Powder vs. Liquid Foundation: Which Is Better?

When it comes to creating an even base for your makeup look, there’s no denying that foundation is an absolute must. It’s a foolproof way to mask imperfections and get flawless coverage, so it’s no surprise that this beauty staple is a hot commodity in the makeup world. But with the liquid foundation vs. powder debate showing no signs of slowing down, it can be hard to settle on the right formula for you. Lucky for you, we’re here to assist! Keep reading as we give you the lowdown on foundation powders vs. liquid foundation so you can decide which formula to stock your beauty arsenal with.

WHAT IS POWDER FOUNDATION?

For those who prefer lightweight makeup, powder foundation is just the ticket. See, this type of formula is all about giving your skin a natural look with a soft touch. Thanks to the weightless feel of today’s powders, you’ll be able to provide your skin with breathable and buildable coverage that will go the distance. Not to mention, with powder foundation, you don’t have to worry about sporting a cakey look. What’s not to love?

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Compact Makeup or Age Perfect Makeup Creamy Powder Foundation with Minerals

WHAT IS LIQUID FOUNDATION?

Whether you’re new to the makeup community or a veteran, you probably know all about liquid foundation. Known as a tried-and-true makeup essential, liquid foundation is an excellent option for those who love a seamless blend that disguises imperfections. Really, you can’t go wrong with this beauty staple. You can also choose liquid formulas that have anywhere from light to full coverage, depending on your desired look. The finish is also up to you, whether you want a glowy visage or a matte beauty look.

Product pick: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation or Infallible Pro-Glow Foundation

IS IT BETTER TO USE POWDER OR LIQUID FOUNDATION?

Believe it or not, when it comes to the foundation powder vs. liquid foundation debate, there isn’t one real winner. It’s all about your personal preference. See, powder foundations are a no-brainer if you like to avoid heavy makeup at all costs. This formula type typically provides skin with sheer coverage for a light and natural look that’s always on-trend. And since it’s super easy to apply with a makeup brush or makeup sponge, you can totally touch up your beauty look throughout the day with ease. It also doesn’t necessitate much blending, which can be a plus for beginners.

On the other hand, liquid foundation has its own share of benefits. These include being able to cover up blemishes and other imperfections, offering a variety of finishes, and even giving your skin a touch of hydration (depending on the formula). This makes it easy to see why some beauty lovers can’t get enough of liquid formulas. Another pro is that when it comes to applying liquid foundation, you’re not reserved to one method. You can use makeup brushes, fingers, or a makeup blender to achieve smooth and flawless coverage.

HOW TO USE LIQUID AND POWDER FOUNDATION

Despite what you might think, whether you pick liquid or powder foundation, how you apply your makeup won’t differ dramatically. Sure, you may reach for one brush or tool over another, but most of your steps won’t change at all! See what we mean with this easy, step-by-step tutorial on applying foundation.

STEP #1: CLEANSE YOUR SKIN

Before you even reach for your makeup products, it’s essential to kick things off with a cleansing session. Not only will this help keep your skin in shape, but you’ll also be able to sport a flawless makeup look. Grab the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof – All Skin Types and sweep a saturated cotton pad over your skin to lift away dirt, oil, and impurities for a refreshed and balanced feel.

STEP #2: MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE

Now it’s time to lock in hydration with the help of a moisturizer. Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Dry Skin, or L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Extra Dry Skin. All three are formulated with aloe vera and hyaluronic acid and will keep your skin soft, supple, and moisturized, which goes hand in hand with creating a stunning makeup look. 

STEP #3: BRING ON THE PRIMER

Want to rock a gorgeous complexion from day to night? It’s time to kick things up a notch with a makeup primer. Known to create an even base for your makeup application, this step should be the foundation of your makeup routine. If you want a matte look, prep your skin with the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Lock Makeup Primer, and you’ll be ready for the next step.

STEP #4: CREATE YOUR COMPLEXION

Once your face primer has dried, it’s time to apply your foundation!

To apply powder foundation…use a powder brush or makeup sponge and blend the powder out toward the hairline and down until you reach your desired level of coverage. Keep in mind, powder isn’t meant to be layered until you reach full coverage, so don’t try to keep building it up.

To apply liquid foundation…squeeze a small amount of product onto the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender. Apply the foundation on your skin using dabbing and rolling motions.

STEP #5: CONCEAL IMPERFECTIONS

What you might not realize is that foundation is meant to create an even base, but concealer is really what’s key for hiding imperfections like blemishes. Dot concealer on if you can still see any spots in need of coverage, then blend out.

STEP #6: GRAB YOUR BRONZER

Now that you’re flaunting flawless skin, you’ll want to add some bronzer into the mix. Apply the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Lumi Bronze It Bronzer to the hollows of your cheeks and your temples for a sun-kissed glow that will keep your face from looking flat.

STEP #7: ADD SOME DEFINITION

To amp up your face makeup, use a blush that complements your complexion. Pick up the L’Oréal Paris True Match Blush in your perfect shade and apply it on your cheeks for a natural flush of color.

STEP #8: COAT YOUR LASHES

Add some life to your peepers with the help of mascara! Swipe on a few coats of the L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Waterproof Mascara, Lasting Volume to score lifted and curled lashes.

STEP #9: COLOR YOUR POUT

Pull your makeup look together with the help of a gorgeous lip color. Swipe the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Lip Crayon, Lasting Wear Water Resistant in Lady Toffee across your pout to seal the deal.

STEP #10: LOCK IT ALL IN

You’re at the finish line! To make sure that your makeup stays put all day long, spritz the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray & Set Makeup Extender Setting Spray in ‘X’ and ‘T’ shapes for a “just-applied” makeup look that lasts.

Next: How to Remove Every Kind of Makeup