Lately I’ve been having a problem with shine on my face from oil buildup. It being winter and all, I’ve been making it a habit to use a super-moisturizing face cream every night before going to bed, and then a lighter version for the daytime, to keep my skin from drying out. I feel this is attributing to, if not at the root, of my slick little problem.

For whatever reason, all-over face makeup has traditionally been a no-go for me. Laziness, ignorance about how to use it, and uncertainty in selecting the best shade and brand all factor in to this matter. But since I’ve been taking a serious interest in all things prettyful, I’ve gingerly stepped back into dabbling with these types of products. So, given the oil slicks on my face, this includes a foray into finding a decent pressed powder to mattify shine.

The other day on my way home, I went to my local CVS/pharmacy to get a canister of coffee. While inside, I took my usual sweep of the beauty aisle and noticed they were having another terrific sale on several brands – buy one, get one free, the signs trumpeted. Well, not really wanting to dish out a lot of money at the moment, I bought a compact of Maybelline New York’s DreamMatte Powder to see how it worked for my skin.

(To take advantage of the fabulous sale, I got a Maybelline eyeshadow trio as my free item – Impeccable Grays – really pretty, easy to blend and long-lasting!)

I suppose the powder is par for the course as far as drugstore makeup goes. It mattifies but I need to reapply after a few hours. Happily, I find it doesn’t ever look caked-on or fake. I like that, as it’s a fine line between too much and too little with pressed powder. There is also an array of colors for different skin tones. I don’t like that the applicator pad sits on the mirror because the residue from the powder gets on the mirror inside, but then it’s not hard to clean.

This is not a mineral makeup, like Bare Escentuals or Bare Minerals. I have used Bare Escentuals’ soft focus powder but it did nothing for me. Still, many rave about mineral makeup’s superior effects on their skin, so I will not delve into how I’ve been underwhelmed.

So for a drugstore brand, Maybelline’s DreamMatte is a winner. Until I get my hands on some higher end (and higher quality) stuff I’m content with my choice. I recommend it, it makes you look smooth and even, and the price is perfect. Could be a good stocking stuffer.