The Perfect Non-Red Complexion: What Works?

As much as I love being fair-skinned, I sometimes curse it too.  Not only do I have an awful time trying to find powders and foundations that actually MATCH my skin tone but every single facial flaw is always visible. 

See, my issue is that when I break out, I'm always left with a slight red scar, even when there are no bumps or irritation left over.  I know that most people have this issue, in some form or another, but because I am soooooo abnormally pale (ladies, I mean PALE.....even the lightest foundations are too dark for me) every single imperfection shows very vividly.  So, last weekend I decided I was sick of it.  I purchased two products, one expensive and one not-so, to see if these "redness relief" products really work.

Smashbox Photo Finishing Color Correcting Primer VS. e.l.f. Studio Complexion Perfection

I lucked out with the primer; instead of paying the standard $45 CAN, I snatched it up at a Duty-Free shop for only $32.  (A much better price.)  As you can see, the primer is green-toned which is designed to reduce redness.  (If you didn't know this, the color wheel shows that red and green are across from each other.  This means that their colors "cancel each other out".)

The primer is a very nice product.  Like most primers, this one goes on silky-smooth and makeup adheres very nice to it.  Plus, it's oil-free which is a really nice benefit.  However, in terms of redness relief, it does nothing.  I wanted to love this product, I really did, but in terms of red coverage, I haven't noticed any difference whatsoever.  So, on that note, it's a thumbs down from me.

I ordered the e.l.f Studio Complexion Perfection on a whim.  I mean, how can you go wrong when it's only $3????  This product is really cool because it combines four different shades that do four different things: the blue neutralizes orange, the green covers red, pink neutralizes grey and the yellow brightens and covers red.  

This powder is amazing.  I apply mine after foundation/concealer, almost like a setting powder and it gives my skin a fantastic flawless finish.  Not only does it cover any stubborn redness BUT it also absorbs excess oil, making my skin look perfect.  The only down side is that the product itself can be a bit "flakey".  (When you've swirled your brush in the compact, you'll notice that excess product is always sitting on top of the powder.  I always feel like I'm going through it too quickly.)  But, it's only $3....I have just placed another order (3 more coming) just to have backup. 

So, sometimes, the less expensive option will come out on top.  Ladies, if you have the same issue as I do, try out the e.l.f Studio Complexion Perfection, you won't be disappointed.

PS - I know this post is long but wanted to throw this out there.  If you do suffer from redness and scaring, try out Avon's Banishing Cream.  I am in love with this product!  I use it every night before bed and have to say that it's really done wonders with my redness.  I mean, it's not completely gone but it's definitely not as noticeable as it was before.  Plus, on sale, this cream will only set you back about $4.99