Professional Makeup and Cosmetic Product Reviews - IN MY KIT by Kevin James (KJ) Bennett Emmy Award Winning New York City Makeup Artist

LOOSE & PRESSED POWDER

MAKE UP FOR EVER
HD Microfinish Powder

The only other 'white' powder that gets this much press, is illegal.
In HD video format skin surfaces must appear natural (not matte - not dewy) and show NO powder texture. HD Microfinish Powder is made of only micronized Silca (100% mineral), has absolutely no pigment and absorbs only excess oil shine. When activated by contact with oil, it becomes completely invisible (clear) so it can be used on any skin color ...yes, I said ANY skin color!
It does not absorb moisture (like talc, rice powder or corn starch) so it won't accentuate fine lines or skin texture. Set foundation or do multiple touch-ups, you'll never see a cakey or over-powdered look. All you see is a fresh looking complexion...no matter how close the camera gets

e.l.f.
High Definition Powder

OK, suspiciously similar in many aspects to the MUFE HD Powder...almost exact. The only difference is the addition of silicone, which does not change the effectiveness or total transparency of this product at all. Huge difference...it's $24 less than the other HD powder.
WARNING: Do Not ( I repeat, DO NOT) use the big fluffy puff that comes with this powder. It applies far to much to the skin and will leave a white residue. Use a kabuki style brush and buff powder into skin.

RCMA
No-Color Setting Powder

The foundation color looks perfect...but changes as soon as you set with "translucent" powder because most of them contain pigmnet.
Not a problem if the setting powder has NO pigment.
RCMA No-Color creates a matte finish with finely milled talc and will keep foundation color stabilized even when skin oils break through. RCMA was one of the first and is still one of the most popular No-Color setting powders in the industry.

Kett Cosmetics
Kett Sett Powders

Maximum oil control, minimal texture, absolutely no pigment.
Kett Sett is the only color-free pressed powder that meets HD compliancy and the high standards of those working in the medium.
There's nothing more to say.

Cover FX
Setting FX & Matte FX Powders

The mineral based, talc-free loose powder contains micronized mica that acts as an optical diffuser, softening the appearance of fine lines, flaws and blemishes. It sets any foundation or concealer beautifully without ever leaving a dry or cakey looking finish.

The pressed powder is also mineral based and talc free. Corn starch and silica microsponges absorb excess oil and control shine. This powder can be used over foundation or on bare skin for oil control.

Even though they have mineral ingredients (mica), both powders are "photo safe" and won't strobe with a flash.

MAC Cosmetics
Mineralize Skinfinish Powder

This baked powder has gotten the attention of many artists because of it's significant differance to other "mineral" powders. Sheer coverage and a soft radiant non-matte finish. The range of 8 tints cover a global range of skintones. NOT recommended for oilier skintypes.

Temptu Pro
Invisible Difference Setting Powder

An ultra-fine, virtually invisible, talc-free loose powder for a completely matte finish. Ideal for setting makeup cleanly with exceptional oil control and pore minimizing due to it's silica & cornstarch base.

Three Custom Color Specialists
Face Powders

An extraordinarily sheer, ultra-light, matte finish powder. It applies perfectly over makeup with a completely transparent appearance while it does some serious oil and shine contol. Because it has a minimal level of pigment, this powder will not disturb foundation color or natural skin-tone. Available in both loose and pressed formulas,

Ben Nye
Luxury Visage Powders

We all love a fabulous money saver...but if it doesn't work, why bother?
Ben Nye delivers an ultra-fine, sheer powder that reduces shine and sets makeup beautifully...at a ridiculously affordable price. Just about every makeup artist I know has used (or at least heard of) the Ben Nye 'banana' powder. It gives the same candlelight glow and finish as that French company's Poudre' Banana ...for 1/5 of the price!

OIL CONTROL

Clean & Clear
Oil-Absorbing Sheets

Sometimes the "cheap" stuff just works best. The silky synthetic sheets are softer and more durable than paper. They instantly soak up excess oil and remove shine without smudging makeup or leaving behind powder. Wrap them around the pointed end of a wedge sponge to easily blot around the nose and other area of the face. NO makeup kit should be without these.

Peter Thomas Roth
Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel

We've been assaulted by a sea of 'matifying' products lately. What makes this one special?
It absorbs and controls excess oil WITHOUT stripping natural moisture. The fragrance-free creme/gel is formulated with powerful oil-absorbing, pore minimizing ingredients.
It keeps skin fresh and shine-free...with no cakiness! (This stuff is a makeup artist's salvation when faced with perpetually shiny, super tight, Botox abused faces).

MAKE UP FOR EVER
All Mat Mattifying Primer

...Sometimes a makeup primer is just not enough.
...Sometimes you need more than just a smooth skin texture to work on.
...Sometimes you need that extra shot of oil control under foundation to keep it stabilized and fresh through a long shoot.

MUFE has simplified the process. They've combined a fantastic silicone based, oil-free primer that smoothes skin texture and fills in tiny lines with state of the art oil-controling ingredients that keep skin shine-free.

Benefit
Dr. Feelgood

This creamy, weightless balm mattifies skin throughout the day... but won't disturb your beautiful makeup work or cause build up like many pressed powders can.
It can be used with or without makeup to keep oily shine under control and skin looking smooth and silky. Best part is, it won’t clog pores. Pat it on and watch grease turn to gorgeous!
Big Bonus:
The Dr. is enriched with Vitamins A, C and E ...that should make your skin "feelgood " too!