So lately I have just been on this setting powder gravy train, where I was in the market to test setting powders that is budget friendly but ultimately does what it is supposed to. Of course we don’t have access to the YT hyped setting powders like the Laura Mercier or RMCA unless it is sold by third party sellers at overexaggerated prices so I have to opt for what’s suitable for my pocket. The main reason why I was actually in the market for a setting powder (besides the fact that I have a super oily T-zone and makeup tend to oxides on me like clock work) is because I started using the L.A Girl Pro Coverage HD Long Wear Foundation. Using a setting powder with this foundation was a must for me.I have been using this setting powder since December last year and I am still not half way through the tub. This is such an underrated product in my opinion and it is definitely a gem worth sharing. The yardley loose powder comes in a variety of shades such as caramelised, deep beige, cappuccino, translucent buff, translucent bare and absolute translucent – which is suitable for all skin tones. I am currently using the translucent bare shade as the other powders didn’t seem too fitting for my complexion and I didn’t want it altering my foundation shade (I didn’t spot the absolute translucent).

Now let us get into the reviewing part of this loose setting powder. The powder retails for R149.95 and is found at Clicks, Dischem and online at Takealot. I am sure you will find it elsewhere but those three are my go to faves. With this setting powder, I used it to:

• Bake
• Set entire face
• Set concealer to prevent creasing under the eye area
• Carve out contour
• Lay down as a base to brush away fallout

I have found that this product is not suitable for baking with the L.A Girl Pro Coverage HD Long Wear Foundation. It would settle into my fine lines, clog my pores and also exaggerate texture. Now this might only happen with my skin but it might work for you. Products do however vary between individuals. When I used a different foundation, I could bake my under eye area effortlessly.

I would use this loose powder with either a beauty sponge, blush/powder brush or a puff. All three methods worked great for whatever it is that I was trying to achieve while doing my makeup. I have however found that with traveling, I have to insert the flat puff under the screw off cap to prevent more product from rising to the inner lid. When this happens, it is a messy situation and you’re left with product everywhere.This loose setting powder smells really good, not an overpowering good that becomes headache inducing after a while. I have super sensitive skin and the fragrance in this product didn’t irritate my skin one bit as this powder is also dermatologically tested. I cannot comment on the fact that it causes flashback when using flash photography as I haven’t used this setting powder when taking pictures with a flash. What can I say? when I am having a good time with my people:P I don’t feel the need to photograph every moment.

As I have mentioned, this product isn’t suitable for every type of foundation when baking. If I can give you one word of advice then it would be – if you’re using a matte foundation, ensure that you moisturize and use a hydrating primer or else your makeup will look cakey. Will I repurchase this setting powder? Absolutely! I might however try the absolute translucent next.

Thank you for reading today darlings. Yay or Nay for the Yardley Loose Powder in Translucent Bare? A big YAY from me! seeing that I have been using this powder for six months, I do feel that I have figured out how to use this product and make it work for me and my skin type.