Product Review: Foundation Primers

I don't know about you girls, but I was introduced to foundation primers a couple years ago.

And it's something I wish I would've known in High School.

For those who don't know much about primers, basically, they help your foundation stay on longer.
They also help create that smooth, finished look to reduce the appearance of pores, lines, etc.

Anyway. 

I've tried out several brands now and thought I would give you my intake on them.

I have a Normal skin type but do get the oily T-zone like most people (unfortunately). I also have big pores (another yay) and acne prone skin.

For makeup, I use a liquid foundation (Clinique) and powder on top.
When I use my Primer, I'll mix it in with my foundation.

{Smashbox Photo Finish}

Via.

This was the first one I tried since a lot of people use it.

I found it to be ok but didn't think much of it since I didn't have anything to compare it to.

It wasn't until I tried something else that I noticed that I didn't like it. 

It is thick though, which I did like.

But, I also felt like it caused me to break out more than normal.

{Bare Escentuals Prime Time}

Via.

The second primer I've ever used.

This primer was a lot thinner than the Smashbox brand and as a result, it didn't do that great of a job.

I didn't love it but I stuck with it since it is cheaper than the Smashbox.

{Monistat Chafing Gel}

Via.

I know, right?

I had read on someone's blog over a year ago that it's practically the same stuff as Smashbox but SO much cheaper. So I bought it.

And you know what...the girl was right!

Same thing, fraction of the cost. And I actually liked it better than the Smashbox because I didn't break out with it.
BUT, it created a more smooth face.
Obvious, right?
It wasn't bad though by any means. I still use it from time to time.

{Sephora Perfecting Ultra Smoothing Primer}

Via.

My most recent discovery.

And I think I found the one!

It's thick (which I didn't realize I would actually like) and goes on great with your foundation. It seriously makes it stay on so much longer and it even has helped with my oily T-zone that'll appear.

Doesn't make it go away, but I noticed a difference.

And that's big. Because honestly, I didn't notice a difference until this product.

Best part? It's $16.

I will warn that you'll need a good facial scrub to get it off at night. Which is what I've done in my routine anyway.

Every one may be different. I realize there are a lot of people out there who do love Smashbox, but I am not one of those people. It's simply about finding what works best for you and your skin.

But for me, I definitely think my search has ended for the perfect primer.

Love to you.

Kristen