High End/Low End:Translucent Powders

High end/Low end is a new series I've been thinking about writing for a while and stemmed from the fleeting new years resolution of curbing my spending habits (I've failed miserably already).  The aim of high end/low end is to post about two similar products at different ends of the price scale.    While the products don't have to be dupes of one another, it's always nice to have a more affordable alternative! Translucent powders may not be the most exciting or glamorous make up product to begin with, I've actually found finding a good powder surprisingly difficult!  In a face powder, the three main this I look for is a natural finish (no additional coverage!), decent mattifying properties and comfortable wear.

High End.  Chanel's 'Poudre Universelle Libre' (£36) is a beautiful loose powder.  It gives a very pretty, satin finish to the skin yet still manages to mattify and set my make up.  I've recommended this powder to numerous people and always describe it as an instant halo for the face! The powder is buttery soft and melts into the skin beautifully.  While I mentioned that 'Poudre Universelle Libre' has a mattifying effect on the skin, it is not the longest lasting of finishes and I probably get about 5-6 hours of the semi-matte finish before I have to blot.  For this reason, Chanel's 'Poudre Universelle Libre' is my translucent powder of choice for nights out as it adds a lovely, soft finish to my make up and photographs beautifully.  I also love to use it as a setting powder for my under eye concealer daily.  

Low End.  When I need a longer lasting powder, there is one that instantly springs to mind: Rimmel's 'Stay Matte' pressed powder (£3.99).  'Stay Matte' isn't the smoothest of powders (especially when compared to Chanel's offering) however it provides a very matte finish and dramatically increases the longevity of my foundation.   It can be a little on the powdery side but despite this, I've never had it look cakey on my skin. If you have a drier skin type however, I imagine there is a higher risk of the powder clinging to drier areas. 'Stay Matte' is the perfect translucent powder for the working day; it's affordable, works well with my skin type and keeps my make up looking fresh throughout the day.

  I would love to hear some of your translucent powder recommendations!

Lots of Love

Nic

xx