Clinique Stay Matte · Pressed Powder
Clinique Matte Superpowder Double Face Makeup
Lower concern, powder formulation carries minimal PFAS risk, but Clinique offers no transparency on ingredients or PFAS testing.
Clinique's matte powder is a dry, talc-based cosmetic with no inherent PFAS drivers (no waterproofing, grease resistance, or nonstick treatments typical of higher-risk formulas). Clinique provides no public PFAS statement or third-party verification.
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Talc, mica, iron oxides, silica (typical powder cosmetics)
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Category baseline
cosmetics is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
Safe base material
Made from a material with no inherent PFAS use (ceramic, mineral, or natural fiber).
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This is a talc-based pressed powder with mica, iron oxides, and silica as functional ingredients. Talc is a mineral that can carry asbestos contamination during mining, though modern cosmetic-grade talc in developed markets is typically processed to remove asbestos. The iron oxides serve as colorants and are generally safe at cosmetic concentrations. Mica provides slip and light-reflecting properties. Silica functions as an absorbent and anti-caking agent.
The brand's record and disclosure
Clinique (owned by Estée Lauder) does not publicly disclose full ingredient sourcing, talc testing protocols, or PFAS screening results on this product. The brand has not faced major regulatory actions or recalls tied to talc or heavy metals in recent years, but does not voluntarily publish safety testing data. No third-party certifications (such as cruelty-free or clean beauty seals) are listed for this specific product, and Clinique does not maintain a public transparency report on cosmetic safety or supply-chain audits.
How it compares in its category
Talc-based powders remain standard in conventional makeup; many prestige brands use identical formulations without disclosure. Talc-free alternatives (silica-only, rice powder, or synthetic microspheres) are increasingly available from brands like Bare Minerals, Physicians Formula, and Purebess, though they typically cost similar or less. Clinique's pressed format and long-wearing claim place it in the middle of the market on both performance and safety profile. If talc sensitivity or concern is your driver, talc-free options are readily available at comparable price points.
If you buy it
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture to prevent cake degradation and bacterial growth. Do not inhale powder directly during application; tap excess onto a surface and use a brush to apply, or use a damp sponge to minimize airborne particles. Replace every 12-18 months or immediately if you see discoloration, separation, or odor change. If you have a history of talc sensitivity, respiratory issues, or prior asbestos exposure, consider a talc-free pressed powder instead.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
Talc contamination with asbestos
Talc deposits can naturally contain asbestos fibers. Modern cosmetic-grade talc sold in the US undergoes processing to remove asbestos, but Clinique does not publish test results confirming asbestos-free status. Risk is lower with powder applied topically than with inhalation, but talc-sensitive individuals should avoid.
Heavy metal pigments (iron oxides and trace contaminants)
Iron oxides themselves are safe, but cosmetic pigments can carry trace lead or cadmium as mining byproducts. Clinique does not disclose heavy-metal testing data. Exposure from face powder is dermal and low-dose, but no transparency exists on this product's specific pigment sourcing.
Inhalation risk from powder particles
Loose or poorly applied powder formulations can generate airborne particles that reach the lungs. This product is pressed (lower dust risk than loose powders), but users who inhale directly during application face cumulative exposure. Respiratory or occupational exposure studies on cosmetic talc show this is a known concern in high-frequency users.
Fragrance allergens or undisclosed fragrance components
Product labeling does not list fragrance as an ingredient, suggesting little to no added scent. If fragrance is present, Clinique does not itemize components, so specific allergen risk cannot be assessed. Standard for this brand and category.
Mica and silica safety at cosmetic dose
Both mica and silica are widely used and accepted in cosmetic powders at typical concentrations. No established safety concerns at topical cosmetic doses, though chronic inhalation of any fine powder poses theoretical respiratory risk.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 72% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
More pressed powder grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.