Welcome back to the Beginner’s Guide to Makeup! Setting powder is a universal product that can make all the difference in your makeup routine. Today, you’ll learn everything you need to know about common mistakes beginners make when using pressed setting powder, and how to fix that for a flawless, even finish. Let’s dive in and get your makeup game on point!
DON’T:
It’s important to know what mistakes you’re making so that you can fix them! Below are the “don’ts” and the reasons why your pressed powder may not be performing as well as it could.
- Apply too much: Remember, with powder a little goes a long way. Over-application will lead to a patchy finish, and the makeup may even look cakey or dry. Use a light hand, just like bronzer, and build up as needed. Additionally, make sure to stay in natural lighting when applying to ensure everything looks even.
- Don’t use one that gives a white cast: This is a big no-no! You don’t want to use a powder that gives flashback in photos. What happens is that your makeup is going to look overly pale and ghostly in photos. It’s best to stick to powders that match your skin tone for best results!
- Don’t rub the powder: When applying, it’s important to press the powder in, don’t rub it! Pressed powder’s instructions are literally in the name, for best results press it in.
- Don’t apply to dry patches: It’s important to apply minimally on dry skin, because most likely you don’t require powder! If you have dry patches, try applying some moisturizer to even these patches out if you really want to use powder.
- Don’t apply too much around your eyes: Applying too much powder around your eyes may result in a patchy uneven finish that accentuates fine lines or make eyes appear dry. Make sure to use a light hand and apply minimally.
- Don’t apply to wet skin: Applying on wet skin will create an uneven tone for the rest of your makeup. From now on, make sure to apply on dry skin. If you must, apply moisturizer beforehand to ensure you’re properly prepping your skin to avoid an uneven finish.
DO:
Now that you know about the don’ts, let’s go over the do’s for a flawless finish!
- Use the correct shade: Using the incorrect shade is never fun! From now on, use a shade similar to your skin tone and always make sure to do a patch test (along your jawline) to test the shade. Additionally, choosing the correct shade will help to avoid any white cast or flashback in photos. Typically, powders will state whether or not they have flashback.
- Use a light hand: This applies across all makeup products, but especially with powder! It’s important to use both a light hand and a fluffy brush to avoid applying too much powder. Applying too much powder will result in a patchy uneven finish. The reason for the fluffy brush is because it will evenly distribute everything, leaving you with an even and natural finish.
- Dust a little on eyes: Doing this is a great way to prevent your eyeshadow from creasing. Think of it as a way to prep the eyelids for your eye makeup. Make sure to apply this before you have any eye makeup on your eyes for best results. (PRO TIP: Apply this on top of cream eyeshadow, you will be shocked at the difference this makes in longevity.)
- Press the powder in: The instructions are in the name! For best results, always make sure to press your powder in. This will allow you to control oil and shine as the day goes on. Additionally, it is much more effective compared to sweeping the powder over your skin.
- Apply in light layers: If you struggle with makeup lasting long, try applying pressed powder in light and even layers. This ensures that your makeup will adhere better to your skin. For example, apply after your base, and once your makeup is done.
- Use a small brush: For harder-to-reach areas, it can be useful to apply with a small fluffy brush. This will ensure that you’re still applying the powder (without over-applying it) for a flawless finish. For instance, under your eyes, this will be useful to implement.
Thank you for reading! By following the tips in this guide, you will not only avoid common mistakes when using pressed setting powder, but also achieve a flawless and even finish for your makeup. Don’t miss out on the latest updates from the Beginner’s Guide to Makeup by subscribing today!