How do you like to apply loose powder?


How do you like to apply loose powder? Share!

I like using a large, dense, slightly flat brush so that I can press the powder into the skin (better coverage/better setting in my experience) — almost like you would with a sponge but using a brush instead.

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23 Comments

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Joy Avatar

I got the Tarte Bamboo Airbrush Finish Foundation Brush as part of a set along with their Full Coverage Foundation. The brush was awful for applying the foundation that it came with, but its super soft, dense and jumbo sized bristles are perfect for pressing powder into the skin and lightly buffing!

Rachel R. Avatar

Usually with a flat Kubuki brush, in a swirling motion. HD powder is great, but some brands can look white if applied too heavily, so I use a dense but fluffy large powder brush, tap off the excess, and swirl it onto my face.

Eileen Avatar

I had always simply brushed it on until I saw the Wayne Goss video where he described using the brush to press the powder in. That technique does a great job of setting makeup without disturbing the underlying foundation. I use a Tom Ford bronzer brush for the task.

xamyx Avatar

I have drier skin, and prefer a “dewier” finish, so I only apply powder under the eyes to set concealer/cream highlighter. I simply use a soft, dense yet fluffy, tapered brush to stipple the powder where necessary, and use the same brush to blend it out. Real Techniques Blush or Multitasking Brushes are my go-to choices.

Sarah Avatar

I do exactly what you do Christine, I picked that tip up from you and it changed my powdering life forever! Looks better and lasts longer! MAC 134 is great for this as I can use the sides to press powder in, and the top of the brush head to sweep over my face if needed.

Georgia Avatar

I use a large fluffy lambs wool puff. I’ve been using these since Benefit introduced me to them oh-so-many years ago. Now Benefit doesn’t carry them anymore, so I buy them online from Amazon or Indian Earth for about $3 each. They are washable too

Susan Dowman Nevling Avatar

I use a large dense soft brush also. Have been using Sephora Pro 61, I think that’s the correct number. Applies lightly and buffs well. It does take a bit of time to dry, about 1.5 days hanging upside down.

Sylirael Avatar

My two options are: the sponge that came in the compact (which is OK) or a cheap mini blush brush that I got from somewhere (pretty average). Needless to say, I do not wear loose powder very much…although I do want to get some of the UD one, and I would like to have a translucent one for setting lipsticks and things with…

Brandy Rich Avatar

To apply loose powder on myself I typically use a large dense powder brush and lightly swirl it all over because use a mineral powder most of the time. When I use traditional foundation, I use a fluffy powder brush and lightly “tap” it over my foundation. When I’m working on clients I use the taping method as well and if they tend to be more on the oilier side I will actually apply the powder BEFORE the foundation to act as a bit of an oil absorber. 🙂

Samantha Avatar

I apply loose powder extremely lightly with a Kubuki brush. My skin is on the drier side (although Origins takes care of that), but I do not want to chance it. I do not like a powdery look on me (and most powders with color, such as UD are too dark for my skin). I apply a powder directly after foundation. Currently, I am obsessed with Guerlain Meteorites (my husband loves smelling them from the jar as I apply them as they smell like violet candies).

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