Weightless Matte Finish Compact

Ingredients Matter

Not all compact powders for oily skin are created equal, but it can be difficult to tell how a powder will behave based on its ingredient list. For example, some powders use talc as an additive, which causes makeup to look less smooth and natural on the skin.

Talc is frequently used in powder eye shadows, setting sprays, and even pressed face powders. Instead of talc, choose a product that uses silica instead; it'll give you more lasting results. Silica helps products adhere evenly to skin and provides better coverage with fewer dips into your foundation pot or compact makeup case.

Buffers and Sponges are Key

The reason best compact powders for oily skin are so essential to your makeup routine is that they set your foundation and give you that smooth look in addition to helping your makeup last. That being said, finding a good powder can be a bit tricky. You want to find one that's not too heavy (or it will just settle into fine lines), not too light (for obvious reasons), and has some coverage capabilities.

Buffering products like buffing sponges or cosmetic sponges help keep things looking natural by evening out all of those texture lines and skin imperfections. Buffing helps with blending as well, but what about when you’re short on time? Those same buffing tools can also be used with compact powders for seamless, fast-applied coverage.

Use the Right Brush

If you want to make your compact powder for dry skin work for you, you’ll need to use it with a brush. Just puffing it onto your face will produce too-sheer coverage and leave you looking patchy. Instead, shake your best compact powder for dry skin well and tap off any excess before applying it with a large, fluffy brush (I like Sigma’s Master Powder Brush #E25).

The key is building up layers of coverage while leaving as little space as possible between them. The first layer should be very thin—you should see a lot of bounce in your brush after dusting on color.

Check Your Colour Before You Buy

Packaging can go a long way in protecting your makeup and keeping it organized, but it also has another purpose. The right packaging can get your products noticed. A good compact powder does its job without sacrificing aesthetics.

You want something sleek, efficient, and stylish. That’s where I come in! I've found some of my favorite compact powders for dusky skin so you can make an informed decision about which brand to invest in based on size, formula, durability, color options, and more...

Protect It with SPF

When it comes to makeup packaging, you get what you pay for. Cheap compact powder with foundation packaging is often made of flimsy plastic and will likely not be as reliable as more expensive glass and metal powder compacts. These cases are more durable, look better on your vanity, and have less room to break, making them safer and easier to use daily.

Furthermore, inexpensive compact cases can sometimes scratch up your product when closing, while a quality case will cover these imperfections with its surface. If you plan on carrying your compact powder around in your purse or luggage (like I do), it's best to invest in something that will survive constant travel!

Packaging is Important

When we think of waterproof compact powder, we probably picture a small container filled with white or pink powder that has very little (if any) coverage. In reality, compact powders come in a variety of textures and colors that work well as an everyday finishing touch. Depending on what your makeup goals are, there's an option to suit your preferences perfectly.

For example, if you want light coverage with a creamy texture and matte finish, you may be best suited by one of our top picks—the Translucent Loose Setting Powder. If on the other hand you prefer more buildable coverage with the radiant sheen finish and have oily skin, our favorite pick might be better for you—the No Color Powder.

Keep it in the Shade

A compact powder brush keeps your makeup from looking caked on and helps you control shine. If you have oily skin, consider finding a compact powder that contains oil-absorbing ingredients like kaolin clay or cornstarch, to soak up excess oils. If you have dry skin, look for a product that moisturizes, using ingredients like hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil.

To keep everything in balance, make sure to use an anti-aging formula, containing ingredients like vitamin C and peptides. For women with sensitive skin or rosacea, a hypoallergenic option will be your best bet—they’re formulated without common irritants like fragrance and other strong scents.

Don’t overdo it!

Adding an oil control compact powder to your makeup routine can give you a smooth, even look and make your foundation or tinted moisturizer last longer. However, too much of it can cause caking and unwanted creasing. If you want to try using a compact powder, use one that’s designed for the type of makeup you wear (such as cream or powder).

Apply in light strokes instead of heavy swirls to avoid over-applying and creating an unflattering look. Be sure to read labels carefully so you don’t buy a product with ingredients that aren’t compatible with your skin type. If possible, try samples before buying a full-size product—especially if it's not from a brand you're familiar with. 

Uses of compact powder

Compact powder, which used to be called pressed powder, is an old-school beauty staple that can still be found in most women's makeup bags today. Compact powder helps to set the foundation and add matte coverage to the skin without feeling heavy or greasy. Here are five ways you can use compact powder shades to create a flawless face that lasts all day.

