Pleasantly surprised by this one. I bought it because I've been binging on RBR and it was discounted, so I thought I'd give it a go. It's got a lovely texture, quite velvet-y, not unlike Chanel pressed powder but not as heavy and, importantly, doesn't oxidise on my skin. Really good for mature skin as it's isn't drying and it doesn't emphasize lines. I probably wouldn't recommend for oilier skins. Mine is dry and sensitive, and I still get a bit of shine on my nose half way through the day and use my MAC blot powder to deal with that, but like the previous reviewer I've never in my life found a powder that doesn't need a touch-up at some point. I've been using this to set my make-up in the morning with a brush. The spongey-puff provided is a bit thin and cheap. Not the most sympathetic range of colours for all the ladies of the world so one lippie off for that.

When I wanted to buy RBR's "Precious Velvet" Flawless Face Powder I looked for reviews everywhere and yet did not find the information I was seeking. Hence: I am NC15 at MAC and "Piano Forte" is a perfect match! There, I said it.

RBR say about their powder: "Effortless radiance and sophistication in a pressed powder, with a texture so light it melds with your skin, making it naturally flawless. An advanced micronisation process guarantees a combination of a velvety and creamy texture for ultimate comfort, perfect adherence, smoothness and an even finish. Innovative ingredients include Papaya Fruit Extract as a natural “face lift” and skin softener, plus Hyssop Extract with soothing properties. Rice Powder imparts a perfectly natural, non-shiny finish. Compose your own concerto of impeccable loveliness." Now, as for the radiance & melting into the skin part: yes, it's true. This powder is so finely milled that you won't see it anymore after you applied it. I mean, none of it. It evens out the complexion, adds radiance, yet absorbs shine and leaves the skin looking its best – it's just that you don't see the powder anymore. It's ridiculous, really. I know all face powders are supposed to be invisible & still make your skin look picture perfect but only "Precious Velvet" delivers. After 15 years of buying and trying make-up this is the only face powder I ever came across that is invisible on your skin, no matter how much you put on – no matter the layers. I wish I had gotten my hands on this sooner – it would have saved me a lot of money & frustration. I apply this powder with my Body Shop Powder Brush. I wear it solo, mind you, not on make-up. I also don't use concealer underneath my eyes anymore. I simply use a very fine concealer brush, dab it into the powder and apply it instead. Works miracles. My skin behaves rather well, except for the occasional hormonal break-out I have no problems, so I cannot say how it would do on acne-prone skin. The coverage is medium so if your skin is not as good as mine it will most likely not be enough. But still, the only downside I can find is the fact that it doesn't absorb oil all that well. I have combination skin and my t-zone tends to get really oily around noon and that will show, unfortuntely. Anyway, I'm going to let that slide because I found no powder ever that could keep oil at bay for a whole day and I think I'd rather find unicorns one day. But then I also never had a face powder that became invisible on my skin the moment I applied it so who knows? Alas, this little miracle has its price: I paid a whopping 44 € for 12 grams(!!). For that you get a beautiful little black box, in which the powder compact is hidden and underneath it is a little white sponge applicator. The powder compact is solid & heavy, a pleasant, luxurious weight. And all of it, the black box, as well as the compact itself, are beautifully decorated with white flowers & rabbits & whatnot. A royal treat for any queen. So to sum it up: This has got to be the bestestestest face powder ever. continued >>