Hi everyone!  How is everyone holding up with this weather?  It’s  hot and humid in So Cal with no sign of cooler temperatures yet.

Speaking of heat, I have a review on the Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Mattifying primer and summer has provided the best weather to put this to the test.  Let’s get to it.

Described as, “a makeup primer that assists with balancing the skin’s texture and tone for smoother, more even, and longer-lasting makeup wear. Mattifying Primer reduces shine for oily skin.”

Pros 

Travel sized version costing $16 for 0.5 oz

Does have a mattifying effect for a couple of hours

Absorbs quickly into the skin

A little bit goes a long way especially if you only spot treat certain areas

Cons

Pricey with full size costing $36 for 1 oz

It’s best to avoid putting this primer on dry patches

Has a cooling effect that tends to feel tingly when foundation is applied on top

Although it absorbs quickly into skin, I can feel a sort of powdery residue

Didn’t work well with certain foundations/BB creams

Overall: I like the primer but I’m not sure I would purchase it again, mainly because I feel it sensitizes my skin a little bit.  When I apply foundation over it, sometimes I feel a tingling/burning sensation.  It does help keep oil at bay for a good amount of time, about 4-5 hours when inside and 2-3 hours when I was outside.  It won’t leave you completely shine free, especially when you are out in the scorching sun, but I didn’t look as shiny as I normally would.  Unless you have very oily skin all over, it’s best to apply a small amount to the T-Zone or wherever you’re oily as it can feel and look drying on the skin.  For reference, I have combination skin.  I also found that wearing this primer underneath BB creams wasn’t the best choice as my skin looked dry and patchy.

What’s your favorite face primer?  Comment below!

Stephanie