does it work?? smashbox photo finish primerizer

When it comes to skin care products, primers, and all the rest....less is more. There is nothing I dislike more than a lengthy prepping process. It's true! While I love applying eyeshadow, blush, and highlight, moisturizers, primers, and skin perfectors are simply things that need to be done. There is no excitement or creativity to enjoy. As a result, it often feels like a chore. Which is why I was so intrigued by the new Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer. Not only were there some pretty major claims prominently displayed on the packaging but it sounded like it could cut down on my daily skin prep routine. Surely, it was worth a shot. 

To start with, there were some big claims on the packaging. They included: 24-hour hydration, 127% instant moisture, 99% of users found the formula to be lightweight, 91% said that makeup went on flawlessly, and 88% of people said it made makeup last all day. To start this review...let's start by looking at the claims. Essentially, this is a primer and moisturizer in one. It has a runny consistency and applies like a gel (sort of like the Clinique Moisture Surge) with a built in primer. Due to the thin, gel-like consistency, this definitely feels lightweight on the skin.

It also adds a decent amount of hydration. Would I say 127% more moisture? No. But a good amount. If you have a normal or combination skin type, this is likely going to give you exactly what you need. Since I have dry skin to begin with...I find this works best when I apply a light moisturizer first and follow up with this Smashbox product. The combination keeps my skin hydrated, primed, and ready for makeup application. 

Now to talk about staying power. While this primer certainly works well and I enjoy using it - it isn't any better than the normal Smashbox Photo Finish Primer. (Which is $6 cheaper.) When I use it, my makeup lasts for most of the day, and that is all I can really hope for. But if you reach for the Primerizer, you are unlikely to end the day with that freshly-applied finish. 

So, what are my final thoughts? I like this. It is a product that I use fairly frequently and it will certainly come in handy during the colder months of the year. However, it is pricey (about $50 CDN) and because of my dry skin, I find that I still need to apply a moisturizer underneath. While I am happily using it up, I am not certain that I will re-purchase it again in future. Definitely some mixed feelings here...in case you couldn't tell! 

Sound off in the comment section below. Have you tried this? What did you think?

xo Shannon