Beauty Favourites - Inspired Living SA

Following on from My Favourite Fragrances for 2013, I thought I would share My Favourite Facial Primers for 2013.

I only started using a facial primer at the beginning of last year and when I asked around for advice on which ones to try, most everyone I asked, recommended MAC primers! I have been using MAC since then but recently discovered the Smashbox Photo Finish Primers, at a beauty event I attended.

MAC Stobe Liquid Lotion

The MAC Stobe Liquid Lotion was the first primer I bought, which is technically more of a light diffuser, as it contains iridescent pigments. These pigments produce a soft, radiant light on the skin, reducing the appearance of skin imperfections by providing a natural-looking glow.

I have enjoyed using it and love the silky finish it gives my skin! I did however find that it made my pigmentation more exaggerated! I actually stopped using it for a while but recently discovered that if I use it over my MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance Primer, it works really well and gives my skin a lovely luminous glow, without making my pigmentation appear darker. Retail price R335.

MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance

The MAC Prep+Prime Natural Radiance primer is definitely my favourite-favourite! I have found that no matter how much product I have on my skin, this primer stops my skin from breaking out. It forms an invisible barrier between my skin and any product I apply afterwards, protecting it from any harsh chemicals. The formula is a silky gel emulsion, rich in natural ingredients, which hydrate and prime the skin, to improve foundation or powder application. It also controls oil buildup on the skin and promotes a smooth texture. It contains Vitamins E and C to protect the skin and caffeine to calm the skin.

As I mentioned above I have been applying the MAC Prep+Prime and following that with the MAC Strobe Liquid Lotion, before I apply my foundation. I usually use this combination if I am going out and want my makeup to last that bit longer. For everyday makeup application I usually use either the MAC Prep+Prime or the Smashbox Photo Finish Blemish Control. Retail price R380.

Smashbox Photo Finish More Than Primer Blemish Control

The Smashbox Photo Finish Blemish Control is a more recent addition to my beauty regime, I was introduced to it at a Smashbox beauty event I attended last year. Smashbox has quite an extensive range of facial primers, with the recent introduction of the Blemish Control and Dark Spot Correcting Primers.

The Blemish Control Primer which I received to try out, treats breakouts, provides oil-free hydration and keeps skin clearer over time. It contains 2% salicylic acid which helps treat breakouts. I was advised to use this primer before I apply my face cream, whereas the other primers I apply after my face cream and sunscreen. I have enjoyed using this primer but after I recently changed my facial sunscreen and have found that using the two products together causes a strange reaction when I apply my foundation. I have taken to only using this primer at night, when I do not use a sunscreen and if I am going out and need to apply makeup. Smashbox Photo Finish Primers range from R350 – R380.

I would really like to try the Smashbox Dark Spot Correcting Primer and see if it makes any difference to the appearance of my pigmentation. I have added this to my list of new products I would like to try. I am also trying out a primer from Dermologica at the moment.

Do you use a facial primer? If so which one works for you? Please leave a comment below the post letting me know.

I know everyone has there own set makeup routine and products which they love but I thought I would share some of my Everyday Makeup Essentials with you.

As some of you may know I have been struggling with pigmentation over the past few years! Unlike most women who get pigmentation during their pregnancies, mine only arrived after I had my kids. I used to be one of the lucky ones, who could get away without wearing any foundation at all! Well those days have passed and like most challenges in life you can either deal with it and accept it or let it ruin your life. So deal with it we must 🙂

After searching for foundations and concealers for a while now and buying so many products which do not work, I eventually enlisted the help of professional makeup artist Kirsten Murphy Rossiter(yes my sister-in-law – lucky me)! She helped me find the best products for my skin type and more importantly the correct colours for my skin-tone.

The most important thing for me is that I don’t want to look like I have too much foundation on, that “caked on” effect, especially for everyday wear. I need medium buildable coverage, which looks as natural as possible! Having combination skin I also need to stay away from products which will leave me looking like an oil-slick by lunch time.

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