Top 10 Setting Powders

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Bobbi Brown is known for their natural and understated makeup, so it’s no surprise this finishing powder looks like wearing nothing at all. It’s your skin, perfected. The mattifying formula helps keep skin from appearing too shiny, particularly when applied to the T-zone, while specially formulated spherical particles allow it to float above any imperfections for a flawless look.

HELPFUL TIP: This powder can help set your under-eye concealer for all-day coverage without creasing.

WHAT IT DOES: Made for "baking," this powder brightens the complexion while helping to hide dark circles with a mixture of natural-looking pink and golden undertones. It has medium coverage, which can also make it a great summer swap for liquid foundation.

HELPFUL TIP: If you want to learn more about using this as baking powder, check out this video for tons of tips and tricks on this popular makeup trend.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: While the banana tint of this translucent powder might raise a few eyebrows, there's no need to be concerned about looking like the literal fruit. The shade simply works to combat the lightening effects of regular powders, so you don't have to worry about looking like a ghost—especially under flash photography.

USER REVIEW: "I am no stranger to setting powders, or makeup in general. I have used so many setting powders, high end and drugstore, and this is one of the best I have used! I wasn't sure if I'd like the yellowness, but it does not make my skin look yellow whatsoever. I put this on after I apply the Maybelline Superstay foundation, and it makes my skin look SO soft and pores minimized. I absolutely love it! Will continue to repurchase."

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: At their core, Tacha is a skincare brand, so they place an emphasis on beauty products that not only help the skin look good while wearing them but actually improve the skin, too. Using targeted ingredients like silk proteins, fibroin, and sericin, this powder moisturizes and fortifies the skin while protecting from blue light and pollution. 

ABOUT THE BRAND: Tatcha bases all its products around traditional Geisha beauty rituals, which have been proven to work over hundreds of years.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Providing a soft-focus blur for the skin, this translucent powder comes in one ultra-sheer, universal shade designed to blend into a variety of skin tones and textures. The weightless formula makes skin appear smooth by utilizing microparticles that diffuse the light.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Combine the loose powder with the Hourglass Veil Setting Spray for makeup that can withstand the hottest summer days.

WHO IT'S FOR: This incredibly light product is perfect for those who want to achieve the no-makeup-makeup look. The slightly pearlized, multidimensional finish gives the skin a naturally youthful appearance. And, since the pressed powder contains MAC's 77 mineral complex and vitamin E, it helps improve skin with long-term use.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Because it has a soft shimmer, this product doubles as a natural-looking highlighter.

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: According to rave reviews, this formula is a total dupe for the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. The cult favorite is loved for its ability to beautifully lock down foundation without caking or creasing—even on the under eyes. Coty Airspun is a close rival and rings up under $10.

HELPFUL TIP: If it's a little too lightweight for your liking, go with the Extra Coverage version.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: This lightweight makeup setting powder comes in eight sheer shades that blend with a variety of skin tones. The professional-quality formula was designed for photoshoots, so not only does it blur fine lines and imperfections, but it also looks natural on camera—even with a flash.

ABOUT THE BRAND: Fenty was founded by Rihanna, who saw a gap in the makeup market for a brand that worked for all skin types and tones. Rihanna launched Fenty with an amazing array of 50 foundation shades, setting a new standard for inclusivity in the beauty industry. 

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: This breathable powder provides medium coverage without ever caking or looking heavy on the skin. It also contains almond oil and rose wax, which condition and nourish the skin while providing a texture that allows for seamless blending and a natural finish that reduces shine.  

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This product also comes in a mini size, which is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups and those that want to test it out before committing to the full-size version.

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Made in three colors, this incredibly translucent makeup setting powder works for a range of skin tones. Light and mattifying, it keeps shine at bay for up to eight hours and keeps makeup in place for 16. It also contains antioxidants like vitamins C and E, improving the skin’s appearance over time.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: With its oil-absorbing properties, this powder is best for normal, oily, and combination skin.