Are you also one who gets confused between loose powder and compact powder? You are not alone here! Even though their role depends on setting makeup and controlling excess oiliness in their face, the role plays different in terms of their looks and lasting time.

Here, in this blog we will know the key difference between loose powder vs compact powder, which skintype can use the product, and how well they suit and make a difference in the skin.

What is Compact Powder?

Compact powder is a pressed powder, which is super convenient, and will help you touch-up on the go! The main role of the powder would be to sit your foundation without moving, and give a smooth, matte finish for your skin. 

This powder also has the ability to give coverage, while making your makeup look long-lasting. An instant way to freshen up your skin, making your skin flawless and fresh look.

Compact Powder Uses: Benefits & Application

A versatile product in your makeup kit, which gives enough coverage, reduces oiliness, and gives an instant fresh look on the go. Get to know the benefits of compact powder here:

1. On the Go Applicator

This comes generally in a handy package, and can be applied in sponge / brush within a few seconds.

2. Travel-Friendly

The package usually looks in a way, where you will get compact on one-end and mirror on the other end. A perfect accessory to check with touch ups on the go.

3. Sets Makeup 

The powder helps in keeping the foundation and concealer at one place, without causing any greasy feel.

4. Controls Oiliness

If you have oily skin, then there are possibilities that skin gets too oily/shiny. At this time, you can pick this powder and use it on the go.

5. Gives Decent Coverage

If you need a minimal coverage or need a no-makeup look, then this is the product that you should opt for!

How to Apply Compact Powder (Step-by-Step)

1. Cleanse your face with face wash and moisturize.

2. Apply your foundation and concealer (This step can be skipped if you need no-makeup look).

3. Get your hands on compact powder; You can use a brush/sponge based on your comfort. Press the powder and set the product. Focus on T-zone or on-places where you need minimal coverage.

4. Tada. You are ready to shine! You can use them for the on-the-go touch up process too!

What is Loose Powder?

Loose powder is a fine powder which helps in setting your makeup and gives soft skin and air-brush kind of finish. They can be used on the entire face focusing on oily areas like forehead, T-zone, and chin area. 

They give your face a smooth base which is because the loose powder blends well with concealer & foundation.

Loose Powder Uses

Loose powder is a versatile product in makeup, since they help in setting your base and gives a smooth and flawless finish. Here are some of the best uses of incorporating loose powder in your makeup routine:

1. Set makeup:

Post concealer and foundation, you can dab the powder, so that they don't smudge and also keeps your base last longer.

2. Controls oil and shine:

If you are someone with oily or acne prone skin, oil secretion will pop out after an hour or two. In that case, using loose powder helps in absorbing the excess oil, by keeping skin fresh for the whole day.

3. Blurs pores and fine lines:

MAkeup becomes patches or un-even when there are open pores and lines in the skin. So, try baking them with loose powder, and you will feel the difference.

4. Adds a natural finish:

Even if you want a no-makeup look with healthy skin, try using just loose powder. Since they are light-in-weight, they do not feel heavy on the skin.

Setting Powder vs Compact Powder: Key Differences

This simple tabular column can help you understand the differences between setting vs compact powder.

Best Loose Powder for Dry Skin (and How to Avoid Flakiness)

People with dry skin often tend to face skin concerns like flaky skin which makes your skin dull and lifeless. Looking for a saviour? That’s where loose powder stands out. 

Get your hands on hydrating loose powders which have ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, ceramide, or natural oils and butters. This works as an add-on post moisturizer to keep skin well moisturized. Use a fluffy brush and apply a minimal amount of powder, focusing only on areas that need setting, like the T-zone or under the eyes. 

Face Powder for Oily Skin (Loose vs Compact)

For oily skin folks, face powder plays a key role in controlling the excess sebum production. As oils may tend to melt away the makeup, you can try using loose powder or compact powder, and they will never disappoint you. Confused, what are these two powders?

• Loose Powder - Loose powder isa light-weight powder which sets your makeup and even keeps skin matte for long hours. You will get a smooth and natural kind of finish without making skin heavy.

•  Compact powder - These are powders which are used for touch-ups on the go. When you feel a certain part of makeup seems melting or even, then this gives better coverage. Even though they may seem heavy, they do the job perfectly.

Even though both work well on oily skin, for on-spot results, compact powder is the best choice to go with!

When to Use Compact Powder and Loose Powder

Still confused about choosing the right powder to use. Here you can understand in even more better manner:

Compact Powder vs Loose Powder for Combination Skin & other skin types

Conclusion

Once you read the above, you could have understood the differences between loose powder and compact powder. If you have oily/combinational skin, going with loose powder would be a better choice.

If you have dry skin, don't even have a doubt, just go with compact powder without even a second thought.

FAQs :

Can we use compact powder daily?

Yes, choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic compact with a natural/satin finish; moisturize + SPF first and cleanse nightly.

Best loose powder for normal skin? 

A finely milled translucent loose powder with a natural/satin finish and light hydrators (e.g., squalane or hyaluronic acid) works best for normal skin.

How do I know my loose powder shade?

This depends on one’s skin tone or skin shade. Go to a mall or any makeup store, try there, and do not buy it immediately (Because the lighting may seem to make your skin look good). Go for a round. Check and choose.

Which powder is best for oily skin?

Loose powder is a perfect option for oily skin. They are light-in-weight, control excess oil secretion, and help in giving your makeup a long-lasting look.

Can I replace loose powder with compact powder?

It completely depends on the look you want to create. But YES, you can replace it. Replacing compact powder can give you more coverage and faster touch-up.

Can we use loose powder daily?

Absolutely yes. They are generally made in a skin-friendly manner, and can be used for everyday use. But make sure to double cleanse by the end-of-the-day. 

Is loose powder better or compact?

The answer depends on skin type or your skin concern. If you have oily/combinational skin, go with loose powder; On the other hand, if you have dry skin, go with compact powder.