1) Don’t forget your neck

Even if you have flawless makeup, you can still look ghostly if your neck is not properly covered. Take time to dust over your neck, collarbones, and chest with compact powder, and then blend well. This extra step in your daily beauty regimen will give you an added boost of confidence and is a great way to avoid blotchy skin!

2) Conceal dark circles around your eyes

When you have dark circles under your eyes, it looks like you are tired. No one wants that! Simply apply full coverage compact powder to any dark circles or blemishes around your eyes before you put on your foundation and no one will ever know you were out all night long. (Lucky them.)

Make sure that you gently tap away any excess powder so that it doesn’t show up in photos or give off an unprofessional appearance.

3) Correct redness on the apples of your cheeks

A dusting of compact powder for fair skin on your face can be a great way to mask redness. So, if you have rosacea or just windburn (or if you’re taking pictures in front of any kind of flash), pat down redness with a powder brush before you get your picture taken. It will also help minimize shine.

Even better, try using pressed powder and setting it with loose powder; when you’re done, wipe off excess so that you don’t look too dusty. Makeup artist and YouTube sensation Wayne Goss recommends FACES CANADA Beauty Un Powder as one of his go-to options for keeping skin matte but luminous throughout an entire shoot or day at work!

4) Set makeup in place

If you're covering up your facial blemishes or other imperfections, start by lightly dabbing some powder over your forehead, chin, and cheeks. This will absorb excess oil and keep shine at bay. The light dusting of compact powder's best brand should reduce shine without drawing too much attention.

Some people even like to add a touch of color on their lids with eyeshadow or highlighter when they want something more vibrant, while others choose yellow-toned eyeshadow so it works as camouflage against dark under-eye circles. When all else fails and you need more coverage than just some minimal powdering can offer, take out your foundation and use it in addition to whatever amount of powder is on hand.

5) Highlight certain parts of your face

A pop of color can be used to draw attention and make certain parts of your face more prominent. If you have particularly defined cheekbones, you can highlight them by dusting faces Canada powder on top of them.

The same goes for any other part of your face that you want to stand out; just lightly brush your favorite shade in that area with your compact powder brush! This will add dimension and enhance features without making them look overdone. It's also a great way to test different shades before going all-in on buying one.

Different varieties of face powders

Whether you’re looking to hide blemishes or brighten up your skin, it’s always good to have face powder on hand. Face powder can help reduce shine and control oily areas of the face and neck, while also making makeup last longer throughout the day. A lot of people think all face powders are created equal, but this isn’t exactly true. There are many different types of face powders, and some do more than others, so it’s important to choose the right one for your skin type and needs.

1) Crème powder

Soft and illuminating, crème faces Canada weightless matte finish compact has a translucent effect that is almost like wearing no makeup at all. A veil of color glides over your skin without covering it up. This type of powder works best on those with dry or normal complexions, as those with oily skin will find crème powder to emphasize shine.

Makeup artists use crème powder most often for its ability to add brightness and light to the skin, which makes it perfect for highlighting cheekbones and adding radiance to dull complexions. It's also easy to work with because you can use it as an eyeshadow or blush if desired.

2) Foundation powder

Even if you have oily skin, foundation powder can be great for adding subtle definition to your cheeks and chin. The powder sets your foundation and keeps it from sliding around all day. Using concealer and foundation on your chin can create an overly made-up look, but using just powder over those areas gives your skin natural contours.

Face powders come in different colors and undertones, so choose one based on what works best with your skin tone. You’ll also want to find a powder that matches up well with other products in your makeup bag. If applying mineral makeup is part of your routine, go for something with similar properties—matte finishes are less likely to blend in well than more translucent options.

3) Loose powder

The powder is great for setting makeup, mattifying your T-zone, and keeping oil at bay. But did you know there are many different kinds of powder formulas? (You probably guessed loose powder versus pressed powder.) They each have their own set of pros and cons, so make sure to choose one based on what kind of coverage and shine control you’re looking for. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing between loose or pressed powder

4) Mineral powder

This loose powder is made from fine minerals such as talc, zinc oxide, and silica. There are a variety of natural ingredients used to make mineral powder, depending on what formula is being used. However, one downside of some mineral powders is they may contain traces of heavy metals.

If you’re looking for pure-mineral cosmetics, it’s best to buy products labeled 100% pure mineral makeup or something similar. Using 100% pure-mineral cosmetics can help limit exposure to toxins and also give you an even skin tone and soft texture.

5) Setting powder

There’s a reason makeup artists swear by it. This go-to powder is perfect for setting your foundation and extending its wear. One of our favorites is FACES CANADA Un Powder, which gives skin an airbrushed effect. But for those who like to keep things more natural, try one of Jane Iredale’s loose powder foundations, which can be applied over any serum foundation for added coverage where it’s needed most. Whatever your preference, we promise it won’t leave you cakey or shiny once you find your ideal pick!

