"This is a great powder foundation for someone with normal to slightly oily skin like I have. It doesn't dry out the areas that are dry, and it keeps shine at bay for decent length of time. There is a hint of "illuminating" in the finish, but just enough to give your skin a "healthy glow." I've used Shade 30 watts for two years and the only thing I'd change is the SPF. It should be at leats 15, not a dissapointing 12. I have to use sunscreen under this, but fortunately, there are so many great moisturizers with sunscreen, that this isn't really an issue, it would just make Illuminating Powder Foundation that much better. Shades are very neutral, so go with your gut, you will like the result. Also, you have to buy the compact, or you will be toting your foundation in the plastic package it comes in. This is one of Stila's ways of being green, and though it will cost you some green, it's worth it. The compact is sturdy, has lasted me these two years despite my clumsiness, and with occasional cleaning, looks new. I hope this helps! Happy shopping!
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    "I really wouldnt describe this as a powder foundation seeing as it gives little coverage, but it does deposit a beautiful, natural/matte, luminescent glowy finish. I used it over the new Josie Maron Argon oil this morning and my skin looks very healthy. I agree the shades are very neutral and I think if you went a little darker you could even use this as a bronzer. One suggestion for those who thought this is too shimmery: The first layer of this does seem to have more shimmer than the rest of the product, so feel free to wipe that away, or use it as a highlighter. I wouldn't call the rest of this shimmery, but its not going to give a powdered look, either. It looks like you have great, non oily skin (and I put this directly over an oil) that looks healthy. Another great thing about this is that normally products dont have a shade light enough for my skin, but 10 watts matches pretty well in this formulation because it is so sheer and neutral. I have combination skin and have used this product since I was 14 and cant say it has every broken me out. I also use it under my eyes and it doesnt crease or look wrinkled (not that I have many wrinkles at 19, but things can look really fake under my eyes and this just illuminates.) I think a problem some people are having with this with it being too dry has to do with trying to get this to have more coverage than it does, it will be more drying and less flattering if you try and layer it. If you want a glowing yet matte, nearly translucsent powder with a hint of a neutralizing effect, this is a great way to go. The spf is a bonus too!
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    "I really like that this is available in truly fair shades, the lightest shades of most powders can still look to dark on me. It doesn't seem like a foundation, more like a heavy powder, or somewhere in between the two. It also tends to be a bit drying at times. Love the compact too: the applicator is stored underneath in a ventilated compartment, so both powder and sponge stay fresh much longer.
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    "Very easy to put on. This foundation gives a very natural look. I have freckles and this does a pretty good job covering them without looking cakey.
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    "Stila's Illuminating Powder Foundation doesn't offer enough coverage for me on its own, but when I use this as a setting powder over my liquid foundation, it works great. I apply with a stippling brush and it leaves a glowing, air-brushed finish over my liquid foundation that's very natural looking. The fact that it has an SPF 12 is a nice added bonus, too.
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    "This is the first powder foundation I've ever bought, and I must say that I am NOT disappointed! It's very sheer and doesn't make my face look like I have makeup caked on it. I bought the 50 watt and it is just perfect for my skin color. I would definitely buy this product again!
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