After being so busy (and stressed!) to even put on foundation in the morning, I am very happy to get back into my beauty routine. Taking the time to pamper yourself, even for a few minutes before your day starts does wonders for your mood!
The folks over at Smashbox reached out to me to review their famous Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer ($42) and Photo Op Eye Shadow Trios ($28). You ladies already know I can never resist a good eyeshadow but I never really used foundation primer. I used one brand awhile back when getting products for my wedding but that’s really about it. I’ve heard nothing but good things about this primer so I was really anxious to try it out. Made with a Hydraplex, a potent desert plant, this primer not only helps create a smooth canvas for your makeup by filling in lines and pores but hydrate your skin as well. I tell you that this primer did not disappoint! It’s very lightweight, goes on really smooth, and leaves my skin soft and moisturized. All you need is a fingertip worth of product, which is awesome because this tube will last awhile (especially since it’s a little on the pricey side). My skin I really noticed the difference in my makeup, especially on my nose which is notorious for it’s huge pores.
For the eyeshadow trio, I tested out the Telephoto Trio, with Vapor, a light and brightening color, Amethyist, a glittery Fall-ready purple, and Nocturnal, a deep, rich blue. What I liked about the packaging is that there are easy to follow instructions when you peel back the label. The shadows themselves have great pigmentation and last throughout the day without the use of a eye primer. Because I love to have fun with shadow, I created three different looks using just the colors in the trio. In the photos I’m also wearing the primer, which I must admit, has my skin looking really good in photos!
Look 1
I swept Vapor from my lashline to the brow bone, followed by Amethyst on the lids and creases. Because Nocturnal is such a deep color (and I was wearing these shadows to work!) I used it as a liner, applying with my contour brush.
Look 2
For another daytime look, I went with Vapor on the lid and Amethyst on the creases and browbone. For a night out, I would add Nocturnal in the creases and corners for more drama.
Look 3
I love the color blue (I mean, can you tell??) so I applied Vapor from the lashline to the browbone, lightly applied Nocturnal on the lids, and then went over it again with Vapor to soften the color. I skipped the liner and just added mascara.
I had a lot of fun with the eyeshadow trio!
Have you used anything from Smashbox?
Photos courtesy of: Smashbox
FTC Disclosure: Products used in this review were received as free samples.
Best Of Palm Beach
/ November 6, 2011I adore smashbox and think they create amazing products. I also love that they do not test on animals.
MJ
/ November 7, 2011They are awesome and I didn’t know that they didn’t test on animals. Extra brownie point for them!
Kimberlee
/ November 6, 2011On interesting – I received this product thanks to Klout. I like look #2. I really like Smashbox primers so I’m excited to give this one a try
MJ
/ November 7, 2011Thank you! Yes the primer is awesome! I’m sure you’ll like it
Kara
/ November 6, 2011You look gorgeous! I’ve never used smashbox, but I was debating between their foundation and the one I eventually got. I’ve been wanting to try out their products though, maybe I’ll go for that foundation now that mine’s almost done
MJ
/ November 7, 2011Thank you Kara! Let me know how you like the foundation. I’m curious to try it too!
Socialite Dreams
/ November 3, 2011i like smashbox, use their foundations and highlighters. i want to try their primers and tinted moisturizer
MJ
/ November 7, 2011I’ve used their tinted moisturizer and it’s okay. I wish it was a little more hydrating for my skin. I do want to give the foundations a try though!
Kirstin Marie
/ November 3, 2011That first look is my favorite. I LOVE smashbox photo finish primer. I have the original, and it’s my favorite!!
MJ
/ November 7, 2011Thank you Kirstin! Now I have to go back and try the original since I’ve had so much luck with this one!
Lo
/ November 3, 2011I love that first look! Such great colors!!!
xoxo
Lo
/ November 3, 2011I love that first look! Such great colors!!!
xo
Lo
http://www.herlolife.blogspot.com
MJ
/ November 3, 2011Thank you!!
abusybella
/ November 3, 2011No, I’m a M.A.C. kind of girl. However, this is definitely worth looking into. You look great!
MJ
/ November 3, 2011Thank you so much! I like MAC too. I used their lipstick for my wedding two years ago and I loved it!
Nila Duran
/ November 3, 2011I Have never tried Smash box, can not afford it, But you look Beautiful. Nila
MJ
/ November 3, 2011Thank you so much! I totally understand what you mean. I usually wait for a good sale or splurge on one or two items I really like.