Laura Mercier Translucent is the setting powder that basically invented the category for a lot of people. Oily-skin reviewers say it keeps foundation set and matte for hours and blurs texture without adding colour. It isn't an oil sponge that lasts all day on the greasiest faces, and it can cling to dry patches, so it's best on oily and combination skin that's prepped well. If you want the cult classic, this is it.
Allure named it Best Loose Overall in its guide to the best setting powders, pointing out that the formula has stayed unchanged for around 25 years.
Makeup artists and creators still call it a go-to setting powder that's hard to beat for a blurred, natural-looking set.
Oily and combination reviewers say it keeps makeup set and matte for hours with a soft-focus finish. Some very oily users find shine creeps back by the afternoon, and drier skin types say it can cling to flaky areas.
Key Ingredients -
Finely milled mineral powder base. Check the label for the current formula
How to Use -
Tap a little into the lid, pick up with a puff or fluffy brush, knock off the excess and press over the T-zone and under-eyes. Sweep away any leftover powder.
Good to Know -
A little goes a long way, so tap off the excess. Can emphasise dry patches. Always patch test before using a new product.
FAQs
Is Laura Mercier setting powder good for oily skin?
Many oily and combination reviewers rate it for setting and soft matte, though the oiliest skin may still need blotting later in the day.
Does translucent powder leave a white cast?
Most reviewers say it goes on clear when you tap off the excess. Heavy baking can look white in flash photos.
Can I use it under my eyes?
Yes. Press a thin layer over concealer to stop creasing, and avoid piling it on.
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: the finely milled loose powder that sets makeup with a soft, blurred finish and almost no added colour.
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NYX Professional Makeup Can't Stop Won't Stop Mattifying Powder (comes in multiple shades)
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
