What's the Difference Between Pressed and Loose Powder?
I've worked in the Marketing Team at Adore Beauty for almost a year now and love love love skincare! I'm all about vegan products and 5 plus step skincare routines. Recently I've been growing out my coloured hair and focusing on strength/length with hair masks and treatments.
We've come a long way since the days of chalky powder formulas, so whether it's matte or glowing, powder is an essential part of a flawless makeup finish and
You have two major options: pressed and loose.
We've decided to go through the benefits of each, so you can make the right decision when it comes to application.
What's the Difference Between Pressed and Loose Powder?
The main difference between loose and pressed powders is the way the product is packaged. Pressed powders are pressed into a compact, loose powders are often packaged in jars or tubs. So which one is best for you?
How to use pressed powder (as setting powder):
- Use a smaller powder brush such as Real Techniques Expert Face Brush
- Swish brush in product and tap gently so that the product settles in.
- Focus on applying product to the oilest part of your face and gently sweep over the rest of the face.
- Lightly buff the product in to your skin.
How to use pressed powder (as foundation):
- Use a large powder brush such as Spectrum A01 Domed Powder Brush
- Swish brush in product and tap gently so that the product settles in.
- Sweep lightly over the face in big strokes.
- Lightly buff the product in to your skin.
Some of our favourite pressed powders:
Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation Refill
The best-selling Jane Iredale PurePressed Pressed Minerals is a pressed mineral foundation that is so gentle, it can applied directly after plastic or cosmetic surgery.
Available in 25 shades, this is a complexion-flattering powder for everyone.
Jane Iredale PurePressed Pressed Minerals Refill reviews from Adore Beauty customers:
"Jane Iredale foundation feels light and natural on the skin, evens out tone nicely and gives a soft, healthylooking finish without clogging pores. Perfect for everyday wear, especially if you prefer a subtle, breathable makeup base."- Merve.
"I have been happily using this product for years! It provides me with great coverage and does not inflame my acne-prone skin (which most other foundations do)." - Hayley.
Napoleon Perdis Camera Finish Powder Foundation
A sheer-to-medium coverage finishing powder that guarantees no flashback in photos with its light absorbing technology.
Napoleon Perdis Camera Finish Powder Foundation reviews from Adore Beauty reviews:
"The Napoleon Perdis Camera Finish Powder Foundation is one of the best powders I've used! It gives such a smooth, flawless finish without feeling heavy. I use it both on its own for light coverage and over foundation to set my makeup either way, it makes my skin look airbrushed and polished." - Kitty.
"This powder provides amazing coverage while feeling lightweight. It's perfect for touch ups or as a standalone foundation." - Violet.
How to use loose powder:
- Shake some product on to the lid of your loose powder.
- A large powder brush or powder puff are the best tools to use.
- Dip brush or puff into product and tap gently so that the product settles in.
- Start applying the powder in the centre of your face, and then sweep the rest over your face.
- Buff the product in, using any excess product in the brush for the edges of your face.
Some of our favourite loose powders:
Aspect Minerals Powder
Perfect for sensitive skin types. This loose powder is vegan and offers flawless coverage and a natural glow without clogging pores.
Aspect Minerals Powder reviews from Adore Beauty customers:
"I absolutely love this powder, it's all I've used for many years. Doesn't feel heavy or clog my pores and can easily be built up for more coverage when I need it."
"This is the best powder foundation i have ever ever come across, and its mineral! Easy buildable coverage, not drying and doesnt stick to dry patches in fact I actually find its hydrating on my skin. Very good medium coverage 10/10 will use this for as long as they make it." - Maddi.
Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Minerals SPF20
Another favourite for sensitive skin types, free of oil, talc, FD&C dyes and parabens.
Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Minerals SPF20 reviews from Adore Beauty customers:
"My skin looks healthy and luminous every time I wear this. The finish remains fresh without looking overly shiny." - Rosa.
"I have been wearing this for a few years now. I have tried other mineral powders and the colour of always off or the formula itches my skin. This powder is a great match and they have a great shade range." - Sarah.
Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Loose Mineral Foundation
A lightweight, silky loose powder made from Youngblood's unique "trade secret" milling process. This powder is available in 16 shades from Pearl to Mahogany!
Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Loose Mineral Foundation reviews from Adore Beauty customers:
"I've been using this for years and haven't found one better. You don't need much, use a brush, tap it out into the lid. Great light/medium coverage and stays on all day. It's the best!" - Fee.
"This melts into my skin beautifully, giving me a soft focus glow without feeling heavy. It looks even better as the day goes on." - Viena.
Ruchi Page Breaks Down the Basics of Pressed and Loose Powder and Shares Her Top Powder Application Tips...
