Makeup / Make-up

Powder vs. Liquid Foundation: Which Is Best?

foundation

It's Official: Skin Is In And A Perfect Complexion Is The Ultimate Goal

When choosing a new foundation, one of the first questions you’ll be faced with is: what foundation formulas should I use? Should I use a liquid or powder foundation? There's a lot of debate over whether powder or liquid foundation is better. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Liquid and powder foundations are the two most popular formulas so due to this, they are often set against each other as to which one is better.

People usually keep to what they know in the makeup world, and liquid foundations are definitely the front runner, but would you be better off using something different?

Here we will break down and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each formula and why one may suit you more than the another.

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Which One Is Better?

The question of which one is better really depends on your own expectations, personal preference, and skin type. It's a personal choice but learning more about the differences between liquid vs powder and how they work will help you make an informed decision on what the best fit for you is.

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Powder Foundation

Powder foundations tend to experience a bad reputation for being cakey and overly drying but this isn't at all true. Formulas have come a long way over the years and developed way beyond what people used to think of them. Powder foundation has become so finely milled that its soft texture blends into the complexion like butter.

Powder foundation is super buildable and highly pigmented offering a buildable light to medium coverage but some powder foundations such as Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Base Mineral Foundation SPF 20 can also offer full coverage. They provide shine-free wear all day long and you can guarantee that every formula is oil-free if excess oil is a concern for you.

You may prefer powder if you have acne-prone skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, sweat easily or prefer lightweight makeup and or a matte finish.

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Liquid Foundation

The majority of people start their makeup journey with liquid formulas. This is probably due to the fact that they are more readily available and can be more versatile but this doesn't mean that they are necessarily the right option for you.

Liquid foundation tends to be a makeup artists go-to as they are more versatile seeing as you can build coverage with ease, build your perfect shade by blending various colours together and mix with skincare to create alternative finishes. Most liquid foundations tend to be more hydrating keeping dry skin, flakiness, and dry patches at bay for a seamless blend. We love Jane Iredale Liquid A Minerals for a flawless result.

Liquid foundation can be a great option for those with rosacea who suffer from texture as it provides a smooth finish whereas powder foundation can sometimes make rosacea skin types look more pronounced. Liquid foundation is usually favoured for very mature skin too as powder foundation can settle if you have deep fine lines.

A liquid formula is a great all-rounder for everyone but is highly recommended for dry skin types, rosacea, mature skin, or those seeking a hydrating base.

You can find the best foundation for your skin type here.

What Do You Prefer?

So, which is the right formula for you? Powder or liquid foundation? In the end, it’s your personal preference. Both have their own unique benefits and downsides. If you want a natural finish or something suitable for oily skin, then powder foundation is ideal. However, if you want something that will suit dry skin to give you a dewy finish then a liquid foundation may be your best choice.

Whichever type of foundation you decide to choose from, make sure to take the time to find one that matches your skin tone and type perfectly.

If you need some further help regarding foundations, finding the correct shade, or this article, feel free to ask us! All the products featured above are available to purchase at Dermacare Direct with free tracked delivery via Royal Mail. We can help with our expert advice and top tips making your makeup shopping stress-free. You can contact us by live chat, email via [email protected], or pick up the phone now and call us on phone number 0116 251 4848 to speak directly with a friendly advisor.

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Andrea Patel Dermatology Nurse Practitioner & Director Author
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