Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: what setting powder does, and how much is enough

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Researched. We have not used this one long enough to give you a verdict, and we would rather say so than invent one. What follows is how it works, who it suits, and what it will not do. When we have used it properly, this page carries the verdict and the date.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

Laura Mercier's Translucent Loose Setting Powder is one of the classics of makeup. People use it to keep foundation and concealer in place and to cut shine.

What setting powder does

Liquid and cream makeup stays slightly tacky. A fine powder on top absorbs some of the oil and sets the layer underneath, so it moves less and lasts longer. "Translucent" means it is made to add little or no colour.

Where to use it

• Under the eyes, to stop concealer creasing.
• The T-zone, where most people get shiny.
• Lightly everywhere else, or not at all if you have dry skin.

How much is enough

Very little. Tap the brush or puff, press the powder in, and brush away the excess. Too much is what makes makeup look cakey.

Baking

"Baking" means pressing on a thick layer, waiting a few minutes, then dusting it off. It can help concealer stay put under the eyes, but it can look dry on mature or dry skin. Try a light layer first.

In photos

Some setting powders can look white in flash photography. If you are photographed a lot, test with your phone's flash before an event.

Spray or powder

Setting spray and setting powder do different jobs; we explain which you need in setting spray and setting powder solve different problems.

What it will not do

It will not fix a foundation that is the wrong shade. It will not stop very oily skin from shining all day. And too much will look dry and heavy.

The product

The one people are searching for is the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

We do not print prices here, because a price we typed last month is a price that is wrong today.

Written by JamieG in Garner Town, Tennessee.