Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Vanishing Primer
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This primer contains a mix of silicones and synthetic ingredients, which are common in cosmetics for their smoothing properties but can be concerning for some due to potential skin irritation. The presence of BHT, a synthetic antioxidant with health concerns, slightly lowers the score. However, the inclusion of Tocopheryl Acetate, a beneficial antioxidant, provides some redeeming qualities.
Key ingredients 17
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage. It is used for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. It is considered safe and beneficial for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides antioxidant protection and helps to moisturize and condition the skin.
IsododecaneNeutral
Isododecane is a hydrocarbon commonly used in cosmetics for its lightweight and non-greasy feel. It helps in the even application of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with isododecane, though it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and helps in the quick drying of products.
IsohexadecaneNeutral
Isohexadecane is an emollient and solvent that provides a light, non-greasy feel. It is used to enhance the spreadability of products. It is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It helps in achieving a smooth application and enhances the texture of products.
SilicaNeutral
Silica is used in cosmetics for its oil-absorbing properties and to improve the texture of products. It is a naturally occurring mineral. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Inhalation of silica dust can be harmful, but this is not a concern in liquid or cream formulations.
Benefits
It helps control shine and provides a matte finish.
Methyl TrimethiconeNeutral
Methyl Trimethicone is a volatile silicone that provides a lightweight feel and quick drying time. It is used to improve the spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps in achieving a smooth application and reduces the greasy feel of products.
Caprylyl MethiconeNeutral
Caprylyl Methicone is a silicone-based ingredient that provides a silky feel and enhances spreadability. It is used to improve the texture of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and enhances the sensory feel of products.
Lauroyl LysineNeutral
Lauroyl Lysine is an amino acid derivative used to improve the texture and feel of products. It provides a silky, smooth finish. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and provides a soft, smooth feel.
Polysilicone-11Neutral
Polysilicone-11 is a silicone elastomer that provides a smooth, powdery finish. It is used to improve the texture and feel of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It provides a matte finish and enhances the texture of products.
TrisiloxaneNeutral
Trisiloxane is a volatile silicone that provides a lightweight feel and enhances spreadability. It is used to improve the texture of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps in achieving a smooth application and reduces the greasy feel of products.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane CrosspolymerNeutral
This ingredient is a silicone crosspolymer that provides a smooth, silky feel. It helps to improve the spreadability of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and feel of cosmetic products.
1,2-HexanediolNeutral
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic preservative and moisture-binding agent. It is used to enhance the stability and shelf-life of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and maintain its efficacy.
Peg-12 Dimethicone/Ppg-20 CrosspolymerNeutral
This ingredient is a silicone-based polymer used to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It provides a smooth, silky feel. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and feel of cosmetic products.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent and preservative. It is used to enhance the stability and shelf-life of products. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There is a low risk of skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and maintain its efficacy.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or breakouts.
Benefits
It provides a silky texture and helps to fill in fine lines and pores.
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone CrosspolymerBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and feel of cosmetic products.
BhtBad
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent product spoilage. It is controversial due to potential health concerns. It is allowed in cosmetics but with restrictions.
Risks
There are concerns about its potential to cause skin irritation and its long-term health effects.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize products and extend their shelf life.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There is a low risk of skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product and maintain its efficacy.
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