There are still a few months left in 2014, but it looks like blur creams—the next-generation of mattifying primers that instantly smooth away pores and fine lines—just might go down as one of the biggest beauty success stories of the year. The popularity and rapid growth of this new category makes perfect sense, as there is practically an entire generation of women who wouldn’t dream of posting an unfiltered photo on social media. Snap a selfie enough times and you can’t help but crave the same Photoshopped effect in real life. Blurring products deliver just that: a flawless face. The best part? They work on all skin tones. Here, our go-to tubes for an instantly better base.
For women on the run: Avon Reversalist Complete Renewal Express Wrinkle Smoother
The sliding compact will make you stand out from the rest of the pack and it’s easy to use on the go. More good news: The gentle cream-to-powder texture is gentle enough to dab around your eyes.
For all day hydration: L’Oréal Revitalift Moisture Blur Instant Skin Smoother
If you want to jump on the blur bandwagon but aren’t thrilled at the idea of adding an extra step to your routine, this product has your name all over it. Not only does it give your skin the diffused look of a soft-focus lens, but it also delivers long-lasting moisture.
For prolonged results: Kiehl’s Micro-Blur Skin Perfector
The light, tinted color of the cream might scare those with darker complexions, but the paraben-free formula completely disappears once you blend it in. You’ll get the instant gratification you expect, but it’s also designed to improve skin’s texture over time.
For a wrinkle-fighting boost: Lancôme Visionnaire 1-Minute Blur Smoothing Skincare Instant Perfector
True to its name, 60 seconds after I applied the cream, I had to practically press my face against the mirror to see the lines on my forehead—my skin was effectively smoothed. Stick with it for at least a month and lines and pores will look noticeably diminished.
