Smashbox was probably the brand that made face primers all the rage that they are. Showing the world that a clear silicone layer under foundation can make your makeup stay put and retain its color and finish until you attack it with a cleanser was quite revolutionary eight years ago. Most cosmetics companies have since caught up and offer their own version of primer(s) and Smashbox has a wider selection of products for various skin issues (I'm especially partial to the green Color Correcting Adjust that deals with red patches). I've had a couple of the aqua color Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer tubes around for a while, but it took winter, a lingering cold (complete with a red nose and itchy skin) and a serious drop in temperatures for me to really get and appreciate it.
Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer has a light runny lotion texture that is quite different than their original primers. As a result it doesn't create a tangible layer over the face, but if you allow it a minute or so to set before you apply the rest of the makeup you will notice that the primer covers the skin in a very light and invisible film that allows a foundation (or tinted moisturizer) to glide smoothly and grab onto it. It provides a protective layer that while I wouldn't call it hydrating (my skin can develop some seriously dry patches if I let it), it fully prevents moisture from escaping. This is exactly what I need these days, and it makes a clear difference in the appearance and finish of my makeup. I was thrilled to discover how well the Smashbox primer works with LMdB Peau Vierge. I end up with a naturally dew and happy skin, no flakes around the nose and the general appearance of a sane and well adjusted individual. Miracles do happen.
Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer ($42) is available from Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta and smashbox.com. The products was sent for my consideration free of charge by the company. I also received another free tube as a Klout perk.
Gaia, I have a question (it bothered me for a while but I didn't know who to ask): from your post I see that a tinted moisturizer is supposed to go over the primer. Won't it contradict the "moisturizer" part?
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