How to Choose a Setting Powder, According to Makeup Artists

Setting powders play a crucial role in ensuring your makeup lasts longer. They help to set products in place, control oil, eliminate shine, and give your skin a flawless, poreless appearance. With a variety of options available today in different formats, achieving a shine-free, perfect look has never been easier. Whether you prefer loose, pressed, or baked setting powders, there is something for everyone. The key lies in selecting the right format based on your needs, skin type, and makeup routine.

Loose powders are popular for their blurring effects but can be messy to apply. On the other hand, pressed compacts offer coverage but may feel heavy on the skin. Understanding the unique characteristics of each format is essential. Here, three celebrity makeup artists explain the differences between baked, pressed, and loose setting powders and offer tips on maximizing the benefits of each format.

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Baked Setting Powders

According to celebrity makeup artist Vittorio Masecchia, baked powders start as creams that are slowly dried into a powder, resulting in a lightweight texture. This unique process gives them a silky, luminous appearance both in the pan and on the skin. Celebrity makeup artist Tayaba Jafri describes the finish as soft and lit-from-within, without feeling heavy. Baked powders are versatile, working well on all skin types, especially mature skin or for creating a full-coverage makeup look. Emily Gray, another celebrity artist, notes that baked powders offer more coverage and can be used as a finishing powder for a flawless look.

Pressed Setting Powders

Pressed powders are more durable than baked powders, as they are made from finely milled pigments pressed into a compact. This gives them structure and makes them ideal for travel. Jafri highlights that pressed powders offer more control and portability, with a finish that falls between soft and matte, perfect for controlling oil and shine. They come in various shades and can be used to finish or set makeup. However, Jafri notes that densely packed pigments may require a setting spray to fully set the makeup.

Loose Setting Powders

Loose powders provide a smooth finish due to their finely milled pigments. Masecchia explains that they are perfect for creating a soft-focus effect and blurring imperfections. Unlike baked and pressed powders, loose powders are suitable for all skin types. They help diffuse fine lines on dry or mature skin and control shine on oily skin. The ultra-fine consistency of loose powders makes them virtually weightless and gives a seamless finish. However, precise application is necessary to avoid a mess. Gray recommends using brushes or powder puffs for setting concealer in specific areas. Another advantage of loose powders is their ability to extend the wear of makeup and maintain a flawless finish, as noted by Jafri.