10Best.Guide

Setting Powder Makeup

Top Picks

Last Updated: November, 2023
Pros
  • Picks up powder products nicely
  • Distributes products evenly
  • Great for blending
  • Soft and washable
  • Helps to get into creases
Cons
  • Only 2 out of 6 are actual puffs
  • Takes time to puff up
Bottom Line
These puffs are great for picking up and distributing powder products, blending, and getting into creases. They are soft, washable, and come in a big pack. However, some may find them too thin or cheap, and not all of them puff up properly.
Pros
  • Does not leave an ashy look
  • Controls oil and lasts all day
  • Great for outdoor events
  • Perfect for setting makeup without changing colors
  • Perfect for half Mexican American and half white skin
Cons
  • Medium weight and not very smooth
  • Can leave a drying cast if applied heavily
Bottom Line
Sacha Buttercup Finishing Powder is a great product for controlling oil, setting makeup, and providing a picture-perfect skin. However, it may not be suitable for sensitive skin and may leave a drying cast if applied heavily. The packaging may not be new, but the product is worth the price.
Pros
  • Works like a high-end product
  • Great price
  • Suitable for any skin tone
  • Easy to apply
  • Long-lasting
Cons
  • Leaves a white cast on darker skin tones
  • Difficult to open packaging
Bottom Line
This loose setting powder is a great affordable option that works well for most skin tones. It provides a matte finish and helps makeup last all day. However, it may not be suitable for darker skin tones and the packaging can be problematic.
Pros
  • Works well with makeup
  • No flashback
  • Sets concealer well
  • Smooth and soft powder
  • Reasonable cost
Cons
  • Contains Talc
  • Too yellow for some skin tones
Bottom Line
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Banana Powder is a reasonably priced setting powder that works well with makeup, sets concealer, and has no flashback. However, it contains Talc, some shades have glitter, and the packaging and delivery can be poor. It may not be suitable for all skin tones and is not returnable.
Pros
  • Creates a nice blend of color that evens out splotchiness.
  • Translucent powder that doesn't affect or darken foundation.
  • Light bronzer that doesn't have orange tones.
  • Adds even bit of color and provides light coverage.
  • Can be blended or layered for desired effect.
Cons
  • Broke out some users' skin.
  • Cheaply made and messy.
Bottom Line
Physicians Formula powder products are generally good for those with sensitive skin, but some users may experience breakouts. The powders provide light coverage and even out skin tone, but may need to be layered for desired effect. The packaging may be cheaply made and messy, and the amount of product for the price may be small. Overall, the powders are a good option for those looking for a translucent or light bronzing powder.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Setting Powder Makeup

Overview

When it comes to achieving a flawless makeup look that lasts all day, setting powder is a game-changer. Designed to lock in your foundation and concealer, setting powder helps to control shine, minimize pores, and provide a smooth, matte finish. In this buying guide, we'll explore the different types of setting powders, key considerations to keep in mind, essential features to look for, pricing ranges, expert tips, and frequently asked questions. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, we've got you covered.

Types

1. Translucent Setting Powder: A universal option that works well on all skin tones, translucent powders provide a sheer finish without altering the color of your foundation.

2. Loose Setting Powder: Ideal for those who prefer a lightweight formula that can be easily dusted onto the skin, loose setting powders offer a natural, matte finish.

3. Pressed Setting Powder: Convenient for on-the-go touch-ups, pressed powders come in a compact form and are great for those who prefer a more controlled application.

4. Colored Setting Powder: These powders come in various shades and are designed to match different skin tones, providing additional coverage and color correction.

Key Considerations

1. Skin Type: Consider your skin type when choosing a setting powder. Opt for oil-absorbing powders if you have oily skin, and hydrating or illuminating powders for dry skin.

2. Finish: Decide whether you prefer a matte or dewy finish. Matte powders control shine, while dewy powders provide a luminous, natural glow.

3. Coverage: Determine the level of coverage you desire. Some powders offer sheer coverage, while others provide more buildable coverage.

4. Ingredients: Check the ingredients list for any potential allergens or irritants. Look for powders that are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

Features

1. Oil Control: Look for setting powders that have oil-absorbing properties to keep shine at bay throughout the day.

2. Longevity: Choose a setting powder that is known for its long-lasting formula, ensuring your makeup stays intact for hours.