6) Tinted or colored powders

The general idea behind tinted or colored powders is that they're going to cover up any imperfections you might have. Many women who use these types of powders often still go in with another product after applying their powder, such as foundation, blush, or bronzer.

The tinted powder works best for women with normal to oily skin, while those with dry skin are better off sticking to transparent or translucent products. When trying out the tinted powder, make sure to check out how it looks on your skin during daylight hours before buying it. Otherwise, you'll be stuck wearing it in unflattering lighting conditions later on and not even realize it until later on when someone points it out!

7) Translucent and skin tone powders

These are generally used to set makeup and provide a soft, matte look. A translucent powder is ideal for applying over your entire face (on top of the primer) or in specific areas, like your t-zone (that's your forehead, nose, and chin). It shouldn't change or alter your complexion at all.

For best results, apply it with a large brush or fluffy powder puff; avoid using fingertips as they're harder to control and can leave streaks behind. Make sure to buff it in gently so it doesn't look cakey when you get up close. Powderpuff compacts contain just one shade that works well on most complexions, while multi-shade compacts allow you to choose from multiple colors based on how much coverage is needed.

Compact powder for dry skin

If you have dry skin, it’s important to use cosmetics that keep your face looking moisturized. If you don’t, you may end up with makeup that looks cakey and flaky, which isn’t attractive at all. But finding the right compact powder can be challenging! Some powders make your face look cakey and like you put on too much makeup, and others don’t help with dryness at all. To find the best compact powder for dry skin, consider these three products below!

FACES CANADA – Primer Water

This has been a go-to for me for years. This lightweight primer is perfect to use if you don’t want your base makeup to stick.

Simply spray it on, let it dry, and then apply your foundation or face powder. This primer water works well on both dry and oily skin types since it doesn't clog pores. It's also fragrance-free, making it good for sensitive skin types as well.

FACES CANADA – Flawless Finish

FACES CANADA Flawless Finish compact powder is a classic and has been around for years. This powder keeps skin looking natural, reducing any shine or oiliness and creating a smooth, matte surface. It comes in four different shades so you can find your perfect color match and blends seamlessly with your complexion. If you have dry skin, FACES CANADA Flawless Finish powder will keep your complexion looking fresh all day long.

FACES CANADA – Mineral Veil

This powder is great at setting makeup, especially liquid compact powder foundation. It's long-lasting and doesn't look cakey, making it a good choice for those with combination skin. You can also use it to give your face a matte look—which might not be flattering if you're dry-skinned—but as a setting powder, it works well.

Many women say they mix it with other powders to get different effects: using just a bit of product in certain areas to minimize pores, or putting on more to ensure foundation lasts all day without fading. Others say they use it under their eyes to set concealer and avoid creasing.

Best Compact for oily skin

When it comes to compact powders, there are so many options on the market today. So, how do you choose? A quick search will turn up everything from drugstore brands to luxe cosmetics, but the key to finding the right product is knowing what your skin needs and what works best with your complexion type.

If you have oily skin, there are some specific things you should look for when shopping around. Fortunately, these factors aren’t as elusive as they may seem! Here are nine of the best compact powders designed to target oily skin types and keep your complexion looking matte all day long.

1) FACES CANADA Translucent Loose Setting Powder

A cult-favorite powder that also won over Allure Magazine, FACES CANADA translucent compact powder does a fantastic job at controlling shine without clogging pores. It's good for all skin types, but especially oily skin that tends to get shiny throughout the day.

This stuff blends into the skin so well you'll forget it's there; it's super fine and light on its own and doesn't need any liquid or cream foundation underneath. Apply after your moisturizer with a big powder brush; if you use it before makeup application (as some people do), make sure to buff any excess off of your face first. This product is an absolute necessity if you have oily skin! Shop FACES CANADA Translucent Loose Setting Powder from Neiman Marcus ($38)

2) FACES CANADA Lock-It Setting Powder

This is an oldie but a goodie. It’s my go-to powder for a very matte finish compact powder. People either love it or hate it (I do have quite oily skin myself so I can understand if people with drier skin types don’t like how chalky and drying it can be), but I find that when you get used to how heavy and thick it feels on your face, it's great.

Plus FACES CANADA products are animal cruelty-free - which we all know I am such a huge advocate of! So when you purchase her powder you are not only getting an amazing product but also supporting a cruelty-free brand. Win-win!

3) FACES CANADA All Nighter Liquid Foundation

For those of you who need something durable enough to handle even an all-night rager without messing up your look, we recommend FACES CANADA All Nighter Liquid Compact Powder Foundation.

