In the golden era of glamour—think the 1920s through the 1950s—no vanity was complete without a beautiful glass jar of dusting powder. Sprinkled onto the body with a giant, pillowy puff, it was the finishing touch for women (and men) who wanted to feel luxuriously fresh, softly scented, and effortlessly polished.
Fast-forward to today: while body sprays and lotions have dominated for decades, dusting powder is having a quiet comeback among beauty aficionados who crave a little more elegance—and a lot less stickiness. In the past few weeks TikTok has exploded with dusting powder content with videos on using it as part of your layering routine to smell fresh all day long to tutorials on how to create your own fragrant dusting powder at home without breaking the bank.
So, what exactly is dusting powder, and how can you bring this old-world indulgence into your modern-day routine? Let’s dive in.
What is dusting powder?
At its core, dusting powder—sometimes called body powder or perfumed body powder—is a finely milled, silky powder designed to absorb moisture, reduce chafing, and leave skin lightly scented. Traditionally applied after bathing, it creates a smooth, dry finish that feels luxurious against the skin and subtly enhances perfume longevity.
Classic dusting powders were often infused with the signature scents of beloved perfumes—think Guerlain’s Shalimar or Estée Lauder’s Youth-Dew. Many formulas used talc as a base, but today, alternatives like cornstarch, arrowroot powder, and baking soda are popular for those seeking a more natural option.
Beyond its sensory pleasure, dusting powder has practical benefits too: it can prevent irritation from tight clothing, wick away sweat during warm months, and even extend the life of a blowout when lightly dusted on the hairline.
How to make your own dusting powder at home
The beauty of DIY dusting powder? It’s easy, customizable, and can feel even more indulgent than store-bought versions. Here’s a basic recipe for dusting powder that you can quickly whip up in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for a silkier texture)
- 1/2 cup baking soda (for extra odour absorption)
- 10–20 drops of essential oil (such as lavender, rose, or bergamot)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons kaolin clay (for a finer, spa-like finish)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and baking soda (and kaolin clay, if using).
- Add your essential oil drops slowly, whisking thoroughly to distribute evenly and avoid clumps.
- Sift the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Store your powder in an airtight container—a vintage glass jar or a shaker bottle adds a charming touch.
Bonus: Make your dusting powder extra-luxe
Scent layering: Match your powder’s essential oil scent with your favorite perfume for a subtle, lasting aroma.
Tinted powders: Add a tiny pinch of cosmetic-grade mica powder for a slight shimmer that makes skin glow.
Herbal infusions: Blend in dried, ground herbs like chamomile or calendula for calming, skin-soothing benefits.
How to use dusting powder
After showering and patting yourself dry, use a soft puff, large makeup brush, or simply your hands to dust the powder lightly over your skin—focusing on areas prone to moisture like underarms, inner thighs, and behind the knees. The result? Smooth, dry, softly perfumed skin that feels like it belongs in a 1950s silver screen close-up.
Of course, dusting powder is more than a vintage curiosity—it’s a forgotten luxury that can bring a touch of glamour (and practical comfort) to your everyday routine. And making your own ensures it’s exactly suited to your skin’s needs and your personal style.
Because sometimes, the old ways really are the best ways.
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