So when I received the new Diorskin Crystal Nude Natural Matte Skin Perfecter (a silicone-based primer) , I was instantly smitten, like cat to catnip. And the idea of a Natural Matte Skin Perfecter was something my skin certainly could use, especially during the harsh colder months.

The product claims to be “magical, with multiple uses,” and promises to:

a) Improve the texture of bare skin for a shine-free complexion with a sheer finish;

b) Be used as a finishing touch or for touch-ups over Nude foundations;

c) Set makeup and keep it looking fresh all day long, acting like a “seal” for your complexion;

d) Helps concentrated Mineralized Water on skin surface to optimize beneficial action.

What We Discovered

Since the Diorskin Crystal Nude is a mattifying product with silicone microspheres, I used it as a primer before my makeup. It’s supposed to create an optical effect, like a softening lens (and for the life of me, I couldn’t think of what a softening lens is supposed to do, but I assumed it was to minimize imperfections).

The result, according to the insert, should be a matte complexion fresh with an exquisite nude-skin sensation.

Now, I don’t have the greatest lighting in my boudoir, but I expected to see instant mattification and gratification, but I saw only minimal improvement to my skin texture and pore size. However, I do have to say that it makes an excellent primer for my Diorskin Nude Foundation, and sets makeup beautifully.

The bottom line is, for $42, I would invest in it for the following reasons:

a) It’s a compact primer. So chic and travel friendly, how could you not want it?

b) It sets makeup beautifully!

c) It is competitively priced: in comparison, Smashbox’s Photo Finish Foundation retails for $49.

Sold, to the mattifying nonbeliever!

Tell us, are you a DiorSkin Crystal Nude fan? Will you invest in this gem of a solid primer?

- Charu Suri

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There is a ton of BODYCARE that is organic and natural and most of those products are very effective, but we’re talking about the foundation of your beauty: the foundations, brushes, concealers, primers.

Ever since I got my hands on a perfectly movie-star worthy concealer from Alison Raffaele Cosmetics at The Makeup Show New York, I’ve been hooked to the brand like cat to catnip.

Check out our Q&A with the founder, Alison Raffaele, below:

What is the primary difference between organic and green makeup? As I understand it, organic has to be 100%, while green makeup can have synthetic ingredients in them as well?

AR: Precisely. “Green” makeup is more about not containing harmful chemicals, like parabens, talc, mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, aluminum, etc., whereas “Organic” makeup must be made with only certified organic ingredients. It is very difficult to create makeup that is “organic” that still performs, however, many “Green” brands are beginning to use organic ingredients whenever possible.

Are you planning an organic line soon? Why or why not?

I am looking to use organic ingredients in my formulas, but not to go 100% organic. One thing people must remember is that just because an ingredient is “organic” or “natural” doesn’t mean that it is good for you. In fact many naturally occurring substances – take lead for example – can be very harmful to one’s health. The guideline I generally follow is for an ingredient not to be ranked more than a 3 or a 4 on the Enviormental Working Group’s “Skin Deep” database.

Tell us a bit about why you created your line. Was there a niche or need you wanted to fulfill?

Alison Raffaele

I am proud to say that Alison Raffaele Cosmetics was the first makeup artist developed line to go “Green”. The need I saw that wasn’t being addressed was profession quality makeup that was free of harmful chemicals. As a result, we have a great following among makeup artists!

Any new products on the horizon?

Right now I am working on a propylene-glycol free version of my Inner Glow gel blush and a Pressed Mineral Powder – I’m hoping to launch them in the summer or early fall.

Thank you Alison! Now, it’s your turn. ASK Alison anything and enter your comments below. You’ll be entered to win some great cosmetics from her line. FIVE WINNERS will be picked in two weeks.

Just do it and be pretty.