Back to the basics: Setting Powder
A setting powder is a translucent face powder designed to set makeup and mattify the skin.
Setting powder can be used all over the face to “lock” makeup in place, just on the t-zone to remove shine or to set concealer.
As a general rule cream formulas always go on top of creams and powders always go on top of powders. Setting powder should be applied after all cream face products have been applied to the skin. If cream color products (such as blush, highlighter, etc.) are being used a setting powder should be applied AFTER these products. If powder formulations of these products are being used a setting powder should be applied after the application of foundation& concealer and before blush, illuminator, etc.
Setting powder can be applied in a number of ways but the best and most effective way is to use a powder puff. A powder puff gives an even distribution of powder unlike large brushes, which can sometimes apply powder unevenly and micro-exfoliate the skin. To set concealer use a small, fluffy blending eyeshadow brush.
The main purpose of a setting powder is to set cream formulas in place, helping makeup to last longer and giving skin a matte finish. Setting powder isn’t designed to:
- Be used as a foundation and provide coverage (that’s what powder foundation is for)
However, setting powder does have a variety of other uses such as:
- Toning down over the top blush and bronzer
- Zapping oils from the eyelids to help eyeshadow last longer
- Mattifying lipstick by being dusted over a tissue that is placed on the lips
- Adding more volume to the lashes by being dusted over them prior to the application of mascara
Setting powder comes in loose and pressed powder forms, they both give pretty much the same effect. Setting powders are generally available in one white, translucent shade, which is suitable for all skin tones. However those with medium to dark skin would be better off with a slightly tinted powder in order to avoid looking ashy.
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