brush for baking makeup

10 BEST DRUGSTORE SETTING POWDERS FOR EXTENDING YOUR MAKEUP ON A BUDGET

If you’re concerned about using powder and worried that your face might look cakey or lose its natural appearance, worry no more. The latest formulas provide a smoother feel than ever, with a lightweight finish that keeps your makeup in place without creating an overly strong impression. Some powders can absorb moisture and control oil for hours, making them particularly effective for oily skin. A list of 10 popular and user-friendly powder options for you to choose from. Keep reading!

WHAT DOES SETTING POWDER DO?

Setting powder plays a crucial role in the realm of makeup, serving multiple functions to enhance the longevity and overall appearance of one’s makeup application. Its primary purpose is to set and secure liquid or cream-based makeup products, such as foundation and concealer, in order to prevent them from smudging or transferring throughout the day. One of the key benefits of setting powder is its ability to control excess oil on the skin. Formulated with ingredients designed to absorb oil, setting powder helps to minimize shine, making it particularly advantageous for individuals with oily or combination skin.

WET N WILD PHOTO FOCUS LOOSE SETTING POWDER

We were thoroughly impressed by this powder, which rivaled many high-end powders in our lab tests. The weightless formula stood out, being one of the most finely-milled powders we’ve ever encountered. Its seamless application effortlessly sets makeup in place, controls shine, and delivers an airbrushed finish. Available in banana and deep shades catering to various skin tones, the translucent option is especially commendable for its colorlessness, making it suitable for all. At an affordable price point, this outstanding formula secures our top-ranking spot.

COTY AIRSPUN FACE POWDER

Since as far back as 1935, this loose powder has been a staple for women, and its vintage packaging pays homage to that rich history. Pioneering the concept of “baking” in makeup before it became a widely used term, this product remains timeless. Crafted with pigments blended with air, it imparts a featherweight feel upon application. Effectively controlling oily areas, it sets makeup flawlessly without the burden of a heavy or cakey finish. A noteworthy feature is its ability to leave foundation color unchanged when applied on top.

E.L.F. COSMETICS HALO GLOW SETTING POWDER

Ideal for those seeking a radiant complexion with controlled oil, this selection utilizes finely-milled synthetic sapphire particles to set the skin and enhance luminosity. These particles serve a dual purpose: firstly, they effectively blur lines, pores, and imperfections, creating a stunning soft-focus finish reminiscent of a filter. Secondly, a subtle luminosity adds freshness and a natural glow without an excessive or unnatural shimmer. A reliable option for individuals with dry skin or anyone desiring an extra touch of radiance.

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP CAN’T STOP WON’T STOP MATTIFYING POWDER

For those in search of a drugstore pressed formula, our top recommendation is this one. Its mess-free and portable pressed formula makes it convenient for on-the-go application, suitable for all skin types. Effectively mattifying shine without appearing chalky, it impressively maintains a lightweight feel. With an extensive range of shades, it caters to diverse skin tones. “As someone with oily-combination skin, this powder not only provides a matte finish but also effectively keeps shine at bay for hours.”

BLK/OPL FINISHING POWDER

In our lab tests, this loose powder showcased remarkable performance. Its impressive feature lies in its weightlessness on the skin, coupled with its exceptional ability to set makeup and control oily spots effectively. The powder contributes to a soft, skin-like, and natural finish for the complexion. While we believe the shades are most suitable for medium and dark skin tones, there is also one shade accommodating those with lighter skin tones. If you’ve been searching for a powder that feels completely undetectable on your skin, this one is definitely worth exploring.

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK FIT ME LOOSE FINISHING POWDER

An ideal complement to any foundation, this formula provides a sheer wash of color that seamlessly blends in. With an impressive range of shades, particularly for a drugstore product, our test revealed its excellent ability to set the skin without inducing a dry appearance. When applied with a large fluffy brush, it imparts a lightweight feel and achieves an airbrushed look. However, it’s important to note that excessive application may result in a slightly cakey appearance. Overall, we strongly endorse this formula, especially for those in search of a powder closely matching their skin tone.

MENTED COSMETICS SKIN SILK LOOSE SETTING POWDER

Earning high praise in our lab tests, this product stands out as an excellent choice for deep and dark skin tones, although there is a light shade suitable for those with light to medium skin tones. The two deeper shades offer a diverse range in both tone and depth, with the deepest shade surpassing the darkness of most loose powders available, making it an ideal selection for individuals with a dark complexion. Beyond the impressive shade range, we were equally impressed by its effective oil control without causing the skin to appear dry or cakey. While it may be a bit pricier compared to typical drugstore options, the investment is well justified, especially if you find a shade that suits you.

