Nothing quite suits traveling like compact makeup, and especially powder compact makeup (which conceals and mattifies in one step!).

I recently tried CK One Color Airlight Powder Foundation (SPF 15) for this purpose, and would like to share my thoughts.

The compact is very handy, and is indeed ideal for travel. In short, the packaging is sleep and ergonomic:

On first swatch, the foundation itself is very pigmented and finely milled — both signs of high quality. Indeed, it feels silky to the touch upon first application. The shades are all yellow-based, which is usually helpful in canceling redness. For reference, my shade is “Porcelain” (100), which is the fairest shade in the bunch. This product comes in 6 shades.

Now, for the before and after…

Left to right (bare face, foundation applied, full face of makeup)

The initial application covers beautifully, and my first reaction was one of excitement. Compact powder makeup, small enough to fit in a travel bag, with SPF 15 and a beautiful finish…What more can you ask for?

Alas, the good impression was not to last.

Despite its initial finish, this foundation begins to get patchy and streaky as the day progresses. Unfortunately, it also does nothing to control oil, either; the T-zone definitely shines throughout the day after applying this product. The foundation wears off so badly that, without fail, you have a red nose by mid-day. That is pretty bad.

Despite its promising beginnings, this foundation simply does not make the cut. Don’t waste your money.

Verdict: 1/5 Stars

Availability: ULTA
Price: $26