Once one dimensional, chalky in texture and unprepared to address differing skin tones and types, face powder hasn’t always been as covetable as it is now. Happily for us, powder has recently had a revival and the sophisticated formulas speak to a varying number of complexion needs, making it a one-stop-shop to makeup longevity, luminosity and colour correction. Keep reading to discover which power powders should be in your collection…
Mattifying & Setting Powders
Everyone should have a setting powder in their collection. These incredibly versatile products can be used to set concealer and/or foundation, as well as working well on their own to mattify shine and boost the complexion. Use just in targeted areas such as oily t-zones or all over the face if you want more coverage.
If you suffer from excess oiliness, opt for a mattifying powder that will dramatically reduce shine, such as the NARS Pressed Setting Powder. This translucent powder sets makeup seamlessly, leaving a semi-matte finish that’s still luminous and allows for healthy skin to shine through. If you prefer loose powders, Laura Mercier’s Translucent Loose Setting Powder offers long-wear and has a blurring effect on skin, airbrushing pores and fine lines, all while feeling ultra-lightweight.
Colour Correcting Powders
While there are a number of amazing concealing formulas that colour correct uneven skin tones, we suggest taking a double-pronged approach and setting these with a colour correcting powder too. The Algenist Reveal Color Correcting Finishing Powder uses an AlgaCorrecting Complex and algae-derived ingredients that neutralise and balance uneven skin with unwanted undertones. Use this product after the BECCA Backlight Targeted Colour Correctors; with four shades for differing concerns, including dullness, dark circles and redness, they are the perfect first step for banishing problem areas.
Glow-boosting Powders
Powders are traditionally associated with offering matte finishes to set makeup, but this new breed of radiance-enhancing powders is just as covetable, if not more so. Using light-reflecting particles, these powders are ultra-flattering without making the complexion shiny or glittery. The Laura Mercier Candleglow Sheer Perfecting Powder comes in six shades to suit a range of skin tones, and acts as a multi-purpose finishing powder to set makeup while giving skin a flattering glow.
If you’re looking for a more amped-up level of glow, Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Powders are a great option. The 6 powders are designed to mimic flattering light sources such as ‘Diffused Light’, ‘Ethereal Light’ and ‘Radiant Light’. Our favourite for giving your makeup an extra level of illumination is Luminous Light, which can be lightly dusted all over the face.
Targeted Powders
Some delicate areas of the face require a slightly more refined powder, which is where these genius formulas come in. Becca’s Under Eye Brightening Setting Powder is completely weightless and never cakes, yet is substantial enough to set your under-eye concealer and brighten stubborn dark circles. Although a relatively new idea, lip powders are also having a moment – and we can see why.
The four beautiful shades (and one creamy primer) in NARS x ERDEM’s Poison Rose Lip Powder Palette can be applied with precision with a brush due to their clever, buildable formulation, and are extra long-lasting. They provide a velvet matte finish and are a great way to wear lipstick for those who need longevity. Layer these on all summer long.