Whether it gives a matte finish or illuminates your look, a powder is an essential part of a flawless makeup look. But with so many options to choose from and not knowing what each one does, it is natural to get confused. If you have ever stood in a makeup aisle wondering whether to pick a loose powder or opt for a pressed powder, then this article is for you. In this article, we'll talk about your best day pressed setting powder and loose powder, help you understand the benefits of each, and how it can enhance your makeup look. Read on and figure out!
01Loose vs Pressed Setting Powder: The Basics

Are loose powder and pressed powder interchangeable, or are they two different entities all together? Is one better than the other? And do you have to consider your skin type while buying makeup powders? No, we are not trying to confuse you; in fact, we will answer all these questions, so you can make a choice and create a flawless foundation like a pro.
02Loose Setting Powder: Benefits and Tips on Usage
1. Even finish
Loose powders are a great option if you need a luminous and even finish. If you want to blush your cheeks and achieve a soft, peachy skin tone, we suggest you trying the Lakmé Rose Face Powder with a light rosy fragrance and sunscreen to protect your skin.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
2. Finely Miled
Loose powder is also used for baking and offers light coverage. This finely milled powder contains less oil and is therefore a better option for combination and oily skin types.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
3. Best for Setting
The silky texture of loose powder means it works better as a setting powder. It is not generally used on its own, you apply it after a foundation to set your makeup and make it last longer.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
03Pressed Setting Powder: Benefits and Tips on Usage

1. Compact and Convenient
A pressed powder is a convenient option for busy ones, especially for those who need to touch-up their makeup throughout the day. You can try Lakmé 9to5 Primer + Matte Powder Foundation which is multitasking and can provide foundation or powder like coverage with wet or dry application.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
2. Flawless coverage
Pressed powders offer excellent coverage that can help conceal imperfections such as blemishes and uneven skin tone. In addition to concealing imperfections, pressed powders can also help to control shine, which makes them a popular choice for those with oily and combination skin.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
3. For All Skin Types
Those with dry skin can also benefit from the added moisture and coverage that a pressed powder can provide. Ultimately, choosing the right powder for your skin type and needs can help ensure a flawless and natural-looking finish all day long.
Tips on How to Apply It Correctly
When applying a powder, it's important to focus on the oiliest parts of your face, such as your nose or forehead. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
04FAQs
Q1 Can you use pressed powder as a foundation?
While pressed powder can be used to set your foundation or touch up your makeup, it is not typically used as a foundation on its own. Dry pressed powder does not provide enough coverage to act as a foundation, but if you try a wet application method, it can give you a foundation like finish.
Q2 What is the best day cream and pressed setting powder combo for dry and oily skin?
The best day cream and pressed setting powder combo will depend on your skin type. For dry skin, it's important to use a day and night face cream that provide intense hydration, such as one containing hyaluronic acid. When it comes to day cream and pressed setting powder combo, a lightweight formula will help set your makeup without drying out your skin. For oily skin, a lightweight, oil-free day cream pressed setting powder combo will help control excess oil production throughout the day. Look for a day cream that contains ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or retinol to help manage oil production. When it comes to pressed setting powder, opt for a formula that is oil-free and designed specifically for oily skin to help mattify your complexion and control shine.
Q3 How can you prevent pressed powder from looking cakey?
Pressed powder can sometimes look cakey, especially if you apply too much or if your skin is dry. To prevent this, make sure to moisturise your skin before applying pressed powder. Use a light hand when applying the powder, and blend it out evenly with a fluffy brush. If you notice any cakey areas, gently tap them with a damp makeup sponge to remove excess powder. Now you know the difference between loose and pressed powder, also check our foundation guide and the correct order to apply makeup products.