3. Finely Milled: Opt for powders that are finely milled for a smooth, seamless application.

4. Pore Minimizing: Some setting powders help to minimize the appearance of pores, creating a more even complexion.

5. SPF Protection: Consider powders with added SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Prices

Setting powders can range in price from affordable options at around $10 to high-end products that can cost upwards of $50. The price often reflects the brand, quality, and additional features of the powder.

Tips

1. Apply setting powder with a fluffy brush for a light, even application.

2. Use a pressing motion when applying powder to areas prone to creasing, such as under the eyes.

3. For a long-lasting makeup look, consider using a setting spray after applying powder.

4. Avoid applying too much powder to prevent a cakey appearance.

5. Experiment with different techniques, such as baking, to find what works best for you.

FAQs

Q: How do I choose the right shade of setting powder?

Q: Can I use setting powder without foundation?

Q: How often should I reapply setting powder?

Q: Can setting powder be used on dry skin?

Q: What is the difference between translucent and colored setting powders?

A: Conclusion:

Finding the perfect setting powder for your makeup routine is essential for achieving a flawless, long-lasting look. Consider your skin type, desired finish, and coverage level when selecting a setting powder. Look for powders with key features like oil control, long-lasting formula, and pore-minimizing properties. Remember to apply with a light hand and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. With the help of this buying guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the best setting powder that suits your needs and preferences.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Absorbs makeup into the skin evenly.
  • Works well for setting under eye concealer.
  • Soft and easy to apply powder.
  • Comes in a pack of 20 for a reasonable price.
  • Can be used for fine lines and corners of the eyes.
Cons
  • Holds too much powder, leading to wastage.
  • Sharp border around the edges can be uncomfortable near the eyes.
Bottom Line
These triangle powder puffs are popular for their ability to absorb makeup evenly into the skin. They work well for setting under eye concealer and can be used with pressed powder. However, they may hold too much powder and have a sharp border around the edges. The quality may vary, and they may not blend as well as other powder puffs. Overall, they are a reasonably priced option, but some users may prefer softer and larger puffs.
Pros
  • Takes away shine
  • Gives smooth look and feel to the skin
  • Sets foundation effectively
  • Lightweight and easily blended
  • Sheer and goes on smoothly
Cons
  • Inconsistent ingredients and fading label
  • Irritated eyes for some users
Bottom Line
This pressed powder is a lightweight and effective option for setting and finishing makeup. It provides a smooth and matte look, minimizes pores, and works well for oily skin. However, there may be some quality control issues and it may not be suitable for use over pressed powder foundation.
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Good for oily skin
  • Light and sheer
  • Smooth and fine texture
  • Good coverage
Cons
  • Messy
  • No powder puff included
Bottom Line
Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder is an affordable and effective option for those with oily skin, providing a light and sheer finish with good coverage and a brightening effect. However, it can be messy and lacks a powder puff and clear directions, and the packaging is unappealing.
Pros
  • Finely milled powder with lightweight texture
  • Matte finish controls shine and blurs pores and fine lines
  • Suitable for mature skin
  • Affordable price
  • Doesn't cake or affect rosacea aging skin
Cons
  • Not suitable for very oily skin
  • Can accentuate dry spots
Bottom Line
This affordable setting powder is finely milled with a lightweight texture and matte finish that controls shine and blurs pores and fine lines. It is suitable for mature skin and doesn't cake or affect rosacea aging skin. However, it may not be suitable for very oily skin, can accentuate dry spots, and doesn't last very long.
Pros
  • Finely milled and lightweight
  • Holds up well in heat and sweat
  • Blends into skin beautifully
  • Sets makeup for the entire day
  • Comes with a lot of product
Cons
  • Strong perfume odor in some batches
  • May make skin look dry if too much is used
Bottom Line
Coty Airspun Loose Powder Translucent Extra Coverage is a finely milled and lightweight powder that holds up well in heat and sweat. It blends into skin beautifully and sets makeup for the entire day. However, some batches may have a strong perfume odor, and the talc-free formula doesn't have the same coverage and scent as the original. The packaging is beautiful and sturdy, but the lid doesn't screw on and off, causing powder to puff out. The new formula has a chemical-like smell and chalky finish, which may not be suitable for everyone.
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