• Hourglass Cosmetics No. 28 Primer Serum Review

    Date: 2013.01.13 | Category: makeup, skincare | Tags: ,,,,,,,,

    Hourglass No.28 Primer Serum

    The claims: The goal of Hourglass No. 28 Primer Serum is to moisturize skin as it “prepares” skin for makeup. It contains 14 essential oils (such as rose geranium, lavender, rosemary), 10 lipid-rich plant oils (such as evening primrose, jojoba, olive oil) and 4 vitamins (A, B5, C and E). Here’s a complete list of ingredients.

    Reminder of my skin type: I have dry skin with invisible pores. I want a product to prolong the wear of foundation without making my skin feel like it is suffocating or too dry.

    The appearance, feel, smell, etc: Hourglass No. 28 Primer feels like a silicone based foundation primer mixed with a complexion oil. It really is a mix of a primer and an oil-based serum. A little of this goes far and the product spreads easily because of the oil-based consistency. The primer is clear with no shimmer or tint. It does not contain SPF. It does have a rather strong aroma from the plant-based ingredients. It smells like citrus-rose geranium and the aroma does linger for hours. It actually hangs around on my skin longer than most all-natural perfumes do!

    My experience:  I don’t need a primer that absorbs oil or reduces the visibility of pores. I want something that does create an even surface for makeup application. I do my regular morning routine (wash, tone, BHA, moisturizer with sunscreen) and then apply the primer. A small amount is needed; I can’t emphasize that enough. I wait about 30 minutes before applying makeup (company recommends 2-3 minutes). On my face, it looks like I’ve applied a complexion oil. My skin is very dewy. I apply concealer and foundation. With other primers, I skip the powder. But, I can apply a dusting of powder with this primer. Overall, the finish is very nice. However, I don’t feel like my foundation wears longer than usual. That could be that I’m out in a humid climate, walking in that weird mist that Seattle has or it could be that this product is more of a moisturizer than a primer.

    Bottom line – I like the product for my skin type; it makes my skin look dewy which is what I go for. However, I see it as more of a moisturizing serum than a foundation primer. I like it but it is not a product for everyone.

    Who may like No 28 Primer? Those with very dry skin may like this primer. I recommend it for those that like a dewy, natural finish. This product does not mattify so it does leave a nice “glow” that so many of us with dry complexions long for. Mature skin types may like this primer because it does hydrate and because of this line are “plumped”. Those that like “aromatherapy” type skincare may like this as well. Remember, this product can be used as a primer or a serum. I recommend it as a serum for day or night. I also recommend it to those that like the feel of oil-based skincare products.

    Who may not like No 28 Primer? Anyone with oily or combo skin. I have a feeling this would upset your skin big time. I do not recommend it for sensitive skin types either because of the fragrance and the fact that it contains so many ingredients. I say with sensitive skin that less is more.  And if you have large pores, stay away. If you are looking for a primer that absorbs oil and makes foundation last longer, you will not be happy with this product.

    The 1 oz bottle retails for $65 at Sephora.I think many people look at this product and go “What?! $65 for a primer?!” and I can get that reaction. But, I see this as a skincare item and not a makeup item. And as a serum, that’s not a crazy price.

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    *Disclaimer – Product provided by Hourglass. I am not financially compensated for this review. My opinions are my own. Product pic from Sephora. Post contains an affiliate link. Thanks!