When applied with a brush in a patting motion (instead of being buffed on), it can provide sheer coverage that never looks cakey. Another plus: It's oil-free and has anti-aging properties because it's formulated with peptides and antioxidants. You'll need a light hand if you have oily skin like me though; otherwise, you might end up looking too matte.

4) FACES CANADA Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation + Concealer

The dream team of a foundation and concealer in one—the key here is getting a product with different coverage compact powder levels on each side. One side has a liquid foundation and the other has a heavier concealer that can double as a full-coverage foundation if you blend it well. This is an especially good choice if you're trying to hide larger blemishes or scars. The FACES CANADA version even comes with a brush!

5) FACES CANADA Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation

If you suffer from oily skin and are looking for a full coverage foundation that stays put all day without having to retouch or reapply throughout your workday, then look no further than FACES CANADA Full Coverage compact powder Airbrush Foundation.

This matte-finish formula is light on the skin while simultaneously providing up to 12 hours of coverage. And while it may be best suited for oily skin types (who also tend to have larger pores), anyone with dryer complexions can still use it since it's made with Amazonian clay—which absorbs excess oils in your pores and provides a protective barrier against free radicals in our environment. The airbrush finish makes your skin look smooth and seamless whether you use a brush or buffing sponge.

6) FACES CANADA Studio Photogenic Concealer Wand

This silky formula compact powder comes in 10 shades and blends like a dream. It's also $6 -- and if you've got oily skin, that extra-coverage wand tip is a must. It's great for covering blemishes without looking cakey, says makeup artist Fiona Stiles. Just don't rub it all over your face once you're done blending -- otherwise, it'll look cakey fast.

7) FACES CANADA True Match Lumi Glotion

The first thing you’ll notice about FACES CANADA True Match Lumi Glotion is that it comes in a glass bottle—no waste of plastic here. The light-diffusing formula offers a subtle shimmer. For oily skin types, that’s not ideal (it can look greasy), but it might be perfect if you have dry skin.

The compact powder feels as lightweight as it looks and helps set your makeup for a full day of wear. As a bonus: If you drop your compact or lose it down the couch cushions, it won't shatter into a million pieces as plastic versions do. It also comes in several shades to suit all skin tones: Light Ivory, Light Golden, Light Caramel, and Rich Sand.

8) FACES CANADA Photofocus Illuminating Face Powder

One of FACES CANADA's favorite pressed compact powders is FACES CANADA Photofocus Illuminating Face Powder. The powder gives skin a subtle shimmer that not only reflects light but also makes skin appear dewy. The effect: Luminous, gorgeous-looking skin—without having to splurge on an expensive highlighter. This powder retails for about $4 at most and mass retailers like Target and Walmart. (Note: You can also use it as a setting powder.)

9) FACES CANADA Infused Face Primer with SPF 20+

This lightly tinted primer from ELF gives skin a smooth canvas on which compact powder foundation will glide and last. Just be sure to blend well: The gray-tinted mineral makeup makes skin look uneven if not blended properly. It’s more lightweight than a traditional foundation, making it perfect for women who don’t like to feel like they’re wearing much (or any) makeup at all.

For something a little different, you can also use it as an eyeshadow primer before applying your usual shadow. Or skip it altogether and just wear foundation alone; your results will still look flawless thanks to its even application.

Compact powder for acne-prone skin

Have you ever struggled with acne? If so, you know how tough it can be to find makeup that doesn’t cause breakouts, or even worse, emphasize the pimples you already have. It’s no surprise, then, that compact powders are one of the most popular makeup products on the market. They’re easy to apply, build up coverage compact powder over time and leave your skin looking smooth and natural without being too heavy or cakey.

1) Talc Free

Among those with acne-prone skin, talc is one of the worst ingredients to put on your face. The silica in it can irritate pores and trigger breakouts, not to mention there are more effective ways to set your makeup than by powdering your face.

If you’re looking for a powder to help keep your makeup from moving throughout your day, skip out on talc and go for something that’s oil-absorbing instead. Certain oils will dissolve other oils - so mineral or coconut powders (most commonly used in combination with setting sprays) work well as setting powders if they fit into your budget.

2) Non-Comedogenic

You should look for powders that won’t clog your pores. Look for non-comedogenic compact powder on labels, and you'll know there are none of these ingredients in your product: waxes and oils, lanolin, paraffin (mineral oil), silicone derivatives, fragrances, or dyes.

Products that include salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids won’t exacerbate acne either. Once you have a powder with these characteristics in hand, use it to set your foundation and/or concealer. You can also apply it directly over blemishes to absorb excess oil as well as reduce redness and inflammation.

