Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder

  Like many of my beauty purchases, I decided to buy Smashbox's HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder after watching Saturday Night Beauty on QVC.  Come on, if you're a beauty lover, that should be part of your regular weekly viewing. 

I was intrigued by the idea of a hydrating powder.  Supposedly, the powder has encapsulated water in it, which made me think of Prescriptives' Magic Liquid Powder, which I used for a while and loved.  Also, the Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder contains Goji berry, a powerful antioxidant and antiaging agent.  Big plus for many consumers!

My initial reaction to the Smashbox HALO powder is that I really like the packaging - it has a nice weightiness to it and I love that it has an included mirror in the compact.  Also, including a little kabuki brush is really helpful for application - the smaller brush makes it much more convenient for touch-ups during the day.  The feel of the powder on the skin is quite refreshing - it did feel cool on the skin, though it doesn't feel quite as "wet" as Prescriptives Magic Liquid Powder. 

I like the idea of being able to shave a small portion of the powder to give the softness of a loose powder with the convenience of carrying a pressed powder.  In theory, it's great.  In practice, however, it can be pretty messy just like carrying any other loose powder - I think it takes some practice to figure out exactly how much powder you need to achieve your purposes.  Otherwise, you still have some loose powder in the top of the compact.  However, since the powder is light, you can just layer on whatever extra powder you have left - it won't look caked on.

All in all, I'm really a fan of the product.  I wouldn't give it a 5 necessarily, but it's a solid 4.5.  I enjoy the finish it gave to my skin - light, dewy coverage, which one wouldn't expect from a powder.  As it's now the colder months, the dewiness is really appreciated - it doesn't add to any dryness or flakiness.  It isn't a full or even medium coverage foundation, but if you're looking for a finishing powder to use over your liquid foundation or if you like light coverage, this product is for you!

Comments

[wholesale novelties]

This could be a nice gift for ur girl friend

[kia]

i'm so glad you reviewed this as i've been intrigued. i like my mac msf natural and/or bronzer to top off any liquid foundation. where does this stand in comparison. should i replace? do you like this finish better? (i hate comparing everything to mac but that's mostly what's in my collection.)

[Toya]

Hey Kia! I wouldn't replace, but I think it'd make a nice addition. I usually use my MSF to top off liquid foundation, too, but MSF gives a more mattified effect than the Smashbox HALO does. If you're looking for something a bit dewier and lighter, for a nice change of pace, I think you'd like this. Keep in mind, though, that the MSF will be easier/more convenient for travel and touch-ups, IMO. The packaging isn't as bulky and you don't run the risk of messiness from loose powder.

[aj]

I come to your blog frequently for reviews of new products. One of the reasons is because you are a Woman of Color, and I believe you are aware of some of the things we look for in cosmetics.

One thing that would be additionally helpful would be for you to list what colors you use. I know you do this sometimes, but for things such as foundations, powders, and concealers it really makes a difference.

I hope you consider it. Your blog is a lot of fun. Thank you.

[Toya]

Hi AJ,
Thanks for your suggestion - it's a good one, and I'll be sure to list my shade selections in the future. As for the Smashbox HALO powder, I use the Dark shade. I hope that helps.

Thanks for reading the blog - I hope you continue to read! Happy holidays!

[Jen]

Wow. I've never seen this before. I don't know how it would work for my combination skin, but I'd love to see it in person.

[Toya]

Hi Jen,
I have pretty combination skin, too - breakthrough oiliness, but dryness in spots. It works well for me.