Physicians Formula Mineral Wear™ Talc-Free Mineral Liquid Foundation: Review

As someone with TERRIBLE acne that sprung up when I turned fifteen and hasn't slowed down since, foundation with great coverage is a must. Of course, the trade-off for great coverage-- a rarity in drugstore brands-- is usually a caked-on look that risks looking trashy and garish. Sure, there are probably expensive brands that do a great job of avoiding this (I adore Mary Kay's medium coverage liquid foundation), but no college girl wants to pay for that when there's an acceptable alternative.

In my search for a drugstore brand that balances low cost and excellent coverage, I decided to pick up a brand I had only a little experience with. Physicians Formula boasts that its products are excellent for sensitive skin, being hypoallergenic, oil free, and fragrance free. Titanium Dioxide and Iron Oxides contribute to the natural matte finish and the talc-free formula contains Vitamins A & E to protect and nourish the skin. Of course, sun protection is a must (especially when you spend so much time walking outside to classes), so the fact that the product was SPF 15 was the final selling point.

The product comes with a sponge-like anti-microbial applicator on its lid. This is a nice touch in theory, but I felt it was hard to obtain optimal coverage quickly enough while using it. In addition, it seemed as though a substantial amount of the foundation was doomed to be stuck in the sponge, a major "no" for those of us trying to get the most for our dollar! Luckily, the lid can be twisted off so you can squeeze the foundation right into your hand.

The product was easy to apply and feels surprisingly light for the heavy coverage it provides. Minor redness is amply covered, though concealer (I recommend their Conceal Rx™ Physicians Strength Concealer in Soft Green) is a must for particularly red blemishes.  I wouldn't say that a little bit goes a long way, but one relatively thin layer seems to be enough to achieve great coverage; 1 fluid ounce has lasted me well over a month of regular use. It definitely looks good for the cost, but the matte finish comes dangerously close to "caked-on" territory. At the end of the day, though, it's hard to find coverage this heavy without flirting with breakouts.

Pros:

• Heavy coverage that avoids looking caked-on
• Great for sensitive and breakout-prone skin
• SPF 15 (contains Titanium Dioxide)

Cons:

• Applicator is frustrating and unnecessary (but removable)
• Tough to find an appropriate color for light olive skin

Price: 7/10

Coverage: 8/10

EWG Score: N/A

Overall:7/10