Favourites: Translucent Powders

Let's set our look.

Over the years, I've tried many, many powders. It has taken about 5 years but I think I've finally settled on my top three setting powders (note how I say setting powders and not powered foundation - this will be a separate post). When I look for a setting powder, I typically need one that sets my face to a natural/matte finish, controls my oily tzone and one that requires minimal touch ups throughout the day.

Here it goes:

1. La Mer Translucent Powder

Luxury in a tub. This powder comes in a large glass container with a white plastic lid. Not only does the outside of the product look amazing, but inside it also comes with a powder puff that is gentle and soft on the skin (I do have to be honest though and let you know that powder puff is not my selected method of application). Application of this powder is simple - any soft flat top brush (natural hairs work better) or a fluffy powder brush. It sets any foundation by leaving a beautiful natural finish that is not too matte. It makes the skin looks ridiculously luminous after apply the powder and no touch ups are required throughout the day. What'a also great about the powder is that it is super, super finally milled. There is no creasing when you use it and no caking under the eyes. It also looks beautiful in photos. While this product is super expensive, the tub is HUGE (25 grams) and it will last a long time.

2. Essence Fix and Matte Powder

The opposite side of the price scale to number one but just as effective in my opinion. While only picking this up for $2 at a makeup sale, this nifty little product has become one of my most reached for. I've completely used up two tubs and plan on purchasing many more (when I can find it - its always sold out at my local Priceline). When you first feel this powder, it is super cooling and very fine. I use a large fluffy brush to apply it on my face, specifically focusing on the tzone. I've noticed that it does not crease or cause any caking. This powder takes away any shine and sets my foundation to a nice matte to natural base. I do have to mention that if you apply too much, your face will appear white. When this happens, I just use a setting spray over the face and problem solved.

3. Illamasqua Translucent Powder

This works the same as La Mer and Essence - in fact everything that I've mentioned above about the quality of the products is the same for powder. The texture is super fine, it does not crease or cake and finally it lasts throughout any day without any touch ups required. It doesn't leave any white residue and there is no flash back when it comes to photos. I also have oily skin and find that this powder is able to keep the oils at bay for at least 7 hours. One of the best things about this powder that makes it stand out is the beautiful sweet scent. There's not much I can really knock about this product. I say go to your nearest David Jones counter and try it out.

Special mentions:

Ben Nye Neutral Set Powder

I find this powder quite similar to the three powders above. It is nicely milled, super soft and quite silky. I got mine from Hub Makeup for $12-$15 (smaller jar) and it's lasted for over a year. Keep in mind to really blend this powder in to avoid any white patches on the face.

What are your favourite powders?

Next on my list to try is the RCMA.

Love Cindy aka Skindzmakeup