NYX Duo-Chromatic Illuminating Powders in Twilight Tint and Lavender Steel and Comparison to Kat Von D's Alchemist Palette

I think we were all pretty surprised by the release of the NYX Duo-Chromatic Illuminating Powders. No one knew they were coming out until someone saw them in store and posted about it. I don't know about you, but I LOVE duo-chrome anything. I actually wear these on a daily basis now because I enjoy them so much.

I have two shades: Lavender Steel and Twilight Tint. Lavender Steel is a pinky purple and Twilight Tint is white with a blue shift.

The pigment is actually very good. I didn't expect the duo-chromatic element to be so strong because these are so affordable. I do wish Lavender Steel had a bit more pop, but it looks beautiful when the light hits it just right. A light hand is going to be your best bet in terms of application. If you apply too much, they can look a little chalky and powdery. Using a setting spray or finishing mist on your brush prior to application will also help with that and make them look even more intense.  In terms of texture, they are a little bit powdery and they aren't quite as soft and easy to blend as higher end highlighters. I have also noticed that they do fade a little bit throughout the day. It doesn't accentuate or settle into my pores, but if I have a little bit of texture on my cheekbones, it does make it a bit more noticeable. All of the cons are minor enough for me to overlook and I enjoy using them. These do not have any glitter or shimmer particles in them, either.



Comparison to the Kat Von D Alchemist Palette
I know everyone is wondering about how comparable these are. In terms of pigment, they are actually very close. The formulation and how duo-chromatic they are is what is slightly different. The Kat Von D powders are a little softer, appear less chalky on the skin, and blend easier. They are also amazing eyeshadows and looked gorgeous over lipsticks. You can use the NYX powders the same way, but the Kat Von D palette just works better. They also seem to have a little bit more shine and they are more duo-chromatic. I like both products a lot, but if I had to choose/recommend one, I would for sure go with the Kat Von D Alchemist Palette. Sure, the pans are small, but it will still last you a long time. I do not regret spending the money on it all.


T he NYX Duo Chromatic Illuminating Powders are $7.99 each and come in five shades. You get 0.21 oz of product in each one. I do recommend buying at least one and go from there. They won't be everyone's cup of tea, but they are fun.
What do you think of duo-chromatic products?