Well, in applying a powder which would naturally be drying, then I would want the "balm" to be very hydrating and also maybe have a little more of the balm then the powder, because otherwise I would think about using up the balm and not being able eventually to have a base for the powder. Though I suppose one could use a different balm. But not sure that would work. Anyway at the counter I tried the RA Incantevole, which I got and love so much I am wondering about a backup-- not that I've ever been known to use up a lipstick. I have a number of the TF boys that Christine named as dupes-- but none of them is the same.