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Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder Review

Rimmel London Stay Matte is a budget pressed face powder designed to control shine and leave a matte finish. It is mainly suited to users who want lightweight setting support for everyday makeup, especially on oily or combination skin. Its biggest trade-off is fragile packaging, with some users also noting a slightly dry or gritty feel.
Expert reviewed
87
Overall score
Data-driven scoring Expert reviewed Updated analysis

Why we ranked it highly

Rimmel London Stay Matte is a pressed face powder positioned as a lightweight, mattifying makeup product for shine control and a smoother-looking complexion. The Transparent 001 version is part of a broader shade lineup, and the product is described as helping minimise the appearance of pores while supporting a matte finish for up to 5 hours. It is also marketed as humidity-proof, sweat-proof and heat-proof. Based on the review data, this powder is most relevant for daily makeup wearers who want a low-cost way to set foundation or reduce midday shine. Customer feedback frequently mentions oily and combination skin, easy application, and strong value. The main caution points are packaging fragility and some reports that the texture can feel less silky than expected, with occasional dryness for certain users.
90-day review Expert reviewed User feedback Data scoring

Key specs

Features & Specs

Item Form
Pressed
Skin Type
Normal
Product Benefits
Shine Control; Smoothing; Even Toning
Additional Features
Lightweight
Finish Types
Matte
Skin Tone
Fair
Coverage
Lightweight
Container Type
Jar

Item details

Brand Name
Rimmel
Item Form
Pressed
Color
Transparent
Model Name
Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder 0.49 Oz
Number of Items
1
Model Number
34788219001
Global Trade Identification Number
03607345064505
Manufacturer
HFC Prestige International U.S. LLC
Set Name
Stay Matte
Manufacturer Part Number
34788218001
Container Type
Jar

Product details

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer
No
Product Dimensions
7.87 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches; 0.49 ounces
Item model number
34788219001
Manufacturer
HFC Prestige International U.S. LLC

Scores breakdown

90 /100

Effectiveness

88 /100

Beauty results

78 /100

Skin compatibility

76 /100

Shade range

89 /100

Finish quality

86 /100

Longevity

62 /100

Ingredient quality

76 /100

Safety

Strengths

  • Strong shine control performance for a low-cost pressed powder.
  • Lightweight matte finish is widely praised for setting makeup without heavy feel.
  • High customer satisfaction backed by a large review count and solid average rating.
  • Easy to apply with common tools such as a brush or puff.
  • Good value for money compared with more expensive powders mentioned by reviewers.
  • Works well in heat and humidity based on product description and user feedback.

Limitations

  • Packaging appears fragile, with repeated reports of cracked lids or broken covers.
  • Some users report a slightly gritty texture rather than a very silky feel.
  • The matte formula may feel a bit drying for some users.
  • Skin compatibility is not a standout score, so it may not suit every skin preference equally well.
  • Transparent or lighter shades may not be an ideal match for all very fair users based on review feedback.
  • Ingredient quality data is limited, so formulation quality cannot be assessed as strongly as performance.

Ideal user profiles

  • Users with oily or combination skin looking for affordable shine control.
  • Makeup wearers who want a matte pressed powder to set foundation.
  • Budget-focused shoppers who prioritise performance over premium packaging.
  • Users who want a lightweight powder for quick daily touch-ups.

Use cases

  • Setting foundation in everyday makeup routines.
  • Reducing shine through the T-zone during the day.
  • Quick touch-ups in hot or humid conditions.
  • Creating a matte finish for office or long-day wear.
  • Wearing alone for light complexion evening.
  • Keeping a compact powder on hand for budget-friendly daily use.

Fit and positioning

Who this works for

Category positioning

This product sits clearly in the makeup category as a pressed setting and finishing powder. Its main role in a routine is to reduce visible shine, help set base makeup, and create a matte surface that looks smoother through the day. It is not positioned as skincare, although some reviews comment on how it feels on skin. Within the powder category, it appears to compete as a budget-focused matte option that prioritises oil control and everyday practicality over premium packaging.

Best for

Rimmel London Stay Matte looks best suited to shoppers who want an affordable matte powder for daily use, especially those with oily or combination skin. Its strongest signals come from the effectiveness, ease of use, value and customer satisfaction scores, along with repeated review praise for shine control and lightweight wear. It also suits users who want a simple pressed powder for setting foundation or quick touch-ups without spending much.

Not best for

This powder may be less suitable for shoppers who want sturdy premium packaging, an ultra-silky texture, or a more hydrating skin feel. Some users mention dryness or slight grittiness, and the packaging quality and durability scores are weak due to cracked lids and breakage complaints. Buyers with very fair skin or very specific shade-matching needs may also want to check shade feedback carefully before choosing a variant.

Beauty results

The visible result is a more matte, smoother-looking complexion with reduced shine and a softer surface over makeup. Reviews suggest it can help blur the look of imperfections and keep the T-zone more controlled without creating a heavy finish. The overall look appears more polished than flat for many users, although texture can vary depending on skin type and application style.

Performance analysis

How it performs in practice

Each scoring dimension is separated into a compact card so the strengths and tradeoffs are easier to compare without reading one long block.

Effectiveness analysis

With an effectiveness score of 90, this powder appears to do its core job very well. The main intended purpose is shine control and setting the complexion, and both the product description and review feedback consistently support that use. Reviewers frequently mention oily or combination skin, long-lasting matte control, and reliable setting performance through heat or daily wear. The main performance concerns are not about oil control itself, but about the feel of the formula for some users and the compact's tendency to crack or break. Overall, its functional performance looks stronger than its presentation.

