Tuesday 7 January 2014

Benefit Porefessional Powder Review

You can tell when a brand has done a mass blogger send-out. A flurry of posts appear in my Bloglovin' timeline, most of them glowingly positive, or with only a few cons. This has been the case over the past couple of weeks with Benefit's new Porefessional Powder. Whenever this happens, I like to hang fire for a few weeks, read all the various reviews and try not to get caught-up in the launch whirlwind.

Having had time to give this new release a thorough road test, here are my thoughts...


For those who haven't heard about it yet, it's the new sister product for Benefit's hugely popular Porefessional Primer. I have to say I really like the primer, so I was excited to see what the powder version had to offer. It's a loose powder that claims not only to minimise pores, but to eliminate shine and leave the skin with an invisible, lightweight matte finish.
The packaging, as always with Benefit, is cute and innovative. A built-in brush and compact powder dispenser makes it perfect for application on the go, but the packaging itself looks and feels quite cheap. Something I would expect (and be impressed with) from from a drugstore brand, but not for the £23.50 price tag. The brush is quite nice and soft but tiny and not something I would use at home.

Packaging aside, the product itself is really nice. It is very lightweight on the skin, and finely milled. It doesn't leave the skin overly matte (something I'm not a fan of!) but looks natural. I'm not sold on the pore-minimising properties, but it does help my makeup last, and keeps it's semi-matte finish and shine at bay for about 4-5 hours before needing a top-up.

My main problem with this powder is that it's just not exceptional. You get 7g for £23.50, so compared to similar products from MAC, Makeup Forever, Illamasqua etc, who offer anything from 8g-15g for less money, it doesn't seem all that amazing.

Don't get me wrong, this product is nice, and good if you like to keep a loose powder in your bag for touch-ups instead of a pressed compact, but apart from that, it's nothing special and in my opinion is overpriced.

Have any of you tried this yet? What do you think of the packaging and price point? The powder is available now, £23.50 with free international delivery here.
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100 comments

  1. Yeah, I was a little skeptical when I heard about this one - I mean I LOVE the original POREfessional primer but I don't think I will be getting this one. Thanks for the review Fleur! :)

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  2. Love your review of this! Your so believable and honest! :)
    kerrysbeautytalk.blogspot.com

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  3. Thank you for an honest review. I just started using the POREfessional primer and am really liking it so far. I really wish that more people gave such honest and complete reviews.

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  4. Fleur I am so glad you did a review on that because as you said it's everywhere lately and I wasn't sure whether I should buy it or not!

    thebeautyvictim.blogspot.com

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  5. As a massive fan of the original POREfessional, I was really excited for this. But it does seem rather expensive for something that's not exceptional - especially when there's other high end brands with similar things for less money! Thanks for the review!
    RosieLM Blog xx

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  6. I love the original Porefessional Primer but don't think this seems that great! Thanks for the warning! :) X.


    Amy Lauren

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  7. The packaging is always so cute from Benefit.
    But I much prefer a pressed powder rather then a loose powder!

    www.chlotalks.blogspot.com

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  8. I was quite sceptical about this, nothing I've ever tried really minimises pores (hopefully one day I find something). I'm personally not a fan of the benefit look and I too think quite a few of their products are overpriced purely because of the packaging...the new rockateur blush box was an ugly thing.
    Amy x A Little Boat Sailing

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  9. A fantastic, level headed review, thanks Fleur!

    Stephanie
    http://missstephanieusher.blogspot.co.uk/
    http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3436251/hope-freedom-love
    xxxx

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  10. Hi Fleur :-)
    I think it is pricey for that amount of powder too, but you do get a brush with it... Is that brush any good by the way?

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  11. I've always wanted to try this because of the excellent reviews, but after reading this I'm starting to think twice about buying this product. Thank you for this honest review! :)
    xoxo
    Sierra Calah ♡ Berry Stylish  

    Giveaway going on now!(: 

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  12. Thanks for such an honest review. I had a completely different experience to you with the Rimmel Apocalips which seemed like another mass brand send out. Nice to know you take your reviews seriously and are happy to give your honest opinion.

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  13. I love your reviews. Always very honest and helpful, you aren't 'swayed' by others. Thanks for this!

