Many women think powder is hopelessly old-fashioned. But it's excellent for holding foundation and concealer in place, creating a smooth canvas for flush and eye shadow, and giving skin a lustrous finish. And don't forget its classic role as an instant cosmetic touch-up: a quick dab on your nose is the fastest, most foolproof way to douse shine and tone down uneven color. The downside of powder is that the wrong color or consistency can also make you look...strange. Here's how to avoid such a fate.
4 types of makeup powder in the market:
Bronzing powder
What it does: bronzing powder gives skin a healthy, tanned appearance - and you don't have to spend a second in the sun. Look for warm golden or brown tones a few shades darker than your skin. The sheerer the texture, the more natural it will look. Bronzing powder also helps neutralize red or ruddy complexions.
What it feels like: soft and fine, like any loose powder; or, if it comes in a compact, like pressed powder or blush.
How to apply it: with a big, fluffy brush. Use it over foundation or on bare skin. Rather than dusting a uniform layer onto the face, place it where sunlight would naturally hit: the center of your forehead, the bridge of your nose, the tops of your cheekbones, and your chin.
Pressed powder
What it does: because it comes in a compact, pressed powder is portable and perfect for touch-ups. It can be applied on bare skin, as a sheer base or on top of foundation to set it. Pressed powder provides a heavier, more finish than loose.
What it feels like: it has a more opaque finish than loose powder, so it feels slightly denser and, as a result, stays on longer. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for an oil-free formula and press it into your T-zone throughout the day.
How to apply it: smooth it on in fast, upward strokes with the velour powder puff or sponge that comes in the compact. Pressed powder lasts a long time, but sponges and powder puffs are bacteria magnets. Wash or replace them once a month.
Loose powder
What it does: loose powder, which is either pigmented or "translucent", sets makeup, blots shine and leaves skin looking lightly buffed. If you choose to wear pigmented loose powder, look for one with pale yellow or golden undertones that matches your skin as closely as possible. The yellow hue gives a warm glow and runs a lower risk of turning thick and chalky as the day goes on. If you want minimal coverage and opt for what's called translucent powder, make sure it's as sheer as possible. Those powders contain some light pigment and they, too, can look chalky.
What it feels like: the ideal texture is extremely fine, fluffy and weightless - which is precisely the reason why loose powder is very messy and should probably be left at home and not carried around in a handbag.
How to apply it: lightly dip a big, fluffy brush into the powder and get rid of any excess by blowing on it or tapping the brush handle on your forearm or the edge of the bathroom sink. Sweep it onto your face in soft, upward motions. Loose powder also works as a subtle highlighter if you dust it only below your eyes, down the bridge of your nose, and on the center of your chin.
Iridescent powder
What it does: this powder contains light-reflecting ingredients such as pearl and mica to give skin a sexy shimmer.
What it feels like: loose powder.
How to apply it: use a large brush to sweep it across your forehead, cheekbones and jawline. Use it over foundation or on bare skin. For extra sparkle, continue down to the shoulders and collarbones.
