Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty WriterUpdated on Feb 28, 2024
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processWhen it comes to makeup, locking in liquid foundation and creams is important, especially if you have oily skin and live in a humid environment. Without a great makeup sealer, the fear of your look melting down can be constant. However, after applying one of the best setting powders, you can set your makeup in place and extend its longevity. It is that secret weapon that seals your look and prevents creases. The credit goes to the powder’s innovative oil-absorbing and shine-controlling ingredients and formulation.
Drawing from our observations, a setting powder is immensely loved for its weightless formula and splendid coverage. It also blurs the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, and lends you an airbrushed-like look. There are also a few powders that lend a dewy finish, making your skin and makeup look as natural as possible with that sheer coverage. Additionally, a setting powder is universal and generally suits all skin types, be it oily or dry skin. What’s impressive? You can wear the powder alone after applying your sunscreen and moisturizer for a no-makeup look or simply use it to help your liquid-based products set all day.
If you are too dreaming of that flash-friendly and photo-perfect finish, then wait no longer. Roll your eyes over and kickstart your shopping spree straight away!
Our top picks
13 Best Setting Powders
Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder has clocked perfect scores for its impeccable mineral-based formula and natural-looking finish. With the ability to control excessive shine and smoothen skin texture, this popular setting powder lends your makeup the perfect finishing touch, promising 12 hours of wear. Moreover, it blends effortlessly and instantly enhances your complexion. Bonus — the powder is available in a wide range of shades, right from ivory to mocha that complements a variety of skin tones.
Key Ingredients: Talc dimethicone silica, titanium dioxide
Type: Loose
Shades: 14
Finish: Sheer
Cruelty-free: No
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Inexpensive
- Can also be worn alone
- Nicely pigmented
Cons
- Some might find it difficult to open
2
Editor’s Pick
Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder - Buttercup
The next on our list is Sacha’s Buttercup Setting Powder renowned for its flawless, translucent finish and oil-absorbing properties. According to user feedback, it is a good setting powder for oily skin that helps you achieve a smooth and shine-free complexion. What makes it stand apart from the rest of the powders is its versatility. You can use it for baking, setting, or quick touch-ups and effortlessly maximize the longevity of your makeup look. In addition, we appreciate how the powder blurs fine lines and pores letting you embrace a classic professional-like airbrushed makeup look.
Key Ingredients: Talc, mica, aluminum starch
Type: Loose
Shades: 2
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Transfer-resistant
- Smudge-proof
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight formula
- Doesn’t leave a white cast
Cons
- Limited shade options
3
Best Talc-free Formula
Aesthetica Translucent Setting Powder
Specially designed to set your makeup in place, Aesthetica’s Translucent Setting Powder deserves a top rank in the category of the best translucent setting powder. It soaks up excess shine or oil while hiding pores and softening fine lines. The talc-free powder also comes with splendid oil-absorbing properties to help you maintain a polished look throughout the day with no melting business involved. As a key player in your makeup routine, this product offers buildable coverage and versatile translucency.
Key Ingredients: Silica, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, iron oxides
Type: Loose
Shades: 2
Finish: Translucent
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
- Includes velour puff
- Clump-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- No shade options to choose from
Quick Tip:
Dip the puff into the setting powder then shake off any excess product. Gently press the puff to your face using a rolling motion to set the powder effectively.
4
Most Weightless Powder
BareMinerals Mineral Veil Setting Powder - Original Translucent
The finely crafted Mineral Veil Setting Powder from BareMinerals features an astounding weightless formula lending you a soft-focus finish. With great oil absorption, it seamlessly blurs the appearance of pores and fine lines and is designed for all skin types. We went through the rabbit hole of reviews and feedback and found that users happily label it as the best talc-free setting powder for its natural-looking coverage that not only sets makeup but also extends the longevity of the look.
