By You’ve been there: midday shine creeping up on your T-zone, foundation starting to slide, and you’re desperate for a touch-up that doesn’t cake up your face. When it comes to keeping your makeup in place and your face looking fresh, the right powder can make all the difference. But with NARS and Makeup Forever competing for your attention, which one should you choose?
| Feature | NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder | Makeup Forever Ultra HD Microfinishing Pressed Powder |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Natural | Matte |
| Shades Available | 4 | 3 |
| Oil Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Flashback Free | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 10g | 6.2g |
| Price | $39 | $37 |
| Vegan | ✓ | ✗ |
✅ nars Pros
- Natural finish that doesn’t look cakey.
- Excellent oil control without drying the skin.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
❌ nars Cons
- Limited shade range.
- Can be a bit pricey for the amount.
- Compact can feel bulky for travel.
✅ makeup forever powder Pros
- Provides a flawless matte finish.
- Compact size perfect for on-the-go use.
- No flashback in photos.
❌ makeup forever powder Cons
- Not vegan-friendly.
- Can emphasize dry patches on the skin.
- Shade range is quite limited.
Performance and Finish
NARS offers a natural finish that keeps your skin looking radiant without the dreaded cake effect. It’s excellent for everyday wear, especially if you prefer a healthy glow over a matte look. Makeup Forever, on the other hand, delivers a flawless matte finish, which is perfect if you struggle with excess oil throughout the day. It’s the go-to for those who want to avoid shine at all costs. If you’re not into the matte look, though, you might find it a bit too flat for casual wear.
Build Quality and Packaging
The NARS compact is both a blessing and a curse. It’s sturdy, feeling luxurious in hand, but its bulk can be a nuisance for those who prioritize portability. Makeup Forever wins the portability battle with its sleek, travel-friendly design that’s easy to slip into any bag. However, the smaller size means you get less product for your money. Both come with a mirror, but NARS’ is larger and more practical for touch-ups on the go.
Value for Money
At $39, NARS gives you more product but at a slightly higher price, making it a better long-term investment if you use powder daily. Makeup Forever costs a bit less at $37, but you’re also getting less product. If you’re a light user, you might not notice the difference, but heavy users will find themselves restocking more often. Both offer good value, but your choice should depend on usage frequency and finish preference.
NARS might give you that natural glow, but if your skin tends to get oily, you might need to reapply more often than you’d like. Makeup Forever’s matte finish is stellar at oil control, but it can exaggerate any dry patches you might have. Neither powder is a one-shade-fits-all, so if you’re in between shades, you might need to compromise on the perfect match.
Our Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For those who value a natural look and have a commitment to vegan products, NARS is your go-to. It’s perfect for someone who wants a bit of glow without the oil. If you’re constantly battling shine and need a trusty matte finish, Makeup Forever is your best bet. It’s ideal for those who need a quick touch-up during the day without worrying about excess oil.
Is the NARS powder suitable for dry skin?
Yes, the NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder has a natural finish that works well with dry skin as it doesn’t emphasize dry patches.
Can the Makeup Forever powder cause flashback in photos?
No, the Makeup Forever Ultra HD Microfinishing Pressed Powder is designed to be flashback-free, making it great for photography.
How long does each powder typically last?
Both powders can last you several months with regular use. NARS may last longer due to its larger size, but this depends on how much you use per application.
