisturiser in one. It is a cream texture and melts into the skin, suiting every skin type because of how hydrating it is without feeling greasy, however it is best suited to normal combination in our climate.

This provides enough hydration and tack for your foundation to stick to while also allowing the makeup to glow.

Apply this with your hands and work it in until fully absorbed before applying any makeup. 

2. Oily Skin / Normal – Charlotte Tilbury Water Cream ($50-$149)

This is a moisturiser and hands down one of the best primers I’ve ever used on all skin types but specifically a chefs kiss for oily skin. It is a gel texture and a little goes a long way. Bonus points because it’s super hydrating.

It contains niacinamide which balances oil production and tightens pores, and biopeptides which plump and even the skin texture. Makeup is like a magnet to this product.

3. Dry / Sensitive Skin / Normal – Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentreté Moosturiser ($27-$47)

This is a cult French beauty product and is loved by pro MUAs all over the world. 

It creates a smooth barrier for any makeup base so if you have dry or patchy skin, this is a must-have to apply before your foundation for a flawless finish.

This keeps your skin hydrated and glowy without feeling like there’s a layer on your face.