by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam

12 of the Best Setting Powders for Every Skin Type

Setting powders are like magic; they lock everything in, keep sebum away, blur your pores and fine lines. It’s an essential step to keeping your makeup in place and looking fresh all day. Whether you prefer them in a loose translucent formula or pressed, we’ve rounded up the setting powders that work best for different skin types. Scroll ahead for our picks.

For dry skin

Formulated with 50 per cent water and glycerin, this bestselling pick creates a mist-like sensation on the skin for a flawless finish and comfortable feel.

This one from Marc Jacobs Beauty features five forms of coconut and cocoa butter, melting into the skin undetectably for a healthy and hydrated look. It’s so lightweight and creamy, your makeup stays looking fresh all day.

For sensitive skin

Formulated with anti-ageing ingredients including peptides, real silk, hydrolyzed collagen, this was created to blur pores and other imperfections. It’s also talc-free and buildable, which is perfect for touch-ups throughout the day.

Chanel’s ultra-lightweight loose powder evens out and mattifies the skin without emphasising fine lines. It’s also perfect for all skin types.

For oily skin

Everyone knows this product; it’s a cult-favourite and the go-to for many people. It’s particularly effective at giving the skin a natural finish without leaving streaks.

The secret to this breathable matte setting powder is in the clay — it naturally balances all skin types to absorb oil and minimize the appearance of pores without clinging to dry patches.

For combination skin

Another cult-favourite; this one from Hourglass is designed to set makeup for longer wear. It’s even formulated with diamond particles for the most refined light refraction without any flashback, and to instantly blur imperfections.

One of our personal favourites, this one from Kat Von D really locks makeup in place and softly blurs the skin for a velvety, photo-ready finish.

For acne-prone skin

Heal and conceal acne breakouts with this specially formulated, sulfur-based powder from Mario Badescu that absorbs excess sebum and calms down redness and irritation caused by breakouts.

This pick from Nars is weightless, has a soft matte finish and works on all skin tones. What’s not to love?

For ageing skin

This bestselling product is infused with skincare; formulated with hyaluronic acid, it mattifies the complexion without drying out the skin.

This pick from Charlotte Tilbury lets you achieve flawless, glowy skin. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients and light-reflecting particles to make sure you look luminous.