NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder
by NARS · makeup
Editor's Take
Punches above traditional setting powders by suspending its light-reflecting minerals in a heavy dose of Squalane, prioritizing a skin-like finish over strict clean chemistry.
Four-pillar formula scores
- Efficacy: 7.8 / 10
- Modern Tech: 7.5 / 10
- Clean Beauty: 6.3 / 10
- Sustainability: 4.8 / 10
The Verdict
This formula utilizes modern technology to create a pressed slurry that behaves more like skincare than a traditional dry compact. It delivers solid efficacy by anchoring light-reflecting Mica in a moisture-rich matrix of Glycerin and Squalane, ensuring the finish stays flexible rather than chalky. The trade-off for that elegant suspension is a reliance on conventional synthetics like Polysorbate 80 to hold the blend together. Worth it for the non-drying finish alone if you do not mind standard cosmetic stabilizers.
Full INCI list
Glycerin, Squalane, Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate, Polysorbate 80, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Xanthan Gum, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sea Water/Maris Aqua/Eau De Mer, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Magnesium Silicate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Tin Oxide, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491), Iron Oxides (Ci 77492), Iron Oxides (Ci 77499)