Clarins Powder Compact: Over-Priced Product

Ok. So periodically I go on a spree to renew my cosmetic supplies, usually about the time I run out of mascara, since that is my principal item. On one of those sprees I decided to also grab this here Powder Compact by Clarins. Why I did this, I'll never know. The damn thing ran me around $45 once you do the conversion (385sek.) How insane is that?

Here's the thing. I was looking for a new blush set. I like my blushes to have two colors in one dealie. I couldn't find any at the cosmetics store I was in. Then I saw this adorable compact in the Clarins section. The display made it look like it had two shades. I did not look close enough to the box to make out what it really was. Look, I didn't have my glasses with me at the time, aiiight? I also didn't notice the price until I got home and was looking at the receipt. Twice Stupid. There ya have it.

So. The case to this Clarins Powder Compact is a beautiful rusty-red kinda jobby with gold trim. For the price, that best be 18 karot gold, I'm tellin ya. When you open it up, there is a nice little mirror in the top, and the powder is in the bottom, of course. It comes with a handy little sponge for application.

Now, I have have never, not once, used a face powder. I had no idea what to expect. I did need a new foundation though so I justified this mis-purchase as a replacement for my foundation. Oh hush. I can hear the laughter clear over here...

The problem I am having at the moment is that I actually do not totally hate this over-priced bauble. Seriously. The powder is very fine and isn't as obvious on my face as I had feared powders would be. Really, it is not obnoxious at all, and does fairly well to even out my face tones, much like what I use a foundation for.

The Clarins Powder Compact does not feel heavy while on my face. In fact, I don't even know it's there... nor can I see it in the mirror. I just see, like I said, more even tones. I bought the beige compact, and it really matches my natural skin color perfectly.

There is a slight perfumey kinda scent to this powder. I rather like that myself, but others may not. It is present in the container only. The scent does not transfer to my face.

So what, exactly, is the purpose of a powder? Do folks use this usually over a foundation? Yeah, I told ya I had never used one before. I have questions. I don't need answers, I'm merely curious. You see, my idea to have this replace the foundation is actually working out I think... but it just feels like I'm going about this all wrong for some reason. Stupid, eh? If it looks good, use it, right? Right. I will then.

So like, I am going to continue to alternate use of this Clarins Powder Compact in place of a foundation, and I will be happy with it in this role. However, I am only going with 2 stars for the product and not recommending it. Why? Because that price tag is just outrageous. I am quite sure that there are comparable products for less than half that 45 smackers which would work just as well. I'll use this until it's gone, but I will not be shelling out that kind of money for it again.