3) Affordable

Good makeup can be expensive and hard to find; not so with compact powders. Because these loose powders come in small packages, you don’t have to invest much money into a product that may or may not work for your skin type.

If one powder doesn’t do it for you, you can easily move on to another one. Choosing a powder foundation is an easy way to test out different types of products on your skin without investing too much money into trial and error.

4) Blendable

These compact powders are some of my favorites because they won’t clog pores. Many powders are made of talc or contain bismuth oxychloride, which is a drying agent that can easily cause breakouts if it makes its way into your skin.

If you do want to use compact powder, look for one that is labeled non-comedogenic (meaning it will not clog pores), and make sure to set it with a translucent powder or bronzer. This will give you an even finish without making your skin dry or oily. I like Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20—it gives great coverage but won't clog pores!

5) Works with foundation

Most compact powders are translucent and can be used on their own or with liquid or cream foundations. A few brands make darker shades that can even out skin tone or give a bit of coverage (which is great if you have blemishes to cover up).

All in all, a good powder will leave your skin looking matte and flawless, which is why it’s so important that you choose one that’s right for your face—especially if you have acne-prone skin. After all, there’s nothing worse than trying to cover up spots with some cakey powder!

- Benefits of using compact powder during makeup

For decades, women have been using compact powder in their daily makeup routine to keep things matte and fresh-looking throughout the day. It’s one of the most basic elements of putting on makeup, but there are still many people out there who aren’t sure about how powder works or how to choose one that’s right for them. Today, we’re going to explore the 5 benefits of using compact powder during makeup. Let’s dive in!

1) Makes your makeup look smooth

Applying the compact powder to your face makes your makeup look smooth and natural. By doing so, you will be able to get rid of any cakey appearance that comes along with wearing too much powder.

It's easy to apply compact powder because it comes in a small container with a large mirror, so you can apply your makeup on the go. You may be surprised at how effective compact powder is for setting your makeup! So why not try applying compact powder during your next routine?

2) Conceals blemishes

The top benefit of using compact powder during makeup is that it covers up any blemishes or imperfections. It makes your skin flawless for all-day wear, and you'll feel confident and put together all day long. And it comes in a wide range of shades so you can find one that perfectly matches your skin tone.

3) Sets your foundation

To prevent compact powder foundation from sliding around on your face, use a little bit of powder. A light dusting will help set your makeup and make it last all day long. Some people like to apply powder after they’ve already applied their foundation, while others prefer to apply it beforehand. It’s up to you!

4) Keeps you matte longer

It’s hard to imagine that a seemingly simple product like compact powder could keep your face matte longer, but it does. It absorbs oil and locks it in for hours so you look less shiny. This is great for those with oily skin because compact powder not only prolongs your makeup wear but also keeps you looking fresh all day long.

5) Protects your skin from harmful UV rays

Whether you use liquid or compact powder foundation, make sure to apply some sort of SPF protection. This will not only protect your skin from harmful sun rays but also prevent it from sagging and wrinkling. Your skin is your largest organ, so take care of it by adding an SPF when putting on makeup. It’s like an insurance policy for your face!

Do's and Dont while using matte compact powder

Do use it at least 30 minutes before makeup: Powders are set as they're sitting on your skin. To ensure you're getting maximum coverage, apply powder at least 30 minutes before applying compact powder foundation or concealer.

Do store it in a cool, dry place: To avoid unwanted clumping and caking, make sure to store your compact powder in a cool, dry place. It's also best to refrain from carrying your powder in your purse as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can leave residue on your mirror and mess with product consistency.

Don't apply too much: When using compact powder, be careful not to overdo it; using too much can leave an uneven application and excess powder settling into pores.

FAQS

Which compact is best for the skin?

The best compact powder for skin depends on your skin type. There are different kinds, after all—there’s pressed powder, loose powder, and even mineral powders. If you’re looking for a product that minimizes shine and leaves your skin looking matte without caking on powdery residue, mineral makeup is a great choice.

This type typically comes in pressed form. Pressed powder is meant to control oil production and absorb excess sebum, so if you have oily skin it might be right for you! If you want something lighter that still gives great coverage and an even tone, though—but doesn’t make you look too pale or heavy—compact powders are better suited to your needs.

Does compact powder cause acne?

Research has shown that compact powder can cause acne by blocking pores and trapping dirt in your skin. If you are prone to acne, it’s a good idea to avoid compact powder during makeup applications.

How do I choose a compact shade?

You can choose a compact powder shade that’s two shades lighter than your foundation, or a shade with matching undertones.