Does This Thing Really Work?

Does This Thing Really Work? is a muted, pinky-plum with subtle, cool undertones and gold sparkle that sits over a matte base. The sparkle doesn't bind well with the color itself, so it doesn't tend to stick well to the skin; the few bits that do migrate and move throughout the day or eventually fall off. The texture was smooth and soft, but it was somewhat powdery and looked a little dry on my normal-to-dry skin. It lasted for eight hours (not the 12-hours promised by the formula, though eight hours is similar to wear I get with most blush formulas). Estee Lauder Rebel Rose (P, $34.00) is warmer (95% similar). Giorgio Armani Cool Mauve (50) (P, $38.00) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar). Tarte Fetching (LE, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar). NARS Outlaw (P, $30.00) is warmer (90% similar). Bobbi Brown Pink Rose (DC, $30.00) is lighter, brighter (90% similar). KIKO 112 Light Plum (P, $12.00) is lighter (90% similar). Urban Decay TMI (DC, $26.00) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar). ColourPop Vogue (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar). MAC Petulant (LE, $22.00) is darker, glossier (90% similar). ColourPop Cruel Intentions (LE, $8.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar). Cover FX Sweet Mulberry (Left) (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar). Laura Geller Roseberry (P, $28.00) is warmer (85% similar). Buxom Dolly (P, $22.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar). bareMinerals The Love Letter (LE, $22.00) is lighter (85% similar). Make Up For Ever #310 HD Blush (DC, $26.00) is warmer (85% similar). Lethal Cosmetics Ornamental (P, $15.50) is more shimmery, warmer (85% similar). MAC Subtle Breeze (LE, $29.00) is brighter (85% similar). MAC Take Me Home (Bottom) (LE, $24.00) is cooler (85% similar). MAC The Perfect Cheek (LE, $24.00) is lighter (85% similar). Milk Makeup Beyond (P, $20.00) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (85% similar). Top 20 dupes listed, see the rest. See comparison swatches / view dupes side-by-side.

FURTHER READING: Formula Overview, which is a detailed review of the range as a whole.

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