Ellis Faas Glow Down

RRP: €20
# of shades available: 3

--What does the promo say?--
"An invisible mattifier that sets makeup with a porcelain matte finish, enhancing any complexion with a natural appearance and revealing smooth skin. ELLIS FAAS Glow Down is non-powdery and transparent while feeling soft to the touch, with a veil of natural-looking mattifying effect. NOTE: this is a refill to fit into the cap of the Ellis Holder. ACTIVE INGREDIENTS - Vitamin E, amino acids, omega-3 oils, rapeseed oil, ginger root, galangal plus a Antipollution Green Complex. Use the velvety side of the revolutionary, double-sided powder puff to dust the face. Recommended for each skin type, age or style.

Vegan. No parabens. No scent. No animal testing."

--Packaging--

The Glow Down face powder comes in a standard metal pan, with a circular white sponge for application. No protective lid or plastic film is supplied beyond the cardboard nude-coloured box it comes in, so the Case (see below) is a recommended add-on.

--Application--

Using the sponge (or a brush if you prefer), pat over the skin after the use of foundation, concealer, and any primers. Standard.

--Appearance--

I'm lucky that the Fair shade matches my skin tone perfectly; however, with only 3 shades available, others might not be so fortunate. Provides a perfect finish.

--Scent--

Nothing discernible.

--Texture and consistency--

Disperses evenly on the skin without being too 'powdery' in the pan: zero wastage, so great for travel.

--Effects on the skin--

As promised, delivers a matte effect, and helps to cover imperfections while appearing smooth and natural. Over time, one would also expect the ingredients to have positive effects on skin conditions such as acne, as well as having general anti-ageing effects.

--Value for money--

A high-quality product which does what it says on the tin, and perfect for travel too. Mine was sent for free by Ellis Faas' PR (thanks guys!) but I would easily spend my own dosh on this.

perfect partners

Skin Veil, €65

Concealer, €29

Case, €10

Natural Collection Pressed Powder

RRP: £1.99
# of shades available: 3

--What does the promo say?--
"Natural Collection Pressed Powder has been designed primarily to reduce shine on your skin's surface. It sets foundation and finishes faces without adding colour or texture.

Apply Natural Collection Pressed Powder over your favourite foundation to set your make up for the day and reduce shine."

--Packaging--

The minimal daisy design is both pretty and modern, and the see-through plastic lid is equally advantageous, as you can always see how much is left. The only problem is that occasionally it can be tricky to get the lid to screw on flat, and you have to start again.

--Application--

Use a powder brush to sweep the powder over your face, after applying other base products (such as primer, concealer or foundation).

--Appearance--

The lightest shade suits me well, but the inevitable limitation of there only being 3 shades available means that this product won't match everyone's skin tone. 

--Scent--

Nothing particular.

--Texture and consistency--

Light, settles well and doesn't cake, making for as refined a result as many other higher-end powder brands.

--Coverage--

Again, pleasantly surprised by the high quality of coverage afforded by this product. Shine is also reduced.

--Value for money--

While I was sent mine for free by Natural Collection's PR, I would undoubtedly replenish stocks with my own money: a great result for little of your hard-earned cash.

perfect partners

Natural Collection Cover-Up Cream, £1.99

Natural Collection Blushed Cheeks, £1.99

Natural Collection Shine-Away Foundation, £1.99

Laura Mercier Mineral Pressed Powder

RRP: £31
# of shades available: 8

--What does the promo say?--
"Composed of a custom blend of Pearl Powders rich in amino acids, Laura Mercier Mineral Pressed Powder offers a natural, buildable foundation for sheer to full coverage. With its creamy texture, the oil free, water-resistant formula adheres to skin for a colour-true finish all day."

--Packaging--
The square plastic compact looks elegant and sleek thanks to its minimalist black and silver design. The package in general, and specifically the click mechanism, seem robust, and the compact contains a goodly-sized mirror also. Unfortunately the applicator is a sponge (albeit generously-sized) rather than a brush (my own preference).

--Application--
The brand recommends that you use the sponge to continue layering the powder until the desired coverage is achieved. Easy enough, even if I do prefer a brush (see below as to why).

