How to Use Loose vs. Pressed Powders at Home and on the Go

What Is Loose Powder?

According to Ventre, loose powder has a few key differences from its pressed powder counterpart. “Loose powder is a finely milled, weightless formula typically used to set makeup and control shine,” she explains. It’s usually packaged in a jar with a built-in sifter, so you can keep control of the product without it spilling out everywhere. “It can be either translucent or tinted,” she adds. “Because of its ultra-light texture, it’s ideal for creating a smooth, poreless finish without adding bulk or texture to the skin.

We love the LAURA MERCIER Transulscent Loose Setting Powder, which Ventre calls “a cult classic for a reason.” She loves that it “delivers a soft-focus effect that blurs imperfections while locking everything in place, with no flashback in photos.”

When to Use Loose Powder

If you want to be photo-ready, Ventre says to reach for a loose powder. Think: big events like wedding days, parties, and even red carpet events (hey, if it’s good enough for a celeb, it’s good enough for us). Ventre made it simple with this breakdown. Use loose powder when you are

• Setting foundation or concealer for long wear

• Baking under the eyes or the T-zone for crease prevention

• Blurring texture or fine lines

• Needing a matte finish for your oily or combo skin 

 How to Apply Loose Powder

If you don’t already own a powder puff, grab one now. But we’re not talking about your mother’s circular puff that sprinkled powder all over the vanity counter. We love the LUNA MAGIC Powder Puff Duo that has a finger slip on one side so you can apply the loose powder exactly where you want it. 

Use your puff “to press loose powder into the skin—especially under the eyes, around the nose, and in the T-zone,” explains Ventre. “The puff presses product into the foundation, locking everything in place while minimizing texture and shine.” From there, she says you can use a large, fluffy brush to wipe any excess or lingering powder away. 

Ventre offers this pro tip: “Warm the powder by rubbing it into the puff with your hand before applying. This helps it melt seamlessly into the skin for a non-cakey, ultra-blurred result.”

What Is Pressed Powder?

According to Ventre, pressed powder is just loose powder that’s been compressed into a solid form. Simple enough, right? “It often contains binding agents and may offer a touch more coverage than loose formulas,” she adds. “It’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups and finishing steps.”

When to Use Pressed Powder

Ventre notes that if you already have dry skin and find loose powder a little too mattifying, you might want to reach for a pressed powder. She makes it simple with this checklist:

• Use pressed powder for touchups throughout the day 

• Use it for a hint of coverage when applied over a light base or bare skin

• Pack it in travel or makeup bags, thanks to its mess-free design

How to Apply Pressed Powder

Usually, pressed powders will come with their own sponge or puff applicator, but you can certainly use your own if there’s one you prefer. If you need help finding an applicator, Ventre suggests thinking “compact” and/or “dense” so you can control the coverage. “For a more natural finish, swirl with a domed powder brush and apply in light layers,” she says. “Remember: Always press, don’t swipe—especially when blotting mid-day.”

Ventre loves the MAC COSMETICS Studio Fix Powder Foundation, which she says gives a “flawless finish.”

Loose Powder vs. Pressed Powder

It turns out, these two products are pretty similar in formula, and mostly vary by design and packaging. “Think of loose powder as your stay-all-day product and pressed powder as your refresh-on-the-go hero,” says Ventre. She suggests keeping a jar of loose powder to set your makeup look at home, and taking your pressed powder with you on the go to do touch-ups throughout the day. 

Final Thoughts

Keeping both loose and pressed powders in your makeup kit is your best bet, especially if you’re looking for ways to keep your makeup lasting all day. “Whether you’re a bride, a beauty lover, or backstage at Fashion Week, mastering these two formulas is one of the most powerful ways to elevate your artistry—and your confidence,” says Ventre.