Setting powder, a product that often leaves people puzzled yet bears immense potential, is one such tool. Today, I’m here to share my insights on how to best use setting powder to obtain a flawless, airbrushed effect and ensure your makeup’s longevity.
What Exactly is Setting Powder?
Setting powder, in its simplest form, is a makeup product designed to ‘fix’ or secure your foundation, preventing it from creasing or smudging. It also aids in mattifying your skin, offering a smooth, even finish that mimics airbrushed perfection.
Guidelines for Using Setting Powder:
Tip #1: Opt for the Correct Formula
A plethora of setting powders are available today, but they’re not all made the same. My top pick is the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. This crowd-favorite stands out for its featherlight, easily blendable formula that refrains from gathering into fine lines or pores.
Tip #2: Choose the Perfect Setting Powder Shade
While a number of setting powders are transparent, others offer a range of shades. Opt for a shade that complements your skin tone or is just one shade lighter. The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder offers a versatile shade range and lends a soft, photogenic finish.
Tip #3: Use the Appropriate Tool
The tool you use to apply setting powder can dramatically influence the result. A large, soft powder brush or a beauty blender are excellent for this purpose. I recommend the Real Techniques Powder & Bronzer Brush for a seamless application.
Tip #4: Prepare Your Skin for Powder
Ensuring your skin is well-hydrated and primed before applying powder is critical. This prevents the powder from accentuating dry areas or appearing cakey.
Tip #5: Perfect Your Complexion Base
Use your regular foundation and concealer, ensuring to blend thoroughly for an even base before setting with powder.
Tip #6: Bake with Setting Powder
‘Baking’ is a technique that involves applying a substantial amount of powder over your concealer and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. The warmth of your skin ‘bakes’ the makeup, resulting in a polished finish.
Tip #7: Snatch with Setting Powder
You can use setting powder to ‘snatch’, or highlight, certain areas of your face like under your cheekbones or along your jawline, for a more defined look.
Tip #8: Control Oil with Setting Powder
For those battling oily skin, setting powder can be a lifesaver. Apply it to areas prone to shine, such as your T-zone.
Tip #9: Set Your Undereyes with Powder
To keep your under-eye concealer from creasing, always set it with some powder.
Tip #10: Apply Setting Powder to Your Eyelids
To combat oily eyelids or to extend the wear of your eyeshadow, use setting powder on your lids prior to your eyeshadow application.
Tip #11: Use Setting Powder on Your Lips
To increase the longevity of your lipstick, apply a thin layer of setting powder over it.
