Do I Have To Use Setting Powder?

Last Updated on June 15th, 2023

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We’ll start off by saying it is NOT a necessary step in your makeup routine that you should take. However, whether you should use setting powder depends on your individual skin type and preferences.

In this guide, we’ll tell you whether or not you should do it. We’ll also dig into how much you should use and tell you the best setting powders on the market.

Why Should You Do it?

It is not required to use a setting powder, as we said before. But here are the benefits of using setting powder as a part of your makeup routine:

It helps lock in makeup: Setting powder helps to lock in your foundation and concealer so that your makeup stays in place for a longer period. This is the goal when using setting powders.
Get rid of that shine: Dealing with oily skin is hard enough, so setting powders can help you control the shine by reducing it a lot. Perfect if you want to look good without looking greasy!
Helps to blur imperfections: Setting powder can help to blur fine lines and imperfections on the skin, giving you a smoother, more even complexion.
It can help to extend the wear time of your makeup.
It can help to control oil production and reduce the appearance of pores.

Gives off a natural finish: This is the goal! We don’t want caked-on makeup because it’s very obvious that it’s too much.

How Much of it Should You Use?

The amount of setting powder you should use will depend on your skin type, the coverage level of your foundation, and the desired finish. However, as a general rule, you should use as little powder as possible to achieve your desired effect.

This means you do not need a lot. But here are certain situations with different skin types on how much to use:

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you may need to use more powder to control the shine. Just apply it to the T-Zone (forehead, nose, and chin), and you should be good.

Dry Skin

For dry skin, less powder is needed, and it’s best to use a small fluffy brush to apply powder to specific areas like under the eyes, around the mouth, and on the T-zone, if needed.

If you’re using a full-coverage foundation, it’s best to apply powder after the foundation is applied and to use a light hand with the powder, especially if you want to avoid a cakey finish.

If you’re using a sheer or light coverage foundation, you may prefer a more natural finish, in which case you can apply powder lightly all over your face. Remember, little is better than more with setting powders.

Is Setting Powder Good for Your Skin?

It depends on your skin. Everyone’s skin is different, so there are no definite answers to this. It depends on the skin type if you have any sensitivities and color.

Setting powder can help to control oil and shine, keeping your skin looking matte and reducing the appearance of blemishes. It can also help to keep your makeup in place for a longer period so that you don’t need to reapply as frequently.

However, setting powders contains ingredients that some people may be sensitive to. So, make sure you do research on the powder you want to use and test it out. Finding the right one for your skin will take some trial and error.

What are the Best Setting Powders?

The absolute best setting powder is what works for your skin. But if you want to know the best brands, we have a list below that you can choose from. These are, in our opinion, the top 5 setting powders on the market that you should consider:

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: This powder is a fan favorite and is popular for its ability to blur imperfections and set makeup without leaving a heavy or cakey finish. Perfect for just putting a little bit on!
Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder: This powder is also a very popular option. It’s a lightweight powder that blurs imperfections and enhances the skin’s natural radiance. If you are one of those that have dry skin, this powder may be perfect for you, as users of this powder have reported it is non-cakey and doesn’t dry out your skin!
Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder: This powder is specially formulated for use in high-definition videos and photography, so it’s perfect if you’re concerned about looking flawless in pictures. It can be used to set makeup or as a finishing powder to blur imperfections and reduce shine. Perfect for selfies!
RMS Beauty “Un” Powder: It’s made with natural ingredients. This powder is said to be gentle on the skin and provide a natural-looking finish. This is the powder for people who have sensitive skin because of the ingredients.
Tarte Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Setting Powder: This powder is formulated with hydrating ingredients like mango seed and maracuja oils, and it’s especially good for people with dry skin. It’s moisturizing, non-cakey, and it applies smoothly.

Not all powders are suitable for every skin type, so it’s always a good idea to patch-test any new powder before using it all over your face and pay attention to your skin reactions.

Should You Use it Every Time You’re Putting on Makeup?

It is not necessary to put on setting powder. You can still look flawless without it on. Setting powders just helps keep the other makeup that you apply to your face, stay on your face. So, don’t fret. If you want to look good, setting powder is not required.

Final Thoughts on Using Setting Powder

As you may know by now, setting powders is a very useful tool that you want to have in your makeup bag. This is because it will help control oil and shine and keep makeup in place.

You’ll need to use it correctly and choose the right powder for your skin so that it looks good. For example, if you have dry skin, you don’t want to choose powders that can exacerbate the dryness even more.

With the right powder and the right application, setting powders can be a great addition to your makeup routine, helping to give you a flawless, long-lasting finish.