I have three different brands to talk to you about... Firstly, L'Oreal and their Infallible Mattifying Base, then Benefit's brand new launch which is part of their POREfessional range - Matte Rescue and lastly the Make Up For Ever,Step 1 Skin Equalizer Mattifying Primer.
So let's get to it.
L'Oreal Infallible Mattifying Base
Availability: Nationwide, Boots, Superdrug, Supermarkets, Online
Retail: £7.99
Claims
Instantly transforms skin texture, resulting in a matte finish and velvet soft touch.
Prepares and smoothes skin by minimising imperfections, pores and shine. Mattifying effect- Instantly transforms skins texture for an even surface with velvet-soft touch. Foundation glides seamlessly across it.
How Does It Perform?
The texture of this primer reminds me of the classic Smashbox Photoready primer - silicone like - the coverage is great, a small amount goes a long way and the finish creates a great base for your foundation. But does it really mattify your skin? Hmm not completely, not for the entire day anyway. I find that I still get my oily T zone and by around mid day I have a not so delightful sheen on my forehead. That said it does perform better when you use in conjunction with the Infallible foundation.
Overall Verdict?
For £7.99 this is a great primer and I have re-purchased it a few times based on the price and how conveniently I can pick it up - which is pretty much anywhere. That said, I would like it to keep my skin matte for a little longer.
3/5
Benefit POREfessional - Matte Rescue
Availability: Nationwide, Selected Boots Stores, Debenhams, House of Fraser, John Lewis, Online
Retail: £21.50
Claims
Matte rescue instantly minimizes pore appearance. The lightweight, water-based gel overpowers shine and absorbs excess surface oil, leaving a natural-looking matte finish. Skin feels smooth and refreshed.
How Does It Perform?
This product has more of a gel like formula as opposed to the Silicone based one above, slightly more viscose, It also has a blue tint to it which is invisible once applied. This product has a greater mattifying effect compared with the L'Oreal one. You feel it instantly on your skin. Whilst it does smooth pores slightly it doesn't have the same effect as the usual POREfessional - so if you are particularly worried about your pores you will need both. My skin definately stays shine free for longer with this product and my foundation doesn't seem to slide as much.
Overall Verdict?
I am a big fan of this primer - the product itself works great and I love the cooling effect it has on my skin when it is applied. I cant help but think, as with the majority of Benefit products that if the packaging wasn't as elaborate the price could be trimmed slightly but I guess it's part of the whole fun of Benfit.
4/5
Make Up For Ever - Step 1 Skin Equalizer - Mattifying Primer
Availability: Debenhams Online or Selected Stores
Retail: £24.00 (30ml) or £13.00 (15ml)
Claims
MATTIFYING PRIMER is the answer to unwanted shine, fighting against excess oil to ensure a matte makeup result. Formulated with our specific Sebustop Vegetal Complex, this first step equalizer instantly reduces pore size and controls shine for a flawless makeup all day long.
How Does It Perform?
I was so disappointed with this product - especially considering the cost. Another frustrating thing was the packaging, the product was too thick to come out of the tube so you really had to squeeze it out. It also doesn't spread as easily as the other two so more of the product was required. Again, if pores are a big issue for you - you would need an additional product to fill those in. I've used this one more in concentration around my T-zone as opposed to all over my face but again it falls short of the standard I have come to expect from other Make Up For Ever products.
Overall Verdict?
Unfortunately, really not worth the price tag, which is a shame cause I had high hopes.
3/5
So the Winner? ** Drum Roll**
This one goes to Benefit's POREfessional Matte Rescue
Have you tried any of these primers? What are your thoughts?
Rhian Xx
