Collection Gorgeous Glow Filter Finish Primer and Illuminator - Review
£6.99 - Collection
It’s not often I buy into the TikTok buzz around a makeup product. It’s not that I don’t believe the hype necessarily, but I am trying to be more selective in the things I buy. Only bringing stuff into my collection that has a unique place doesn’t leave room for very much. Still, when I saw Collection had potentially duped a Charlotte Tilbury product I had always wanted to try, I decided it was something I could fit in.
In case you’re wondering, this is supposed to be a dupe for the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter, a primer, mixer, and highlighter hybrid that people have been loving for years. Unfortunately, Hollywood Flawless Filter also costs £36.00 (I’m sure it’s worth the price, but I honestly can’t justify it!)
Because these things matter around here, Collection is a cruelty free brand with many of their products being vegan - including this one! Unfortunately, unlike its high-end counterpart, this primer only comes in four shades (Charlotte Tilbury has twelve shades). The gradient between shades is okay, and it is a sheer product, but only four shades is pretty damn abysmal. Collection has twenty shades in their foundation, so they can do better when they want to - although even that could be improved.
I bought the lightest shade available, “Fair”, and even that I felt looked a bit too dark in the bottle, but as I said, it is very sheer. It also comes across as very golden/yellow in undertone; this isn’t too noticeable when on the skin and does help to cancel out some of my redness.
Worn on its own, this creates a pretty filter to the face, although I wouldn’t say it gives any coverage - I personally still feel the need for concealer on my under-eyes and blemishes/scars. My personal favourite way to use this, however, is under foundation, especially something lightweight like the Barry M Fresh Face Foundation. That pairing is beautiful and quickly becoming my go-to summer combo for glowy skin that wears well in the heat.
Blended in this product is super hard to take a good photo of, but I tried my best. It’s a subtle glow, but I do love the effect it gives. Could I get this from buying a liquid highlighter? Probably yes, but the ease and convenience of this product is undeniable.
Pros/Cons
Pros
Price. I can’t deny that this is a really good product at a great price, especially when you consider how expensive a lot of newer drugstore releases are becoming.
It’s really easy to use. I’ve experienced no pilling or funny reactions to my foundation, so that’s a big thumbs up.
Versatility. If you buy this and don’t like it as a primer, you might like it as a liquid highlighter or a base for no-makeup days - or use it for all three!
Cons
Shade range. I hope this is something Collection improves on soon because they can, and we’re surely past that time in history where mainstream makeup brands don’t offer inclusive shade ranges.
Not a big issue, but when used as a highlighter, it can pick up the foundation underneath, especially if it’s powder foundation or if you’ve already set your base.
It can be a little tacky when first applied, so might be worth letting it sink in first if you’re using it as a base. It also has a slightly strong alcohol smell, but it doesn’t linger.
Verdict
Do I recommend this product? Yes, if you can find your shade match, it’s a good primer at a reasonable price. I think if you’ve had the Charlotte Tilbury on your wish list for a while, this could be a good gateway to see if you like this kind of product - it won’t replace it, but it might stop you from spending a lot of money on something you don’t think you need.