Tuesday 8 January 2008

Natural Collection ShineAway Foundation



RRP: £1.99 for 40ml
# of shades available: 3

--What does the promo say?--
"Medium-cover foundation to help reduce skin shine. Suitable for oily skin. Dermatologically tested. Fragrance free."

--Packaging--
While it all starts off well, with a simple design (something resembling a flower archway) over the Natural Collection logo, and the foundation name at the bottom of the transparent squeezy tube, the packaging becomes disastrous alarmingly quickly. Firstly, it has to be stored upside down (especially when travelling, which is why I bought it in the first place, for its dinky packaging...hmph) as otherwise foundation will spill into the lid (though thankfully not all over any other stuff), causing a ridiculous amount of mess and wastage. Secondly, the 'nozzle' is totally flat...meaning you are constantly wiping the opening area. I do usually like the nozzle to be slightly raised so as to avoid this. Saying this, though, the packaging design is aesthetically pleasing and it's easy to control the flow of foundation.

--Application--
Once you've got over the problem of the flat nozzle, this foundation is perfectly easy to apply. Just slap it on using your fingers, a brush, or a sponge.

--Texture--
Quite creamy, though slightly runnier than my No7 foundation. However, this doesn't prove a hindrance: it's of a pretty good consistency, blends nicely and doesn't run all over your fingers.

--Appearance--
Pretty good. Imperfections are covered very well, and the colours look natural too.

--Longevity--
Falls down when compared against the No7 (i.e. it will need reapplying at least once more during the day), but at £1.99, you can hardly complain.

--Coverage--
Good.

--Value for money--
Quite clearly excellent - you get a decent-sized foundation for the price without having to call the quality into question. While it needs reapplying once in a while, and while Natural Collection clearly need to sort out the dodgy packaging, this is certainly fine for travel purposes, and even for every day should you feel so inclined.

perfect partner
Natural Collection Pressed Powder, £1.99

available at Boots

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