This review dives into the Clinique Blended Face Powder and Brush, a product claiming to offer affordable luxury. Priced at $25, this pressed powder and accompanying brush present a compelling option in the competitive makeup market. We'll explore whether this product lives up to its promise, examining its texture, application, longevity, and overall value compared to similar offerings from both high-end and drugstore brands. The review will also consider the included brush, assessing its quality and practicality in application. This detailed analysis will help you decide if this is the perfect addition to your makeup routine, weighing the pros and cons to inform your purchasing decision.The Clinique brand itself sits in a unique space, offering quality ingredients and effective formulas without the exorbitant price tag of luxury competitors like Estee Lauder or Lancome. This review will examine if the Blended Face Powder maintains this balance of quality and affordability. We'll discuss the powder's performance in various scenarios, such as setting foundation and its effectiveness on different skin types. Ultimately, this assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this product, helping you determine if it’s a worthwhile investment for your makeup needs.
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Product Overview and Pricing
The Clinique Blended Face Powder and Brush retails for $25. This makes it a surprisingly affordable option, especially considering Clinique's reputation as a high-end brand. I purchased mine from Ulta, but it's also widely available at Macy's and other department stores, as well as on the Clinique website.
The powder comes in a sleek, green package (typical of Clinique's branding) containing 35g of product. It's marketed as suitable for all skin types and includes a brush for application.
Clinique Brand and its Position in the Market
Clinique is a brand I've used for years and consider a favorite due to its high-quality products at reasonable prices. It sits in a sweet spot between drugstore brands and ultra-expensive luxury brands like Estee Lauder and Lancome, offering a good balance of quality and affordability.
Many consider Clinique products mature, but I think this is a misconception. Their products are effective and suitable for a wide age range. I particularly love their Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion.
Brush and Packaging Details
The powder comes with a brush that has changed over time. My first Clinique powder brush had the Clinique logo, but this newer one does not. It's made of hair, not synthetic bristles, and while decent, it's not the softest. Synthetic brushes are generally softer but don't last as long and may shed more easily.
The brush is a convenient addition, especially given that many face powders come with low-quality applicators. I believe it can be used for applying primer or setting foundation.
Application and Performance
I don't usually use this powder alone as it doesn't always adhere well to my skin, especially when using dewy moisturizers. I prefer to use it to set my foundation, applying it with a damp Beautyblender for better adherence.
The powder offers a bit of coverage and a natural, perfected look. I find that using a damp Beautyblender and 'baking' my face with the powder creates a long-lasting, oil-controlling effect.
Overall Review and Conclusion
The Clinique Blended Face Powder is a great value for the price. It's finely milled, provides decent coverage, and controls oil well throughout the day. Even without setting spray or primer, it lasts for many hours and keeps the skin looking fresh. This powder effectively minimizes pores and creates a smooth finish.
While the brush isn't the softest, it's a good quality applicator and a welcome addition compared to brushes included with other products. Overall, this is a highly recommendable face powder especially for those looking for a balance between quality and affordability.