Making Up Reasons

On the Hunt: Laura Gellar Face Products

[Purchased by me}


For some reason, I was struck with the NEED to try Laura Gellar's Balance and Brighten face powder.  After encountering some disappointments during the onslaught of recent friends and family sales (and one very failed Hautelook attempt), I was happy to run into this little kid at Ulta.  The price tag said $25 but it rung up to be $20 (yay!), even though the retail value is over $80(???? seriously??).  It has a face powder, setting powder, blush, brush and primer.  Here are some first thoughts:

The primer is the only thing I haven't tried, but I'm not one to notice a big difference after using a primer (besides the Hourglass one, mentioned in a previous post).  If this does wow me, I'll be sure to note that.  The brush is also kind of a throwaway since it shed like crazy initially. After washing it, it seems a little better but nothing too amazing.

On to the really good stuff...

Matte Maker Invisible Blotting Powder, Balance and Brighten in Medium and Blush and Brighten in Boysenberry

The matte translucent powder is very nice.  It's very smooth and really mattifies the skin without any feeling of layering the skin with an additional product.  It takes away the shine but doesn't add any heaviness to the skin.  The Balance and Brighten has so far impressed me in the wear.  It creates a demi-matte finish that looks very natural and the Medium shade is a good match for my skin because this product doesn't have very intense coverage.  I would say it's on par with a light mineral foundation with better staying power.  It won't cover any dark spots but I think it makes for a nice setting powder for a light foundation as well as over just concealer for lazy days.  The blush has very nice pigmentation but kicks up a lot of powder when you tap it.  It's a great product for the colder weather and I really am pleasantly surprised. 

Overall, this is an inexpensive and cute little kit for people who are interested in trying the line.  I think I will continue to play with all these and keep an eye out for more sets going on sale in the future.   Keep your eye out for some empties and a Shu Uemura order coming in soon!