Image Source: PS Photography / Chloe Dunn
If I say “Benefit primer,” I bet an image of a striped turquoise tube with an illustration of a secret agent, wearing a trench coat and holding a briefcase springs to mind. Created over fourteen years ago and sold globally every 12 seconds, the original Benefit Porefessional Pore Primer has well and truly earned its cult classic status. In fact, one of my first makeup memories is visiting the Benefit counter in Debenhams with my mum and walking away with it and my first Hoola bronzer.
Fast forward to 2024 and I’ve almost perfected my makeup routine, all I’m missing is a primer which can reduce my oily shine while maintaining a subtle healthy glow. I’m always skeptical when it comes to primers, often finding that they over promise and under deliver. Whether it’s my makeup not lasting the 12 hours promised or my natural oils seeping through, I’m yet to find a primer that has actually impressed me enough to buy it again.
I’m already a huge fan of Benefit products, from my eyebrows to my skincare, so when I saw the makeup powerhouse was releasing a new Porefessional Matte Primer (£32), along with a brand-new Porefessional Power Powder (£35), I had to give it a whirl.
About the Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
Before using Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
What I Like About the Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
One of the first things I noticed about this new primer was the packaging. While I know it’s what’s on the inside of the bottle that really counts, I couldn’t help but admire the pink and blue tube with a silhouette of a woman on it and think to myself: “The POREfessional lady is growing up with me.” It’s got a more modern look and feel about it, making it the perfect addition to my makeup bag.
Upon first application, the texture really surprised me. I’m used to the thicker, creamier texture of the original primer and I could immediately see how the new matte primer is not a replacement for the OG, it’s an addition to the line-up instead. Where the original formula is better suited to resurfacing skin texture and filling in deep pores, the new matte primer is a lightweight alternative which focuses on reducing shine.
It has quite a thin formula which dried down into an incredibly soft, smoothing base and I could instantly see the reduction in shine. Unfortunately smell-a-vision still isn’t a thing but the fragrance is floral and airy. If anyone at Benefit is reading this, I’d like to request it as a perfume please.
Once I added my concealer and foundation, I went over my t-zone with the Porefessional Power Powder. I’m going to go all out and say this product is the powder version of blotting paper. It’s packed full of upsalite, a finely milled powdered mineral, which helps absorb excess shine. I really liked how the combination of primer and powder absorbed my natural oils but didn’t dull the shine I added on purpose with the Pat McGrath Glow Balm cream blush.
To put it to the ultimate test, I skipped my usual setting spray and prayed to the primer gods that it would hold up as I went about my day and I’m happy to report that it was a success. My makeup stayed in place throughout a full day exploring the countryside in the 25 degree heat and all the way back to London. While some forehead shine peeked through, it was nothing compared to how oily it’d usually be at the end of the day without the primer.
After using Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
What’s the Difference Between the Porefessional Pore Primer and the Porefessional Matte Primer
The original Benefit Porefessional Pore primer is a smoothing face primer which minimises the appearance of pores. It’s thick playdough-esque formula delivers sheer coverage, fills in deep lines and resurfaces your natural base. You can use this primer with or without makeup.
The new Benefit Porefessional Pore Matte Primer is a mattifying primer which absorbs natural oils and minimises shine. It’s thin, cream texture spreads easily across the face and leaves a natural, translucent base. This primer can be used with or without makeup but I recommend using it as a base to hold your makeup in place all day long.
How to Use the Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
It’s really simple to use. Just apply all over your face with your fingertip, sponge or brush. You can use it alone or under makeup.
If I could give you one tip, it’d be to concentrate the product on your most oily areas. It dries down quite quickly so concentrate most of the product on those areas and spread the remainder out from there.
What to Consider Before Buying the Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer
When picking a primer, it’s important to consider what your individual needs are. This new product delivers a natural matte finish, with a focus on absorbing your skin’s oils throughout the day. If you’re looking for something to even out your skin texture or give the appearance of glowy, hydrated skin, you should consider looking for something different.
Where Can I Buy Benefit Porefessional Matte Primer?
You can buy the Porefessional Matte Primer (£32) and Porefessional Power Powder (£35) directly from Benefit or shop them online and in store at Boots.
