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12 Sep
Sali puts the illuminating primers head to head
It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with Dior’s Glow Maximizer primer. My favourite primer in years, it gives – as one would bloody well hope from the name – great glow and radiance, as well as a pretty longlasting underlay to foundation. Very soon, British brand Illamasqua are to release a product with a very similar concept to sit alongside Matte and Hydrating Veils in their bestselling primer range, and understandably, several readers have asked me how it compares with the Dior. I’ve tested Illamasqua Radiance Veil, £32, extensively over the past month. Does it nab Dior’s crown? Here are my findings.
Application
This is one big difference between the two. The Illamasqua is much thicker and more paste-like than the Dior. It doesn’t spread as silkily and softly (I worried about overworking it and creating peel, but this never happened). Unlike the pump-tubed Dior, the Illamasqua comes in a large pot (much like a moisturiser), so it’s not at all convenient on the go. On the plus side, you are more easily able to control your doses, since the Dior pump dispenses a little too much.
Shimmer
If you find find the Dior too shimmery, step away from the Illamasqua. It’s super shimmery – almost glittery – with bigger particles and a much more visible finish. In this respect, it has more in common with MAC Strobe Cream than with Dior Glow Maximizer. It’s not for the fainthearted at all, and I’d certainly counsel against using it on any uneven surface typically seen with classic acne or rosacea. If a very soft, subtle radiance is what you’re after, try Laura Mercier Radiance Primer instead.
Versatility
I personally don’t feel the Illamasqua can be worn without foundation or at the very least, a decent coverage tinted moisturiser or CC cream, on top. The high shimmer finish of the primer makes it far too unnatural looking to be worn alone, unlike the Dior, which when partnered with concealer, acts as a great alternative to base on less dressy days.
Glow
Both the Illamasqua and the Dior give great glow. There is absolutely no doubt that each boosts dull complexions significantly and visibly.
Colour
Both look pink in the pot but become more golden when applied. Both are suitable for all skin tones and ethnicities.
Grip
This is where the Illamasqua edges the Dior. I feel it gives greater longevity, gripping foundation well into the small hours. The Dior is no slouch either, but if you are someone for whom this is of huge importance, you’re better off with the Illamasqua.
Peel
No bobbling, peeling or disintegrating with either – as rare as hen’s teeth in a primer. Bravo both.
Mix
Neither mixes well with skincare or foundation – you should always apply the primer after skincare and before makeup in distinct layers. If you’d like something you can just dollop into your other products and apply all in one go, try MAC Lustre Drops or Bobbi Brown’s upcoming Face Highlighter (amazing) instead.
Finish
The Dior feels more moist, and may not be to every oily girl’s taste. The Illamasqua has a much drier consistency. Consequently, I feel the Dior gives a plumper, more laminated looking finish.
Verdict
Glow Maximizer remains my primer of choice. I don’t believe Illamasqua has improved on its texture, application and overall finish. The Dior is as lovely worn alone as it is under makeup, while the Illamasqua needs tempering with overlay. However, if I’m going to be wearing a full coverage foundation (Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Foundation, for example, or Estee Lauder Double Wear) and want something strong enough to shine through on a big night out, then I’ll wear the Illamasqua. Those big, bright sparkles can stand up to anything and make this one a more definite illuminated “look”, rather than a natural-looking boost for the skin. It’s basically like a MAC Strobe Cream in primer form, minus any whiteness. Consequently, you’ll need to go easy to avoid spaceman vibes.
Illamasqua Radiance Veil, £32, out October 10th
Dior Glow Maximiser, £26.10
The post Is Illamasqua Radiance Veil The New Glow Maximizer? appeared first on Sali Hughes Beauty.
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