9 best setting powders of 2024: our review of expert-loved picks (2024)

Looking to set it and forget it? Us, too. That’s why we did the leg work to find the best of the best when it comes to setting powder. From new and noteworthy to old goodies, these powders are tried and true (and makeup artist-approved!).

Andrea DiSabatino, a makeup artist for film and photography, gave us her take on setting powders and then we reviewed her recommendations from there to triple-confirm just how great they are!

DiSabatino has been published in Allure and W magazines, worked on TV shows such as Project Runway and Good Morning America Live with Kelly and Ryan and has contributed to over 50 New York Fashion Week shows for brands like Ulla Johnson. She’s also styled artists like Kanye West and Robin Thicke.

Related: Our review of the best setting sprays.

“A greatsettingpowdershould be a super fine texture, be translucent or match your skin tone, andsetmakeup without caking or settling into fine lines,” DiSabatino said. “It helps control shine, extends the wear of makeup, and provides a smooth, airbrushed finish.” That’s a lot to stand up to. The good news? DiSabatino’s got the recommendations.

“For both pro and consumer, I reach for Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking andSettingPowder, Laura Mercier’s Translucent LooseSettingPowder,or Ben Nye’s BananaPowder,” she told The Post. So, we went ahead and put them to the test, alongside some of the market’s most in-demand setting powders.

Click to go straight to our winners of the best setting powders by category:

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best splurge
• Best drugstore
• Best for oily skin
• Best for dry skin
• Best professional
• Best shade range
• Best with SPF

How We Tested

We tested these setting powders thoroughly, looking at these key factors to help you find the perfect match.

• Powder fineness: How finely milled is the powder? Is it packed in a compact or loose? Does it glide over the skin or blend into a seamless finish?
• Application: What tools best suit the powder’s application? How does it feel when going on? What’s the packaging like? Does it travel well for on-the-go applications?
• Longevity: How long does it last? Does it crease or cake? Does it appear dry at any point? What skin types would it suit best?

We assessed everything from how finely milled the powders are to the skin types each powder suits best. Our goal is to make your choice easier by providing insights that match your unique preferences and needs.

How do you apply setting powder?

“Us makeup artists use baking techniques that have now taken social media tutorials by storm,” DiSabatino said. “Baking” is essentially packing on a large amount of loose setting powder in specific areas of the face, like under the eyes for brightness and no creases under the cheekbones for reverse contouring. “Investing in asettingpowdercan be worthwhile, especially if you want your makeup to last longer and look more polished,” she added.

Keep in mind: Setting powers, unlike a lot of other makeup products, are nothing without their tools. When you opt for loose powder, use a soft and fluffy powder brush or a makeup sponge for a light and even application. Be sure to shake off any excess powder before gently sweeping or pressing it onto your skin, focusing on areas prone to shine or makeup movement.

For setting the under-eye area, a small, soft brush is ideal (unless, of course, you’re going the “baking” route). Whether you’re aiming for an all-over set or strategic touch-ups, the right tools play a crucial role in achieving a long-lasting and polished look.

Best Setting Powders

Best overall: Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder emerges as the best overall setting powder, earning accolades for its exceptional quality and versatility. Renowned for delivering a flawless finish and ensuring long-lasting results, this setting powder from Anastasia Beverly Hills has become a go-to choice for makeup enthusiasts and professionals alike. With its finely milled texture and ability to cater to a wide range of skin types, it stands out as the ultimate choice for achieving a polished and enduring makeup look.

My experience with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder was nothing short of impressive—the fine texture effortlessly set my makeup, leaving a velvety finish that lasted throughout the day. Its adaptability across my combination skin made it a staple, providing a flawless canvas without caking or settling into fine lines.

Best budget: Airspun Coty Loose Setting Powder

For those looking to save without compromising quality, the Airspun Coty Loose Setting Powder takes the crown as the best budget-friendly option. Highly recommended for its impressive performance at an affordable price point, this powder has become a staple for makeup enthusiasts on a budget. With its finely milled texture and effective setting properties, Airspun proves that achieving a flawless finish doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

The Airspun Loose Setting Powder consistently exceeds my expectations, delivering a budget-friendly option with remarkable quality. I’ve been using this one as a go-to in a pinch and its finely milled consistency not only sets my makeup flawlessly but also controls excess oil (especially in the summer).