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  14. Thank you for the review! I was thinking about trying this, and this definitely helped me decide whether or not I should.

    blushandfairydust.blogspot.com

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  15. I actually think this about most Benefit products. They're good, but not exceptional and for the price I really do want exceptional and pretty packaging isn't everything

    Claire | AgentSmyth

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  16. Best review yet! Glad I read yours as I had seem glowing reviews of it. But I had seem others similar to yours.
    So in my conclusion, I wont be running out to buy this any time soon!

    http://caseymayfashionbeauty.blogspot.co.uk/

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  17. It's hard to keep value for money in mind when faced with the adorableness of benefit! Haha, I've always wanted to try the original primer thanks to the many rave reviews on the internet, but it's a shame the powder doesn't seem to live up to its awesomeness:/

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  18. I HATED Porefessional, too silicon-y and left me an oily/shiny mess still! I spoke tot he girl at the Benefit counter about the powder and she said to avoid the powder too as she had the same problems with the original porefessional and she said this one was no good either...and thats from an employee! I have to say I've been really dissapointed with Benefit product when you compare them to other brands of similar price points.

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  19. Anything that claims to reduce shine has me lusting over it but for some reason, I haven't felt inclined to go and buy this yet, it just looks a bit cheap to me! Packaging isn't everything but when you're paying so much, you expect something a bit nicer to look at.
    Bea x
    www.beasbeautyblog.com

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  20. Thanks for the new review, Fleur! I appreciate you being mindful of the value and not caught up in the hype of a new product.
    <3 Carolyn

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  21. I didn't think it would be aimed at dry skin girls and your review is very honest, instead of kissing up to Benefit. Which is sadly one of the brand that doesn't really work for me.

    Kah-Feh Yen | YSL Rouge Volupté Lipstick giveaway

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  22. I've never tried the primer but this doesn't look worth it to me!

    http://thebravestindividual.blogspot.co.uk/

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  23. I think that this powder actually looks good! I'd love to give it a try as I love the primer!

    Imogen - A Rendezvous with You

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  24. Do you ever actually show how the products look on yourself?

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  25. I'm skipping this one for sure. I love my Porefessional like no other so I think I'd stay with it. No point fixing something if it ain't broke.....Right? ;) Thanks for the honest review Fleur. xx

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  26. not a big fan of their packaging. i think they look kinda cheap. but of course, they look very unique

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  27. I was debating buying the powder as I'm in love with the primer, but I don't think I will now as it seems as though it's not great value for money.
    Thank you for your honesty Fleur :) it makes it very easy to part with my cash when you post a review about something that you think is worth it, rather than saying a product is great when its not!
    danielascribbles.blogspot.co.uk

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  28. I liked this powder, but agree, the price is a little bit on the steep side

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  29. My skin is so dry, I think I'll have to stick to the primer! Thanks for the review:)

    Beth | BeautyBubbles♡

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  30. Does it make sense that even the first time I saw the packaging for this, I was totally turned off of the product? Not only with the weird brush/container thing, but also with the art on the label. It's a little off-putting and I can't quite put my fingers on it. (Maybe it's because that lady is staring into my soul with her binoculars? Who knows)

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  31. You always write the best reviews! This would be ideal for my teenage sister! Might pick it up for her birthday!

    www.britishbeautyaddict.com

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  32. I have bee waiting for reviews on this product! I'm an oily girl so I was hoping this would be amazing most reviews have said no.
    Don't forget to check out my blog
    Www.wiscobeauty.blogspoot.com

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  33. Such unique packaging I love it! I have seen a lot of reviews especially the one from Emily and she said it was a great powder :)

    -Shelby
    http://bittersweetshelby.blogspot.co.uk/

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  34. This product seems really tempting even though I just got the tarte powder. Thanks for the review :)

    http://ramyun-pie.blogspot.com

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  35. I heard a lot about this product!!!! I really want to try it!!!

    http://mabulledepensees.blogspot.fr/

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  36. This looks really cool but I agree some products are nothings special yet cost much more than other maybe even better products.

    Klaudia
    www.styleitwithme.blogspot.co.uk

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  37. Hmm.. not sure I'm sold on this one Benefit!
    Philippa / FlashesofTeal

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  38. I agree, It's way to expensive for what it is - but if I got it as a gift, I'd be quite happy! :)
    Ellie,xx
    Elephant stories and more

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  39. Thank you for being honest! Great review

    http://chelsealeighbeauty.blogspot.ca/

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  40. Thanks for sharing an honest review. I also find that after an obviously massive blogger outreach program my feed is inundated with raving review (I'm in advertising so I understand and appreciate it) but rarely do you find an honest review.

    I'm a fan of benefit products as well but am going to pass on this one.

