REVIEW: Arbonne Makeup Primer

One thing I struggle with is visible pores and it doesn't seem to matter how conscientious I am in my cleansing routine. Although not ideal, when they make me feel self conscious I like to think that wearing make-up is the solution. However, all too often wearing powder or foundation can exaggerate them. Using a primer before I use foundation is the trick that I've learnt when it comes to minimizing pores, but even then choosing the right Primer can be difficult. I'd tried four other primers this year alone before I'd been sent the product that I'm reviewing today; by Maybelline, L'Oreal and Benefit. None of these primers worked amazingly for me but I'd continued to use them because I didn't know that primers could be better, until now anyway!

It comes in a rather simple box which I liked, partly because it testified to it being a higher end product and also because I like keeping my make-up in their boxes where I can (is that just me?). The bottle itself isn't exactly pretty, it's subtle and non-assuming, but I could easily identify it from its packaging in a drawer which will save lots of time and frustration.

Unlike other primers I've tried this one has a pump dispenser which makes it easy to use, hygienic and less messy than primers that come in pots or even tubes. It also feels sturdy enough to survive falls and knocks, which is essential for someone as clumsy as I am.

The consistency is that of a gel-liquid and when applied it has a very even, smooth, satin texture. You really don't need a lot of product to cover your entire face which is great as it means that you won't leave you feeling like you're wearing a heavy layer of make-up. It is advertised specifically as visually diminishing fine lines and pores to create a flawless canvas for make-up application. I can't really comment on its effects on fine lines, but its effect on pores was noticeable. I was suspicious of how good it was and also tested it on just half my face doing a foundation vs. foundation plus primer test and it was obvious that foundation plus primer was the winner, my flatmate can attest to this!  But the thing that made this a must have for me is its mattifying properties. I usually have to apply powder or touch up my foundation during the day due to my oily skin but when I used this my skin didn't look oily when I checked it at midday or in the evening.

One of the main draws of this primer over others is its ingredients. Arbonne's products are formulated without animal products, parabens mineral oils etc. (Read more about this here) and the primer itself is Vitamin rich. I feel a lot more comfortable using products likes these on my face than those that are cheap or chemical heavy, especially primers and foundations as these cover the entire face. I think for this reason, even though this is a lot more expensive than high street primers retailing at £25*, I would definitely consider repurchasing it and would recommend it to others out there looking for help masking pesky pores or dealing with oily skin. It doesn't cost much more than Benefit's Porefessional and I think this it is more effective.

Arbonne's Makeup Primer, along with other Arbonne products, is available online here for £25*. Alternatively you can contact an Arbonne representative, such as Louise Paterson [louisepaterson.myarbonne.co.uk], where as a preferred client you could enjoy a 20% discount off the RRP.

Have you tried any Arbonne make-up? What's your favourite primer?

Angelica