Rund's Halloween Makeup TutorialOct.27.2020
For this edition of Clueless Beauty, we’re going to take a deep dive into the some of the powders out there that makeup gurus often talk about. We’re going to tackle translucent, finishing, and setting powders. What do they actually do? Is there a method to what part of your regimen you put them on? Is there really a difference? Should you be using all 3 in a single look? We’re about to answer all those burning beauty questions and take some of the mystery out of makeup.
So, let’s start with going over what each of these products actually are and what they’re meant to do. Each are meant to perform a separate function, though some can actually perform other duties in your beauty routine. And yes, there is some overlap. Really though, you don’t need to be incorporating all three products into your regimen at the same time. Let’s see what they are and what they do.;
The main purpose of translucent powder is to help set your makeup. Here, we’re talking about your blush, concealer, and foundation primarily. Translucent powder, as its name implies, is color-free. That means you’ll want to use it when you are going for a more natural looking finish and look. It’s meant to help your makeup stay in place longer. You can find it in two forms: loose powder and pressed powder. Loose is typically very sheer, while the powder variety tends to be more opaque and has a much heavier feel. It should be the final step in your makeup routine. Also great for reducing shine.
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Okay, here’s where things can get a little murky. It’s true that all three of these products can sometimes be marketed as essentially as the same thing. But one of the major differences between the three is at what step you should use setting powder. Where as both translucent powder and finishing powder are best used after all other makeup has been applied, setting powder is meant to be used right after your foundation and concealer. It’s main purpose is to keep these two things in place, not your entire look. Setting powder can be great for making your foundation feel less sticky and shiny. It can also keep your foundation from transferring to thinks like your clothes or phone. Since setting powder typically comes with some sort of tint to it, some ladies like to use it in place of their foundation to achieve a more natural, sheer look. It also comes in loose or pressed form. It can also be ideal for mid-day touch-ups and daily use.
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If you’ve ever seen pictures of celebrities with these weird white splotches of powdery makeup on their face, finishing powder is usually the culprit. Finishing powder is not really meant for daily use. Think of this more as a special occasion sort of thing. It works especially well if you’re going to be in front of a camera a lot or under bright lights. But, if you’re just going out on the town, you would be much better off using a translucent powder to finish your look. Finishing powder is used to make the skin appear smoother, and reduce the look of fine lines and pores. It’s meant to be a final step to hold all of your makeup in place. If you really want to use it, make sure you blend the absolute heck out of it. Some finishing powders can control shine, while others can give a bit of a glow.
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There always seems to be a trick involved to achieving the most flawless look you can with most kinds of makeup. The powder trio is no exception.
Here you’re going to want to go with either a flat-topped brush, or a domed powder brush. It all really comes down to what you find works best for you. First, dust your brush with some powder and lightly tap off the extra. Then, you’re going to want to use the brush in a gentle stamping motion to apply along your entire face. The first layer should be rather light to apply a even all-over base. Then, you’ll want to go in again, this time using a buffing motion with your brush to even and blend things out. To finish, use a few spritz of setting spray.
Okay, here’s a little tip with applying setting powder. While it is great as a final step in your beauty process, for the most flawless looks, setting powder should be used twice within your routine. The first time should be right after your foundation and concealer, but before anything like blush, bronzer, highlighter, or any other powder makeup for that matter. The second time should be after your look is totally completed to ensure a smooth, matte finish. Here, you’ll want to use one of your largest powder brushes. If you don’t have brushes, just go ahead and use the poof that came with your powder. Go ahead and put some on your brush, and again, tap off the extra. With setting powder, it’s all about the swirl. Start in the center of your face, and gently swirl the powder outward. Remember, a little goes a long way with this stuff. You’ll want to focus primarily on the areas of your face that are the most oily or shiny.
The best way to apply translucent powder is pretty much exactly the same as you would apply setting powder. Again, big brush, gentle swirls. Remember, this type of powder isn’t meant to color boost or even anything out. You’re basically just trying to keep your makeup in place and reduce a bit of shine. If you have particularly oily skin, focus on your T-zone.
