Do you put setting powder on before or after foundation?

Author: Madalyn Orn MD  |  Last update: Thursday, August 14, 2025

When to apply setting powder. Setting powder should be applied after foundation and concealer, but before blusher and bronzer, to help set your base makeup in place and keep oiliness at bay.

Can you put setting powder on before foundation?

Yes, setting powder is necessary before foundation. It makes foundation look smooth, not crease and last longer.

How long should I wait to put setting powder on after foundation?

Waiting 5 minutes after foundation before loose powder.

Can you put foundation on top of setting powder?

Yes, it's true. Instead of applying foundation and setting it with loose powder, many beauty gurus and makeup artists are suggesting that you do those two steps in reverse — so it would be setting powder first, then your foundation.

Should you let foundation dry before applying setting powder?

Step 1: Start by bouncing on your foundation and concealer with a wet Beautyblender — but don't let it dry! In order to create the proper wet-dry bond, you need to work quickly to apply setting powder to still-sticky foundation and concealer. Step 2: Press powder onto your skin using a Power Pocket Puff.

Avoid These Mistakes for a Flawless Baked Makeup Look!

What is the step of makeup?

  • Step 1: Moisturizer. Before you begin applying your makeup, take the time to prep your skin with a high-quality moisturizer. ...
  • Step 2: Primer. ...
  • Step 3: Liquid Foundation. ...
  • Step 4: Concealer. ...
  • Step 5: Foundation Powder. ...
  • Step 6: Bronzer. ...
  • Step 7: Blush. ...
  • Step 8: Highlighter.

What's the right order for makeup?

We'll break down each makeup step and explain what order to put on makeup ahead.
  • Prep your skin with skincare and SPF. ...
  • Start your makeup application with a primer. ...
  • Color-correct if needed. ...
  • Apply your foundation. ...
  • Add concealer as needed. ...
  • Apply bronzer, highlighter, and blush. ...
  • Fill and tame your brows. ...
  • Apply eyeshadow.

What is the purpose of setting powder after foundation?

Use a translucent, talc-free mineral pressed setting powder like our Perfecting Powder to set and mattify your cream or liquid foundation, to absorb any excess oil, and to blur any remaining imperfections,” says Janeena. “It extends the length of time your makeup will last without smudging or budging.”

Do you put concealer or powder first?

If you're using a powder foundation, such as Dermablend's intense powder camo, you will want to apply concealer directly to areas that need more coverage first and then buff on your powder foundation second. This will allow you to build your powder foundation coverage as much as you desire without looking cakey.

What stage do you use setting powder?

When to apply setting powder. Setting powder should be applied after foundation and concealer, but before blusher and bronzer, to help set your base makeup in place and keep oiliness at bay.

What is the difference between translucent powder and setting powder?

A translucent powder can be a setting powder or a finishing powder. Translucent and setting powder are the same when both focus on keeping makeup in place and controlling unwanted shine. This sets them apart from coloured powder and pigmented baking powder products.

Does setting powder go all over your face?

Anywhere you want your makeup to last long and look flawless. Traditionally, it goes all over the face, but in this era of fresh, dewy skin, strategic powder placement looks more modern. Dot on the nose, or chin, anywhere that tends to gather grease, or where you need coverage to last longer.

Where to apply concealer?

A lighter concealer shade under the eyes will trick the light, leaving tired eyes looking brighter and more awake. Continue using this lighter shade to create a brightening, lift effect, applying your concealer in diagonal lines upwards along the forehead, eyelids, under-eye area, side of the nose and bottom lip.

What is the difference between setting and finishing powder?

Finishing powder is typically used to create a more polished, airbrushed finish, while setting powder is used to control shine and keep makeup in place. Finishing powder is usually applied all over the face, while setting powder is typically applied to oily areas, such as the T-zone.

What is the powder called that you put on after foundation?

Setting powder helps combats shine and sets makeup in place. It's typically applied after foundation and concealer to create a smooth, undetectable finish. Think of setting powder as the final step in ensuring your makeup is set smudge- and transfer-proof so it looks better for longer.

What is the best pressed setting powder?

Our Top Picks:
  • Best Overall: Westman Atelier Vital Pressed Skincare Powder, $75.
  • Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Laura Mercier Translucent Pressed Setting Powder, $47.
  • Best for Oily Skin: LYS Beauty Triple Fix Setting Powder, $19.
  • Best for Dry Skin: Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder, $40.

Should I use setting spray or powder?

If you prefer your skin to look a bit glowier, you may favor setting spray. Setting sprays have a lighter application compared to powders so the coverage is sheerer and more natural-looking. Plus, unlike powders, they come in an array of finishes, so you should be able to find one that suits your preferences.

How to layer makeup step by step?

Tip 4: Follow the Correct Application Order
  1. Step 1: Apply makeup primer. ...
  2. Step 2: Create your base. ...
  3. Step 3: Contour and highlight. ...
  4. Step 4: Add blush and bronzer. ...
  5. Step 5: Move on to eye makeup. ...
  6. Step 6: Tame your brows. ...
  7. Step 7: Apply lipstick or gloss.

Should you use powder before foundation?

By using powder before foundation, you're able to give skin a matte finish that helps to soak up excess oil for a long-lasting effect, which is perfect for oily skin. Think of this method as a shield to keep your face makeup in place.

What do you do after setting powder?

Most often you might see makeup artists recommending applying setting spray after setting powder for the below reasons. Drying Time: Setting powder needs time to set and absorb oil before a setting spray is applied.

In what order should makeup be applied?

Check out our step-by-step application guide—along with some of our favorite beauty products—below.
  1. Step 1: Primer & Color Corrector. ...
  2. Step 2: Foundation. ...
  3. Step 3: Concealer. ...
  4. Step 4: Blush, Bronzer, & Highlighter. ...
  5. Step 5: Eyeshadow, Eyeliner, & Mascara. ...
  6. Step 6: Eyebrows. ...
  7. Step 7: Lips. ...
  8. Step 8: Setting Spray or Powder.

Do you put concealer on first or foundation?

The final takeaway? Apply foundation before concealer when you only want to cover up any minor skin imperfections. The concealer aka colour corrector goes before the foundation if you want to hide stubborn marks or dark circles. Then a layer of your foundation followed by a concealer that is true to your skin tone.

When to apply contour?

You can contour before foundation or after foundation—it's really up to you and the effect you're seeking. Applying foundation first is the more standard practice. This order of application gives you a nice, even base to layer your contour on top of.

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