Product: Maybelline New York Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup
Shade: Nude Beige
Size: 0.3 oz
In the ever-evolving world of makeup, finding the perfect powder foundation that delivers on its promises without breaking the bank can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Maybelline New York, a drugstore brand with a long-standing reputation for quality cosmetics at affordable prices, offers their Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup as a solution for those seeking a versatile powder that can be used alone or as a setting powder. Today, I’ll be taking an in-depth look at this product in the shade Nude Beige, examining everything from its texture and coverage to its longevity and value for money.
As a beauty expert who has tested countless powder foundations across price points, I approach this review with a critical eye and practical experience. After extensive testing and compiling feedback from numerous users, I’m ready to share my comprehensive analysis of this popular drugstore staple.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Maybelline Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder comes in a compact black case with a clear lid that allows you to see the shade inside. The packaging is sleek, lightweight, and practical for on-the-go touch-ups. Inside, you’ll find a mirror and an applicator pad, making it convenient for travel and quick application when you’re away from your makeup brushes.
At 0.3 oz, the product size is standard for pressed powders in this price range. The compact feels sturdy enough to withstand being tossed in a purse without cracking, though some users have reported receiving broken products through shipping—a common issue with pressed powders ordered online.
Shade Range and Color Match
The Nude Beige shade is designed for light to medium skin tones with neutral undertones. One interesting observation from multiple users is that the powder can appear lighter than its corresponding shade in the Fit Me liquid foundation line. This is worth noting if you’re purchasing this powder to pair with the matching foundation.
For those with fair skin, this particular shade works exceptionally well, providing a natural finish without appearing chalky or too pink. Users with wheat-ish or slightly darker skin tones have also reported that the product looks surprisingly natural despite being designed for lighter complexions.
Texture and Application
The texture of the Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder is one of its standout features. Unlike many drugstore powders that can feel chalky or heavy, this one offers a silky, smooth consistency that applies effortlessly to the skin. The product name doesn’t lie—it truly does set and smooth the appearance of the skin.
When it comes to application methods, there are several options:
- Using the included puff applicator: This method provides more coverage and is great for quick, on-the-go application. However, it’s worth noting that the included puff is basic and may not distribute the product as evenly as a quality brush.
- Using a large, fluffy powder brush: Many users prefer this method for a lighter, more airbrushed finish. The brush application allows for better control over the amount of product applied and creates a more natural look.
- Using a foundation brush: For more precise application or when using the powder as a foundation, a dense foundation brush can help achieve medium coverage.
Coverage and Finish
The Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder offers light to medium coverage, making it versatile for different needs:
- Used alone, it provides a light coverage that evens out minor discolorations and reduces shine.
- Applied over liquid foundation, it sets makeup beautifully while adding a bit more coverage.
- When built up (which it does well without caking), it can provide medium coverage suitable for good skin days.
The finish is where this product truly shines. Unlike the Fit Me Matte + Poreless line, which can sometimes look flat, the Set + Smooth formula creates a natural, slightly luminous finish that isn’t dewy but isn’t completely matte either. It strikes a perfect balance that looks like natural, healthy skin.
What’s particularly impressive is how it performs on different skin types:
- Dry skin: Multiple users with dry skin have praised this powder for not emphasizing dryness or creating a flaky appearance—a rare quality in a powder product.
- Combination skin: The powder helps control oil in the T-zone while maintaining a smooth appearance on drier areas.
- Mature skin: The non-settling formula doesn’t emphasize fine lines or wrinkles.
Longevity and Wear
In terms of staying power, the Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder performs admirably for its price point. When used as a setting powder over foundation, users report that it helps their makeup last throughout a standard workday (8-9 hours) with minimal touch-ups needed.
When worn alone as a powder foundation, it maintains its appearance for 4-6 hours before some fading or shine breakthrough might occur, depending on your skin type and environmental conditions. In particularly humid conditions, like any powder product, its longevity decreases—though several users mentioned it held up better than expected even in summer heat.
An impressive quality mentioned by multiple reviewers is that this powder doesn’t oxidize significantly throughout the day, maintaining its true color rather than turning orange or darker as many drugstore powders tend to do.
Comparison to Other Maybelline Powders
Several users have directly compared this powder to other offerings in the Maybelline line:
- Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder: While both are excellent products, the Set + Smooth formula is generally preferred by those with normal to dry skin, while the Matte + Poreless is better suited for oily skin types. The Set + Smooth creates a more natural, skin-like finish compared to the more matte appearance of its counterpart.
- Fit Me Loose Powder: Users who have tried both note that the loose powder can sometimes look cakier and emphasize skin texture more than the Set + Smooth pressed powder. The pressed format is also more travel-friendly and less messy for everyday use.
