NARS Pro-Prime Pore Refining Primer

There is always a disadvantage no matter what cosmetic brand one starts out with. I chose to go for pricier brands when I was a makeup newbie, reasoning that the chances of failure is lower with well-established names. And true enough, after trying many high- and low-end brands over the years, my contention is that for most of the time the more expensive ones deliver better quality and results. The disadvantage is I was always comparing these cheaper brands to the better ones I've tried. And one of the consistently better brands out there is NARS. 

I have always loved NARS. I love the concept of simple sophistication fused into quality cosmetics. I learned more about Francois Nars' makeup philosophy in his book, Makeup Your Mind. My first Nars product was their Cream Blush in Gueule de Nuit, and every other cream blush I've used was trampled by this gem. The Powder Blush in Desire, remains a good warrior in my book. Their Multiple in Copacabana is still one of the best highlighters I've come across. Most recently, Nars Loose Powder is the only loose powder I've ever truly had spectacular results with among the many powders I've tried. 

I got a sample of Pro-Prime Pore Refining Primer from the SA while purchasing NARS Loose Powder in Rustan's. Their Makati counter has moved from the basement in Essences to the ground floor and has its own well-deserved kiosk. The sample comes in a box with an introductory pamphlet attached much like a full-sized product.

The 2ml tube is quite generous for a sample product and is packaged very well.

The primer has a milky color with a very fluid consistency. It is quite cool to the touch and is very runny like water, requiring a quick hand for application. 

Above, how it looks like when just spread out. It quickly dries to a matte finish. While the product claims to be pore-refining, I did not see much help in that account. The mineral powders didn't slow down the oil production on my oily face either. Certainly, I didn't experience any "velvety-matte, makeup-ready finish." The foundations I paired it with (Nars Sheer Matte and Glow) didn't look more radiant or stayed for longer on my skin either.

The product description.

Overall, a total fail of a primer. I still wouldn't mind trying more Nars items in the future though, given that they churn out more products that work out for me (so far) than not.