Best splurge: La Prairie Skin Caviar Loose Setting Powder

Indulge in luxury with the La Prairie Skin Caviar Loose Setting Powder, crowned as the best splurge-worthy option. Renowned for its opulent formula and exquisite finish, this setting powder from La Prairie leaves the skin with a radiant and refined appearance. While it comes with a higher price tag, its premium quality and the luxurious experience it provides make it a coveted choice for those who seek the epitome of indulgence in their beauty routine.

While indulging in the La Prairie Skin Caviar Loose Setting Powder is always undoubtedly a splurge, but when I tell you the opulence translates to a radiant, refined, and simply perfect finish that feels like a luxurious treat for my skin, I’m not kidding. The formula effortlessly blurs imperfections, creating a photo-ready look that’s just as flawless IRL. For better or for worse, I’m currently on my third container of this La Prairie magic.

Best drugstore: NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder

The NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder earns the title of the best drugstore setting powder. Known for its professional-grade results and affordability, this powder from NYX is a favorite among makeup enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its finely milled texture and ability to provide a seamless finish make it a standout option for those looking to achieve a polished look without breaking the bank.

This translucent powder proves to be a real find at most drugstores with professional-grade results. Its seamless application and ability to set my makeup flawlessly make it an affordable gem for anyone seeking a budget-friendly yet high-quality finishing powder.

Best for oily skin: Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking andSettingPowder

DiSabatino recommended the Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking and Setting Powder, and we particularly praise it for its suitability for those with oily skin. This powder has remarkably effective control of shine and its ability to provide a matte finish lasts throughout the day. The finely milled formula ensures a smooth application, making it a staple in DiSabatino’s kit as well as ours for achieving a flawless complexion. Not even a night out in New York City can compromise its longevity.

Since I deal with combination skin that often goes oily in certain areas, especially in the summer, the Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking and Setting Powder became a hero of mine. It not only controls shine with finesse but also provides a matte finish that lasts without compromising on the natural radiance of my complexion.

Best for dry skin: Laura Mercier’s Translucent LooseSettingPowder

DiSabatino also highly recommends the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder, and we agree. It stands out for its ability to fortify dry skin from further moisture depletion rather than result in a cakey, flakey mess. It ensured a luminous and dewy finish that kept our skin comfortable throughout the day. Its super finely milled texture and translucent formula make it a versatile choice for setting makeup without compromising on a natural, healthy glow.

My combination skin is mostly due to dehydration, so it sways dryer on most days. The Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a revelation for this — its formula somehow imparts a luminous glow, setting my makeup while preventing any dryness or discomfort. The investment proved worthwhile as it became a go-to for a while for achieving a seamless, set, and somehow glowing complexion.

Best professional: Ben Nye BananaPowder

DiSabatino stands by the professional-grade performance of Ben Nye Banana Powder, emphasizing its finely milled texture and flawless setting capabilities. Widely used in the makeup artist community, this powder is known for its ability to set makeup with precision, offering a radiant finish that withstands the rigors of show business. The yellow undertone of this powder also contributes to brightening most complexions for a vibrant, youthful look.

As a former theatre kid, I’ve also been using this professional-grade setting powder for years. The brightening effect (along with some serious smoothing) is uncanny. The finely milled texture not only provides a velvety touch but also contributes to a radiant, photo-ready look that justifies its popularity among makeup and stage artists.

Best shade range: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder

The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder earns its accolade for the best shade range, offering an extensive array of options that cater to diverse skin tones. Fenty Beauty’s commitment to providing options for every skin tone makes it a standout choice for those seeking a setting powder with a comprehensive and inclusive range.

This powder’s extensive shade range catered specifically to my rather hard-to-match undertones. I’m not quite pink, not quite neutral. I also tend to fluctuate between very pale and slightly tanned. Its professional finish and the seamless way it complemented my complexion make it a standout choice for me when it comes to achieving a natural look.

Best with SPF: Supergoop! 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder SPF 35

The Supergoop! 100% Mineral (Re)setting Powder SPF 35 stands out as the top pick for the best setting powder with SPF. Its dual-purpose design seamlessly combines makeup setting capabilities with a reliable SPF 35, which offers us a convenient solution for both sun protection and long-lasting, flawless makeup.

Integrating this powder into my routine was the easiest game-changer ever. I love a good 2-in-1, and since this one combines my love for a flawless (yet effortless) makeup finish with the sun protection I need, it’s always in my bag. I love the attached brush and that the powder comes up out of the bristles, so there’s never any mess. Just make sure to pull the clear brush protector up before putting the lid on to avoid any bristle splitting.

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