AMW Reviews: Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer

With my skin condition, I actually can live without a foundation primer, but because I apply make-up on clients and most of my clients need the help of a primer, I've been purchasing and looking for the best foundation primers in the market!  

I've tested quite a number and Laura Mercier is actually one of those brand names I wanted to try.  As I was going to re-purchase my Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light which has been out of stock for a couple of months, I've decided to give Laura Mercier a go! 

Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer says ---

• Specifically created for oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin types; oil free
• Contains high water content and addresses surface dehydration around active blemishes
• Oil controlling ingredients ensure long-wear and flawless application
• Vitamins A, C, and E act as antioxidants & protect the skin from harmful, aging effects of the environment
• Cooling Foundation Primer in the refrigerator is refreshing for the skin and reduces puffiness
• Non-comedogenic
• 1.7 fl. oz./50ml

Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Isodecyl Isononanoate, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate, C22-20 Alcohols, Squalane, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Esters, Phenoxyethanol, Boron Nitride, Silica, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Allantoin Tocopherol Acetate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Hamaelis Viginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Retinyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Polyamino Sugar Condesate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Chlorphensin, Benzoic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Saccharomyces/Xylium Black Tea Ferment, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Potassium Sorbate, Green 5 (CI 61570), Yellow 5 (CI 19140). 

AMW says ---

Pros

• Squeeze type packaging, makes it easy to control how much product to dispense.
• Specifically created for oily and acne-prone skin which means the product is gentle.
• Aside from the oil control property, it contains Vitamins A, C and E which acts as antioxidants that protects our skin from make-up and pollution.
• Make-up stays for the whole day, skin looks refreshed. 
• Lightweight.
• No white cast on flash photography.
• No weird scent.
• Doesn't dry out my skin as compared to other oil-free foundation primers.
• Lines aren't emphasized.
  

Cons

• A bit pricey as compared to other foundation primers that are coming out in the market.
• Product only lasts for 6 months upon open. :(  Too fast!

• People who like the "mattifying" feeling won't find this in this primer!  This feels like regular moisturizer.

Overall

The Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer is worth the money in terms of making your make-up stay longer.  It helps skin looks healthy and smooth when you apply make-up on.

What's better between LM and Smashbox?  I would still prefer Smashbox Photo Finish Light for Bridal Clients but on a daily basis, LM works and is gentle on skin! :)

Tips

• Apply skincare before you apply this foundation primer.
• If you use face sunblock, apply sunblock first, leave it and let it absorb for a couple of minutes before you use the foundation primer.
•  Massage a liberal amount all over the face.
• Try to avoid eye area as much as possible.
• For dry or mature skin individuals, you can opt for the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Hydrating.
  

Will I repurchase?
Yes, this is my next alternative for Smashbox Photofinish Primer Light.

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who wants to oil-free foundation primer PLUS the added benefits to heal the skin.  Best for normal to combination skin.  Those with super oily skin may find the oil-control power is not enough.

Where to purchase and how much?
I got mine at Strawberrynet.com for $39.00 (approx Php1,600) free shipping worldwide.

White Liquid that isn't too watery nor creamy, 

just the right texture and gets absorbed into the skin after massage.

Applied tiny amount on hand

A bit of massage and patting,

gets absorbed without any "shine" nor "film-like" texture

Have you tried LM Foundation primers?
What's you're favorite oil-free primer to date?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!