Face Primer Review: L'oreal True Match Smooth Up Makeup Base

A eureka moment for me...

Introducing, a Smashbox Photofinish Primer dupe (in my opinion) --- L'oreal's True Match Smooth Up Makeup Base! This is definitely waaay better than Monistat Anti-Chaffing Gel's infamous thick texture and heavy feel.

Checking its ingredients, L'oreal True Match Smooth Up Base is a cross between Smashbox Photofinish Primer Original and Light. It has Light's water-based feature (good for oily skin) and Original's silicone derivatives.

L'oreal True Match Smooth Up Makeup Base, 30mL, 425php (~$9)

From the box:

"A supple, light and gliding texture that smooths out pores and fine lines for an impeccable make up finish to last all day."

What I love about it:

• held my makeup in place for around 7 hours; makeup never turned dark on me (which always does whenever I skip primers)
• locally available and cheap (425php!)
• can blur pore diameter
• lightweight
• the silky feel it creates on my skin
• creates a perfect canvas for my face makeup
• hygienic tube
• has a version for dry skin -- L'oreal True Match Moist Up Makeup Base

Uh-ohs:

• a pea-size isn't enough
• the silicone content may cause breakouts for some users
• silicone-based primers are not recommended for daily use

This is how the product looks like:

looks perfectly like Smashbox Photofinish Primer Light out of the tube

feels like Smashbox Photofinish Primer Original when slathered on the face

I wore this in an FOTD I posted a while back and the shots were taken 5 hours (or was it 6?) after makeup application. To think that I commuted to and from my patient's residence.

This is a good primer to get since you're getting loads of benefits without splurging. I will definitely buy again after finishing the tube.