--Appearance--
I purchased the lightest shade - Tender Rose. Eight shades represents reasonable availability, although other high-end brands provide many more. Tender Rose works well for me, matching skin tone flawlessly and providing the requisite level of coverage. However, throughout the day it does appear to cake more on the skin, clumping together in patches, which means that it looks a little more uneven as the day goes on. This could, however, perhaps be remedied by applying with a brush instead of the supplied sponge.

--Scent--
Smells slightly nutty, which is a little surprising as none of the ingredients appear to indicate the presence of nuts. But it's not in the least unpleasant.

--Texture and consistency--
Very light on the skin on first application, and doesn't feel like it weighs the skin down throughout the day. 

--Value for money--
Coverage is good until it starts to clump, and skin tone matching is equally promising. The ingredients promise to do the skin good, and one compact lasts a long time. All of these elements justify the price tag. My only complaint - as you can probably tell - is the sponge applicator. Use a brush instead - they are easier to clean and the powder will likely stay even throughout the day as a result.

perfect partners
Blending Brush, £32
Long Lash Mascara, £19.50
Hydrating Foundation Primer, £29
Second Skin Cheek Colour, £21.50
Kohl Eye Pencil, £19
Silk Creme Moisturising Photo Edition Foundation, £35

Benefit How To Look The Best At Everything Flawless Complexion Makeup Kit

RRP: £25.50
available shades: 3

--What does the promo say?--
"We wrote the book on complexion perfection! Our custom perfectors give you a luminous complexion by blending away imperfections & minimising the appearance of pores. Mix & match our complexion perfectors to customize your coverage. You’ll be the first to finish flawless."

--Packaging--
As always with Benefit products, the packaging is beautiful: the vintage-style book design is lovely (and the removable tray - meaning that you can keep this when you've finished the makeup - is a terrific bonus) and the inside is generally very practical, with virtually all products removable from the tray (very few pans) with the exception of the Hello Flawless face powder (in Ivory). The PoreFessional Pro Balm is a conveniently-sized screwtop tube and the Hello Flawless foundation is a tiny pump-action canister. You also get two shades of Boi-ing concealer in a removable plastic pan - so virtually all of these products can be easily removed and put into your handbag or purse if you just want one or two of them at a given moment. The enclosed 'tips and tricks' pamphlet is equally useful (unfold it for a handy mirror!).

--Application--
Rub the PoreFessional primer all over a clean, dry face before doing the same with 1-2 pumps of the foundation. Dab the concealer over any blemishes or dark spots before finishing with the powder. You could then go on to use another Benefit travel kit for the rest of your face, such as the sadly now defunct Celebutante, or the currently available Life of the Party. (Failing that, there's always the classic Benetint or one of its newer variants.)

--Appearance--
The combination of these products gives a matte appearance with flawless coverage. The fact that this kit is available in 3 shades is a major plus - the products are bound to suit you.

--Scent--
None particularly in any case.

--Texture and consistency--
Just as you would want from any of these products: the primer blends beautifully across the face even if it is a little bit waxy, the foundation is fluid without being runny, the concealer provides maximum coverage without drying the skin, and the powder is light, meaning your skin is fully prepped without being clogged. Perfetto!

--Value for money--
Despite what seems like a steep initial outlay, the products last a long time and the beautiful box makes an excellent keepsake once you have removed the tray. Furthermore, it's so rare to find a box set that will do your whole face like this, too. Brilliant for travel!

perfect partners
They're Real! Lengthening Mascara, £19.50
They're Real! Push-Up Eyeliner, £18.50
BB Cream Eyelid Primer, £21.50
Lemon Aid, £16.50
Benetint, £24.50
Life of the Party, now £19.66 (was £29.50)

Glo Minerals Perfecting Powder

RRP: £27
--What does the promo say?--
"This truly translucent skin perfecting mineral powder absorbs excess oil to provide a matte finish. To eliminate shine year-round or simply control skin during the hot summer months, Perfecting Powder can be used as often as necessary over your foundation to give a shine-free finish. As with all glo minerals products Perfecting Powder is talc-free, non-comedogenic and fortified with our exclusive antioxidant blend."

--Packaging--
The press sample I was sent featured a clear plastic screw-top lid, whereas the one available for purchase online apparently has a black plastic flip-top. Difficult to see whether or not it has a mirror inside the lid, but if it did, that would be great.

--Application--
Apply after foundation and concealer, using a powder brush.

