Getting #PhotoReadySkin With Shiseido's Ibuki Smart Filtering Smoother ~ Review

Shiseido is one of my favourite skincare brands so when I found out that Influenster was sending me the #PhotoReadySkin voxbox complimentary, I was beyond thrilled! This voxbox contains four amazing Shiseido skincare items that are to designed to give you that perfect selfie - without the need for filters!

So here's what I received

• Ibuki Smart Filtering Smoother (full-size)
• Ibuki Quick Fix Mist (deluxe sample)
• Ibuki Beauty Sleeping Mask (single use packet)
• Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate (deluxe sample)

If you're familiar with Shiseido than it comes as no surprise that the Ibuki Smart Filtering Smoother can be worn under as well as on top of makeup. A lot of products in the Ibuki range can be worn on top of makeup which I've always found quite interesting. Naturally, I had to try it out on top of my foundation first!

After applying my foundation, I rubbed a small amount of the smoother on my finger tips and patted it on top. I didn't want to run the risk of smearing my perfectly blended foundation so I sort of patted/pushed it on top. This technique worked very well, my foundation didn't budge at all! I did find that I had to use a fair amount of the Smart Filtering Smoother in order to do my whole face. It sets quickly once it's on and my patting/pushing method meant that I needed to use a bit more than if I were to rub it in. The end result was a matte and smooth finish, with subtle blurring of my pores. 

Shiseido's Smart Filtering Smoother is technically a serum (it's not a primer as the name would suggest) so I decided to use it as part of my skincare routine to see how it performed without the aide of makeup. After applying my regular serum and day cream I used this as a final step. I didn't have to use as much since I was able to run my fingers across my face instead of patting it on. It set quickly and left me with a completely matte look. My face felt and looked smoother and my pores weren't quite as noticeable. This product didn't magically erase them nor did it disguise them; it's more of a subtle blurring. If you're looking for a product to erase your pores, this may not be the product for you. If you want something to help blur the look of your pores than you'll like this Smart Filtering Smoother. 

What I liked the most about Shiseido's Smart Filtering Smoother is that it kept my face matte for a solid 8 hours without drying it out. I tend to get oily in my t-zone fairly quickly and this kept the oil at bay. If you want a product to keep you looking matte while protecting and treating your skin, I highly recommend you give this a try!

Shiseido's Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate is a nifty product that's designed to boost the efficacy of your serums and creams. I've used this product many times and love to include it in my routine. It has a nice, light scent and it absorbs into my skin quickly.

The Ibuki Quick Fix Mist is another great product that I use all the time! It feels so refreshing and it really gives my face an extra boost of hydration. I like to keep a bottle in my fridge; it's even better when it's chilled. The only downside is that it can spray uneven at times which means I have to spray three or four times to cover my entire face. Not a huge deal, but worth noting.

Last but certainly not least is the Ibuki Sleeping Mask. I absolutely love this sleeping mask! It has a gel like texture that feels so nice on my skin. Unlike a lot of sleeping packs/masks this one gets absorbed into the skin (no sticking to your pillow) and it feels very light. I ran out of this awhile ago and haven't repurchased it because I've been panning my skincare. I will certainly be buying this again once I finish my current nighttime cream.

If you love to receive free products in exchange for your honest review, I highly recommend that you join the Influenster community. If you're not a member and would like to join, feel free to use my referral link 😊

*I received these products for free courtesy of @InfluensterCA and @Shiseido but all opinions are my own! #PhotoReadySkin #contest