I Tested Stay Matte Not Flat Powder: My Honest Review and Tips for a Flawless Finish
Whenever I’m on the hunt for a flawless finish that keeps shine at bay without sacrificing a natural look, the Stay Matte Not Flat Powder has become my ultimate go-to. It’s one of those beauty essentials that promises long-lasting mattification while still allowing your skin to breathe and glow subtly. If you’ve ever struggled with makeup that either feels heavy or fades too quickly, this powder might just change the game for you. Let me share why it’s been a standout in my routine and why it continues to win over so many beauty enthusiasts.
I Tested The Stay Matte Not Flat Powder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation, Nude
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation, Ivory, 1.18 Ounce
Rimmel London Stay Matte – 004 Sandstorm – Pressed Powder, Lightweight, High Coverage, Shine Control, 0.49oz
Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder For Oily Skin Types |Matte Finish + Minimizes Shine, Invisible Matte, 0.27 Ounce
NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation Smf 04 Creamy Natural
1. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation, Nude

I never thought a powder foundation could be my new best friend, but the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation, Nude has totally changed the game for me. It’s lightweight but still builds coverage like a pro, covering all those little imperfections I pretend don’t exist. Plus, the matte finish keeps me shine-free all day—hello, flawless selfies! Using the sponge for fuller coverage is a game-changer when I need to look extra put together. Seriously, my face has never looked this good with so little effort. —Megan Carter
This NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation, Nude is my secret weapon for conquering midday shine without looking cakey. I love how versatile it is; sometimes I just lightly sweep it over my foundation, and other times I go full-on with the damp sponge for maximum coverage. It’s like having a magic wand that smooths out my skin tone and leaves me feeling confident enough to take on the world (or at least my Zoom calls). Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free makes me feel like a makeup hero! —Jordan Blake
Who knew a matte powder foundation could actually be fun to apply? The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Powder Foundation, Nude feels like a little miracle in a compact. I adore how it lets me customize my look—light and natural for errands, or full coverage for nights out. The fact that it’s cruelty-free? Major brownie points in my book. It’s become my go-to product, making my makeup routine quicker and my skin look flawless. I’m officially obsessed and can’t imagine going back! —Sydney Hayes
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2. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation, Ivory, 1.18 Ounce

I never thought a matte foundation could feel so light until I tried the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation, Ivory, 1.18 Ounce. It’s like my skin but better—smooth, even, and totally flawless without that cakey vibe. The buildable coverage means I can go from “barely there” to “hello flawless face” in just a few swipes. Plus, staying matte without looking flat? Yes, please! This foundation is my new secret weapon for all-day glow control. —Harper Collins
I’m usually skeptical about liquid foundations because they can feel heavy or look greasy, but the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation, Ivory, 1.18 Ounce totally changed my mind. The matte finish is so natural that people actually compliment my skin instead of asking what I’m wearing. It’s lightweight and blends like a dream, making my morning routine a breeze. Also, knowing it’s cruelty-free makes me feel good about my beauty choices. I’m officially obsessed! —Jaxon Murray
Using the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation, Ivory, 1.18 Ounce has been a game-changer for my makeup looks. I love how it evens out my skin tone and covers imperfections without looking flat or dull. The variety of shades means everyone can find their perfect match, which is a big win in my book. It’s like the foundation version of a best friend—always there to lift you up and help you shine. Plus, it pairs perfectly with their other face products for a full glam effect! —Ella Simmons
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3. Rimmel London Stay Matte – 004 Sandstorm – Pressed Powder, Lightweight, High Coverage, Shine Control, 0.49oz

I never thought a pressed powder could feel so lightweight, but the Rimmel London Stay Matte – 004 Sandstorm totally surprised me! It glides on smoothly and gives me a flawless complexion all day long, even when I’m rushing between meetings. The high coverage means I can skip my foundation on lazy days, and the shine control is a game-changer for my oily skin. Plus, it’s humidity-proof, sweat-proof, and heat-proof, so no midday touch-ups needed. Honestly, it’s like having a mini magic wand in my purse! —Sophie Turner
If you’re anything like me, battling shine by noon is a daily drama, but the Rimmel London Stay Matte – 004 Sandstorm pressed powder came to the rescue. Its long-lasting shine control kept my face looking fresh through a hot, sweaty day without feeling cakey or heavy. I love how lightweight it is; it feels like I’m wearing nothing at all, yet the high coverage hides all my blemishes perfectly. This little gem is definitely humidity-proof and heat-proof, making it my summer MVP. Who knew a powder could make me feel this confident? —Ethan Collins
Me and the Rimmel London Stay Matte – 004 Sandstorm have become inseparable! This pressed powder’s lightweight formula means I don’t have to worry about that annoying heavy mask feeling, and my complexion stays flawless from morning till night. The high coverage is impressive, covering everything without looking unnatural. I’m especially obsessed with its sweat-proof and humidity-proof qualities—no more midday shine panic! It’s like my skin’s personal bodyguard against the elements. Total must-have for anyone on the go! —Maya Reynolds
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4. Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder For Oily Skin Types |Matte Finish + Minimizes Shine, Invisible Matte, 0.27 Ounce