Key Ingredients: Corn starch and iron oxide
Type: Loose
Shades: 4
Finish: Translucent
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Vegan
- Available in a bigger size
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Clinically proven to improve skin texture
Cons
- Little pricey
5
Best for Sheer Coverage
Physicians Formula Setting Powder
To attain a soft, even, and natural-looking coverage, incorporate Physicians Formula’s Setting Powder into your makeup arsenal without any second thoughts. What makes it amongst the best pressed setting powders is its mattifying and oil-controlling formula designed for utter comfort, while locking in your desired makeup look. Secondly, the blend of colors present in the honeycomb-like palette enhances your skin tone, corrects, imperfections, and delivers a natural finish without a monochrome cast. What’s more? It is hypoallergenic and completely safe for sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients: Talc, mica, nylon-12, and octyl-dodecyl stearoyl stearate
Type: Pressed
Shades: 3
Finish: Translucent, Natural
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Dermatologically-tested
- Clinically-tested
- Affordable
- Lushly pigmented
Cons
- Fragile packaging
Quick Tip:
For an even application, tap excess powder from the applicator before applying. For best results on dry to very dry skin, apply moisturizer before using the powder.
6
Most Cost-effective
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Loose Setting Powder
Enhance the longevity of your makeup with the most-loved Photo Focus Loose Setting Powder from Wet n Wild by sealing and securing your makeup in the right place. The silky weightless texture and sheer coverage are all that make it a huge hit. We also found that it is suitable for fair to medium and tan skin tones and crafted for all skin types. What is worth noting? The powder glides on evenly, and blends effortlessly, facilitating a smooth and mess-free application. Secondly, the affordable setting powder subtly blurs the look of fine lines and spruces up your makeup game by several notches.
Key Ingredients: Nylon-12, talc, corn starch, and water
Type: Loose
Shades: 4
Finish: Natural
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Unscented
- Gluten-free
- Mattifies the skin
- Free from parabens
Cons
- Might look cakey if applied incorrectly
7
Best Matte Finish
L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep and Lock Translucent Setting Powder
L'Oreal Paris has introduced a remarkable makeup product — Infallible Pro-Sweep and Lock Translucent Setting Powder to help seal your makeup look while controlling shine. With a micro-fine loose powder formula, it blurs fine lines and pores and leaves your skin feeling smooth and mattified. We also glanced through the feedback section and here is what a happy user shared: “This flawless setting powder will give your face a gorgeous and radiant finish whether you are wearing foundation or just wearing a light moisturizer.”
Key Ingredients: Silica, talc, and isocetyl stearate
Type: Loose
Shades: 1
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Finely milled
- Very light in weight
- Blends easily
Cons
- No color options
8
Best Waterproof Formula
Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Powder
This setting powder from Urban Decay delicately envelops and locks your makeup look for straight up to 11 hours. It feels virtually weightless and is a reliable ally for those yearning for long-lasting results and a luminous glow. The longevity-promoting and oil-controlling properties of the powder blur fine lines and pores, keeping dryness and cakeyness at bay. Topping it all off, this makeup product withstands perspiration and makes it an ideal choice for those navigating active lifestyles.
Key Ingredients: Dimethicone, nylon-12, silica, zinc stearate, trimethylol, hexyl lactone crosspolymer
Type: Pressed
Shades: 1
Finish: Translucent
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Sheer coverage
- No need for touch-ups
- Suits oily, dry, normal, and combination skin types
Cons
- Little pricey
9
Best With SPF
Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder
Packed with a punch of SPF, Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder features a sheer formula that sets makeup, mattifies shine, and refreshes your UV protection in one swipe. Based on our observations, this setting powder acts as a finishing touch and contributes to a vibrant and long-lasting look. What’s impressive? It works overtime even in the blistering heat, making it a reliable choice for all occasions. Formulated with a potent blend of key ingredients, it diffuses the appearance of pores, seals in moisture, and thereby lends you a soft focused velvety finish.
Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, ceramides, olive glycerides, and coated silica spheres
Type: Loose
Shades: 1
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Twist-lock brush applicator
- Ideal for all skin types
- Travel-friendly
- Light coverage
10
Best for All Skin Tones
Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder
Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder has managed to grab all attention for a couple of good reasons. Firstly, it delivers a flattering soft-focus effect and sets makeup for straight up to 12 hours. We also figured out that you can wear the powder alone for a no-makeup makeup look or simply use it for setting your makeup. Secondly, the finely milled formula smoothens your skin texture and helps control shine even during humid weather.
Key Ingredients: Talc, magnesium myristate, nylon-12, caprylic/capric triglyceride
Type: Loose
Shades: 1
Finish: Natural, Matte
Pros
- Suits a range of skin tones and types
- Flash-friendly
- Absorbs excess oil
- Universal shade
Cons
- Slightly pricey
11
Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
To lend your skin a naturally seamless finish, Hourglass has introduced Veil Translucent ultra-refined loose powder. It is finely milled, weightless, and formulated with soft-focus light-reflecting particles. In addition, for a smooth and flawless complexion, it minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pores. The standout feature of this powder is the fact that it is equipped with an innovative gold sifter and custom cap which allow for the perfect amount of product to be dispensed. Hence, while applying, there is going to be no mess.
Key Ingredients: Mica, synthetic sapphire, polymethyl silsesquioxane, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer
Type: Loose
Shades: 2
Finish: Natural
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Extends the wear of makeup
- Oil-absorbing formula
- Doesn’t settle under the eyes
- No touch-ups required
12
Beauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder
The next on our list of recommendations is Beauty Bakerie’s Flour Setting Powder crafted especially for oily skin. It soaks up greasiness and helps your concealer and foundation to set in place for a prolonged period of time. Its lightly tinted formula and HD feature smoothens and softens your complexion while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and imperfections if any. Last but not least, it tones down excessive shine without requiring the need for touch-ups.
Key Ingredients: Talc, zinc stearate, magnesium stearate
Type: Loose
Shades: 4
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Transfer-proof
- Free from parabens
- Vegan
- Great for traveling
Cons
- Needs careful application
13
Laura Geller Filter Finish Pressed Radiant Setting Powder
Laura Geller’s Pressed Radiant Setting Powder is renowned for its color-correcting abilities. Adding to that, it neutralizes discoloration and redness and delivers a soft-focus effect. What we love the most is that the powder carefully blurs pores, fine lines, and wrinkles with its lightweight tricolor formula while addressing concerns like uneven tone and dullness. So, for anyone who is dreaming of an airbrushed finish, this is an ideal makeup product to add to your stash.
Key Ingredients: Mica, talc, synthetic fluor phlogopite, and dimethicone
Type: Pressed
Shades: 1
Finish: Sheer, radiant
Cruelty-free: Yes
Pros
- Curated for all skin tones
- Can be worn alone
- Brightens complexion
- Ideal for all skin types
Cons
- Less quantity for the price
That was our comprehensive list of some good setting powders. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.
How to Choose the Best Setting Powder?
Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best makeup setting powder:
Skin Type: Ensure that you analyze your skin type before investing in the best setting and finishing powder. For those who possess extremely oily skin, an oil-free, shine-controlling, and non-comedogenic setting powder will be an ideal pick for you. Likewise, for those with dry skin, it is wise to splurge on a hydrating setting powder for added nourishment. Avoid purchasing powders that are not meant for your skin type as they may spoil your look leading to cakeyness and creases.
Key Ingredients: The next important aspect to consider is the list of key ingredients. According to our extensive research, rice starch, corn starch, silica, and talc are a few of the ingredients that are widely found in setting powders. These ingredients are known for their oil-absorbing and shine-controlling abilities. Since they are highly absorbent, they do not irritate most skin types. You may also pick powders enriched with zinc, calcium silicate, and iron oxide as they tend to offer complexion-enhancing benefits.
