Powder Before Foundation Makeup Technique | Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve been on TikTok recently you may have seen tutorials of people applying setting powder before foundation. This trend is making a strong comeback and there is much debate on social media about who started it. Jackie Aina and a few other artists have been using this technique for years but for some reason I totally missed it.

Applying translucent powder before foundation is supposed to prolong makeup, minimize pores and prevent creasing, streaks and smears so your skin looks flawless all day.

Step 1:

Start by washing and drying your face so you have a fresh canvass to work on.

Apply serum and moisturizer on clean skin and let it absorb while doing your brows. Currently I am using Biotherm’s Life Plankton Elixir ($90.00) and I rotate between Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream ($38.00), It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream ($62.00) and Kiehl's Multi-Action Cream SPF 30 ($85.00).

Makeup Tip: Many tutorials will instruct you to apply eyeshadow first but don’t. It is much easier to clean up fallout on bare skin and you won’t mess up your foundation. Always use a good base to prolong wear and enhance vibrancy. Currently I am using the NYX Pigment Primer ($9.00) and Glitter Primer ($8.00) to keep my shadow in place and prevent lid to crease transfer.

Step 2:

Apply face primer to smooth skin texture, blur pores and camouflage imperfections. Urban Decay’s Longwear Foundation Grip ($42.00) goes on sheer, lightweight and hydrating with a supple finish that bonds makeup to skin for less transfer and smudging. I love the way it corrects and creates a silky, even surface.

I usually let the primer set for a minute or two before moving onto the next step.

Step 3:

Instead of applying foundation like you normally would, use loose translucent powder. My favorite is Make Up For Ever’s Ultra HD ($48.00) because it smooths, blurs and perfects like no other.

Pat the powder on lightly and focus on your t-zone to reduce shine and create a natural finish. If you use too much your face might end up looking cakey or grey, especially in flash photography.

Step 4:

Apply foundation. I am currently using NYX Born To Glow ($14.00) with the original Beauty Blender. A few of my favorite liquid formulas include: MAC Studio Fix Fluid ($36.00), Make Up For Ever Matte Velvet Skin ($50.00), Stila Hide and Chic Fluid Foundation ($51.00) and It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Oil Free Matte with SPF 40 ($52.00).

Since the translucent powder absorbs oil and minimizes pores, you may notice that your skin appears matte, smooth and even. I didn’t have to use as much foundation and the finish was flawless!

Step 5:

Apply concealer if necessary. My favorites are: Rodial Heavy Duty Foundation Paste ($45.00), MAC Prolongwear Concealer ($29.99), NYX Can't Stop Won't Stop Contour Concealer ($12.00) and Vasanti Liquid VO2 Color Correcting Concealer ($27.00).

Step 6:

Apply blush and bronzer/contour if you like and set foundation with a light dusting of powder. Don’t overdo it or you might look cakey.

My favorite is MAC’s Studio Fix Prolongwear Powder in NC 45 ($36.00). It is the same shade as my MAC foundation and provides light to medium coverage.

Step 7:

Apply highlighter and mist with setting spray.

For oily skin I recommend Urban Decay’s All Nighter Ultra Matte Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray ($45.00) with temperature control technology. This stuff sucks up excess oil like a sponge and holds foundation in place for up to 16 hours with no stickiness or shine.

The spray tends to leave a few droplets on my skin so sometimes I mist it on a flat powder brush and pat it on evenly. Make sure to focus on your t-zone where oil tends to accumulate.

If you have normal, combination or dry skin, try the original All Nighter Spray. It prevents fading, cracking and creasing without the ultra matte finish.

Results:

I love how even and clear my skin looks using this method. My pores seem invisible and my foundation looks seamless and fresh all day!  

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge Review

Over the last few years sponge applicators have become increasingly popular. At first I didn't buy into the sponge obsession that flooded the beauty market, especially since the concept wasn't  new, but then I found the Miracle Complexion Sponge by Real Techniques. Many people have compared this sponge to the popular Beauty Blender but the design and texture is more efficient for my application needs.

The most popular way to use the sponge is to dampen it. I do this by holding it under running water and then squeezing out the excess. Since the Complexion Sponge is very absorbent I also blot it into a towel or paper towel before use. The sponge should be slightly damp but not soaking; it should not smear or apply makeup with a messy wet finish. Once damp the sponge does expand in size, I recommend allowing it to air dry after use and cleaning it often to prevent the growth of bacteria. Using the sponge dry also works quite well. 

Unlike traditional makeup sponges this one has a tapered egg shaped end and one slanted flat end. Both sides work well for full face application and around the eyes and nose. I prefer the flat side because it covers more surface and blends evenly. To apply liquid makeup use quick dabbing or stippling motions and avoid swiping or streaking. The sponge applies liquids and creams efficiently and I found the dabbing method easy and less time consuming.

I like that the sponge does not absorb too much makeup but I found that applying foundation directly to the face and then blending absorbs even less. Compared to some of my brushes, the sponge does tend to provide lighter coverage but with some work full coverage can be achieved.

I primarily use this product to apply BB creams, primers and base formulas and it does get the job done! If you are interested in trying a beauty sponge this one is good.

The Miracle Complexion Sponge retails for $9.99 and you can find it HERE and at select retailers.

**Disclaimer: This product was provided for review. 

ecoTools Skin Perfecting Brush Review

When applying liquid makeup such as foundation, BB cream or concealer I usually opt for a great brush. I prefer a flawless finish because it makes my skin appear healthy and smooth. To achieve even skin you need to begin with the right tools and that’s where the Skin Perfecting brush comes in handy.

This brush is cruelty-free, made with recycled materials and a sturdy bamboo handle. Like most of the makeup brushes from ecoTools this one is well crafted and the quality is fantastic. The bristles of the brush are ideal for smooth, even application of BB and CC creams, tinted moisturizers and foundation. Unlike some brushes or sponges that merely smear product around on the surface of skin, these bristles are firm, dense and fine which allows them to get right into the grooves and unique texture of the skin. The brush is simple to use and ideal for depositing liquids consistently.

I also like that the tapered shape is efficient for product placement around the eyes and nose. To achieve a smooth, even finish I recommend using small dabbing motions to gently stipple product into the skin. This method may take a bit longer than buffing but it is my favorite streak-free way to apply liquid makeup for beautiful, airbrushed results!

Although the brush is rather stiff, I think the texture and pliability is what makes it work as well as it does and on my sensitive skin it is gentle enough for everyday use. There is also minimal to no shedding.

You can purchase this brush online HERE for $9.99 

**Disclaimer: These products were provided for review. All opinions stated in this review are my own and based on my experience with the products. Results may vary based on individual use.**