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Product Picks 4/22/2016

Blurred Lines: The 411 on Blurring Balms

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What Are Blurring Balms?

It’s hard to resist a photo filter. With the touch of a button, every little imperfection fades into nonexistence. Now, there’s a new crop of beauty products that promise the same flawless, airbrushed effect: blurring balms. What are blurring balms, you ask? Any formula—especially a pre-foundation primer—that aims to mask blemishes and other imperfections on the skin’s surface by giving them a hazy, faded appearance—just like your favorite filters. From what they are and how they work, we’re sharing all the details on blurring balms, below.

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The 411

Blurring balms are aimed at smoothing the appearance of the skin’s surface by minimizing the look of pores, fine lines, and other texture concerns. The formulas typically deliver a matte, soft-focus finish that helps to create a smoother look and can even prolong the wear of your makeup. Because of this, blurring balms often take the form of primers, moisturizers, and other bases that can be used underneath or in place of other color cosmetics. Many blurring balms even contain an SPF so you can protect your skin while you prime.

The Clean Up

Since many blurring balms contain silicone, it’s important to thoroughly cleanse the skin after each use. Built-up makeup can lead to clogged pores which, in turn, can result in breakouts and blemishes. So, even though blurring balms give you a temporarily faux flawless complexion, remember to give your bare skin a chance to breathe by following a daily skin care routine: removing your makeup, cleansing your skin, and moisturizing, as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michael Kaminer explains here.

Try a Blurring Balm

Looking to add a blurring balm to your routine? We love Maybelline’s Face Studio Master Prime in Blur + Smooth. The lightweight, water-based primer visually blurs skin tone imperfections and smoothes fine lines with its ultra-blurring spheres.

Jackie Burns Brisman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

From your scalp to your soles, Jackie believes that healthy, cared-for skin is the foundation on which all other aspects of beauty are built. As an employee of L’Oréal, she makes it her mission to share the latest and greatest beauty and skin care news with readers. Prior to joining Skincare.com she spent time at Spafinder and Women’s Health Magazine. Jackie has been a featured expert at HBA Global and has appeared on CBS New York's The Couch, Good Day Baltimore, and more.

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