Type of Powder: There are two types of powders — loose and pressed. Pressed powders come in convenient mirrored compact-like packaging whereas loose powders come in a container featuring an innovative sifter or custom cap. Pressed powders are travel-friendly and easy to stash and use. On the other hand, loose powders contain more finely milled powder which makes the application a little messier.
Shades: Pay heed to the shade of the powder that you are planning to invest in. The majority of the powders come in a universal translucent shade that is virtually invisible on all fair and deeper skin tones. If you are more concerned about shades and versatility then you can use darker and lighter shades for other purposes, like bronzing, contouring, and highlighting.
Finish: Setting powders are designed in a variety of finishes starting right from matte, radiant, and natural to dewy. If you have oily skin, then look for a matte finish powder. Those who have normal skin may opt for dewy and glowy finish powders for a flawless and natural-looking effect.
Coverage: Lastly, understand the amount of coverage that the powder chooses to offer. You may find powders that promise to lend your skin sheer coverage. That means it won't cover or change the look of your makeup underneath. To blur the look of your fine lines, pores, and wrinkles if any, then rely on medium to full coverage powders.
After penning down the above-mentioned aspects, let us acquaint you with a few tips for application.
Steps to Apply Setting Powder
Below are the steps for applying best setting powder:
Step 1: Apply your setting powder as the final step of your makeup and beauty routine or after applying your foundation and concealer as it will bond better creating a fixed, flawless finish. You may also apply it after your sunscreen for a no-makeup look.
Step 2: Pick a large, fluffy makeup brush, puff, or simply use your fingertips to apply the setting powder.
Step 3: Swirl your makeup brush over the pressed compact or lightly dip your brush or puff into the loose powder. Tap away any excess.
Step 4: Begin applying the powder from your T-zone and wherever else you tend to get oily. Focus on your forehead, nose, and chin, and then move on to the rest of your face areas.
Step 5: Blend well and allow the powder to set for a minute. Dust away the excess if any using a fluffy powder brush or puff.
You are good to go!
Conclusion
Attaining a smooth, flawless, and long-lasting makeup look, is easier with one of the best best setting powders in your makeup arsenal. The powder is formulated with great oil-absorbing and shine-controlling properties, it lends your skin an airbrushed-like finish. We highly appreciate their skin-perfecting abilities that look invisible and feel lighter on the skin. Considering factors like texture, finish, ingredients, formula, coverage, and reviews, we managed to bring the best setting powders to your fingertips. For anyone who is more inclined towards purchasing mineral-based makeup products, then Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder is the right pick for you. Find your favorite according to your makeup needs, skin tone, type, and preferences. Happy shopping!
FAQ's
What is the difference between setting powder and finishing powder?
Setting powder focuses on making your makeup stay as it is while a finishing powder focuses on making your makeup look polished.
Should setting powder be lighter or darker than your foundation?
Your setting powder should match the shade of your foundation.
Do you apply blush before or after setting powder?
You should apply your setting powder after foundation and concealer but before blusher and bronzer.
Who can benefit from using setting powder?
Everyone! If you wish to keep your makeup looking fresh throughout the day, then you should be using a setting powder.
Can setting powders be used for baking?
Yes. Applying a setting or translucent powder to areas of the face can prevent the creasing of makeup.
Can setting powders be used on all skin tones?
Yes. Translucent setting powders are universal and can be used on all skin tones.
How long does setting powder last on the skin?
It may last for 8 to 11 hours on your skin.
Are there setting powders with SPF?
Yes, Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder is a setting powder with SPF.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Our certified makeup and beauty expert, Sayantani, has researched the best setting powders after deeply analyzing their features. She believes that setting powder is the key to attaining a soft-focus finish and blurring the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, etc. if any. Personally, she loves Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder for its shine-controlling abilities and translucent finish that looks invisible when applied. You too can snatch a glimpse of the rest of her top pick and amp up your makeup game effortlessly by making it last long.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7sbXNpK2ipJyWe6S7zGiqnqSVmMFwrsSsq2arlanBqrrGZqeor5Sav259kXFpa2pg