Difference between Compact Powders & Setting Powders

We’ve all found ourselves confused and torn between the plethora of makeup powders and formulas in the market, making it hard for us to decipher which one to use and how to distinguish between them. 

One of the most common mistakes made by those beginning their makeup journey is to confuse a setting powder aka loose powder with a compact powder and vice versa. To avoid any such confusion, it is essential to first know the difference between both powders, their benefits, and their usage. In this article, you will find all that you need to know in order to make the right decision and best purchase. So let’s dive right into it!

Texture & Formula Consistency:

Texture and consistency are the primary distinctions between compact and loose powder. Because the powder is not pressed together, loose powders have a delicate, light feel. On the skin, they feel smooth and quite weightless. Compact powders, on the other hand, are compressed and have a semi-solid, denser consistency. Therefore, they feel slightly heavier on the skin.

Typically, loose powders are kept in tubs or jars with a mesh sifter for managing the product's dispensing ratio and avoiding product wastage. For easy touch-ups on the road, compact powders typically include a mirror and a sponge or puff applicator in addition to a dense pan of pressed powder in a small travel-friendly case.

Finish & Coverage: 

The type of coverage and finish that compact powders and loose powders offer is another crucial difference. The purpose of loose powders is to set your makeup base without offering excessive color or coverage, and they typically provide a sheer to medium coverage. Loose powders do a fantastic job of reducing shine, minimizing flaws, and giving your skin an airbrushed, soft-focus look.

On the contrary, compact powders offer greater coverage, with medium to full coverage based on the product and application technique, they are frequently tinted to fit various skin tones. They can even be used alone as is for an instant, effortless look. Compact powders typically have a velvety, matte feel that helps reduce shine and balance out your complexion.

Skin Type Compatibility: 

Your decision between compact and loose powder may also be influenced by your skin type. Loose powders are usually a preferable choice if you have mature or dry skin because they are less prone to settle into fine wrinkles or highlight dry areas. To keep your skin from seeming dry or cakey, look for a loose powder with nourishing components that are finely ground.

Compact powders can help mattify shine and hold makeup intact all day for people with combination or oily skin. Compact particles' denser structure allows better absorption of excess oil. Be careful not to use too much powder, too, as this may cause the face to appear cakey and heavy. For a skin-like, natural-looking finish, gently apply and blend thoroughly.

Application Techniques: 

Depending on its texture and intended use, compact and loose powders require different application techniques. To set your makeup, it's ideal to use a moist makeup sponge or a fluffy brush to gather up a little quantity of loose powder, tap off any excess, and then softly dust your face.

For a brighter, crease-free look, you might want to try the 'baking' technique, which involves liberally applying a translucent loose setting powder to your under eyes and areas that are prone to creasing, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then brushing off any excess.

Compact powders provide greater application possibilities. For more coverage, you can use the included sponge or puff. Similarly, for more subtle sweeping, you can use a powder brush. To touch up your makeup or set it during the day, softly press or sweep the powder onto your skin after pressing and rolling the sponge on the pan to collect enough product. Compact powders are also perfect for touch-ups while on the road because of their small compact packaging.

Now, if you’re looking for an all-in-one compact powder that mattifies, controls oil and shine, provides buildable coverage and blurring abilities, and can also be used to set your makeup, then we got you! Our Matte Touch Compact Powder does all the above and more, keeping your makeup melt-proof and sweat-resistant all day long! Trust us, it's a much-needed makeup essential for this season and your new summer BFF!