I love testing powder foundations, and this means you do not have to waste your money! I make it my mission to find less-expensive dupes for my favorites, and I am putting the Essence 16 Hour Cover and Last Powder Foundation on the chopping block. The cheap price can easily make you skeptical, as I have used fancier options that were complete no-no’s. I have used this foundation several times over different primers, and the results will blow you away.
Where To Buy
It is available at Ulta and from Essence’s website. The current lineup of Essence powder foundation shades is 14, and is unbelievably priced at $5.99! Each foundation includes a sponge applicator and a mirror.
Claims & Directions
It should provide a long-lasting, smooth matte finish without caking. The pressed formula is lightweight, controls oil and shine, and is waterproof for 16 hour wear. It also claims to give “high coverage.”
You can swipe it on with the provided sponge, or any dry sponge of your choice. I prefer to use a dense foundation brush. My brush of choice is the Real Techniques Expert Face Brush. Below I have a Essence 16 Hour Cover and Last Powder Foundation swatch of 01 Porcelain:
Review
My skin type is combination, and I get oily in my t-zone and I am prone to breakouts. I get the most oily on the forehead and around the nose. I also have huge pores on and around my nose.
I love testing powder foundations, and my all-time favorite is Sephora’s. You can read more about it as you learn about my powder foundation routine. I am always on the hunt for a more affordable dupe. Loreal was successful in doing that, and their option is my second favorite.
I cannot get over the price tag of Essence coming in at $5.99! Without a doubt, I can tell you that their formula is smooth, lightweight, and long-lasting. No matter how much you layer on, it never looks cakey or heavy! You literally cannot mess it up.
It always give you a beautiful, soft-focus matte finish. It is buildable to a high medium coverage. It might look more like full coverage on you if you have relatively clear skin. Other powder products apply great over top. It does not refine pores in any way, as a powder really cannot do that. I recommend pairing this with your favorite pore reducing primer. At the end of the day, I only see some normal wear and tear, plus some shine around my nose, but nothing major.
This product is a perfect dupe for both Sephora and Loreal, and you cannot beat the price! It is easily my new favorite, and it will be a part of my bullet-proof, special occasion makeup routine. Time to buy a backup!
Below I have some pictures of myself wearing this foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Essence powder foundation good?
The Essence powder foundation is good! It is the most affordable powder foundation on the market that wears like a high-end product. It provides a long-lasting, matte finish that never looks heavy on the skin.
Is Essence foundation waterproof?
The powder formula of Essence foundation is waterproof. It is designed for long-lasting, 16 hour wear.
How do you use powder foundation?
You use power foundation by applying it with a brush or a dry sponge. The first step is to use all of your cream and liquid products, then you lightly layer your powder foundation over top. All of your other powders (blush, bronzer, etc.) should layer well over top.
Shop The Foundation
This product gives Sephora and Loreal fierce competition, applying and wearing like a true dupe. All of the hype is true, and you will not be disappointed with this foundation. It works well with your favorite brush and primers. How often do you turn to powder foundation? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
