Have I mentioned that I am a Sephora junkie? It really is a problem sometimes.

When I went to Sephora last week for a fix I decided I needed to try Smashbox Photo Finish Targeted Pore & Line Primer ($32). After all, I’ve been using their Photo Finish Foundation Primer ($36) for a couple of months now and I love it.

I wanted to like the new primer; I love Smashbox and the quality products they make. But in my humble opinion, the Photo Finish Targeted Pore & Line Primer has room for improvement.

One of the features I loved most about my original Smashbox Foundation Primer was the smooth application and resulting velvety, yet shine-free finish. While the Targeted Pore & Line Primer does live up to its claims to reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines and absorb shine, it lacks when it comes to ease of application and ability to blend under foundation. I was disappointed to find that the Targeted Pore & Line Primer is thick and extremely difficult to spread.

My current foundation is Chanel Perfection Lumière, which I apply using a Lancome foundation brush. The original Smashbox Foundation Primer is very compatible with the Chanel foundation, but the Targeted Pore & Line Primer creates a flaky appearance and is difficult to blend when applied under foundation. I found it was slightly easier to blend if I applied my foundation with my fingers instead of a foundation brush, but the improvement was modest at best.

Despite the word “targeted” being in the product name, I think Smashbox should put more emphasis on the fact that this primer is not intended for use all over the face. If you read the packaging it states “exclusively developed to target problem areas like nose, forehead, crow’s feet and around the mouth.” This product may be a good solution for you if your primary skin concerns are fine lines and visible pores. But like me, you may be disappointed if you are looking for a product to absorb shine and create a smooth base for your foundation.

Overall, if Smashbox reformulated the Targeted Pore & Line Primer for easier application and improved compatibility with liquid and powder foundations, it could be a great product. But for now I will stick with my original Smashbox Foundation Primer. Here’s a summary of my likes and dislikes.

Have you tried the Smashbox Targeted Pore & Line Primer?

Love it? Not for you?