This review dives deep into the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water, a 3-in-1 product marketed as a primer, mist, and setting spray. We explore its sleek, travel-friendly packaging and easy-to-use spray nozzle, examining the user experience from application to its impact on makeup longevity. The lightweight, watery texture is a key focus, along with its effectiveness in creating a smooth canvas for foundation, particularly for those with oily skin. We'll analyze how well it performs in each of its advertised roles – primer, mist, and setting spray – and whether it truly lives up to the hype.This detailed assessment includes a discussion of the product's ingredient list, highlighting the presence of chemicals for those who prefer natural cosmetics. The reviewer’s personal experience, focusing on their use and satisfaction, offers valuable insights into the product's overall performance and efficacy. Ultimately, we’ll determine if the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water is a worthwhile addition to your makeup routine, weighing its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Pros And Cons
- Transparent and light
- Works well for oily skin
- Easy to apply (spray nozzle)
- Suitable for many skin types
- Current favorite primer for the reviewer
- Contains a number of chemicals (reviewer avoids using as a mist because of this)
Read more: 5 Best Vitamin C Setting Sprays for Flawless Makeup
Packaging and First Impressions
The Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water arrives in a sleek, transparent bottle, showcasing the product's clear consistency. The 30ml size is compact and travel-friendly, perfect for slipping into a makeup bag. The packaging clearly indicates that it's made in Canada and features the Smashbox cosmetics logo prominently.

The spray nozzle appears easy to use, promising effortless application. The overall design is both practical and aesthetically pleasing, consistent with the Smashbox brand's reputation for high-quality cosmetics.

Product Texture and Application
As its name suggests, the primer water has a very lightweight, almost watery texture. It applies smoothly and effortlessly, feeling refreshing on the skin. The reviewer found it easy to blend and did not experience any stickiness or heaviness.

The spray mechanism distributes the product evenly, reducing the need for heavy application. The user highlights its ease of application and integration with the rest of their makeup routine.

Performance and Usage
The reviewer primarily uses the product as a primer before applying makeup, praising its ability to create a smooth base for foundation. She noted that it worked effectively even with her oily skin type.

While marketed as a 3-in-1 product (primer, mist, and setting spray), the reviewer opts to use it mainly as a primer and employs natural mists like rose water for other needs. This suggests the product excels in its primary function as a primer, even if some features are less utilized.

Ingredients and Considerations
The ingredient list shows a significant number of chemicals. This may be a concern for users who prefer more natural or organic cosmetics. However, the effectiveness of the product seems to outweigh this concern for the reviewer.

Despite the presence of chemicals, the reviewer emphasizes the positive impact on their skin. This is a key point for those considering purchase to balance the benefits against the ingredient list.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendation
The Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water is a favorite of the reviewer, particularly for its lightweight texture and effectiveness as a primer, especially for oily skin. Its ease of application and ability to create a smooth makeup base make it a strong contender in the primer market.

While the 3-in-1 functionality may not be fully utilized by all users, its performance as a primer is highly praised. The reviewer’s recommendation suggests it’s a worthwhile purchase for those seeking a lightweight, effective primer for oily skin.