setting powder talc free

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.

THE BEST MAKEUP FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Your face is the canvas for your beauty, but for those with sensitive skin, finding the right makeup can feel like a challenge. The delicate nature of facial skin demands extra care. That’s why choosing gentle, non-comedogenic products is essential. Let’s dive into some makeup must-haves for sensitive skin.

WHAT IS SENSITIVE SKIN?

Sensitive skin is a condition in which the skin becomes itchy, stinging, burning, red, and tight after contact with skin care products, food, dirt, or other environmental factors. Because there are many factors that can cause skin sensitivity, sometimes it is impossible to determine which specific factor causes skin sensitivity and discomfort.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A REACTION TO MAKEUP?

If you experience a negative reaction to makeup, promptly discontinue use and gently cleanse your face. To pinpoint the culprit, try an elimination diet with your products. Remember, finding the perfect makeup routine requires experimentation. To assist you, we’ve curated a list of dermatologist and makeup artist-approved gentle makeup options, formulated with nourishing ingredients to soothe and hydrate even the most sensitive skin, allowing you to look and feel confident.

BEST MASCARA FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

CLINIQUE HIGH-IMPACT ZERO-GRAVITY MASCARA

Celebrity makeup artist Billie Gene swears by an ophthalmologist-tested, fragrance-free tubing mascara for her clients with sensitive skin and eyes. The gentle, tubing formula is easily removed and the curved brush not only builds length but also lifts and enhances the lashes’ curl.

THRIVE CAUSEMETICS LIQUID LASH EXTENSIONS MASCARA

Finding a mascara that both pampers sensitive skin and delivers dramatic lashes can be a daunting task. However, Yadav raves about Thrive Causemetics as a hidden gem for those with skin sensitivities. Designed for individuals with compromised immune systems, this mascara boasts a tubing formula that creates bold, long-lasting lashes without the risk of irritation or smudging, making it a standout choice for sensitive eyes.

TOWER 28 MAKEWAVES MASCARA

This clean mascara defies expectations. Instead of subtle definition, it delivers dramatic, false-lash-like volume. Infused with lash-loving castor oil and equipped with curl-holding Aquaflex technology, this formula has people doing double-takes. It’s a rare find in the clean beauty world, especially in a coveted brown shade, and has earned the seal of approval from celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell.

ALMAY THICKENING MASCARA

Say goodbye to flaky, clumpy lashes with Almay’s hypoallergenic, fragrance-free mascara. Its specially designed wand coats each lash evenly, extending them from root to tip for a fuller look. Infused with hydrating aloe and vitamin B5, this mascara not only defines but also nourishes your lashes.

BEST EYESHADOW FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

TWENTY/TWENTY BEAUTY VISIONARY EYE SHADOW STICK

Twenty/Twenty Beauty offers creamy eye shadow sticks designed specifically for sensitive eyes. Created by an ophthalmologist, these sticks glide on smoothly without tugging, delivering rich pigment without irritating fallout. The hydrating formula ensures a comfortable wear, while the range of matte and shimmer shades caters to diverse preferences.

NATASHA DENONA BRONZE EYE SHADOW PALETTE

This eyeshadow palette boasts a perfect score on SkinSafe’s wellness marker search engine, indicating it’s free from common allergens, fragrance, and parabens. While on the pricier end, users often rave about its exceptional pigment and long-lasting wear.

PHYSICIANS FORMULA CREAM EYESHADOW

Elevate your eye makeup with these dazzling liquid shadows. Featuring a mesmerizing blend of metallic shine and vibrant colors, these versatile gems are perfect for creating dramatic looks. The unique liquid-jelly formula is infused with mineral water and vitamin E to hydrate the delicate eye area, while providing long-lasting wear without creasing or fading.

MOB BEAUTY CREAM CLAY EYE SHADOW

Mob Beauty’s Cream Clay Eye Shadow is a rare find for those with sensitive skin. Unlike many bright, bold eyeshadows, this product uses gentle clays for pigmentation without irritating the eyes. It boasts a surprising range of vibrant shades, including uncommon hues like turquoise, green, and yellow, making it a standout option for those seeking high-quality, hypoallergenic makeup. The biodegradable compact is an added eco-friendly bonus.

BEST EYELINER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY SATIN KAJAL EYELINER

Whether you’re aiming for a classic cat eye or a bold, rock-and-roll look, this eyeliner is your go-to. Renowned for its high performance, this versatile liner offers 16 stunning shades in matte, shimmer, and jewel finishes. Create endless eye looks with this must-have product.

ILIA CLEAN LINE GEL LINER

Ilia’s long-wearing eyeliner effortlessly glides on with the rich color and smooth finish of a gel liner, but in the convenient pencil form. Its staying power is impressive, and it’s gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive waterline.

