ESTRELAEVRA: Battle of the Primers

I'm sorta kinda obsessed with foundation. I don't think a girl can have too many but she can certainly have her favourites. The same goes for foundation primers. Primers are the REAL foundation - the foundation to a flawless finish which lasts all day long. I have a few favourites so I'll start this post with the one I am using on an everyday basis.

1. Estèe Lauder Matte Perfecting Primer - R355

I must confess... I didn't believe this foundation primer would be any good and I'm not one hundred percent sure why. Probably because I love the Double Wear Foundation so much so that I didn't think Estèe Lauder could knock it out the park... twice. Well, they did! The Matte Perfecting Primer is great for oily skin types. While I have dehydrated/combination skin, I benefit from its perfecting properties. The matte finish is a bonus. For the longest time I have sought after the most perfect, flawless foundation application and I honestly believe that this primer does just that for me. My skin appears unmistakably smooth, I can't keep my eyes off of the mirror for a full hour. Surprisingly, my skin also feels soft to the touch. But hey, that may be because of my rigorous skincare routine (post coming soon). When applying, I concentrate the product in areas where I want the most flawless coverage. Yes, of course you want to be flawless all over, but lets face it, the t-zone area is always prone to giving in to external pressures and elements first (I rely on powder to deal with that). I apply the Matte Perfecting Prime in outward sweeping motions from my nose to my ear. Then I spread what remains across my t-zone and I add a bit more to my temples and jaw line. This primer is worth your money and worth the splurge! I'll definitely be repurchasing.

2. Benefit The Porefessional - R395

Another primer for when you're in the mood the splurge. I was fortunate enough to attend the Benefit Cosmetics SA Media Launch on the 2nd of July. In our goodie bags were a whole host of Benefit treats but The Porefessional was one of two that stood out for me. To be honest, I have only used this once but in the same breath I can tell you that it provided an identical finish to the Estèe Lauder Matte Perfecting Primer and... that a good thing! If you're paying close to R400 for a primer, it simply has to deliver! I see this one making it into my July favourites though so definitely keep the Benefit The Porefessional in mind should you be in search of another.

I'm so happy that the Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser has finally made its way onto South African shores. TBH, I was surprised to know it hadn't been here all along. I've had this "baby" for ages (I hope it hasn't expired). Some consider it a dupe for Benefit The Porefessional. I'm still undecided on that. I can, however, say that this should be your first budget-friendly choice. It's silicone-based and super lightweight, a great base for any foundation application. Before Maybelline Fit Me! Foundation (here's hoping the Maybelline Fit Me! Matte & Poreless Foundation makes its way here soon) was discontinued, I would apply it after having prepped my skin with the Instant Pore Eraser. The finish was fantastic and lasted me a good amount of time. Definitely one worth trying if you're on a budget!

4. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer - R365

Smashbox primers have some of the most high rated reviews I've ever come across. I don't know if I agree... Not that it wasn't any good but I have a feeling it didn't gel too well with my go-to Estèe Lauder Double Wear Foundation. I am determined to see why this primer is loved so much and so I will be giving it another go with a different foundation very soon! Of course, I'll update this post accordingly and tell you if it delivered or not.