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)

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

Lush Bare Naked Lady Dusting Powder

RRP: £5.95 for 3.5 oz

--What is it?--
A natural alternative to talcum powder, with far fewer chemicals.

--Ingredients--
Key: Black = Safe Synthetic Products; Green = Natural and/or Organic Products

Ingredients: Sodium Bicarbonate, Magnesium Carbonate, Calamine Powder, Perfume, Golden Glitter (Polyethylene terephthalate and FD&C Yellow No.5), Rose Absolute (Rosa centifolia)

--What does the promo say?--
"Like all dusting powders, this is best applied when bare naked, Let the sparkling, rose scented powder fall on and get in between your nooks and crannies. Fight the urge to remain nude for the rest of the day - go out and seduce someone instead."

--Packaging--
The image shown above is from the USA Lush website (the UK Lush website is down at the moment) and the packaging is only slightly different - in the UK it's a sort of shocking pink colour pot with a black lid, but all other details remain the same, with the name of the product and the Lush logo on the front of the pot, and all other information going round the label. The top is slideable so that you can sprinkle just a little on your body, or stick your fingers right in there for something more full-on. Packaging seems secure and not something that would send dusting powder all over your suitcase or bottom drawer.

--Application--
After a bath or shower, towel yourself dry thoroughly and then sprinkle a little powder wherever desired on your body and rub in. Not recommended for face.

--Appearance--
The powder is white with tiny sparkles. When rubbed into the body, there is no white residue (unless of course you use too much) but the sparkles remain (though not enough to make you look like a Vegas showgirl!). There will be no white residue on your clothes from this product as it seems to rub onto the skin easily.

--Scent--
They claim it smells of roses, but I don't know enough about botany to know if it really does smell of roses. Smells nice and floral, anyway. The scent is light and not overbearing.

--Texture--
The powder is soft and not at all claggy.

--How does your skin feel?--
Very soft and smooth, doesn't irritate the skin, and of course it looks nice and sparkly too! Bonus!

--Longevity--
This product will in all likelihood rub off throughout the day. However, it seems to bear up quite well as far as talcs/dusting powders go.

--Value for money--
Excellent - you don't need to use much of this product per application and even though I've used my pot many times, there's still plenty left. However, I'd agree with some reviewers on the US site that a free dusting pad or puff would be nice with this product. This is an excellent natural alternative to talcum powder and I'd definitely buy it (or any other Lush dusting powder) again.

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.

L'Oreal Paris True Match Powder

RRP: £6.99
Shades available: 5

--Packaging--
A circular plastic container with a silver and clear colour scheme, with two sections - the top one contains the powder, the bottom one contains a mirror and a circular sponge.

--What does the promo say?--
"This ultra-soft, light-textured powder perfectly matches the colour and texture of your skin for a flawless finish. The micro-fine formula lets you apply a translucent layer or build up more intense coverage to even your skin tone and cover imperfections flawlessly. It blends in so perfectly it is almost as if you are wearing no makeup."

--Application--
Pretty easy - just click open the bottom section of the container, take out the sponge, and then click open the top section. Swirl the sponge over the pressed powder and apply to your face, keeping the bottom section open so that you can use the mirror. Nothing complicated about that.

--Texture--
Smooth and fine without being brittle.

--Scent--
No noticeable scent.

--Appearance--
On the face, the powder doesn't sit on the skin and blends in well with your skin tone and any other makeup you may be wearing.

--How does it feel on the skin?--
Light and soft.

--Coverage--
Excellent, though I wouldn't use it alone - I'd always use it over concealer and foundation, but that perhaps says more about my skin than about the product itself.

--Longevity--
The powder doesn't need reapplication throughout the day and stays in place once applied.

--Removal--
Easy to remove.

--Does it do what it says it's going to?--
Amazingly, yes. I always doubt these products that promise a 'flawless finish', but this one does a pretty damn good job.

--Value for money--
Excellent, considering that the powder doesn't need applying throughout the day, meaning one container lasts a long time even if you wear makeup every day. The price is right too :)