17 Top Setting Powders for Long-Lasting Makeup in 2023, Tested and Reviewed

17 Top Setting Powders for Long-Lasting Makeup in 2023, Tested and Reviewed

The Best Setting Powders of 2023: Lock in Your Makeup for All-Day Wear!

My skin is a bit moody. Some days, it’s greasy and oily, while other days, it’s dull and parched. Blame it on the unpredictable weather of NYC. So, how do my tinted moisturizers, cream blushes, and face glosses manage to stay put all day long? Well, it’s all thanks to one secret weapon – setting powder. You see, setting powders have ingredients that work like little locks, keeping your makeup in place and extending its wear time. Makeup artists have been using this trick for ages!

Being a beauty enthusiast and a makeup experimenter, I’ve personally put 25+ setting powders to the test over the last six months. And I’ve teamed up with makeup artists Tayaba Jafri and Tobi Henney to bring you our top picks for the best setting powders in 2023. From pressed powders to loose powders, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here’s a sneak peek at our favorites:

*Updated as of June 2023

Before we dive into the details, let’s answer a few burning questions you might have.

What is setting powder?

Setting powder is a magical product that keeps your makeup in place. It acts as the top coat that sets your liquid and cream products, preventing them from smudging or budging throughout the day. You should use it on top of your foundation and concealer to eliminate shine and lock in your look. It’s like the final touch that ensures your masterpiece remains untouched.

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What’s the difference between setting powder and finishing powder?

Setting powder and finishing powder are not the same thing! Using the wrong one can seriously sabotage your makeup. Here’s the breakdown:

• Setting powder: This medium-weight powder is used to set your makeup and give it longevity. It doesn’t provide coverage and comes in different finishes: natural, matte, or luminous. Think of it as a protective shield for your makeup.

• Finishing powder: This ultra-light formula is the last step in your makeup routine. Its purpose is to blend everything together and give your skin a flawless finish. It doesn’t provide coverage, but it can give a subtle glow. It’s like the cherry on top of your makeup masterpiece.

Remember, powder foundation is not a setting powder! It’s meant to replace liquid foundation and even out your skin tone.

Is setting powder necessary?

While no makeup step is truly necessary (do your thing, girl), setting powder can be a game-changer. If you want to mattify your makeup, keep it in place, and make it last longer, setting powder is your best friend. It’s that one product that ensures your hard work doesn’t go to waste.

Now that we’ve answered your burning questions, let’s dive into our fabulous selection of setting powders!

Our Top Picks

1. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder

Price: $45 at Sephora

Pros: – Finish can be built up without getting heavy.

Cons: – Some reviewers wished it were more blurring.

As much as I love the weightless feel of loose powder, sometimes I need a little extra coverage for my textured, acne-prone skin. That’s where Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder comes to the rescue! This GOAT pressed powder has a hint of tinted coverage that evens out your makeup and skin tone without looking heavy. Thanks to its super-fine consistency, your makeup will look amazingly even and last all day long.

The reviews for this product speak for themselves. One satisfied customer writes, “Love this product! It makes a noticeable difference in both photos and in person. Your face won’t look cakey with this powder. This is my second time buying it.”

2. Uoma Beauty Trippin Smooth Powder

Price: $29 at Ulta Beauty

Pros: – Twist dispenser is less messy than regular powder jars.

Cons: – Lightest shade has a yellow undertone that didn’t work for some fair-skin testers.

Say goodbye to messy setting powders with Uoma Beauty Trippin Smooth Powder. The genius packaging allows you to dispense the powder without it flying everywhere. Infused with glycerin and mushroom extract, this powder lightly hydrates your skin, preventing cakiness and dry patches. It’s perfect for those who want a matte finish without sacrificing their skin’s health.

One happy reviewer raves, “Let me just say, the packaging is genius. If you’ve ever tipped over or dropped a jar of loose powder, you’ll know what I mean. Never again with this product. It goes on like a dream, even over products from different brands.”

3. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

Price: $43 at Sephora

Pros: – Leaves skin with a soft-matte finish without feeling heavy. – Testers say it makes their makeup last 12+ hours.

Cons: – Can be too matte on dry skin types, according to some testers.

The iconic Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a must-have in every makeup bag. Loved by celebrities, makeup artists, and editors, this powder has a fine, airy texture that feels super light on your skin while giving you a smooth, blurred, matte finish. For the best results, press the powder into your skin with a puff instead of brushing it on. This technique ensures long-lasting makeup.

Customers adore this product as well. One glowing review states, “This product is SO good! It made a significant difference in my oily skin throughout the day. It leaves my skin looking soft and matte.”

These are just a few of our favorite setting powders. Whether you have oily skin, dry skin, or a combination, there’s a perfect powder out there for you. Don’t let your makeup fade away or melt off; lock it in with a fabulous setting powder!

Remember, these products are continually updated to provide you with the latest and greatest in the world of setting powders. So go ahead, explore our top picks, and give your makeup the long-lasting finish it deserves!

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Disclaimer: The prices and availability of products are subject to change. Please check the retailer’s website for the most up-to-date information.