L’ORÉAL INFALLIBLE POWDER FOUNDATION

For those in search of a powder that enhances coverage in their makeup routine, this option is highly recommended. While technically classified as a foundation and suitable for standalone use, it can also be layered on top of liquid foundation to achieve even more coverage. With a broad spectrum of shades spanning from fair to dark, the powder allows for buildable coverage, offering a substantial finish. Notably, its waterproof feature makes it an excellent choice for summer or humid climates. “When aiming to set my concealer or foundation in place on top of a blemish, while also desiring additional coverage, this product is my go-to.”

ULTA BEAUTY COLLECTION HYALURONIC ACID SETTING POWDER

Enriched with hyaluronic acid, a natural humectant, Ulta’s in-house brand presents a velvety-smooth translucent setting powder. Specifically designed to effortlessly glide over dry patches and prevent settling into wrinkles and crevices, this formulation ensures a seamless application. A little product goes a long way, so exercise caution with application if you’re planning on being photographed to avoid any potential flashback. While offering no real coverage due to its translucent nature, the powder effectively locks in the work done by your foundation or concealer, providing a dewy finish without appearing greasy.

MIRABELLA PERFECTING LOOSE POWDER

Despite her involvement in the brand’s creative development and design consultations, Kyle wholeheartedly endorses Mirabella Perfecting Loose Powder. Describing it as an ultra-lightweight, translucent silica powder, she praises its ability to produce a luminous, airbrushed, high-definition effect that flawlessly blends into the skin and perfects pores. Kyle notes that the powder is enriched with skin-loving ingredients such as Vitamin A and E, along with anti-aging peptides. Additionally, the silica content effectively combats surface shine throughout the day. Notably, the versatile shade is designed to suit all skin tones. While it comes at a slightly higher price point, Kyle emphasizes the powder’s overall quality and benefits.

AIRSPUN LOOSE POWDER


In existence since 1935, this loose powder underwent a recent reformulation, eliminating talc from its ingredient list. Boasting a light consistency, fluffy texture, and a generously sized compact, this product offers a substantial amount for its $7 price tag. The universal translucent tone is designed to suit most skin tones, while those seeking an enhanced airbrushed effect can explore the translucent extra coverage option. It’s worth noting that due to its finely milled nature, the powder can be a bit messy. While it includes a puff, using a beauty blender or sponge-like applicator can provide extra control or allow for better product pressing into the skin.

CONCLUSION

Among the numerous options for affordable setting powders, there are standout products that have garnered the attention of users. As introduced above, these products have gained popularity and trust among many. We hope that, upon reading this article, you can choose a product that suits your skin.

Achieving Long-Lasting Makeup with 18 Best Loose Setting Powders

Setting powder is an essential last step for a perfect finish that improves the appearance of the foundation makeup applied below and helps it stay in place all day. You may use this product in your cosmetic regimen regardless of your skin type. It has a mattifying impact if you have oily skin, but if you have dry skin, it will stabilize your appearance with a mix of nourishing elements to prevent dehydration from getting worse. You will be able to create the ideal makeup look in no time with the help of our list of 18 best loose setting powders.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

This finishing powder achieves our top rank since it is lightweight and hardly noticeable. The diamond powder helps to blur flaws and smooth wrinkles while the finely milled product has a flawless application. It creates an airbrushed appearance and bakes your makeup to perfection, especially under the eyes. It’s quite hard to use up all the product as the packaging makes it hard for users to utilize everything.

Dermablend Loose Setting Powder

Customers love Dermablend’s powder, and it makes sense why. The skin is rapidly matted and extra oil is absorbed by the product. You may use it as a finishing powder for a subtle, matte appearance or to seal in makeup for up to 16 hours of transfer-resistant wear. As an added bonus, dermatologists have examined and approved it.

Well People Superpowder Brightening Powder

A matte finish is not always left behind by setting agents. Let’s use Well People’s Superpowder Brightening Powder as an illustration: When applied, it has a silky texture and leaves skin glowing. The powder contains organic cornstarch, which prevents makeup from creasing, and squalane, which moisturizes. The magnolia bark in it also makes the skin glow.

Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Pressed Powder

If you’re seeking a dependable setting powder for older skin, have a look at this one. Thanks to the vitamin E in the recipe, it guarantees that aged skin is completely hydrated. Additionally, it immediately sets makeup for all-day wear, tames excess oil and shine, and airbrushes blemishes with spherical particles. Bobbi Brown has always been a high end makeup brand so if you have a tight budget, you should reconsider purchasing it.

Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder

One of the greatest drugstore alternatives is Maybelline’s loose finishing powder. The mineral-based product conceals imperfections and gives sheer coverage while removing shine. It is a cheap solution that keeps makeup intact for up to 12 hours and costs less than $10. Eight hues are available, ranging from fair to dark.

E.L.F. Halo Glow Setting Powder

There are a lot of drugstore setting powders that compete favorably with their more expensive versions, such as the E.L.F. Halo Glow Setting Powder. Four blendable pigments in this product help to reduce greasiness and guard against fading, smearing, and smudging during the course of the day for long-wearing effects. If your makeup get creased at certain spots easily, you might want to skip this.

Glossier Wowder

Wow! This one truly lives up to its name. This loose powder, which is marketed as having the “perfect matte-not-flat finish,” can reduce shine and hide pores without leaving the face looking heavy or chalky as is frequently the case. You will receive a satiny, non-cakey finish from the long-wearing product, which won’t be seen in pictures. Furthermore, it is cruelty-free and vegan.

Saje Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder

Saje’s Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder may quickly become one of your go-to cosmetics if you desire a soft-matte finish but have dry skin. This is because the recipe contains moisturizing squalane. The company’s trademarked “aerated-cream technology” guarantees a weightless, radiant finish for a youthful glow.

Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder

Since 1935, this traditional micro-spun powder recipe has been loved—and the price is unbeatable! With its capacity to conceal wrinkles and imperfections for a smoother and softer look that lasts throughout the day, the lightweight cloud-like covering feels good and looks great. You might find the packaging of this item is quite annoying as it can be messy using it. Remember to be steady and careful when you use it.

Beauty Bakerie Face Flour Baking Powder

A well-liked beauty trend is baking, or using concealer and loose powder to trap your body heat for five to ten minutes and set your makeup for a crease-free result. This choice is excellent for that, as suggested by its name and package. The HD function will soften and smooth your skin to lessen oils and the appearance of flaws, giving you a gorgeous matte appearance.

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder

Another thing we can credit Rihanna for is her cosmetics collection. And in particular, this setting powder works all day to lessen shine and conceal imperfections for a filtered, camera-ready complexion. It is extremely smooth and lightweight to prevent caking. Eight diverse colors are available to accommodate your particular skin tone.

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Powder

This translucent powder is a great choice among drugstore alternatives. Along with being reasonably priced, it is designed to set makeup by minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and pores and regulating shine all day long for a delicate, dewy face that never looks cakey. Be careful not breathing in any product as the there are Tacl in the ingredients and you do not want it inside your lungs at all.

Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre Natural Finish Loose Powder

Your face will thank you if you’re willing to pay a bit more for this product. Your skin tone will be more even with sheer coverage, and your makeup will look flawless with a matte finish that hides flaws and wrinkles. Additionally, photo-reflective pigments will enhance your complexion.

Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder

You’ll want to use this powder daily since it provides skin protection and skin perfection. A soft focus finish is achieved while mattifying shine with SPF 35, protecting your face from UV radiation. Ceramides and olive glycerides, which help to lock in moisture, as well as coated silica spheres, which disperse light and hide pores, are skin-friendly components.  Those with dry skin will not like this product as their people who have used it claimed that this powder made their makeup look chalky and dry.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Airbrush Powder

Due to the hydrolyzed collagen in the recipe, the powder glides over the face and has an instant blurring effect that reduces the visibility of pores and fine lines without caking. When applied, the setting product smooths skin without altering the color of the foundation below.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder

This setting powder will hold your makeup in place while you transition from work to after-work cocktails to more after-work beverages. It has a smooth, lightweight texture. Along with repairing your base, it removes excess oil, brightens, and leaves a finish like an airbrush while without drying out the skin. There are four colors, and each one when used becomes translucent. Additionally, as it will last you years, you receive a lot of value. Like Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder, dry skin havers can skip this.

MAC Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Powder

There is only one color that looks well on everyone, and it is an undetectable shade on the skin. Whether you use it on top of eyeliner, foundation, concealer, or bare skin, it gives off a velvety appearance that will control excess sebum all day and into the evening.

Blk/Opl True Color Soft Velvet Finishing Powder

Be sure to complete your look with a few swipes of Blk/Opl’s True Color Soft Velvet Finishing Powder if you want to Instagram this weekend. Although it is thin and oil-absorbing, the tone-evening formula guarantees that there won’t be any flashback in pictures. 

Setting powder is the way to go if you want your foundation and concealer to stay longer than a few hours, have an especially oily complexion, are dealing with humidity, or for any other reason. If none of them fit you, we think that there is at least one item on our list that you would appreciate.