When you take a look at your beauty arsenal, chances are you own at least one type of powder to help keep your makeup in place. But realistically, how many of us actually know the intended purpose of each of these powder? For starters, there are two main types: setting and finishing, and they are often used interchangeably from brand to brand, which can be confusing. However, they each have a very distinctive purpose.
If you’re unsure of the difference between setting and finishing powder, read on to learn the difference and shop from our favourites below.
SETTING POWDER
Setting powder is definitely the more common of the two and its used to lock your makeup in place, assures makeup longevity, eliminates excessive shine and provides the perfect canvas to apply your blush or bronzer smoothly. These are either tinted or translucent and are designed to set and mattify your makeup.
Regardless of the setting powder you’re using, the trick is to use it sparingly, so less is definitely more in this instance. Slay shine with a powder that won’t disturb the rest of your makeup.
This is a classic when it comes to setting powders. It not only stays on all day, but it will keep your face looking matte and shine-free. Depending on your skin tone, it comes in translucent for very fair to medium tones and translucent medium deep, which is perfect for medium deep to the deepest skin tones.
29Secrets Pick: Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder from Sephora.
If you’re looking for more of a subtle matte finish, Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder is a great option. It works flawlessly with all skin tones and will make your makeup last throughout the day while combatting oil in the process.
29Secrets Pick: Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder from Sephora.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative option that still works great, we love NYX SFX Loose Setting Powder. Simply dust the velvet formula over your everyday makeup for a soft, matte finish. Lightweight and totally translucent, this powder will leave your makeup looking flawless from morning to night.
29Secrets Pick: NYX SFX Loose Setting Powder from NYX.
FINISHING POWDER
Like its name implies, finishing powder is the final, final step in your beauty routine. Finishing powders are usually mostly translucent and help make the skin look smoother by hiding pores and fine lines, especially on camera. Finishing powders don’t need to be an everyday essential, they are more for big events when a lot of pictures might be taken.
If you want a powder that does a little bit of everything, we recommend trying Makeup Forever’s HD Microfinish Powder. It cuts shine, blurs marks and dents, and preps your face the day. Apply with a fan brush for optimal coverage.
29Secrets Pick: Makeup Forever’s HD Microfinish Powder from Sephora.
We love this product not only because its made without toxic chemicals like Parabens and Phthalates, but it’s also made with Amazonian clay to help lock your makeup in place and reduce the look of imperfections. The soft and translucent, skin-perfecting formula minimizes the appearance of pores, diffuses imperfections, and balances the skin for a natural-looking, soft-focus finish – which we can totally get behind.
29Secrets Pick: Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder from Sephora.
If you’re looking for a pressed finishing powder that’s wallet-friendly, this is definitely it. It’s lightweight and translucent, so it works flawlessly with all skin types. Apply with a fan brush to help soften the appearance of fine lines and pores for a silky matte finish.
29Secrets Pick: High Definition Finishing Powder from NYX