BEST FOUNDATION FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

BAREMINERALS BAREPRO PERFORMANCE WEAR LIQUID FOUNDATION SPF 20

BareMinerals is dedicated to merging makeup and skincare, creating minimalist formulas that benefit your skin. Their mineral-based products are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. While their loose powder foundation enjoys a cult-like following, the brand’s liquid foundation is a particular favorite, praised for its non-comedogenic, vegan formula and flawless, full-coverage finish.

COLORESCIENCE TINT DU SOLEIL WHIPPED FOUNDATION SPF 30

When choosing makeup for sensitive skin, opt for gentle formulas that feel more like skincare. Look for foundations packed with nourishing ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and vitamins, similar to the Colorscience pick recommended by Dr. Yadav. This foundation not only provides coverage but also helps firm, rejuvenate, and protect your skin with its gentle, non-pore-clogging formula and built-in sunscreen.

TOWER 28 SUNNYDAYS SPF 30 TINTED SUNSCREEN FOUNDATION

Our top foundation picks for sensitive skin often double as skincare, offering both coverage and soothing benefits. Tower28’s foundation is a prime example, boasting 100% mineral sunscreen and the coveted National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. This noncomedogenic SPF 30 formula provides light-to-medium buildable coverage, effectively evening out redness and discoloration while maintaining a natural, skin-like finish.

JANE IREDALE AMAZING BASE LOOSE MINERAL POWDER FOUNDATION SPF 20

Achieving a sheer base requires a powder foundation, and Jane Iredale’s loose mineral powder is a top choice for Yadav. She praises the brand’s clean, hypoallergenic formula and the powder’s buildable coverage. Plus, with SPF 20, it offers added sun protection, making it a versatile option for a flawless complexion.

BEST CONCEALER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

ALMAY AGELESS HYDRATING CONCEALER

Concealers have evolved beyond simple coverage. Almay’s formula boasts impressive hydration benefits, rivaling some moisturizers. Packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E, it offers full coverage while being gentle on the skin. Its affordable price point makes it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin seeking both coverage and skincare benefits.

KOSAS REVEALER SUPER-CREAMY AND BRIGHTENING CONCEALER

Kosas was born from the founder’s personal struggle to find makeup that wouldn’t irritate sensitive skin. The brand has since garnered a massive following, including from Yadav and Sewell, who appreciate the concealer’s skin-loving ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and arnica. With a comprehensive 38-shade range, Kosas empowers people to embrace their natural complexion while enjoying flawless coverage.

BEST FACE POWDER FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

NEUTROGENA SHINE CONTROL MATTIFYING FACE POWDER

Say goodbye to shiny skin without sacrificing your skin’s health. This innovative powder harnesses the power of rice protein technology to absorb excess oil, leaving a soft, matte finish. Unlike traditional talc-based powders, this formula is gentle on the skin, won’t clog pores, and keeps you shine-free all day long. Gene swears by it for quick touch-ups, making it an essential for on-the-go beauty routines.

RMS BEAUTY UNPOWDER

This setting powder is a makeup artist favorite for its talc-free formula. The Untinted shade boasts a clean ingredient list, containing only silica and mica. This means you can confidently apply it to your skin knowing exactly what you’re using.

BEST BLUSH FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

JANE IREDALE PUREPRESSED BLUSH

This silky powder blush defies expectations. It starts as a powder but transforms into a creamy, natural flush thanks to hydrating ingredients like shea butter, pomegranate extract, and jojoba seed oil. With 14 buildable shades, there’s a perfect hue for every skin tone, delivering a lit-from-within glow that’s both buildable and beautiful.

SAIE DEW BLUSH

This dewy blush delivers flawless color without any patchiness or streaks. Its buildable formula allows for customizable intensity, melting into the skin for a natural flush. Packed with hydrating glycerin and antioxidant-rich elderberry extract, this blush not only enhances your complexion but also nourishes and protects it. For a rosy glow, try Chilly; for a warmer tone, opt for Spicy.

BEST LIPSTICK FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

ILIA COLOR BLOCK HIGH-IMPACT LIPSTICK

Ilia’s botanical-infused lipstick offers a perfect blend of skincare and color. Packed with nourishing seed oils and butters, this clean beauty formula delivers all-day hydration while providing a vibrant, long-lasting pigment. Gene praises the lipstick’s gorgeous color payoff and its ability to keep lips soft and comfortable.

BURT’S BEES GLOSSY LIQUID LIPSTICK

While Burt’s Bees is renowned for its lip balms, the brand also offers a standout liquid lipstick. This often-overlooked product boasts a completely natural formula enriched with nourishing plant oils, providing impressive coverage without drying out lips. With its 18 vibrant shades and long-lasting glossy finish, it’s no wonder Burt’s Bees remains a trusted name in natural beauty.