--Appearance--
I'd say that the 'perfecting' claim really does stand up; my skin looked a lot better after using this (compared to just using foundation and concealer). It really will finish your look off wonderfully. However, I wouldn't go as far as to say it's translucent and would even hazard that it's too pale for some (even though it works well for me). Plus, for the price it retails at, I'd expect it to be available in more than one shade, even if it does claim to be translucent.

--Scent--
None particularly. Newsflash: face powder smells of powder. Who knew?! (Well, slightly clay-like if you're going to force me.)

--Texture and consistency-- 
Light and not at all grainy. Blends well, without causing patches of powder to coagulate or collect anywhere on the face. 

--Effects on the skin--
As well as the visual 'perfecting' effect, this absorbs oil well as promised, leaving you without that greasy feeling. However, I wouldn't say this goes far enough to contribute to an overall improvement in skin condition over time.

--Value for money--
Given the choice, I'd go for Arbonne's pressed powder*, which is exactly the same price. While this gives a good visual effect overall, Arbonne's, to my mind, gives an even more radiant and long-lasting result (which is very valuable on a day when you have to leave for work at 7.20 in the morning and won't get in until 9pm thanks to parents' evening. EW.). 

*Just realised that for all my going on about this, I've never actually reviewed this. I have NO IDEA how that happened. Coming asap.

perfect partners
Powder Brush, £20
Camouflage Oil Free, £20
Under-eye Primer, £19.50 since reduced to £17.95! yay :)
Face Primer, £13
Protective Liquid Foundation Matte II, £30.50
Volumizing Mascara, £16
Cream Colour for Cheeks and Lips, £11.50

Mary Kay Translucent Loose Powder

RRP: £18

--What does the promo say?--
"Because it’s translucent, this powder is the perfect match for any skin tone – from very fair to dark. It sets foundation for a sheer, invisible finish and has light-diffusing properties designed to help soften the appearance of imperfections for a skin-perfecting look. The powder feels weightless, natural and velvety soft on skin and is suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin. The long-wearing formula keeps makeup looking fresh throughout the day, controlling unwanted shine while never looking chalky. Wear it over your favourite Mary Kay® liquid or cream foundation as a finishing touch or by itself for a naturally beautiful look."

--Packaging--
A screw-top plastic pot that has a disc inside with holes in it to control distribution. The disc twists to open and close whenever required and this is not problematic to control.

--Application--
After applying concealer and foundation, apply the powder lightly. It can be built up if you feel more is required to set your base. Again, this isn't difficult, but of course you require a powder brush (contrary to the picture, the RRP doesn't include a brush), so make sure you have one before purchasing.

--Appearance--
As promised, this worked perfectly with my skin tone thanks to its translucence, and I can imagine it would work well for just about everyone in this regard, helping to set your base for the day. Naturally, being translucent, it doesn't offer any extra coverage, so those wanting more coverage may find it less suitable. However, the powder's light-diffusing properties mean that this doesn't seem to be too much of a problem, and as promised, there is no chalkiness.

--Texture and consistency--
Light, velvety-smooth and non-irritating as promised.

--Longevity--
Seems to set the base very well, without sliding or flaking off. No worries here.

--Value for money--
This comes in at about the same price range as Laura Mercier and Elizabeth Arden, so in terms of brand reputation and visibility, Mary Kay is perhaps pushing it slightly. However, quality-wise it is worth the money, and even though I was sent mine for free this time, I would consider purchasing the product when my current pot runs out.

perfect partners
Concealer, £7.50
Mineral Powder Foundation, £14.50
TimeWise Foundation Primer, £14
Eye Primer, £16
Special Edition Kabuki Brush, £10

JML Magic Minerals Mineral Powder

RRP: £29.99

--What does the promo say?--

"The only make up you’ll ever need.
Change the way you apply your make up forever, with Magic Minerals from JML. Created by make up expert Jerome Alexander, the amazing Mineral Powder works as a foundation, corrector and concealer all-in-one. Its unique built-in colour correctors make skin imperfections magically disappear while its ultra-fine formula glides on gently and hides the appearance of age spots, dark circles and even breakouts. Unlike other foundations, Magic Minerals allows you to build up coverage to achieve the look you want, without it ever looking heavy or caked on.

