So, I caved last time I was at Walmart and bought some. I will say that it's very affordable - around $6 or $7!
It comes in a hefty glass container with a plastic lid.
The balm just pours out of the top of the container. There isn't a pump or anything to control the flow. So it can be challenging not to pour out too much.
The balm itself is a semi opaque, white liquid.
The ingredients are listed on the box and seem somewhat innocuous. Although, I was nervous about the isopropyl palmitate, since it is derived from palm out and considered to be a potential pore clogger.
While testing this as a primer, I applied all my normal skincare up to my sunscreen. Then, I poured out a nickel sized amount of the Nivea balm. I had heard that the sensitive version has less of a fragrance. However, it still smells very manly. It reminded me of cologne. Although it wouldn't be offensive on a guy, it's not a scent that I would choose for myself. The scent lingered for about an hour and then it faded.
The balm's texture is like a thick serum. It goes on easily and doesn't sting (the sensitive version doesn't have any alcohol) and feels like you're applying moisturizer or serum. It didn't blur or minimize pores or mattify. My skin looked exactly the same as after I apply my Cerave moisturizer.
Here's what it looks like with the Nivea balm.
I applied my Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation over the Nivea Balm. My foundation didn't apply any better or any worse. It felt the same as always. I applied the rest of the makeup as I usually do and went to make a smoothie. (Gotta keep up my strength!)
As the day went on, I checked periodically to see how my makeup was wearing. It looked the same as when I don't wear any primer. I got oily after a couple hours, I blotted and reapplied loose powder a couple times during the afternoon.
So, after really giving it a chance, I don't think this primer is for me. Thankfully, it didn't break me out, but my skin and makeup seemed the same as when I don't wear primer. I want a primer that is going to blur pores and fine lines, mattify and help to minimize oil breakthrough and the Nivea balm didn't do any of those things. That being said, it might really help someone with dry skin. I know Nikkie's skin is dry, so maybe that's why it works for her. For my combo skin, it just didn't make enough difference for me to continue using it. Plus, I really disliked the scent. Even though it faded, I didn't like smelling it when I put on the balm.
I am happy that I get to put this one to rest. All of YouTube seems to love it, but it's a pass for me!
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