BEST LIP BALMS AND LIP GLOSSES FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

HONEST BEAUTY TINTED LIP BALM

This tinted lip balm is a lifesaver for dry, cracked lips. Packed with hydrating avocado oil, it locks in moisture for a full eight hours. Lin loves that it’s vegan, clean, and affordable. Perfect for those days when you want a hint of color without the full commitment of lipstick, this balm is a must-have for your purse.

TOWER 28 SHINEON LIP JELLY NONSTICKY GLOSS

Sticky glosses have the tendency to clog pores and don’t actually boost lips’ moisture retention. This buttery gloss from Tower 28 is an enigma and feels more like a balm that just so happens to have a high-shine finish. Yadav appreciates that it combines a blend of nourishing, plant-based ingredients like apricot kernel oil, raspberry seed oil and rose hip oil to heal lips and give them a “juicy shine.”

KOSAS WET LIP OIL GLOSS

Think twice before opting for lip plumpers that tingle and burn. These irritating formulas can actually damage your lips. Instead, Gene recommends a hydrating lip oil enriched with hyaluronic acid and peptides. This gentle approach not only plumps your lips but also keeps them moisturized for hours. Enjoy a fuller pout without the discomfort.

THE PERFECT MAKEUP ROUTINE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Discover our 10-step makeup routine designed to pamper sensitive skin:

ALWAYS START BY CLEANSING YOUR SKIN

Daily cleansing removes dirt, grime, and impurities, preventing irritation and allowing your skin to breathe. Opt for a gentle cleanser formulated for sensitive skin, using it both morning and evening. For a deeper clean, incorporate a gentle exfoliator once a week to smooth and purify your skin.

MOISTURISE BEFORE APPLYING MAKEUP

Proper cleansing and moisturizing prepare your skin for an even, luminous finish. For sensitive skin, choose a moisturizer tailored to your specific needs: opt for TOLERIANE Sensitive for general sensitivity, TOLERIANE Ultra for allergies, ROSALIAC for redness, EFFACLAR for oily and blemish-prone skin, NUTRIC for dryness, or REDERMIC/HYALU B5 for anti-aging concerns.

CORRECT WITH A CONCEALER

Tinted concealers can effectively target specific skin concerns. Green concealer neutralizes redness, while yellow corrects under-eye circles. Beige concealers offer broader coverage for imperfections. For a quick and natural look, BB creams provide light coverage and even skin tone, perfect for minimal makeup days.

EVEN OUT THE COMPLEXION WITH A FOUNDATION FORMULATED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

Start by placing five dots of foundation on your forehead, both cheekbones, nose, and chin. Gently blend the product outward using a brush and finish with a sponge or your fingertips for a natural, seamless look. This application technique works for cream, fluid, or compact foundations.

SET YOUR MAKEUP WITH MATTIFYING POWDER

To lock your foundation and concealer in place and control shine, dust a mattifying powder over your entire face. Focus on areas prone to oiliness, such as the forehead, chin, and sides of the nose, for a longer-lasting, shine-free complexion.

SCULPT YOUR FACE WITH BLUSH

A touch of blush on the apples of your cheeks can instantly brighten your complexion and create a healthy glow. 

GLORIFY YOUR EYES WITH SENSITIVE EYE MAKEUP

Given the delicate nature of the eyelid skin and its susceptibility to allergies, it’s crucial to select eye makeup products that have undergone dermatological testing and are free from allergens. Such choices not only benefit those with sensitive skin but also offer comfort and safety for contact lens wearers.

ENHANCE YOUR SMILE

To achieve a polished lip look, begin by outlining your lips with a lip liner that closely matches your lipstick shade. This step defines your lip shape, prevents lipstick from feathering, and significantly enhances its staying power. Once the outline is complete, fill in your lips with the lipstick, starting from the center and working your way outwards to the corners for a seamless application.

PERFECT YOUR MAKEUP AND PROTECT YOUR SKIN WITH THERMAL SPRING WATER

Refresh and protect your makeup with a spritz of La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water. Enriched with soothing minerals and antioxidants, this unique water hydrates, softens, and supports sensitive skin health. Its prebiotic properties help balance skin’s natural microbiome, ensuring a longer-lasting, flawless finish.

USE A MAKEUP REMOVER FORMULATED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN AND EYES

Thorough nightly cleansing is paramount for maintaining healthy skin. Removing dirt, allergens, and impurities is crucial to prevent irritation and allow your skin to breathe. Neglecting this essential step can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and other skin issues.

CONCLUSION

Makeup for sensitive skin requires patience and careful selection to avoid skin irritation. However, with the right products and gentle makeup techniques, you can absolutely have beautiful and radiant makeup. Always listen to your body and pay attention to how your skin feels to adjust your makeup accordingly. Wishing you always have healthy, beautiful skin and radiant makeup!