One of the first things that struck me with this product was the fact that it did not come with any applicator like the more expensive brands do. However it is a good £10 cheaper than the better known brands so I suppose they had to cut the costs somewhere.  Once I had put my liquid foundation (Maybelline Dream Satin Liquid), I tried to apply this powder with a generic sponge that I had spare from other pressed powders I had had over the years, however I actually found it quite hard to transfer the powder from pot to sponge to skin. I had a lot better luck with a big Kabuki brush that I normally use to apply bronzer; it seemed to put more powder on my skin and gave a less patchy finish. The product provided an extra bit of coverage when used in conjunction with my foundation; however it would not have been good enough to use it by itself, especially on the dark circles under my eyes. The powder stayed on all day and a lot came off when I removed it at bed time, suggesting that this powder has great staying power! Also I noticed that it was really effective at reducing shine, not that I am generally a very shiny person, but it made a noticeable difference. This powder lasted a good 5 months with me using it nearly every day, so it proved to be very good value for money. During the time I was using it my complexion didn’t really change; I never had that many blemishes to begin with, just the odd break out now and then and this didn’t change over the 5 months I used it for.

I would recommend this pressed powder for anyone wanting a natural makeup look, especially those looking for good wedding makeup. It would also be useful for people with shiny skin as it really does give a good matt effect.

Pros: Lasts all day, it is cheap and reduces shine well.

Cons: Only comes in one shade which is a very pale peach colour, does not come with a sponge, does not help give a clear complexion and it would not be enough to cover blemishes on its own.

I have been using this powder for years, originally attracted by the cheap price £1.99 and the fact that it didn’t make me look orange and five years later I am still using it! The Boots natural collection range of pressed powders only come in 3 colours, all of which are for pale skin and the darkest of which looks very orange! This product comes in a very simple pot, typical of all pressed powders. It goes on easily with a brush – the bigger the better in this case, and provides a good level of coverage for at least 2/3 hours before touch ups are needed. It was very easy to apply and it is fragrance free so great for people with sensitive skin. I use this to set my makeup and would say that if foundation is not left to dry enough before you apply the product, it can give you a slightly caked look. If you have a slightly blemished complexion like me, this product would not be enough to cover it all on its own, a concealer or foundation should be used.

I would recommend this product for anyone trying to go for the natural makeup look or for anyone looking for bridal makeup as the colour is very subtle and not at all orange if you get the lighter shades. Normally I would suggest to look on ebay or amazon for a cheap version of it first to see if you like it before buying it full price, however at £1.99 you haven’t lost much and hey you still get your boots points! hehe

Pros: Very cheap, the lighter shades give a natural result and it is a good makeup setter.

Cons: Do not cater for any skin shades that are not light and it does not provide good coverage when used on its own.