    Thanks for sharing!
    Jen

    http://www.comfortably-chic.com

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  41. Glad to read this article. Maybe i'll give the primer a try instead.
    xx Stephanie (www.stephaniesstyleblog.com)

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  42. I haven't tried it but I agree that the packaging isn't that great and its super expensive. I would rather spend my money on the Tarte looks powder!

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  43. Really wanna try this, shame its so pricey though! Thanks for reviewing it, Fleur :)

    http://geeeboo.blogspot.co.uk/

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  44. I adore the loose powders I already have, so this seems like a pass to me. Thanks for saving me the money!

    Shani x
    http://shedreamsinperfectfrench.com

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  45. Good honest review!
    What alternative would you recommend?
    http://milimola.blogspot.co.uk/

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  46. Thanks for the honest review! This looks super neat but MAC Blot Powder will always be my favourite :)

    -Jen

    www.vibrantbeautyblog.com

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  47. I'm surprised at your more negative review Fleur, makes me wonder if all the more positive reviews were due to that the bloggers had been given the pr sample of the product, I do love the packaging of this stuff because I am really clumsy with loose powders, but if it aint all that special then it isnt worth the price tag x

    EmmiHearts

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  48. I considered trying this one out because I LOVE the original but I think the look of the packaging is quite tacky and I don't see how a powder can minimize pores.... With this review I don't think I'll be buying this with my own money! Thanks for saving me some cash, Fleur!

    jennainpinkxo.blogspot.com

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  49. Great and honest review, I have been considering this mainly to give it a try but I agree it's quite pricey.
    Liza | Beauty & Fashion Blog Glambeautys | YouTube | Family & Lifestyle Blog Glambambini

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  50. I definitely wanted to try this but not for that much money! Way too much.

    Check out my blog! ♥
    http://www.justjulia.ca/

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  51. I thought that the packaging for the price looked slightly cheap too. I'm not sure if I'd pay that for it if it's not great, thank you for the review Fleur.

    http://missbethanyx.blogspot.co.uk/

    <3

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  52. I haven't tried it but looking at the packaging I wouldn't pay that price!

    http://lux-rose.blogspot.co.uk

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  53. I'm always looking for new primers to try as my make up tends to slide off my face after 3-4 hours so this review has helped a lot!! Thanks. I'm also not a massive fan of benefit products apart from the bronzers and blushers.

    :)

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  54. Thank you for your honesty! I think i'll give this one a miss!

    melaniface.blogspot.com.au

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  55. I love that you're so honest in your reviews, Fleur. I thought the exact same thing about the packaging!

    www.madeleineslittleblog.blogspot.co.uk

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  56. Powders take such a long time to use up and I already have a few on the go. I'm going to pass on this one x x

    zoeblogsbeauty

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  57. I think it is really good product, but for that money maybe I would rather buy some other product that's even cheaper..❇♥ Blog written by two friends: http://teenagewastelandbyhd.blogspot.com/ ♥❇

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  58. I love your integrity, thank you for an honest review as I now know to save the extra money for something that is 'exceptional' :)

    shannonbecca.blogspot.com

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  59. Thanks for sharing your honest thoughts.
    For the price tag it should be well rounded product, packaging and all!
    I will be passing on this, thanks for the heads up!
    TarteTanya

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  60. everyone needs a products like these to cover pores. sounds interesting.

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  61. Ive wanted to try this ever since Ingrid mentioned this!
    Thanks for the blog post on it :)

    xx K
    http://glitzandgold.blogspot.com

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  62. thats really is expensive for its size your reviews are always so honest

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  63. Great review Fleur, looks like a good product to try :)

    Beauty by Alice | Blog | YouTube | xxx

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  64. great review
    xx
    daniella
    simplybeautifulelegant.blogspot.com

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  65. My Favorite part is the packaging. haha Other than that I think this was a pretty accurate review!
    Great post
    <3

    http://thehauterebel.blogspot.com

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  66. What a cool little package- I'd buy it just for that if it weren't for the high price...

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  67. great review, love your blog fleur :D

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  68. Thanks for your honest review! I will have to pass on this one.

    Love your thorough reviews <3
    www.natalielovesbeauty.com

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  69. This is a product i think is really overhyped! berrie-blogs.blogspot.com xxx

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  70. Great, honest review. It sounds good but I will probably try a similar, cheaper product from another brand like you said :)

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  71. i tried it in the store while i was in london and it seemed to work on my large pores quite well! maybe just if you have really large pores like i do! i still have to wait until feb. until it hits stores in austria but i think i will give it a go! thank you for your honest review.

