Battle of the Powders

Despite having dry skin, I always set my foundation with a powder. Up until recently when I started delving more into loose powders, I had always turned to pressed powders due to the coverage they gave. They were just the icing on the cake to a flawless base. This also reduced the risk of foundation melting or transferring and increased the likelihood of my makeup still being intact at the end of the day. 

Following on from the face-off of the BB CREAMS and PRIMERS, it is time for the POWDERS to have a little showdown. I have four today to show you, all of which happen to be drugstore. 

Face of Australia Pressed Powder (AUD$11.95)

Bringing out this compact again gives me a feeling of nostalgia as it was my first ever powder, hence the filthy packaging. Initially, it offered smooth, light coverage but as you work your way through it, you start to find more rougher bits of powder but this did not affect the way it looked on the skin. The shade Tan is too dark for me (purchased in the early stages of my exploration of shades) so it comes in handy when I have a foundation that is too light. Besides the distinct powder scent, I would say it is a decent powder, but I have another one that I love much more.

Australis Fresh & Flawless Pressed Powder (AUD$12.40)

This is definitely one of the best products that an Australian brand has brought out. It is hyped up for good reason and is hands down my favorite pressed powder. The first time I swatched this in store, I was simply blown away by how amazingly soft and fine the powder was. It seriously blends into your skin, making it look silky smooth and provides impressive coverage. If I want to look exceptionally flawless that day, this is a product I always bring out. 

L'oreal Nude Magique BB Powder (AUD$26.95)

The priciest of the bunch, yet probably the most disappointing. This is the first time I have ever heard of a 'BB Powder' and I couldn't help but feel skeptical. It is smooth to the touch but is so soft that one swipe picks up way too much powder for my liking, even with the best brush. Another comment to make is that it could be more refined like the Australis. The end result after use is that my face looks too powdered and even dry. 

Milani The Multitasker Face Powder (USD$7)

The Milani Powder wins the award for the best imprinted design (until it wears away with use, that is). It is still a mystery to me as to why it is called 'The Multitasker' but it claims to give a 'natural matte finish without caking'. I would half agree with that; it does indeed do a good job at controlling oil and mattifying everything but I still find it a bit too powdery so it can look a bit cakey at times. I like it, but the completely matte and flat look is not something I often go for. 

What is your favorite powder?