Power powders are making a comeback
It’s the age old make-up debate: which is best, liquid or powder foundation? The truth is that, whether you favour fluid formulas or a mattifying powder, at least one of the best powder foundation formulas is a must-have in your kit.
Why? These tend to stay in place, minimise shine with mattifying properties and photograph well, especailly if you need the best foundation for oily skin to hand. Powder foundation is a great choice for people with any oiliness, sensitivity or acne-prone skin, or those who simply don’t want anything heavy on their face.
Gone are the days of chalky formulas that give an unwanted cakey finish reminiscent of secondary school days, as the best powder foundation buys now blend like cream formulas and blur your complexion for a softer finish. So, what do the experts love?
‘One of my favourite Powder Foundations is the bareMinerals Original Foundation SPF 15,’ explains top make-up artist and YouTuber Cher Webb. ‘An award-winning cult classic and a favourite for many, it’s perfect for all skin types and a small amount of product goes a long way.
‘The unique, lighter than air powder texture is packed with just five vegan-friendly minerals, feels lightweight and looks luminous on the skin. I love how versatile it is and that you can create a sheer to full coverage that never looks like you’re wearing powder. It’s genius. I like to use it on its own and also on top of light foundations. It’s a staple in my make-up kit and one that I always go back to!’
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is also a fan, telling us in her Beauty Bytes chat: ‘At first I was a bit apprehensive about using powder as a foundation. Like, how is that going to look on my skin, is it gonna look cakey? Am I gonna look dry? Is it really going to give me coverage? But I’m so pleasantly surprised by the coverage, how quick and easy it is to use and how glowy I look; surprisingly it doesn’t make you look powdered. I feel like I’ve got a really light foundation on.’
Keep on scrolling for a few more of the Marie Claire approved list of the best powder foundations money can buy.
NARS All Day Luminous Powder Foundation, £35, Fabled
If you're after a luminous finish, rather than matte, look to NARS. Exclusive Luminous Enhancing Technology smooths and evens the complexion with color that lasts, even in high humidity.
Benefit Hello Happy Velvet Powder Foundation, £26, Cult Beauty
Think soft-focus medium coverage that's not too matte and gives a healthy glow. As the name suggests, it has a velvety soft finish with buildable coverage.
Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Powder Foundation, £45, Cult Beauty
Kevyn Aucoin's eponymous brand makes some of the best complexion products on the market. Infused with topaz and quartz minerals to maintain skin tone and texture, this powder foundation will make your skin look radiant with a simultaneous matte finish.
Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Powder Makeup, £33, fabled.com
A household name in the world of beauty, Estee Lauder's Double Wear promises 8 hours of staying power. Result!
Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation, £34, fabled.com
This formula, although lightweight, provides some seriously excellent coverage. And it's available in 20 shades, so you're sure to find your perfect match.
