For the past couple of weeks, I’ve been trying the Smashbox ‘Photo Finish’ Foundation Primer.
I have to say I was a little biased on this one. I used this primer a couple years back and just couldn’t get into the hype of it. I constantly felt a layer of something on my face and wasn’t all that excited. Unfortunately, I can’t say that round 2 was that much more exciting. I still wasn’t thrilled with the feeling. I still kind of felt like I had somewhat of a mask on. My fellow beauty guru (and make-up artist) raves about it. It’s the only thing she uses both personally and professionally. She claims it works on all skin types and has never had any issues with it.
Since I wasn’t in love with Smashbox, I wanted to share with you a primer I am head over heels for: TooFaced ‘Primed and Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer’ and TooFaced ‘Primed and Poreless SPF 20 Bronze Tint Skin Smoothing Face Primer’. I got hooked on the original Primed and Poreless through Birchbox (you must check this site out…it’s quite fab!).
After I finished the sample size, I immediately went to Sephora and bought the full size. I love it! It gives my skin a super smooth finish and with a little dab of Retinol it helps fight wrinkles as well. After I finished my original, something new and bronze had come out. And since we all know about my bronze obsession, I had to try the bronze tint out.
Love. Love. Love. The bronze tint is super sheer, yet just enough for a healthy, warm glow. I love that this one has SPF 20, but still maintains the smooth, silky finish. I have a feeling this may be a keeper!
*Smashbox provided for consideration.
Oh glory! Someone else who isn’t into Smashbox primer. This stuff gives me HUGE zits, even the oil free stuff, and my BE or Rev CS just slides off my chin like a skier on a slope.
I am noting the Too Faced primer you like and will see if I can get Ulta to cough up a sample for me.
As for Birchbox, I just signed up last month after the shipment went out, so totally can’t wait until they ship my first box!
I seem to be the only person in the beauty community that isn’t head over heels with Birch Box.
Yup, didn’t like the Smashbox primer either — felt like I had something icky on my face the whole day. I’m also lovin’ the two-faced primer but was hesitant to try the bronzed version — might have to try it now! : )
Sheila!
Try the Smashbox Oil Free Light Primer. You don’t feel it at all. i Got it at Sephora as it tempted me in the check out line.
Another fave for Oilier skins is OCC Airbrush primer. You can just squeeze it out of the bottle, no airbrush required. Although made as a base to their airbrush makeup, it works with any foundation!
I did a review of primers and the Smashbox actually finishes low on MakeupAlley’s site! I haven’t tried the Too Faced but now I think I will as have been looking for a new primer. Thanks! Check me out and follow if you like!
Dermalogica Barrier Repair is an awesome alternative. I agree Smashbox feels greasy…However, Dermalogica has that “greasy feel” when you squeeze it out, but a light powder feel when you put it on.
I get a-mazing compliments on my skin whenever I wear this and I always get asked what type of foundation I wear, but I NEVER wear foundation. Works great under powder or foundation.
Sounds awesome, Carly!