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One of the first-ever makeup products I owned was a pressed powder. Being a teen, I had oily skin the whole time I was in school. Having a pressed powder in my cosmetic bag assured me that I won't look shiny when I recite in front of my class. Although it was tiny, that compact gave me confidence during puberty.
As an adult, I still love using pressed powder. I've discovered different brands and formulas and learned how to ~properly~ utilize this mighty product. I already have my favorite (backup) pressed powders on my vanity table, and I always bring one in my bag for touchups.
If you're still on the lookout for Below, I give you the lowdown on the best pressed powder recommendations, makeup tools, and application tips.
The Best Pressed Powders You'll Really, Really Like
It was hard to narrow down this list because there are a lot of options available here in the country. Ahead, the best oil-controlling and skin-perfecting pressed powders.
Careline Oil Control Face Powder
If you're just starting to build your makeup kit, make sure to include this local pressed powder. Its lightweight finish is perfect for everyday use, plus it keeps the skin looking matte and fresh.
Careline Oil Control Face Powder, P148.50
Maybelline Fit Me Compact Powder
Here's an excellent oil-controlling pressed powder: It promises to keep the complexion shine-free for up to 12 hours, and it won't clog the pores, too.
Maybelline Fit Me Compact Powder, P249
GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder
If you see almost everyone on the internet using this, it's because it's really *that* good. It's a skin-perfecting powder that you'll always want to keep in your kikay kit.
GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder, P449
NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder
The NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder doesn't leave a white cast so you'll look stunning in your selfies and in person. Its soft-focus finish diffuses fine lines, wrinkles, and pores. Shine doesn't stand a chance as it keeps it under control throughout the day. We love both Crystal (translucent) and Shore (Medium to Medium Deep).
NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder, P2,250, Lazada
This limited-edition version promises a brighter, flawless, airbrushed finish. BTW, this powder was sold out in Japan!
Pre-order NARS Light Reflecting Prismatic Powder in Moonwave + NARS Light Reflecting Foundation Set, P5,200, Lazada
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Pressed Powder
This powder was made for the latest high-definition technologies of the film and TV industry, but you can benefit from its genius formula even off the camera. It grants your skin a radiant, velvety finish. It's a must if you love posting cute pics of yourself on Insta.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Pressed Powder, P2,400, Lazada
Cle De Peau Refining Pressed Powder
This ultra-fine pressed powder effectively sets the makeup. It blurs uneven skin texture and grants you a fresh-looking complexion. The pretty compact makes it hard not to bring it in your everyday bag.
Cle De Peau Refining Pressed Powder, P5,600, Greenbelt 5
The Best Ways To Apply Pressed Powder
With a fluffy brush
Choose a brush with soft, densely packed bristles for a natural, flawless finish. Start by lightly swirling the brush into the pressed powder and tap off any excess. Then, using circular motions, apply the powder to your face. Focus on the areas where you tend to get oily or shiny, like the T-zone.
Anne Clutz Singles Blend To Set Powder Brush, P249
With a powder puff
A powder puff can offer more coverage or targeted application. Press the puff onto the powder, then gently press and roll it onto your skin. Apply powder on areas that need mattifying help like the forehead, nose, and cheeks. (Check out our Cloud Skin Tutorial for more details.)
Triangle Powder Puff, P30
Common mistakes in applying pressed powder
- Applying too much powder -Patting and pressing that powder into your skin to keep the shine away the whole day won't cut it. Too much powder can leave you looking like you dipped your face in a flour sack. Instead, gently dust the powder on with a fluffy brush, focusing on the areas where shine tends to show up.
- Using the wrong shade - Choosing a shade that's either too light or too dark for your skin tone will make your complexion look dull and tired. Get a perfect match that seamlessly blends into your complexion, so no one would guess that you're wearing makeup. Take your time and swatch a few shades IRL. It also helps when you know your undertones first. (QUIZ: What Is Your Skin's Undertone?)
- Not blending it properly - Once you've applied your pressed powder with your chosen makeup tool, take a fluffy brush and buff it into your skin using circular motions. This technique helps to blend the powder flawlessly to leave an airbrushed and radiant finish.
How To Retouch Using Pressed Powder
The heat in the Philippines is insane so we've already accepted that we would have a shiny face by lunchtime. We need pressed powders in our kits for touch-ups!
Pressed powders are pretty easy to use, but retouching is another kind of game. If not done correctly, you may just end up with a thick buildup of powder that is not cute at all.
We find that using a face brush is the best way to touch up a shiny T-zone. It never gives a cakey finish, and it provides a light veil enough to mattify the skin. Go for a retractable face brush to fit your makeup bag.
MAANGE Retractable Makeup Brush, P95
Tip: For extra hot and humid days, we highly suggest spritzing the face with a facial mist to *reset* and refresh the complexion. Wait for the skin to fully absorb the moisture before retouching with pressed powder. Otherwise, you would be left with a cakey finish. Here are some of our fave facial mists.
How is pressed powder different from powder foundation?
Pressed powder is usually used as a finishing touch to set your makeup and mattify the skin. Powder foundation can be used on its own as a base to even out the skin tone and provide coverage.
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Links are updated regularly and as much as possible, but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.