When it comes to primers, Smashbox's Photo Finish has become somewhat of a holy grail beauty product. Avid users have consistently raved about its ability to smooth and protect skin while helping makeup to last for hours. Still, while the product is certainly amazing, its price point ($36 per 1 fluid ounce) has left many searching for a more affordable Smashbox Photo Finish dupe to suit their needs.
You might be surprised to find that there are various amazing alternatives that stand tall when compared to Smashbox's highly coveted formula — all for a fraction of the price. And while each and every one promises to give you a flawless end result and a long-lasting finish, it's important to know which qualities to look for as you shop around for a viable replacement.
For starters, you'll definitely want to find a primer with the same clear formula and smoothing properties as Smashbox's; this will ensure that you're getting the flash-friendly look and weightless feel that you're going for. Secondly, it may be beneficial to ensure that the product is lightweight and oil-free so that it doesn't feel too heavy or greasy underneath your makeup — another quality that fans of Photo Finish appreciate.
The last factor you might want to consider is the primer's ability to protect skin from free radicals and environmental toxins. Choosing a product formulated with antioxidants and vitamins may benefit your skin's overall health and appearance in the long run, just like the original.
Now that you have the basics, here are four of the best Smashbox Photo Finish Primer dupes; give them a try and see how they stack up to your favorite.