How Do You Use Setting Powder? Before or After Foundation?

Co-authored by Bia Rehman and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: December 7, 2021 References

If you have oily skin or you just need your makeup to last all day, you’re probably reaching for the setting powder. Setting powder is great for absorbing oil and grease and locking in your makeup, but it can be tough to figure out where it fits into your makeup routine. In this article, we’ve answered your questions about setting powder and foundation so you can figure out the right application method for your makeup look.

Question 1 of 6:

Can you put foundation over setting powder?

Yes, and it can help your foundation last longer. If you want to use this method, moisturize your skin and then dip a fluffy brush into loose setting powder. Swipe the powder all over your face, focusing especially on oily areas, like your forehead, your nose, and your chin. Then, apply your liquid foundation on top to make it last longer.^{[1]
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- This is a non-traditional way to use setting powder, but it works super well! You might apply setting powder before foundation if you’re going to a special event or a photoshoot where your makeup needs to last all day.
- For best results, try to pick out a setting powder that matches the shade of your foundation exactly.

Question 2 of 6:

Can you put setting powder on top of liquid foundation?

Yes, if you want to control oil and shine. This is the more traditional way to apply setting powder, and it can help your makeup look matte and fresh all day.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Bia Rehman
Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Expert Interview. 8 November 2021.} Dip a fluffy brush into your powder, then swirl it onto your face in a circular motion. Focus on the areas of your face that might get more oily, like your nose, your cheeks, and your chin.^{[3]
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Question 3 of 6:

How do you use setting powder without looking cakey?

1
Pick a powder for your skin type. If you have oily skin, go for a setting powder that gives a matte finish. If you have dry skin, stick to one with hydrating and moisturizing properties.^{[4]
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Use a powder puff brush. Beauty sponges are great, but they tend to pack on powder and make your skin look cakey. Instead, pick up setting powder with a powder puff brush and tap off the excess. It will ensure your powder goes on smooth and doesn’t cake up.^{[5]
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Use a single coat. Packing on setting powder might seem like a good idea, but using too much can really make your skin look cakey. Brush a single layer on, then don’t add any more to avoid looking overdone.^{[6]
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Question 4 of 6:

Is translucent powder the same as setting powder?

No, translucent powder is usually a finishing powder. Finishing powder is slightly stronger than setting powder, and it’s used to blend fine lines and wrinkles. While you do put finishing powder on after foundation, you’d usually use it as an extra layer of coverage and to blur out any imperfections.^{[7]
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- Setting powder sets your foundation, but it doesn’t blur out fine lines. Setting powder is used solely for getting your makeup to last longer. You can still use it on top of your foundation, but you’d only use it to keep it in place all day.^{[8]
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- Choose either a translucent powder or a setting powder, not both.

Question 5 of 6:

Do you apply translucent powder after foundation?

Yes, if you’d like to control oil and shine. If you need your makeup to last a long time or you have oily skin, translucent powder is perfect for you. Simply dip a powder puff brush into some translucent powder and tap off the excess. Then, swirl your brush in circular motions over your T-zone, or your nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. It will lock your foundation into place and keep it looking great all day.^{[9]
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- If you’re going anywhere with flash photography, stick to a colored powder instead. Translucent powder tends to cause flashback, and it can highlight your face in strange ways under camera lights.

Question 6 of 6:

Should I use setting spray or setting powder?

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Use powder to remove shine and add coverage. Powder adds a layer on top of your face that helps absorb oil and gives your foundation a fuller coverage.^{[10]
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Expert Source

Bia Rehman
Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Expert Interview. 8 November 2021.} To use setting powder, finish off your makeup and dip a powder brush into your product. Swirl the powder all over your face, focusing on your oily areas, like your nose, chin, and cheeks.^{[11]
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2
Use setting spray to set your makeup while staying dewy. If you have dry skin or you’re going for a dewy look, reach for a setting spray.^{[12]
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Expert Source

Bia Rehman
Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Expert Interview. 8 November 2021.} Finish your makeup and hold the bottle about 6 in (15 cm) away from your face. Close your eyes and spritz setting spray 2 to 3 times over your whole face.^{[13]
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Expert Q&A

Question

Where do you apply setting powder?

Bia Rehman
Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Bia Rehman is a Licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist based in Austin, Texas. With more than 11 years of experience, she specializes in bridal, special event, and editorial makeup that highlights natural beauty. Bia attended cosmetology school in Houston, TX, and received a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from The University of Houston.

Bia Rehman

Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist

Expert Answer

You can apply it to your entire face for a matte finish, or just apply it to areas that are prone to oiliness, like your T-zone.