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  72. Thanks for the review, I was torn between jumping on the bandwagon and sticking to my drugstore powders. I love the Porefessional Primer so I was hoping that the powder would be just as amazing.

    On a side note, I am amazed by the quality of your blog photos Fleur! If you don't mind me asking, what camera and lens do you use for blog photos? Are they the same camera and lens combo you use for filming your videos?

    http://andieatcollege.com

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  73. I am glad you tell exactly what you're thinking:)

    http://www.beautybellenotes.com/

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  74. I'm so glad you did an honest review Fleur even though they sent it out to you, I admire that! :) xo

    http://girlcallednina.blogspot.co.uk/

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  75. Thanks for the honest review! I think I'll just stick with the POREfessional primer!

    Emily | HONEY LOAF x

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  76. thanks for the review!
    http://commeandfreedom.blogspot.co.uk/

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  77. Thanks for the honest review. I have to agree. When flurries of posts go out on a product, I have to wait a bit before deciding if I want to buy it and/or post about it. But aways, I want to read everyone's post so I can then make a judgement of my own and come at it from a different angle!

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  78. Im always on the boarder with Benefit...I'm such a sucker for the packageing, and I always want to like the products, but normally end up being dissapointed :(

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  79. I have the normal POREfessional but I think I'm going to stick to what I know and steer clear of this one!

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  80. Love this review! So honest and from the heart :) I agree about the brush being a little small and cheap looking! I think using a larger brush makes it easier to blend! I am not a huge fan of the product, but I am not a fan of the professional primer either!

    http://norestforthewelldressed.blogspot.co.uk

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  81. Thanks for this honest review. It's a shame there's so many bloggers out there who just rave about a product because it could possibly start a hype. I agree with you, for that price I would expect a really really good product that is way better than its cheaper drug store counterparts. I don't think that I'm going to give this powder a go.
    xx

    www.kazetime.blogspot.com

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  82. i actually really love this powder! i just hate the packaging and the awful brush. i definitely use a better face brush at home

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  83. Right now I am loving my Rimmel Stay Matte powder and with such a good price point it's worth trying out! I've only heard good feedback from it. But I really want to try the POREfessional primer!! It's definitely on my 2014 list of beauty products to try.

    MD. ‪byourbself.blogspot.ca/ ‬

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  84. i was really excited when i saw this was on it's way! but from what you say, it doesn't seem to do much more than a normal mattifying powder which is a bit disappointing, don't think i will be splashing out just yet, but i do love the porefessional primer!
    it's nice to see a really honest review!
    Becci x
    http://princessesandpinkchampagne.blogspot.co.uk/

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  85. Great post. I was sceptical about this product after hearing people talk about it, so it's helpful to hear a detailed review. Check out my blog http://apricotsandamethysts.blogspot.co.uk/
    xx

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  86. I think that I might just stick with the regular Porefessional. This powder is a bit overpriced and the packaging seems to be slightly impractical for me. Also, I don't really need a powder to replace my Tarte Smooth Operator, which I think is absolutely perfect!

    bypeiling.blogspot.com

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  87. Not to sure about this product, I think I might stay with the original Porefessional, for a good powder however I would HIGHLY recommend the Nars light reflecting setting powder it is just lovely! Thanks for the review Fleur! x

    http://theprophecyofloveliness.blogspot.co.uk/

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  88. I think I prefer the original to this powder version x
    minusculeblogger.blogspot.co.uk

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  89. Hi fleur! Lovely lovely post. We've been wanting to try out this powder for a while now. We've been loving the Rimmel Stay Matte for the longest time. Xx
    Hi guys! We just started our own beauty/fashion blog and it would mean the world to us if you could check it out!!! <3
    http://themakeup-diaries.blogspot.ca/

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  90. Thanks for the review :) I will probably end up buying it just because I love the original!

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  91. thanks for the review! I love the primer but i've been wondering if i should buy this or not!x

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  92. Absolutely in love with the primer, can't wait to try this out! Thanks for the share!

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  93. I love the original so iam going to have to try this now :-). lovely post
    http://glitterygoodies.blogspot.co.uk/

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  94. Admonish your friends privately, but praise them openly.


    http://packaging.nbwidely.com/

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  95. Great blog I have bee waiting for reviews on this product! I'm an oily girl so I was hoping this would be amazing most reviews have said no.Thanks for sharing......

    Private Dental Practice | Grow & Develop My Dental Practice Business

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