Do you use setting powder and aren’t happy with the results? As with all beauty and makeup products, it takes a bit of trial and error to get the right technique and look you want. Here are common setting powder mistakes and how to fix them…
FAQs
- How do you apply setting powder? There are a few ways you can apply setting powder: Lightly dust your face with a fluffy brush, press the powder with a dense brush, pat the powder with a makeup sponge, or the Baking method. Scroll down to learn the details on each method.
- What is the best setting powder to use? These are the best setting powders: Seint Vanilla Dust Setting Powder, Coty Airspun Loose Setting Powder, Laura Mercier Translucent Powder, Makeup Forever Loose Powder
- Why Does Setting Powder Look Cakey? Your setting powder may look cakey because you are putting too much on or the powder ingredients don’t work well with your foundation.
- Why Does Setting Powder Look White in Photos? This could be because you are using a non-translucent powder. Opt for a translucent powder so it does not give a powdery appearance.
- Why Does Setting Powder Ruin My Makeup? Your setting powder could be ruining your makeup because you are putting too much on or the ingredients in the powder are conflicting with the ingredients in your makeup.
- Why does my setting powder crease? Your setting powder may be creasing because you are putting too much on. Try using less and also using a makeup sponge to press the makeup into your skin.
How to Apply Setting Powder Correctly
There are a few ways to use setting powder:
- Lightly dust your face with a fluffy brush
- Press the powder with a dense brush
- Pat the powder with a makeup sponge
- Baking method
Lightly dust your face with a fluffy brush
If you want a light coverage of powder, then take a fluffy makeup brush and setting powder and lightly brush your face with the product.
Press the powder with a dense brush
If you want a fuller coverage and more matte look, then take a dense powder brush and powder and press the powder on the spots on your face that you want more staying power. Focus on your forehead, nose, and chin.
Pat the powder with a makeup sponge
You can also use a makeup sponge to apply the powder. Use dabbing and patting motions to apply the powder on the areas of your face where you want more staying power.
Baking method
If you have very oily skin, then you will love this baking method! Once you’ve applied your makeup, apply a heavy layer (and I mean heavy!) of powder using a powder brush or makeup sponge. The powder will be visible. Let the powder sit for 5 minutes. Then take a fluffy brush and lightly brush away the excess powder.
Letting the powder bake and sit for a few minutes will help it absorb excess oil and adhere to your face better.
Why Does Setting Powder Look Cakey?
Setting powder may look cakey because you are applying too much product. A great way to apply the right amount of product is to use a Powder Brush. Instead of brushing powder all over your face and risking applying too much, use the Powder Brush to press the powder exactly where you want it. Most women get oily in their T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Focus applying powder in those areas.
Why Does Setting Powder Look White in Photos?
If your setting powder is making you look white in photos, you could be putting too much powder on or you could be using a non-translucent powder. To fix this, apply less and just focus on your T-zone area. Also, try using a translucent powder which absorbs into your skin better, not leaving a white powdery finish. Here are some great powder options:
Seint Vanilla Dust Setting Powder
Coty Airspun Loose Setting Powder
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder
Why Does Setting Powder Ruin My Makeup?
If you think your powder is ruining your makeup, then it’s probably time to try a different powder. Not all powders are created equal. And not all powders work well with all types of makeup. For instance, if you are wearing cream makeup, then these setting powders work best together.
Sometimes the ingredients in the powder and the ingredients in your makeup will clash and work against each other. Makeup is a bit of trial and error sometimes. Play around with different products to see what you like best and what works best together.
Why Does Setting Powder Burn?
If your setting powder is burning your face, then you may be putting too much on or you may need to switch to a different powder. Some ingredients may be too harsh on your skin, causing your skin to feel irritated. The ingredients in your makeup matters.
Why Does My Setting Powder Crease?
Your powder may be creasing because you may be putting too much on or you need to blend it better. Using the right tools is key to a great makeup application. The Powder Brush is perfect for applying the perfect amount of powder and the Perfector Sponge is perfect for blending and pressing your makeup into your skin to get a flawless finish.
If you’ve been doing these common setting powder mistakes, then try these tips to get better results! Play around with products and techniques to see what works best for you!
Here are other blog posts that you might enjoy:
How to Color Match Yourself with Seint Makeup
Eyeshadow Tips for Hooded Eyes
About the Author
JoEllen is a licensed aesthetician, makeup mentor, and certified John Maxwell coach, speaker, and trainer. She has been working with women for 18 years helping them look and feel confident. She loves teaching women simple beauty techniques so they can feel empowered to try it at home. She believes that when you look and feel good, you do good!
*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item featured in this post, I get a small portion from the sale. Thank you! It does not affect you at all.
