If the velvety, matte finish you get when powdering post-foundation is your kind of look, you might want to consider condensing two steps into one. Powder foundations are an effective way to blur blemishes, while leaving your skin looking like, well, skin.
In fact, powder foundations can even work wonders when it comes to dark circles, which may even put your beloved concealer out of a job too.
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The compact, buildable formulas will be the kindest to oily or combination skin types, as well as your best friend when you’re in need of an on-the-go touch-up. But that’s not to say there isn’t a formula for everyone and every skin type, either.
Here, we list the best powder foundations – packed with hydrating ingredients and skin-loving formulas to ensure a soft and diffused finish, every time.
Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover Foundation
We say: Forget the powder foundations that highlight dry patches and sink into deep lines. Nude by Nature’s creamy formula uses naturally hydrating ingredients, like jojoba esters and kaolin clay, for a flawless and hydrating application.
You say: “I have acne, redness, and lots of fine hairs, and this is the only powder that covers it without clumping around the uneven texture. It’s a nice light to medium coverage foundation, and it lets your skin feel like it can still breathe.” – Private function
Want to know more? Read Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover Foundation reviews here…
M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation
We say: For a mistake-proof finish, M.A.C’s powder foundation provides a matte coverage that absorbs unwanted oils, leaving skin with a breathable and smooth finish.
You say: “ I love that I can apply it lightly or just dab it onto where I’m shiny to help give me a more matte look – but the look is lovely and natural too and makes me look better!! I also love how it can be applied heavier and more coats can be put on.” – clearcrystalwater
Want to know more? Read M.A.C Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation reviews here…
L’Oréal Paris True Match Mineral Foundation
We say: If you like your foundation to offer up a few skin-healing benefits as well as coverage, look in L’Oréal’s direction. The lightweight powder formula contains kaolin and zinc to reduce blemishes by controlling oil production, plus sea mineral extracts to prevent skin from drying out.
You say: “I love this product. I have been using this for about 10 years and I always come back to it. Repurchased many times!” – Miss Zoe Jade
Want to know more? Read L’Oreal Paris True Match Mineral Foundation reviews here…
Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20
We say: Ticking all the right boxes, Elizabeth Arden’s powder foundation has been formulated with SPF 20 as well as vitamins A, C and E. Plus, it’s made gentle enough for sensitive skin and brilliant enough to keep you looking luminous all day.
You say: “Absolutely love it! It does not cake, no matter how much you put on. Wonderful coverage, natural colour and matches my skin very well. It does not change colour as my skin gets oilier during the day.” – Flavii
Want to know more? Read Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 20 reviews here…
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Powder Makeup SPF10
We say: Well, we understand how they came up with the name. Those who are notorious for running late, listen up. This oil-absorbing formula offers impressive staying power, which means less time touching up and more time getting to where you need to go.
You say: “I have been using this for years. It gives a really nice finish over my foundation or I wear just the powder for a lighter look when I don’t want to wear much make up but it still gives me a nice even coverage and feels great.” – stacinator
Want to know more? Read Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Powder Makeup SPF10 reviews here…
It has great colours !
Me too Rose! It's so light and lovely but has great coverage!
The Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Powder is absolutely super but the lightest colour, which was perfect for me, is no longer available in Australia. I do like the Nude by Nature though.
I like the Nude by Nature and notice they now have different packaging.
I love nude by nature but I’ve bought 2 different shades that have been ‘coloured corrected to my skin’ and everytime I use them and go into sunlight there never correct. I try to pick the right shade for me but basically always fail. I typically end up buying 2-3 liquid foundations and end up with the right colour for long term use, but I can’t seem to do it with powder foundations.
I rarely use powder but I do love the Mac studio fix