This review delves into the performance of Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Powder and Magic Away Concealer, offering a detailed analysis of each product's texture, application, wearability, and overall value. The review focuses on the experience of using the darkest shade of the powder (shade 3) for contouring and setting, and a medium-to-tan shade of the concealer (shade 8) designed for cool undertones. Both products are evaluated for their longevity and finish throughout a five-hour wear test. Particular attention is paid to the unique scent of the powder, the coverage and blendability of the concealer, and the surprising lack of mattifying effect from the powder, despite its marketing claims.The review ultimately provides a verdict on each product's suitability, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Expect an honest assessment of whether these high-end beauty products live up to the hype and justify their price point, providing readers with informed guidance on whether to add them to their makeup collection. This detailed breakdown includes observations on packaging, application methods, and the long-term wear of both the powder and concealer.
Pros And Cons
- Feels good, glowy
- Gives a hydrated, lifted look
- Smooths skin
- Looks radiant
- Strong crayon-like smell
- Darkest shade may be too dark for some
- Luxe packaging
- Good coverage
- Blends well
- Looks beautiful and healthy
- Doesn't look cakey
- Has a regular concealer smell
- Applicator feel on skin wasn't liked
- Creasing under eyes after several hours of wear
Read more: Top 5 Full Coverage Concealers You Need to Try
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Powder: First Impressions
The Charlotte Tilbury Magic Powder, available in three shades, promises a revolutionary, light-diffusing formula. I opted for shade three, the darkest option, intending to use it for contouring and setting. The packaging is undeniably luxurious, with a sifter to prevent mess.
The powder itself has a unique, slightly strong scent that some might find off-putting. A Nordstrom's employee informed me this is likely due to a skin-benefitting ingredient. While the scent is noticeable, it's not overwhelmingly unpleasant.
Contrary to the product description, I found this powder to be more radiant than mattifying. This is a major plus for adding glow to the skin. Its application is smooth, and creates a lit-from-within effect, making it seem like you've just had a relaxing spa treatment.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer: Application and Coverage
The Magic Away Concealer comes in a sleek pen-style applicator with a sponge tip, similar in design to Tom Ford concealers. The packaging includes a window to monitor product usage.
Available in sixteen shades, I chose shade eight, described as golden peach for medium to tan skin with cool undertones. It offers full coverage without appearing cakey, blending seamlessly for a natural finish.
Its formula is notably radiant, giving the skin a healthy glow. The concealer’s scent is mild, unlike the strong odor of the powder. While I liked the coverage and finish, the applicator felt slightly less comfortable than others I’ve used.
Wear Test and Final Thoughts
After a five-hour wear test, the concealer remained beautiful and radiant, while the powder became increasingly dewy. I found the powder didn't maintain a matte finish throughout the day, resulting in an excessively oily look by evening. This was unexpected, given its description.
The Magic Away Concealer is a standout product. It provides excellent coverage and a natural, radiant finish that lasts. The shade selection is also impressive, with multiple options available.
Overall, the concealer is worth the investment, while the powder is less impressive due to the scent, color options, and lack of mattifying effect. I recommend purchasing the concealer, but consider trying a different setting powder from the brand or other sources.