• Foundation, corrector and concealer all-in-one
• Perfect, even coverage
• Hypoallergenic with natural SPF
• Fragrance and talc free
• One shade suits everyone
• Ultra fine; won’t get caught in wrinkles, lines and creases. 

•  Suitable for light to medium skin tones."

--Packaging--

A robust black plastic square which, unlike a lot of high street powders, has a really good size of mirror included in the lid. Mine also came with the brush, which is sometimes included as part of special deals at JML but also retails separately on the site at £7.99. Sadly the brush is terrible and does not live up to the 'professional quality' tag attached to it: the bristles are really coarse and started falling out of the brush from the very first use. Nevertheless, it does pick up and hold the powder well during application without sending it everywhere.

--Application--

Swirl the brush across the powder palette and sweep over face after applying any other base products such as foundation or concealer. Nothing tricky about that.

--Appearance--

I was a little concerned that in spite of the product being pegged as being suitable for light to medium skin tones, it would be too dark on me, as in the palette the powder appeared quite orange. However, I need not have worried, as it did indeed match my skin tone perfectly. The powder is also speckled in the palette with small dots of bronze, white, green, pink, yellow and purple, which are colours used in powders by many companies to help counteract the effects of lines, redness and scars - so while it may look odd if you're not used to this kind of product, be assured that there is a method to the madness.

--Scent--

None - as promised.

--Texture and consistency--

Again, as promised, it is a fine powder which does not cake or weigh heavily on the skin.

--Effects on the skin--

Sadly, the product does not deliver on the miracle effects described in its promotional materials. I applied this over bare skin and saw no difference at all, but held out hope that once I had applied all of my usual concealer and foundation that I would see a difference (as a long-term acne sufferer I do accept that I am quite a special case). However, the difference was only minimal - a long way from being the holy grail of a "foundation, concealer and corrector all-in-one". Plus, the product just did not provide the radiance and coverage that I see from my usual choice (Arbonne's Sheer Pressed Powder). All in all an underwhelming experience.

--Value for money--

The price tag is outrageous and astronomical - which would be fine if it worked. There is far too little effect for the money paid (and for that money you expect real wow-factor stuff) for a product by a designer that nobody has heard of. Products in the same price bracket (£25-£30) include the Arbonne powder mentioned above (£26), as well as powders by such luminaries as Lancôme, Guerlain (their Meteorites refills and travel versions - I suspect the inspiration for this product - retail at £30 and under from Slapiton and ScentStore) and Bobbi Brown, who all produce wow-factor results at the makeup counter. While JML offers a few slightly more lucrative deals on its website (go for the Special TV Deal, for instance, and you'll get the powder with a blusher, mascara, makeup brush and explanatory brochure - all still for £29.99), you would be better off giving this a miss altogether and going for one of the big-name brands mentioned above, or to a minerals specialist, such as PurMinerals (starter kit: £26), or pressed powders from Bellapierre (£29 from House of Fraser) or Youngblood (£30). 

perfect partners:

Magic Minerals Lash Extending Mascara, £9.99

Magic Minerals Eyeshadow and Lip Kit, £19.99

Magic Minerals Mineral Blusher, £9.99

Versace Lights All Over Loose Powder

RRP: £43.50, or £25.50 on www.strawberrynet.com
Weight: 6g

--Packaging--
An attractive clear plastic pot with opaque sifting tray. The lid is a mock-gold plastic screw-top lid with a raised Versace logo. The sifting tray is also easy to remove so you can refill it with any powder you choose. Overall it's a substantial object, and even just holding it you feel you've had value for money. The brush it comes with is just as nice: a good size, glossy bristles, not synthetic-looking. The bristles are soft, pick up the powder nicely and don't fall out of the brush.

--Application--
Just swirl the brush gently in the sifting tray to pick up the amount of powder desired, and brush over cheeks, arms and decollete.

--Appearance--
A pearlescent, fine powder, with tiny gold particles. On the face the effect is subtle, though on the face I'd still restrict it to cheeks only rather than going for an all-over look.

--Texture--
Feels very smooth on the face and doesn't feel at all gritty or irritating.

--Longevity--
It gives the face a light sheen for hours and hours that is really very beautiful. You won't need to reapply it all day.

