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Hey beauties, welcome back to Beautyistic! I’m so glad you’re here because we’re exploring a product that promises to be a game-changer for anyone battling excess shine. We’re talking about the Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Makeup Primer, a vegan and cruelty-free cream designed to keep oily and combination skin looking matte, all while incorporating salicylic acid for that extra skin-loving benefit.
So, what’s inside this little powerhouse? At its core, it’s a lightweight cream primer that targets oil control without leaving your skin dry or flaky. The inclusion of salicylic acid is particularly noteworthy—it not only helps manage oil production but also gently works on keeping pores clear, which is a huge plus for those of us prone to breakouts. The texture is soft, creamy, and surprisingly easy to blend, forming a smooth base for any foundation.
In terms of daily use, I’ve been incorporating it into my morning routine for a few weeks now. Application is effortless; a small pea-sized amount spreads evenly across the face. It absorbs quickly, leaving a subtle matte finish without that dreaded “powdery” feel. I noticed my makeup lasted longer throughout the day, even during humid conditions, which is always a test for any mattifying product. The primer feels light, breathable, and comfortable—no sticky or greasy residue, which is often a dealbreaker for mattifying primers.
What I love about this primer is how it balances oil control without over-drying the skin. The salicylic acid adds a skincare angle, making it feel like a hybrid product—both prep and treatment. On the flip side, if your skin is very dry, you might need to pair it with a hydrating moisturizer to prevent any tightness. It’s also worth noting that the matte finish is subtle; if you’re looking for a completely shine-free, ultra-matte look, you might need a setting powder on top.
For value, this primer sits in the mid-to-high price range for makeup primers, but given its formulation, performance, and vegan, cruelty-free credentials, I find it justifiable. Compared to similar mattifying primers, like the Hourglass Veil or Tatcha The Silk Canvas, Smashbox holds its own—it’s lighter, more accessible, and still performs exceptionally well for daily wear.
The packaging is sleek and functional, with a soft tube that makes dispensing easy and hygienic. Smashbox has a solid reputation for quality, and while I haven’t had to interact with customer service directly, their products are known for consistency and reliability.
If you’re exploring options for managing oily or combination skin, a more budget-friendly alternative could be the NYX Studio Perfect Primer in Matte—it offers solid oil control at a lower price, though it doesn’t have salicylic acid, so the skincare benefits are minimal. For those willing to invest, Smashbox’s Photo Finish Control provides a perfect balance of primer performance and skin-friendly ingredients.
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To wrap up, the Smashbox Photo Finish Control Mattifying Primer is a smart choice if you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable primer that controls shine while supporting your skin with salicylic acid. It’s particularly well-suited for combination or oily skin types and anyone seeking a vegan, cruelty-free option without compromising on performance.
Thanks for watching, beauties! If you’ve tried this primer, drop a comment below and let us know your thoughts. The link to purchase is in the description box. And as always, thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay beautiful inside and out!
Available to buy here:
