The last thing we want is for our concealer and foundation to wrinkle or get greasy after we've taken our time applying them. Setting powder can help with that. It keeps the makeup fresh and helps hold it in place throughout the day. However, this conventional makeup product is more than a low-shine item.
What Is the Setting Powder For?
The general purpose of setting powder is to perfect and set your makeup. Usually, it's placed over liquid or cream-based makeup to give it a matte look and stop it from smearing, creasing, or transferring. Cream-based makeup, such as blush, foundation, and concealer, can settle into fine wrinkles over the day in addition to shifting. Since it acts as an oil absorber to give your skin a matte, blurred texture, setting powder helps avoid this.
How Many Types of Setting Powder Are There?
When you browse for a makeup setting powder that’ll make your makeup last all day, you’ll notice it comes in three primary varieties, with the main differences being their formulas and the finish they offer.
- Loose
- Milled
- Pressed
Loose Setting Powder
The loose powder is light, finely ground, and frequently sheerer than pressed powder. You may use loose powder to set any makeup look in place. You can also use it as a part of the "baking" procedure to set your concealer and foundation for long-term use, as it’s the standard option for baking and highlighting the facial high points. It works well to smooth out the texture of your makeup and is frequently buildable. Loose powder is your best bet if you're going for a sheerer or lighter appearance.
Milled Setting Powder
Texturally speaking, milled setting powder is unique. The finer grain of milled setting powder effectively softens small lines and textures. Because of its finer particles, it can penetrate creases and lines.
Pressed Setting Powder
Pressed powder, meanwhile, primarily manages shine in certain regions. It’s your touch-up powder. Pressed powder is a fantastic solution for flawless skin when on the run. It offers more coverage than loose or milled setting powder because it’s more tightly packed than loose powder, making touch-ups simple and mess-free. It prolongs the time your makeup remains intact and unwavering.
Translucent vs Coloured Setting Powder
Regarding colour, you can find translucent and coloured finishing powder. The main difference between translucent and coloured setting powders is that the first lacks colour, whereas the second can complement different skin tones. It's crucial to consider your cosmetic needs while selecting between translucent and coloured setting powder.
Transparent setting powder provides a sheer and natural finish when applied. While coloured setting powder frequently offers more coverage, it gives a natural finish. Coloured setting powders have several uses. They can complement your skin tone, minimising flaws and offering a light colour correction, like bringing brightness or decreasing redness.
How to Choose the Best Makeup Setting Powder for You?
Several factors are crucial when picking a makeup setting powder to ensure you get the correct item for your requirements.
First, consider your skin type and select a powder that is made especially for that sort of skin. Look for an option that mattifies and absorbs oil if you have oily skin. Seek for a moisturising loose powder that will help set makeup without irritating your dry skin if you have that problem.
Another thing is to keep in mind the desired finish as well. Choose a translucent powder for a natural-looking finish. Look for a mineral or pressed powder foundation for a more generous coverage. Select a tint that complements your skin tone for the most natural effect.
Lastly, consider the intended use of the powder. Choose one with a built-in brush or applicator if you use it daily. Any loose powder will do if you plan to use it relatively infrequently. Loose powders can get messy, so pressed powders are the better choice if you're looking for a cleaner product.
How to Apply Setting Powder?
The best advice when using a setting or finishing powder is to keep it natural-looking and lightweight. Begin with a small quantity and increase it gradually. Initially, avoid wearing too much since it may appear excessively adorned.
Applying finishing powder correctly requires delicacy to set your appearance in place. Apply powder sparingly, being careful not to pull your skin, as this may cause your foundation, concealer, blush, or bronzer to run off course.
Lightly dip into your powder, tap off any excess, then softly press and sweep around your face, giving special attention to your T-zone if you're prone to an oily sheen in this area. Using your favourite powder brush, apply as little setting powder as possible because a little goes a long way for the most natural effect.
To prevent your foundation or concealer from settling into fine wrinkles, let it remain for a few minutes after applying your setting powder, then use a big, fluffy brush to sweep away gently any excess.