Products That Didn't Work For Me, #3

Last month, I posted a round of disappointing products, and a lot of you really seemed to like the post. It is definitely hard for me to do these types of posts, as I generally just return or give away products very quickly if they don't meet my expectations. Since you guys seemed to like the previous posts (here and here), I'm going to make an effort to do this more often! 

I did find myself disappointed in a few products that have lived in my collection for some time: Dior Amber Diamond and the Urban Decay Naked palettes. They just weren't as exciting as I remembered, though perhaps that is my fault, as I hadn't used them in so long. It seems that I've now been spoiled by the soft, subtle textures of luxury brands like Burberry...!

Anyway, this time around I have two products that I was very excited for - Nars Pro-Prime Light Optimizing Primer and Becca Mineral Bronzing Powder in Duende. 

nars light optimizing primer review

I purchased the Nars Pro-Prime Light Optimizing Primer this past spring, and had high hopes for its radiance enhancing properties. As you might know, the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer is one of my favorite products, and I remembered liking some of the other Pro-Prime primers when I had tried it on during makeovers, so my expectations were high. 

nars light optimizing primer swatch

This primer definitely has a nice finish, and seems to help tinted moisturizer or foundation wear better. However, there was more shimmer than I generally prefer, so that was a bit of a dealbreaker for me. I do think the finish and wear of this is better than the Laura Mercier Radiance Primer, at least from what I've seen so far, but I'm still in the process of testing that one so I can't make a definitive statement on that just yet!

Anyway, I think I was expecting this to be a more primer-like version of the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector (which I have yet to review but is SO subtle and gorgeous) but it isn't really. Oh well, there are plenty of other things to try, right?

becca mineral bronzer duende review

I think I purchased this Becca bronzer last fall, and didn't even use it till this summer - YIKES!  I do love how finely milled and soft it is, so that aspect of the bronzer is nice. However, the shade just didn't look very good on me, and that was sad! I don't know what it is, but something just brought out the redness in my cheeks, and I remember when I first applied it, it looked a bit like a recovering sunburn. 

I imagine those of you who have fair skin would want to stay away from this shade, Duende, though I bet those of you with deeper complexions than mine could totally rock this bronzer. I am glad I tried this bronzer, since the texture is pretty nice. I think I'll be on the lookout for other shades, and perhaps try out some of their blush!

So what did you think of my experience of Becca Mineral Bronzing Powder in Duende and Nars Light Optimizing Primer? Have you tried either of these? Did they work for you?