--Value for money--
Excellent, given the little you apply in the first place and the extent to which you have to reapply (maybe once when you're going out). However, there's no denying that it is expensive, so try to buy it as part of a set if you can (Versace have been issuing various makeup coffrets for years - it's how I got hold of mine, which also contained a Versace mascara and lipgloss).

perfect partners
Versace Wet Cream Lipgloss, £11
Versace Eyeshadow Duo, £16
Versace Soft Cover Duo (Concealer and Highlighter), £15

*all prices from www.strawberrynet.com

e.l.f. Elements Customisable Compact

RRP: £7.50 for one refillable compact + 4 'elements' of your choice
no. of shades available: 10 eye colours, 10 lip colours and 5 face powders

--What does the promo say?--
"Start with your compact. Mix and match your desired colours. e.l.f.’s philosophy is that beauty comes from within and it's our goal to enable every woman to look and feel her personal best through the perfect blend of both the inner and outer person. With that goal in mind, e.l.f. cosmetics was born – a line of simple, luxurious, problem-solution tools that allow you to showcase and believe in your unique, personal beauty. Our cosmetics are designed to improve and accentuate the individual, not hide her away."

--About the brand--
e.l.f. (the three letters standing for 'eyes, lips, face') started in New York in 2004 and has been taking the world by storm ever since. It has just arrived in Britain, and claims to offer high quality cosmetics at low low prices. The brand admits that animal testing does take place in the formulation of its products, but only when no other method is available.

--Packaging--
Your customisable compact is about 8cm x 8cm, taking the form of a white, square, plastic flip-top compact. The e.l.f. logo is written on the lid in silver. You fill the four circles with the colours of your choice, and all compacts come with an eye brush and a lip brush, and their own mirror. The little circles could do with some sort of peel-off adhesive so that the elements would actually stick there and not move about when you're trying to apply them, but they don't fall out, so it's OK. I'm also not so sure that I like the white plastic as it looks a bit chavvy, but this is a fairly superficial comment (for the benefit of any Americans unfamiliar with the chav revolution, I think this probably about covers it).

--Application--
It's pretty simple - use the brushes provided to apply the eye stuff to your eyes and the lip stuff to your lips. You'll need your own brush to apply any face powder you include in your compact though.

--Scent--
None particularly.

--Appearance--
The good news is that the lipgloss doesn't look greasy. This is a good start. The face powder and eyeshadow elements have either a little face silhouette or a little eye silhouette 'embossed' into the solid powder, which is quite cute to look at. Once everything you've chosen is on your face, there's one thing that rather suggests to me that the whole business of choosing your own elements of the compact is idiot-proof: the fact that despite not even trying to match the colours to one another, they all went very nicely together and matched my skin tone. RESULT.

--Texture--
Lipgloss nicer than the Too Faced compact I also own - just the right consistency (not too thin or too gloopy) and with a really nice natural-looking amount of colour, making these compacts perfect for creating everyday looks. The face powders and eyeshadows also go on smoothly and cause no irritation.

--Longevity--
Powder = brilliant, it lasts all day. Lipgloss = not amazing. Eyeshadows = better than some more expensive products I've used.

--Value for money--
Given the quality of the products, £7.50 for a full compact is brilliant value, especially for a bespoke product. It makes a really nice gift for anyone and it really is fully customisable: if you or the person you're buying for doesn't like lipgloss, for example, then that's fine as you can just substitute the lipgloss for an extra eyeshadow or face powder. Buy one now :)

Body Shop Brilliance Powder

RRP: £14.00/4.5g (or €23, or USD$18.50)
No. of shades: 4 - lustrous rose, shimmer bronze, matte bronze and shimmer gold

--What does the promo say?--
"Just push the button and the Brilliance Powder is in the brush. A lightweight sparkle powder with shimmering pearls that provides a natural-looking sun-kissed finish for the face and body. Available in a shimmer or matte finish. Dermatologically tested. Contains marula oil (a very effective moisturiser that also helps to condition the skin over time. Also provides essential fatty acids that help to repair the skin's moisture barrier, thus helping to restore moisture, smoothness and suppleness.), vitamin E (an antioxidant that helps to soften, condition and protect the skin), and light diffusing particles (instantly brighten the skin and help reduce the appearance of lines)."