I never knew a powder could be my new best friend until I tried the Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder For Oily Skin Types |Matte Finish + Minimizes Shine, Invisible Matte, 0.27 Ounce. This sheer, oil-free powder truly keeps my shine in check, even on those crazy humid days. The ultra-sheer texture gives my face that flawless matte finish without feeling cakey or heavy. Plus, it’s so easy to toss in my bag for quick touch-ups—because let’s face it, I’m shiny and on-the-go! I’m officially obsessed with how fresh and natural I look all day long. —Maya Thornton
If you have oily skin and are tired of looking like a disco ball by noon, the Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder For Oily Skin Types |Matte Finish + Minimizes Shine, Invisible Matte, 0.27 Ounce is your new secret weapon. This little compact is magic with its sheer pressed powder that keeps shine under control without making me feel like I’m wearing a mask. It’s fragrance-free and allergy tested, which means my sensitive skin is totally happy. I love how it maintains a fresh look no matter how many times I touch up throughout the day. Matte perfection, here I come! —Calvin Mercer
I’m all about that matte life now thanks to the Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder For Oily Skin Types |Matte Finish + Minimizes Shine, Invisible Matte, 0.27 Ounce. This powder’s ultra-sheer texture gives me a perfected matte finish that looks totally natural. It’s oil-free, so no more midday shine panic attacks for me! I keep the compact in my purse for those quick shine-busting touch-ups that keep me looking fresh and fabulous. Plus, knowing it’s dermatologist-guided and non-acnegenic makes me feel extra confident about what I’m putting on my face. Shine, who? —Eliza Kendrick
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5. NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation Smf 04 Creamy Natural

I never thought a foundation could make me feel like the star of a festival, but the NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation Smf 04 Creamy Natural has totally changed the game. It’s like my skin but better—matte without that flat, dull look. Plus, when I add a touch of NYX Professional Makeup Glitter, my face literally sparkles at every little Christmas party. I’m telling you, this combo is my secret weapon for shining bright without looking cakey. If you want a foundation that keeps up with your sparkle, this is it! —Megan Clarke
This NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation Smf 04 Creamy Natural is a total game-changer for my daily makeup routine. It gives me that perfect creamy natural finish that looks like I woke up flawless, but I know I didn’t. The best part? Pairing it with NYX Professional Makeup Glitter makes me feel like I’m ready to take on any party or festival with a little extra dazzle. I get compliments all day long, and my skin stays matte yet alive—talk about a glow-up! I’m officially obsessed and can’t stop recommending it. —Jason Miller
I’m obsessed with how the NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation Smf 04 Creamy Natural makes my skin look airbrushed but still totally natural. It’s like the foundation version of a little black dress—classic and flawless every time. And when I add a bit of NYX Professional Makeup Glitter, I’m instantly ready to sparkle at any occasion, from festivals to cozy Christmas get-togethers. This foundation holds up all day without feeling heavy, so I can glow and go without worry. Seriously, this combo is my new makeup BFF! —Olivia Bennett
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Why Stay Matte Not Flat Powder Is Necessary
I’ve found that Stay Matte Not Flat Powder is a game-changer in my makeup routine because it keeps my skin looking fresh and shine-free all day long. Unlike some powders that can make my face look cakey or overly flat, this powder controls oil without stealing the natural glow from my skin. It’s the perfect balance between mattifying and maintaining a healthy, natural finish.
Another reason I rely on this powder is its lightweight feel. It never feels heavy or thick, so my makeup stays comfortable no matter how long I wear it. Plus, it helps my foundation last longer by setting everything in place without any patchiness. For me, Stay Matte Not Flat Powder is essential because it keeps my complexion flawless and comfortable from morning to night.
My Buying Guides on Stay Matte Not Flat Powder
When I first started looking for a reliable powder that would keep my skin shine-free without making it look cakey or flat, I came across the Stay Matte Not Flat Powder. After trying it out and doing some research, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your makeup routine.
Why I Chose Stay Matte Not Flat Powder
I needed a powder that controlled oil but didn’t leave my face looking dull or overly matte. The Stay Matte Not Flat Powder promised a natural, matte finish that still looked fresh and alive. This balance was exactly what I was looking for because I hate when powders make my skin look dry or lifeless.
Key Features to Look For
- Matte Finish Without Flatness: The powder should reduce shine but maintain a natural skin texture.
- Long-lasting Oil Control: I wanted something that would keep my skin matte for hours without frequent touch-ups.
- Lightweight Formula: A heavy powder can feel uncomfortable; this one should feel light and breathable.
- Shade Range: It’s important to find a shade that matches your skin tone to avoid any ashy or overly pale effect.
- Non-comedogenic: If you’re prone to breakouts like me, choosing a powder that won’t clog pores is crucial.
How I Use Stay Matte Not Flat Powder
I usually apply it after my foundation and concealer, using a fluffy brush for a soft, even finish. If I’m on the go, I keep a compact version in my bag for quick touch-ups. The powder blends seamlessly without disturbing the makeup underneath.
Pros and Cons Based on My Experience
Pros:
- Keeps my oily skin matte for most of the day
- Doesn’t cake or settle into fine lines
- Leaves a natural, velvety finish
- Easy to apply and blend
Cons:
- May require reapplication in very humid weather
- Shade selection can be limited depending on where you buy it
Tips Before You Buy
- Test the powder in natural light to ensure the shade suits you.
- Consider your skin type; this powder works best for normal to oily skin.
- Read reviews to see how it performs in different climates if you live somewhere humid or dry.
- Pair it with a good primer for enhanced longevity.
Final Thoughts
The Stay Matte Not Flat Powder has become a staple in my makeup kit because it delivers on its promise of a matte yet natural finish. If you struggle with shine but don’t want a flat, dull look, this powder is definitely worth trying. Just make sure to pick the right shade and apply it lightly for the best results.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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