Powder

A classic makeup application requires powdering after you’ve applied your foundation, but powdering doesn’t work for all types of foundation. Powdering works best after ap­plying a water-based, creamy, or matte foundation that isn’t all that matte. It can be either unnecessary or even problematic to apply powder over most oil-free or matte foundations, or over any of the pressed-powder, cream-to-powder, or liquid-to-powder foundations. Some stick foundations that dry to a powder finish do not need extra powder, but those that remain creamy do.

As a general guideline, the less powder you build up on your face, the less made-up you will appear. Overpowdering can also make the face look dull and dry, especially if you have dry skin or a darker skin tone. Some amount of natural, dewy shine to the face is very attractive. After a foundation is applied, the slight shine that is left behind (except with oil-free, matte, and pressed-powder foundations) gives the face a radiant glow. Powder is great for touch-ups as the day goes by to tone down excessive shine. The trick is to apply it in sheer layers so you don’t look overdone.

Updated: October 7, 2015 — 2:33 am