--Packaging--
The packaging looks just like a blusher brush, the handle of which is mostly transparent so that you can see the powder inside. The brush is quite cheap and very synthetic-looking (I don't mind it being synthetic but this really does look plasticated), and is a sort of reddish-brown colour. The button is a sort of gold colour, as is most of the non-transparent packaging, and the Body Shop logo etc is written in small writing on the transparent bit. It's quite a sophisticated looking thing and is a nice size too. It also comes with a lid to put over the brush's bristles when you're done, which is nice in theory, but once you've used the brush on your face, even for the first time and even if you're careful, the bristles fan out and it's a challenge to stuff them back into the lid.

--Application--
Sounds so simple in the promo, doesn't it? "Just push the button." I wish. I stood there for 10 minutes pushing the silly little button until my thumb hurt with the appearance of no powder whatsoever when suddenly - whoosh! A load of powder deposits itself onto my hand as if to say "There." Luckily I was able to brush most of this onto my skin, but dearie me, it is a silly way of getting there. Happily this only happened the first time - once it got going it was very easy to use.

--Appearance--
Through the tube the powder looks lovely and iridescent without being over the top, and on the face there's no disappointment either. The glitter is not as subtle as some products I've used, but the product is versatile - you can layer the powder so that it's suitable for everyday wear or for a night out.

--Texture--
Very light. When the powder was on, you couldn't even tell it was there. No heaviness or caked-on feelings with this.

--Longevity--
Excellent - I wore this for a dinner out. We left at 8 and when we came back at midnight it hadn't budged.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
On the whole, yes, though saying it will reduce the appearance of lines seems to be going a bit far.

--Value for money--
You need so little of this powder that you'll get a lot of mileage out of one brush. However, looking at the prices, our American friends are undoubtedly better off, with the Europeans faring worst in terms of price (God damn, I knew I should have waited until I got home to buy this).

--Other comments--
The versatility of this product is amazing. Buy the white one (shimmer gold) and it's a highlighter. Buy the pink one (lustrous rose) and it's a blusher. Buy either of the bronze ones and it's a bronzer! Genius!

perfect partners
Body Shop Shimmer Cubes Eye Shadow, $17.50/£14.00/€22 for 4 colours
Body Shop Bronzing Powder, $14.00/£11.50/€16 for 11.5g

L'Oréal True Match Mineral Foundation

RRP: £13.99
Shades available: 5

--What does the promo say?--
"A gentle formula enriched with minerals designed for all skin types. Helps protect the skin against premature ageing from sun exposure. Contains SPF15. Contains mineral pigments for a flawless-looking complexion. Natural and long-lasting result."

--What is it?--
Mineral foundations are made from pure crushed minerals and contain no harsh chemicals, dyes or fillers. This is not only kind to the skin but also has healing properties thanks to the natural presence of zinc oxide – perfect for those who suffer breakouts or have sensitive skin. Some mineral foundations on the market also contain titanium dioxides which provide a natural sunscreen, and light-reflecting mica to minimise the look of fine lines. It can serve as a powder and a foundation in one, though you can use an additional face powder with it if you wish. Other brands are quickly taking up the trend of mineral foundation, such as SheerCover, Bare Minerals, Bare Escentuals, Lily Lolo, Afterglow Cosmetics, Philosophy, Urban Decay, and Sheer Miracle. So L'Oréal, already one of the leading cosmetics brands in the world, clearly decided to take on the challenge.

--Packaging--
The pot, at first glance, seems uncomplicated. Below you have a small pot containing the foundation itself. Above you have a complimentary brush (how nice), encased in a transparent lid. The entire packaging is transparent, with the L'Oréal logo and all other information crammed onto the tiny pot containing the foundation, which made the packaging look a bit 'busy'. I've recently found out that you can't buy refills for this product, meaning that the whole lot has to go in the bin when you're done. Bit of a shame as if you could use the packaging again it would be far better for the environment.

--Application--
I have to say that I was a bit flummoxed by how to work this product and I think I had to read the leaflet two or three times. You can infer two possibilities from this: 1) that L'Oréal is rubbish at explaining their products or 2) that I am stupid. Make of this what you will! Once I'd worked it out, though, it was simple to operate and I got used to it quickly. Once you've removed all the preliminary packaging, you close everything up again, turn the pot upside down gently and then turn it the right way up before pulling off the lid, unscrewing the brush and dipping it in the little sieve-type apparatus that immediately obscures the pot, where some powder should remain. (God, I wish I could draw diagrams on this thing. I think I've just confused myself so I wouldn't blame you if you didn't quite get it!) You then apply the mineral foundation to your face in circular motions. They give you a brush, but it is the cheapest, nastiest, most horrible brush to use, with really rough bristles. Unfortunately, you can't throw it away as it is really the only secure part of the packaging, but I would recommend not using it and investing in a decent one.