Beauty results

The beauty result score of 88 suggests a strong cosmetic finish for the category. Reviews repeatedly describe a soft matte look, smoother skin appearance and better control of visible shine, especially around the T-zone. Some users also say it helps blur imperfections and set makeup without looking overly cakey. The result seems strongest for those wanting a matte rather than radiant finish.

Skin compatibility

The skin compatibility score of 78 indicates decent but not standout versatility across users. The product is specified for normal skin, while customer feedback suggests particular appeal for oily and combination skin because of its mattifying effect. Some reviews mention no issues on sensitive or allergy-prone skin, but that is still anecdotal rather than strong proof. Dryness is the main caution point, so users who prefer a less matte feel may want to prepare skin well before use.

Shade range

The shade range score of 76 points to a respectable but not category-leading level of choice. Review feedback mentions that the colour options are appreciated, and several variants appear in the review set. However, there is also a note that the translucent or transparent option may run slightly dark on some very fair skin. That suggests the line offers useful flexibility, but exact shade matching may still require care.

How it compares

Within the pressed powder category, this product appears stronger than average for mattifying performance, ease of application and value. It also compares well on broad customer approval, helped by a very high review count and repeated praise for shine control. Where it looks less competitive is in packaging strength and overall compact durability, which may matter more to users who travel frequently or want a more premium experience. It also does not present especially strong ingredient transparency in the supplied data. Overall, it seems more compelling as a functional, low-cost makeup staple than as a refined or luxury-feeling powder.

Ranking summary

With an overall score of 87, Rimmel London Stay Matte ranks as a strong budget pressed powder rather than a premium all-rounder. Its position is supported by excellent scores for effectiveness, ease of use, value and customer satisfaction, which align closely with the review data. In practice, it stands out for shine control, matte finish and everyday reliability at a very low price. The reason it does not score even higher is clear: packaging quality, build quality and durability are notably weak, and comfort is good rather than exceptional. That leaves it as a high-performing formula in a compact that feels less dependable than the makeup inside.

Buying advice

Consider this powder if you want an inexpensive matte pressed powder mainly for shine control, setting makeup or quick touch-ups during the day. It looks especially relevant for oily or combination skin based on both scores and reviews. If you dislike very matte textures, have concerns about dryness, or expect sturdy compact packaging, it may be less suitable. Before buying, check the exact shade carefully, especially if you have very fair skin and are considering Transparent. If packaging condition matters to you, it is also worth reviewing seller handling and return options in case the compact arrives cracked.
87
Overall score

Final verdict

Rimmel London Stay Matte is a strong option in the budget pressed powder category. Its main strength is clear: it delivers reliable shine control, a matte finish and easy everyday use at a very low price, with customer satisfaction to match. The main limitation is equally clear: the packaging is less durable than the formula deserves, and some users find the feel slightly dry or gritty. If you want a practical, affordable powder and can accept a basic compact, it is an easy product to consider. If you prioritise premium packaging or a more cushioned skin feel, it may feel more average.
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Key topics

Rimmel London Stay Matte pressed powder review, Rimmel Stay Matte Transparent powder, best budget pressed powder, matte setting powder for oily skin, shine control face powder, lightweight pressed powder review, drugstore setting powder, Rimmel face powder review

Frequently asked questions

Is Rimmel London Stay Matte a good powder for oily skin?
Based on the provided scores and review summary, it appears to be a strong option for oily and combination skin, especially for shine control. Many reviewers highlight its ability to keep the T-zone matte for hours, and its effectiveness score of 90 supports that it performs well for its main purpose.
Does Rimmel London Stay Matte give full coverage?
The listing describes it as high coverage, but the specifications also describe coverage as lightweight. Review feedback suggests it can blur imperfections and help even out tone, especially when used over makeup, but it is best understood as a pressed powder rather than a full-coverage complexion product.
How long does Rimmel London Stay Matte last?
The product description says it helps control shine for up to 5 hours, while some reviewers report longer wear in daily use. Its longevity score of 86 suggests above-average staying power for a budget pressed powder, though real-world wear can vary depending on skin type, heat and application method.
Is Rimmel London Stay Matte comfortable to wear?
Many users describe the powder as lightweight and easy to wear, and that aligns with its positioning as a pressed matte powder. That said, the comfort score of 74 reflects some limitations, including reports of dryness or a slightly gritty texture from a minority of reviewers.
What is the biggest drawback of Rimmel London Stay Matte?
The clearest weakness is packaging durability. Multiple reviews mention cracked lids or broken covers during delivery or over time, and both packaging quality and durability scores are among the lowest areas for this product. The formula generally reviews better than the compact itself.
Is the Transparent shade truly invisible on skin?
It is sold as Transparent, but one review notes that the translucent option may appear slightly dark on some very fair skin tones. The shade range and personalization scores are decent rather than exceptional, so checking shade feedback before buying is sensible if you need a very precise match.
Is Rimmel London Stay Matte good value for money?
Yes, value is one of its strongest areas. With a price of 2.96, a 95 value score and many reviews comparing it favourably with more expensive powders, it stands out as a budget-friendly option for shoppers who care most about mattifying performance and basic daily usability.
Is Rimmel London Stay Matte easy to apply?
It appears very straightforward to use. The ease of use score is 90 and the application score is 87, with reviewers saying it works well with a brush or puff and sets foundation easily. That makes it a practical choice for quick morning routines and simple touch-ups.

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