Which is better? Aloe vera primer vs store brand primer

When it comes to makeup, you're either in the primer camp or you're not. Many people skip this step for a variety of reasons. First, shelling out money for something you don't see can be a deal breaker. After all, you apply moisturizer (hopefully) before putting on your foundation, so why add yet another layer?

For those who love their primer and wouldn't dream of applying makeup without it, cost can still be a factor. Some of the most popular brands on the market run upward of $40 for a small amount. If you've ever wondered about using something other than store-bought primer, you're in luck. This tutorial puts aloe vera gel to the test against Smashbox's iconic Photo Finish Primer. The difference in price is considerable, and if you're looking for an alternative to silicone-based primer that works on oily skin, watch the quick comparison video to see what we learned.

Comparison items
- Store brand aloe vera gel
- Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

Application observations
Both products applied evenly and dried down fairly quickly. When applying foundation over both products, there was no difference between the aloe vera and the primer in terms of blendability.

Longevity test
After doing some moderate chores, both sides of the face looked similar. The makeup applied to each side still looked fresh, and neither one was particularly oily or smudged.

Conclusion
If you're looking for an alternative to traditional primer, aloe vera definitely works. It may not provide the pore-blurring appearance that some may be looking for, but it won't clog your pores or break the bank.