Skin Compatibility and Sensitivities
For the most part, users report that this powder is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin. It doesn’t contain heavy fragrances that might trigger reactions, and most users don’t experience breakouts from regular use.
However, as with any cosmetic product, there are exceptions. A few users mentioned experiencing breakouts after using this powder, which could be due to individual ingredients sensitivities. The powder does contain talc as an ingredient, which some people prefer to avoid, though modern cosmetic-grade talc is generally considered safe for most users.
Value for Money
At its price point (typically under $10), the Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder offers exceptional value. Users consistently mention that a single compact lasts approximately 2-3 months with daily use, making it an economical choice for everyday makeup.
When compared to high-end pressed powders that can cost three to five times as much, many users find that this Maybelline option performs just as well or better. Several reviewers specifically mentioned preferring this powder to more expensive options from Becca and ColourPop.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Silky, smooth texture that applies effortlessly
- Natural, skin-like finish that doesn’t look cakey
- Works well for dry skin types (unusual for a powder product)
- Good color match for light to medium skin tones
- Versatile as both a setting powder and light foundation
- Excellent value for money
- Convenient packaging with mirror for on-the-go use
- Doesn’t emphasize skin texture or fine lines
- Long-lasting formula that doesn’t require frequent touch-ups
- Doesn’t oxidize significantly throughout wear
Cons:
- Limited shade range compared to some competitors
- The included applicator pad is basic and not ideal for best application
- Some inconsistency in online ordering (broken products, wrong shades)
- May not provide enough coverage for those seeking to conceal significant discoloration
- Not ideal for very oily skin types who need more oil control
- Small amount of product (0.3 oz) compared to some competitors
Best Uses and Application Tips
Based on user experiences, here are some optimal ways to use this product:
- For a natural everyday look: Apply with a fluffy brush over moisturized skin for a light, even coverage that looks like your skin but better.
- As a setting powder: Apply over liquid foundation using a powder brush for a smooth, long-lasting finish. This method works particularly well for creating a flawless look without heaviness.
- For touch-ups: The compact mirror and portable size make this ideal for midday shine control and touch-ups.
- For dry skin: Unlike many powders, this one works beautifully on dry skin types. Prep with a hydrating moisturizer for best results.
- For minimalist makeup days: Pair with just concealer on trouble spots for a quick, put-together look without the weight of full foundation.
Who Should Buy This Product?
The Maybelline Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder in Nude Beige is ideal for:
- Those with light to medium skin tones with neutral undertones
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a non-drying powder option
- Makeup beginners seeking an affordable, foolproof powder
- Anyone looking for a versatile product that can be used multiple ways
- Those who prefer a natural, skin-like finish rather than a heavy, matte look
- Budget-conscious consumers who want quality without a high price tag
It might not be the best choice for:
- Those with very oily skin (the Matte + Poreless line might be better)
- People seeking full coverage from their powder
- Those with very deep skin tones, as this particular shade is designed for lighter complexions
Conclusion
The Maybelline New York Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup in Nude Beige is a standout drugstore product that delivers performance comparable to many high-end alternatives. Its versatility, natural finish, and skin-friendly formula make it a worthy addition to almost any makeup collection.
What makes this powder particularly special is its ability to create a smooth, non-cakey appearance even on dry skin—a rare feat for powder products at any price point. The fact that it manages to set makeup, add light coverage, and create a natural finish without emphasizing texture or dryness makes it a true gem in the drugstore beauty aisle.
While no product is perfect for everyone, the overwhelmingly positive feedback from users across different skin types and ages suggests that this is one of those universal products that works for most people in most situations.
For anyone seeking an affordable, reliable powder that can be used multiple ways and creates a natural, skin-like finish, the Maybelline Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder deserves a place in your makeup bag. At its price point, it’s a low-risk investment with potentially high rewards for your everyday makeup routine.
Whether you’re a makeup novice looking for foolproof products or a beauty enthusiast seeking to round out your collection with reliable basics, this powder delivers quality, performance, and value that’s hard to beat in the competitive world of cosmetics.
Final Rating
Overall: 4.5/5 stars
- Performance: 4.5/5 – Excellent for its price point, with minor limitations in coverage and oil control
- Value: 5/5 – Exceptional quality for the cost, with longevity that makes it even more economical
- Versatility: 4.5/5 – Works well for multiple purposes and application methods
- Packaging: 4/5 – Practical and portable, though the included applicator could be improved
- Shade Match: 4/5 – Good for its intended skin tone range, though the overall line could offer more inclusive options
This review is based on extensive testing and aggregated feedback from multiple users with varying skin types, ages, and preferences.
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