MAC vs. Smashbox

MacCosmetics.com & Smashbox.com

Over the past year or so, I've been learning more and more about makeup. For the most part learning what makeup works good for you is a trial and error process. While searching for a primer, I didn't do much asking around. I did go to MACcosmetics.com to see what they had to offer. At first I was a little uneasy on spending $40 for a primer, but I later went to the MAC counter in Macy's and bit the bullet.

Here's how MAC describes their Prep + Prime Natural Radiance Base Visage: "A silky gel emulsion, rich in natural ingredients, that hydrates and primes to improve foundation or power application, control oil and promote smooth texture. Vitamins E and C protect with antioxidants, while caffeine calms skin. Illuminating pearl powders reflect optic brightening. Well-suited for all skins but especially effective on deeper skin tines, the formula disappears upon application, resulting in a beautiful glow."

My results: I wasn't 100% happy with this product. I felt like it made my skin feel a little greasy. Especially when I was applying my makeup. At times, it felt like I was applying my foundation to a sweaty face. Not a great feeling.

On the other hand, one day in Sephora I spotted the Smashbox Try It Kit for only $19 (a $52 value). Included in their kit of bestsellers is a Photo Finish Foundation Primer, Photo Finish Lid Primer, Limitless Eye liner in Onyx, Full Exposure Mascara in Jet Black, and a Lip Enhancing Gloss in Illume. What a great buy! I got to try out the product I was looking for plus four other products I know I'll use. I highly recommend picking this up if you are looking to try something new, but aren't ready to invest in a full size product.

Now back to the subject at hand. The Photo Finish Foundation Primer by Smashbox is describes as: a silky, lightweight, oil-free blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea. It can be worn alone or under foundation.helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores for flawless skin with a velvety-smooth finish. It has also won the of Best of Sephora Award for Best Primer, one of Maire Claire's 25 Products That Will Change Your Life, Instyle Best Beauty Buy, and recently the Martha Stewart Weddings Big Day Beauty Awards. Whew! This primer is can also be added to wet or dry hair to tame a frizzy mane. Who knew? The Smashbox primer is $4 less than the one from MAC, but you also get a tad bit less as well.

My results: I really love it! Once I apply the primer it minimizes any shine or oil on my face. You really only need a pea size to cover your whole face. Most importantly it keeps your makeup looking fresh all day! I know once my little trial size runs out, I'll be running to the beauty counter to pick up a refill.

Have you tried either one of these products? What did you think? What foundation primer are you currently using?

-Brittiny