As of late, full coverage powder foundation is having a moment, but the downside to these skin-perfecting formulas is that they’re often fussy, and can leave your skin looking cakey within a couple hours of wear. This ultimately lends itself to your skin looking anything but flawless. Unless you’re going to a short event or are planning on taking photos, many full-coverage foundations simply aren’t practical for all-day wear. Plus, if you have textured, mature or dry skin these thicker products can actually highlight problem areas rather than camouflaging them – an effect that presumably no one is keen on achieving.
With warmer weather just around the corner, it makes sense that seemingly every beauty brand is dropping a powder version of their flagship full coverage liquid foundation. These counterparts are fuss-free, shine-controlling versions that blur imperfections, keep sun-induced shine at bay and make on-the-go application easier. But while many powder bases claim to offer light-diffusing, Instagram filter level blurring powers, and complexion-perfecting properties, these claims fall flat unless you commit to applying the product wet. While this is a solid method for achieving a full coverage finish, it’s not only time-consuming but can also leave your powder damaged on account of moisture from your damp sponge or brush.
Of course, applying a creamy concealer under your powder is a fool-proof method for adding additional coverage to areas of concern. But if you’re looking for a multi-functional, one-stop-shop sort of a product, we’ve discovered some full-coverage powder foundations that actually conceal, blur, and smooth all on their own. And while powder formulas are generally considered to be exclusively suitable for oily and combination skin types, these next-generation foundations are capable of complimenting textured, extra-dry, and mature skin types as well thanks to innovative formula upgrades, including the addition of hydrating skincare ingredients and light-diffusing pigments.