Loose Powder vs. Pressed Powder: What Is the Difference

Pressed Powder vs. Powder Foundation: What’s the Difference?

Pressed powder and powder foundation are very similar, but the difference is that powder foundations tend to be a bit more pigmented with more coverage. The main usage of pressed powder is to set makeup. You can use a pressed powder as foundation, but unless the product specifically touts itself as a dual-usage product, the coverage will likely be more lightweight.

How to Apply Loose Powder

Loose powder is best used for setting the concealer underneath your eyes to avoid  creasing, fine lines or cakiness as the day goes on.

Step 1. Grab a powder puff and take some of a loose powder, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Face Powder, and apply it under your eyes, making sure the layer of powder is even but not too thick (too much powder can lead to the same cakiness that you’re trying to avoid).

Step 2. Let the powder sit on your skin for at least two minutes, but feel free to leave it for up to five minutes for more coverage. 

Step 3. When time is up, dust off the visible excess with a makeup brush, then finish your look with the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray, spraying in a “T” and “X” motion to fully cover your face.

If you want to use your loose powder all over your face, take a large fluffy brush and tap into your loose powder. Dust off the excess on the lid of your powder, then lightly swipe the brush across your face once, making sure to still target your under-eyes and T-zone.

How to Apply Pressed Powder

Pressed powder can be applied more directly all over the face, and your tool of choice will depend on how much coverage you want.

Step 1. For light to medium coverage, grab a powder brush. If you want full coverage, go for a powder puff or makeup sponge. 

Step 2. If you’re using a brush, take it and and swirl it into a pressed powder like the L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder. If you’re using a sponge or powder puff, tap it on the surface of the powder, then take your tool and press it onto your skin.

Step 3. When you’re satisfied with your level of coverage, spray the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray over your makeup to seal your look.

Is Loose Or Pressed Powder Better for Oily Skin?

If you have oily skin, a loose powder will help mattify your skin as the day goes on, as the formula contains very little oil. A pressed powder can also work if it’s a foundation formula like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Foundation in a Powder.

Next: What Tool Do You Use to Apply Blush?

Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Digital Tech: Erik Dalzen, Photo Assistant: Sam Kang, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Mirna Jose, Hair Assistant: Keila Rivera, Wardrobe Stylist: Alexis Badiyi, Wardrobe Assistant: Jazmine Alzado, Model: Zlata Semenko