YSL Le Compact Encre de Peau

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My usual preference for applying any kind of powder foundation is to buff it into the skin using a dense kabuki brush, and I automatically did that when I first tested this.  When I swirled my brush in the palette, I was surprised at how little powder my brush was able to pick up.  The powder is so tightly packed in the pan that some have chosen to describe it as gel, but in reality there is nothing gel- nor cream-like about Le Compact Encre de Peau.  And as you can see from the half-faced comparison image above, the finish using a brush application is incredibly sheer, and quite mattifying though it does not emphasize pores and other textural flaws.

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Using the sponge, I was able to attain much better coverage.  I should mention at this point that the sponge is a novel dense, smooth sponge without flocking, which makes it somewhat squeaky to sweep across the face and is easier to dab.  Applying in short sweeps gives better coverage whereas light pats are better suited for touch-ups.

On my rather dry and dehydrated skin, I found YSL Le Compact Encre de Peau to last about 8 hours before fading gently.  It does not oxidize, but I did notice some shine creeping up around my t-zone at mid-day, and my makeup looked softer and more luminous after my natural oils integrated with it.  Overall, I think if you like the speed of applying powder foundations and the convenience of being able to touch-up on the go with the same powder, this could be an interesting one to check out.  YSL makes some really amazing compact powders [such as this] and loose setting powders [this], that I find it hard to choose amongst favorites.  There is a little bit of a learning curve with this Le Compact Encre de Peau, but we are all smart ladies so that shouldn’t be a hindrance.  The packaging is drop-dead sexy, so feel free to whip it out over drinks!

_{This post featured a product that was generously provided for my consideration.  Regardless, all opinions expressed here are my own honest, unbiased views.}