Powder

After applying foundation, base, concealer, blushes, shadows, liners, and the many other varieties of cosmetic products, a dusting of facial powder is necessary to seal in color and lengthen the appearance and performance of make up. Powder can be applied with a puff or a brush and both should be experimented with to determine which tools are more personally appropriate.

Applying Powder

There are differing opinions on when in the make-up process powder should be applied. In actuality, powder can be used before, after, and during application to seal in moisture and adhere make-up color and lines more firmly to facial surfaces. It may even be the first step taken when stepping from a shower, spa, or bath before the cosmetic process begins. However, many concur that the best time to powder is at the end of make-up application.

Types of Powder

Powder comes in either a compact with a puff or sponge or a loose powder container that a puff or brush may be dipped into. Compact powder is ideal for touch-ups away from home. The puff or sponge is dabbed into the powder and then pressed into the nose and across the forehead. This area is known as the "T-zone" and is the area most individuals find becomes shiny throughout the day.

The loose powder is better for at home application as the brush or puff is dipped into the powder, the excess is lightly shaken off, and then the puff or brush lightly dusts the face and neck in order to set make-up at the end of application. This can be especially useful for setting lipstick and liquid liner, or to help give shiny lip gloss a more matted appearance. Powder application is generally straightforward: just dip, shake, and dust. However, certain advice may claim powdering in one direction is better than the other, especially if there is a fine feathering of light facial hair that may be lifted and visible if powder is applied in upward strokes with a brush.

Choosing a Powder

Powder can be colored or even have shimmery components to give the skin a sparkling, bright appearance. At times, even baby powder can be used as cosmetic powder for those in a pinch or those with sensitive skin. Baby powder can also be combined with regular facial powder in order to extend the supply without expending the cost for new powder. Cosmetic sales associates can provide further information on powders for certain skin types and hues, and it always pays to get a few words of advice from them before making a final purchase.

By Barbara Poelle

Powder

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