It’s been almost a year I stayed off using powder foundation after I discovered mineral makeup. No, I haven’t sworn off it of course. I merely took a break from it. Actually, on and off, I tried putting on powder foundation again but I totally detest that cakey look now. But I was opened to trying brands that are said to give that natural sheer look. Like French-Japanese makeup line Paul and Joe.
I cannot remember if I’ve ever used Japanese powder foundation in the past but if I have, it must have been a short duration and it must have been a brand like Kose or Menard. Anyway, the powder foundation I remember wearing were from Estee Lauder, Lancome, La Colline and more recently Stila. But I really haven’t been entirely happy using those even though most of them gave me fairly good coverage.
But Paul and Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation with SPF25 PA++ is really quite different from those I’ve used.
Texture
The texture of this SPF 25 PA++ powder foundation is very fine and adhered very well to my skin. Even with two to three applications using the sponge, the end effect wasn’t heavy at all. I thought my face was very natural looking and the shade I picked, 11 Lumiere matched my skin tone very well.
Coverage
Paul and Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation is a lightweight powder foundation so don’t expect very even coverage. It will not cover all your blemishes! You’ll still need a concealer to do the job for sure. But I thought this powder foundation gave me a semi matt coverage with silky smooth finishing and my face wasn’t overly shiny at the end of the day, even at the t-zone where it tends to shine the most.
Staying Power
I’ll say this powder foundation has rather good staying power. I used it for a good part of the day without having to touch up. In fact, I noticed that when I used a tissue paper to blot off my t-zone, I didn’t notice the powder coming off and being left on the tissue paper.
Ingredients
While this Dual Powder Foundation comes with some plant-derived ingredients, but it still contains talc, mica and various other stuff that are not natural at all. The ingredient list is definitely much longer than what you’ll find in mineral foundation. The plus factor is that this powder foundation contains titanium dioxide which I believe is what is yielding that SPF 25.
Packaging
Frankly, I don’t particularly find the green floral patterned packaging very attractive. And I thought the size is not as compact as I want it to be because it measures approximately 11cm in length and 7cm in width. A lot bigger than what I’ve been used to carrying around for sure.
Affordability
Paul and Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation cost S$67. I was told the refill is S$41 or so. Which seems to be quite similar to the other brands positioned in the mid to high end segment.
Summary
I love this! Because it made me feel like a Japanese lady with good skin when I wear it. So yes, I’m happy with Paul and Joe Protective Dual Powder Foundation with SPF25 PA++. If you like something natural and sheer, you might want to check this out. But they don’t have too many shades to pick from though. I was lucky to find something close to mine.
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About Sesame Blog editor of Viva Woman, Sesame is a skin care addict who is fond of using natural & organic beauty products. She also enjoys ogling at handmade jewelry & cute stationery.
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I have stopped powder foundation and pressed powder after I realise those only highlight my dry areas and make my dry lines became more prominent. My T-zone was slightly oily so I use mineral loose powder to set the foundation on T-zone only. I was considering to use highlighter for T-zone instead of powder. Have you try this before? Fyi, I only wear foundation, loose powder and mascara for make up.
nicole: No, I haven’t tried those highlighter you mentioned. It’s true some powder foundation makes your skin drier. If you use powder foundation, you need to prep your skin with moisturizer and probably more so on the dry areas.
I always apply moisturizer before makeup but I guess it will not help those dry areas if i use powder. Luckly the foundation able to last without powder on dry sides. I must say the powder foundation really convenience to use especially in hurry
nicole: That’s true. With mineral powder, it can be a bit more messy and must bring the brush!