--Appearance--
The powder seems very fine and soft - not too grainy or rough. So far, so good.
On the face, it's difficult to apply it so that it doesn't appear patchy. I would say so far that the only way to combat it is to use the tiniest amount at a time, and to start with the cheeks rather than your nose. I've heard reports of people's faces becoming like oil slicks throughout the day when using this, but I can't say I've experienced this problem. This, however, is possibly because I use a face powder on top of it. They say you can use the foundation by itself, but unless you've got perfect skin, I wouldn't recommend it. Once you've built up enough layers for the effect you want, I would say the coverage is not bad. No better than any liquid foundation I've used, but not disastrous, and certainly not wow.

--Texture--
Feels light and fine on the skin.

--Scent--
Virtually odourless.

--Longevity--
I didn't have to reapply this throughout the day, and it didn't slide off my face, but then again, I was wearing extra powder...

--Coverage--
You have to apply several layers to get decent coverage - I would hazard a guess that even if you have perfect skin, one layer is not enough. Even then, I have used better liquid foundations.

--Value for money--
Poor. It's perhaps verging on expensive for a high street foundation as it is, and it has way too many flaws to be worth what you pay. However, it is good that it contains an SPF.

--Other comments--
I was surprised at the sheer averageness of this mineral foundation, particularly considering the high quality of L'Oréal's True Match powder. There aren't enough shades available, the brush is disgusting, and positive effects are minimal. I haven't even noticed any improvement in my skin, as is implied from the ingredients being all natural. However, I haven't been put off trying another mineral foundation - L'Oréal is not a minerals specialist and I'd be more prepared to try a company that is. I've also noticed, interestingly, that this product has been withdrawn from the US and UK sites of L'Oréal Paris, though it is still available on the Boots website and on the L'Oréal France website. Signs of poor sales and poor customer satisfaction perhaps?

"Because we're worth it?" Well, if that's all we're worth, I think I'll leave it.

Benefit Dandelion

RRP: £22.50 for 10g

--What is it?--
Contrary to popular belief, Dandelion is not a blusher. To the contrary, it's intended to be used as an all-over face powder to 'set' your makeup or just to give you an English-rose glow on the days when you don't want to wear makeup. Benefit describes it as "soft, pink, perk-me-up powder for instant radiance and a youthful appearance".

--Packaging--
As per Benefit's usual trend, it's gorgeous. The pale olive green box is c. 5cm square and 2-3cm deep, and it has a simple 50s-style line drawing of a dandelion, tinted pink, on the lid, with the word 'dandelion' written in white and the Benefit logo written in black. They also give you a free brush to apply the powder with, that sits neatly on a plastic tray inside the box on top of the powder. The brush has a black handle and the bristles on the brush are pretty soft for a freebie. However, the box is made from cardboard, and I've heard from others who have had their Dandelion for longer that the box soon falls apart.

--Application--
Simply use the brush provided (or your own brush, whichever) and sweep the powder all over your face, starting with the apples of your cheeks.

--Appearance--
In the box the powder looks very pink, which is possibly why people have mistaken it for a blusher in the past. However, on your face it's very subtle with tiny particles of glitter. As a blusher it would have very little effect as it's so pale. On my pale skin this powder works well, but if you have darker skin you may prefer Georgia or Hoola from the Benefit powder range.

--Texture--
Soft, silky and with very fine particles. On the face it also feels very smooth.

--Longevity--
Not bad, but you'd benefit (ha, ha, see what I did there?) from another application around lunchtime, just to keep your glow looking even.

--Value for money--
Excellent. There is more powder in the box than there first appears and I've heard of people who have had theirs for 1-2 years. However, I'm sure there are other products on the market that do the exact same thing, and I'm very cynical about this brand generally: I've found cheaper alternatives that are just as good in almost all cases, and I'm sure you're just paying for the funky packaging most of the time.

--Does it do what it says on the box?--
I'd say so, yes. I feel and look fresher when I'm wearing it and it definitely helps to keep any other makeup that you're wearing in place.