Preparatory work: 3 examples for each price category

Ask any beauty aficionado what their first step is before applying makeup, and chances are they will answer with one word: primer. Setting the foundation for your foundation is a key step in not only ensuring a smooth finish, but also maintaining your appearance. Are you into cosmetics? Primers are perfect for giving the skin a blurry effect, even when applied separately - think: real filters. Whatever your budget, we've found three primers that work wonders at any price point.

, Giorgio Armani Maestro UV

With a MSRP of $64, this lightweight primer is perfect for women ready to splurge. The moisturizing primer has a silky liquid texture and a formula enriched with antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radicals. Complete with broad spectrum SPF 50 to protect skin from harmful UVA/UVB sun rays. When applied under your favorite foundation, it extends the wear all day long. When worn alone, the matte finish primer hides imperfections for a sleek look.

, Lancome La Base Pro Pore Remover

The best thing about a primer, a good primer, is its ability to cover up pores. This primer from Lancôme is priced at $38, which is a great option for people on an average budget. The oil-free formula provides a matte finish for a smoother complexion, perfect for applying makeup. In addition, due to its ability to reflect light from the surface of the skin, this primer reduces the visibility of pores and uneven texture.

$: NYX Professional Makeup Studio Perfect Photo-Loving Primer

Whether you need to temporarily hide enlarged pores, hide redness or lighten yellowness, NYX Professional Makeup has the Studio Perfect Primer for you. At a MSRP of $13 each primer is a real steal. Each primer absorbs beautifully after application so it's invisible under makeup, and each helps create a smooth surface for flawless foundation application.