Our Best Translucent Setting Powder

In the world of face makeup, there’s one product that has seemingly stood the test of time yet doesn’t receive its fair share of the limelight. We’re talking about face powder—specifically, translucent setting powder. With the ability to control shine, set makeup, and freshen up any face makeup look midday, translucent powder is a makeup must-have. And you might not even realize all of the many ways you can use this one versatile loose powder. Keep reading to learn about our best translucent powder, including how to add it into your own makeup routine.

OUR BEST TRANSLUCENT POWDER

Allow us to introduce you to the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Face Powder. Our best drugstore setting powder, it’s comprised of micro-fine pigments, which work to blur fine lines and pores to give your complexion a smooth finish. Inspired by professional makeup artists, this loose setting powder locks in makeup and also controls excess oil and shine on the skin. If you think that all face powder makes for a cakey finish, think again: These loose pigments give a soft-focus, matte finish to the complexion—never cakey or chalky. What’s more? This translucent powder can be used in a variety of different ways. Keep reading to learn about all of the many ways to incorporate our best setting powder into your own beauty looks.

HOW TO USE TRANSLUCENT POWDER—7 DIFFERENT WAYS

Like we said, this powder has a number of uses, which is why we think it deserves a permanent place in your makeup bag. Here are all of the ways you can incorporate translucent powder into your makeup repertoire.  

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #1. USE IT TO…SET YOUR MAKEUP LOOK

Dusting a little translucent face powder over your face makeup can help set your makeup and keep it lasting throughout the day, sans any smudging or smearing. How do you do it? Simply dust a light layer of the powder onto your entire complexion—on top of all your other face makeup, including foundation and concealer. Dust it over your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. That’s it! It’s that easy—and quick—to help ensure that your makeup look stays fresh for as long as possible.

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #2. USE IT TO…BAKE YOUR MAKEUP

No, we’re not talking about baking a cake or any other sweet treats. Baking makeup is a technique used by professional makeup artists to help brighten key spots and keep face makeup from fading. Made popular by your favorite influencers and makeup gurus, baking makeup involves applying layers of face makeup, letting it sit (or bake), and then dusting off the excess for a final look that won’t budge. Here’s how to do it: First, apply your go-to foundation and concealer just like you normally would. Then, dip a large powder makeup brush or a makeup blender into the face powder—be sure to get a thick layer of product on there. Apply the powder on your forehead, under-eye area, and chin, laying it on very thick. Next, simply wait a few minutes—at least five, to be exact—while the makeup “bakes” into place. Once that time is up, use your powder brush to lightly sweep off any extra powder. That’s the last step! Your makeup is now officially baked, just like a celebrity on the red carpet (or an influencer on Instagram).

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #3. USE IT TO…CONTROL EXCESS SHINE

Toss this powder into your to-go makeup bag, along with the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender, and bounce it onto your skin whenever you feel your complexion getting oily. It’s perfect before an afternoon meeting or happy hour when you don’t have the time (or energy) for a full-on makeup re-do, but could still use a bit of freshening up. Simply apply a light coating on areas of the face that are prone to shine, such as the forehead and nose.

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #4. USE IT TO…MATTIFY YOUR LIP COLOR

We bet you didn’t see this one coming, did you? Translucent powder can also be used to give any lip color a matte finish. To do so, just apply your favorite cream lipstick or lip gloss like you normally would. Then, use a small lip brush to pick up a little powder and dab it onto your lips for an instant mattifying effect. Now your lip colors can have a whole new life!

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #5. USE IT…AS AN EYE SHADOW PRIMER

When you don’t have an eye shadow primer on hand, but you’re still looking to apply a gorgeous eye shadow look that you want to last (without creasing), reach for your translucent powder. To use it as an eye shadow primer, simply apply a light layer of the translucent powder onto your entire upper eyelid using a small eye shadow brush, then go about applying your eye shadow, eyeliner, and mascara. Voila!

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #6. USE IT…TO SET YOUR LIPSTICK

Does your lipstick always seem to wear off? Let’s put an end to that! Besides using long-lasting formulas, your best bet is to apply your lipstick, hold a tissue over your lips, then press translucent powder on top. Seriously, give it a try and see if your lippie lasts longer!

TRANSLUCENT POWDER USE #7. USE IT…TO HIDE YOUR EYEBROWS

You may not need this trick every day, but when it’s time to rock a crazy costume or mix up your look, being able to glue down your eyebrows is a must. Besides glue, this makeup technique involves—you guessed it—translucent powder. You layer glue, powder, concealer, and foundation on to effectively hide your eyebrows—temporarily, of course.

Next: Learn about Our Best Foundation for Dry Skin.