My Top 5 Mattifying Powders
The other day as I was applying my makeup, I started thinking about the importance of mattifying powder. I know, you don’t need to say it – sometimes I get lost in reverie and philosophical thoughts, others in the stress and logistics of the day, but for this one brief moment, my mind drifted and it landed on mattifying powder. It is what it is. There I was deciding what makes one better than the next and how vital it is in the makeup process. Although it seems like a funny thing to get caught up on, it’s to all of our benefits, because it’s what spawned the idea to put this top 5 together. So, you’re welcome!
For those who aren’t quite sure what mattifying powder is, it’s also known as setting powder (some even call it loose powder if it’s been packed loosely). Either way, mattifying powder does exactly what it implies: it creates a matte finish by absorbing excess oil, taking away the shine that naturally occurs in our faces. If you invest in a good powder, you’ll be left with a smooth, velvety finish rather than a caked-on look.
I’ve rounded up some of my favourites, but truth be told, I might have a few more up my sleeve! Here are my top 5 mattifying powders:
Too Faced
Perfect Peach
Of course every person’s complexion is different, so there isn’t that one perfect powder for everyone. But, if Translucent peach matches your skin tone, you’re in luck, because wow! Too Faced Perfect Peach Mattifying Setting Powder is my essential powder when I’m getting ready for a photo-finish look. Locking foundation into place so it will last up to 14 hours, the Too Faced powder is light and breathable, and most importantly, transfer-resistant (so you can rub your clothes up on your face and nothing will smear off). The Peaches and Cream collection was made exclusively for Sephora, I linked it here for you.
Dior
Skin Forever & Ever Control Invisible Setting Powder
The Dior Skin Forever & Ever Control Invisible Loose Setting Powder is has a velvety matte finish. It also has correcting powder so your skin tone will be balanced and even. The powder comes as a set complete with kabuki brush so that you can apply the right amount every time. The Dior formula was created in a universal shade so this is the powder I often recommend to everyone. I have a makeup bag I carry with me for on-the-go touch ups, but this one sits on my countertop for home applications. Once you’ve applied the initial powder, you can touch up on the T-zone throughout the day.
Givenchy
Prisme Libre Loose Powder
This is the powder that does it all. Sets, corrects, neutralizes, and blends. By fusing together four natural shades, the Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder refines your look and gives you a perfectly uniform skin tone. Diminishing imperfections and giving a natural “I just have a doll face” kind of look, this loose powder is makeup artist’s dream, which means, it’s my dream! Some use a brush, which works, but if you prefer a puff, then set with the press and roll technique – press the puff into your face and roll it into your skin! Voilà!
Guerlain
Meteorite Electric Pearls
Most of the loose powders I’m recommending set and neutralize the skin giving that matte (not shiny) look. The Guerlain Meteorite Electric Pearls kind of does that, but in a J-Lo Glow kind of way. Warming the complexion while also making it radiant is just one of the powerful benefits of the Guerlain pearls. The other one is that they are simply stunning. I swear if they made these in bigger batches, I’d decorate my house with Electric Pearls, Lol! Four iridescent colours: gold and copper to counter a dull complexion and champagne and white to reflect the light. The perfect combination to give that brilliant luminescence, and it leaves you with a soft finish that is irresistible.
Laura Mercier
Translucent Loose Setting Powder
I leave your with yet another excellent powder made of expert craftsmanship, the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. It creates a flawless look and locks your foundation into place for an extra long-lasting wear. It blends effortlessly and gives a soft-focus effect (which means no shiny spots in pictures!). Here’s a free tip: when I use a brush with my loose powder, I always make sure to tap off any excess so I don’t cake it on.
As you well know by now, I have a fun time playing with my makeup and creating new looks. I love to try new products and I’m not shy to say when something doesn’t work or isn’t necessary. But, loose powder is pretty basic when it comes to the 1, 2, 3 of makeup. If you wear foundation, the mattifying powder sets it, if you don’t wear foundation, then mattifying powder can act as a coverall to diminish any imperfections and remove the excess shine. If you don’t believe me, try it for yourself. You’ll be a believer in one puff!
Photography by Patricia Brochu