Powder Foundation vs. Liquid
There are many different types of foundations on the market. Should you choose powder or liquid? These are two common forms of foundation and they each have their own specific benefits. However, it can be complicated when it comes to picking the one that best suits your skin.
The right foundation for you depends on your skin type and personal preference. They each offer different levels of coverage and distinct finishes. You can read reviews and look at swatches all day but still be confused about the foundation you should buy. We are going to go over the pros and cons of both formulations and try to help you decide which one is the best option for you.
What Is Powder Foundation?
As the name suggests, powder foundation is a dry, pigmented, and mineral-based product. This foundation is available in two forms: pressed powder and loose powder. It is totally up to you whatever formulation you choose.
Powder foundation is ideal for people who want a lightweight finish. A powder formulation will give you some coverage and a natural makeup look. It allows your skin to breathe and feels weightless since it's powder. It can give you a natural yet improved skin appearance.
This type of foundation works well for people with oily skin. The powder can absorb excess oil and won't look too dry on the skin, keeping people that are prone to shininess matte all day. If you struggle with oiliness or are wearing foundation outside on a hot summer day, the powder formulas can be a good option for you. Since it uses all dry ingredients, it won't melt off your face when you start sweating.
Powder foundation is also popular among people who lean towards natural beauty products. There are many different mineral powder foundations available with natural ingredients, like vitamin E.
However, if you struggle with dry or combination skin, powder foundation may not be the best option. The powder formula can stick to dry patches on your face. It can end up drawing more attention to your flaky skin, and that's not ideal. Plus, powder formulas don't offer any hydration parched skin needs.
How To Apply Powder Foundation
If powder foundation seems like the best option for you, let's go over how you can apply it to get a great makeup look.
Before reaching for your foundation, you have to prep your skin. Start out with a gentle cleanser and toner to remove any dirt and oil on your face. Next, apply a moisturizer to hydrate your skin and provide a smooth base.
When applying a powder foundation, though, you need to wait for your moisturizer to completely absorb into your skin before foundation. If you try to apply powder before the moisturizer has a chance to dry, it can create patchiness and an uneven finish.
Next, it's time for foundation. You can use a brush or a makeup sponge, but a brush is usually the best option for a non-cakey finish. Select a brush made for powder foundation and then swirl it in the product. Tap off any excess powder, and then begin buffing it onto your face using circular motions.
For maximum coverage, blend from your t-zone outward. Make sure you blend the foundation onto your jawline and neck to avoid a makeup line. Once you have a finish you're happy with, then you're done!
What Is Liquid Foundation?
Liquid foundation is commonly a water or silicone-based product. Sometimes it can be a combination of the two. This formulation is meant to be able to blend into your skin effortlessly.
Liquid foundation can be highly pigmented, allowing it to cover imperfections and give you flawless-looking skin. You can choose the level of coverage by sheering out the product or building it up for full coverage.
These formulations are the most versatile as well because they can come with other benefits, like SPF, moisturizer, or hyaluronic acid. You can also easily mix liquid foundations together to create a customized shade.
Unlike powder foundation, liquid formulations can work for any skin type. If you have oily skin, you just have to look for an oil-free product, like HIDE Premium Foundation. Formulations with oil can make your skin even oilier, which can lead to skin issues like breakouts.
You can also choose between a variety of different finishes. There are matte, dewy, and luminous finishes. Matte foundations are ideal for people with oily skin, and dewy finishes can work well for people with dry skin. Meanwhile, a luminous finish is lightweight and is a mix of the two.
HIDE foundation has a semi-matte finish that can work for any skin type. It is medium to full coverage but still is breathable and feels lightweight. This liquid foundation will last all day and won't slide off your face even on the hottest days.
How To Apply Liquid Foundation
There are various different techniques for applying liquid foundation. You can use a makeup sponge, brush, or even your fingers. Let's go over some of the ways you can apply this type of foundation to get a flawless finish.
First, no matter what tool you use to apply foundation, you still need to prepare your skin. Just like applying powder formulas, cleanse and moisturize your face. You don't need to use a toner unless you feel like you have a lot of excess oil on your skin.
Applying Foundation With a Makeup Sponge
Makeup sponges are an excellent tool to help you get that airbrushed complexion. When using a sponge, it is important to get it wet first. You have to soak it in water and then squeeze out the excess liquid. The water will make the sponge soft and flexible and will also prevent it from soaking up too much product.
Next, apply dots of liquid foundation to your face, or pump some out on the back of your hand. Take your sponge and use it to dab the foundation out over your face. Continue to blend until you have an even complexion. The sponge will allow you to build up coverage while still keeping your skin looking like skin.
Applying Foundation With a Brush
There are many different foundation brushes to choose from but opt for one with synthetic bristles. Natural bristles can absorb more product, which isn't ideal. However, synthetic bristles won't soak up the product, keeping it on your face where it belongs.
Use the brush of your choosing to buff your foundation out in an even layer over your face. Make sure to bring the foundation down your neck and don't rub it in, as this will cause streaking.
What Type of Foundation Should You Use?
So what foundation is right for you? Powder or liquid? You need to pick the formulation that you think will fit your skin type. Here are a few things to think about before you make your final decision.
Consider Your Skin Type
The two formulas fit different skin types. Powder foundation is a good option for people with oily or combination skin. This type of formulation can manage excess oil since it is made with all dry ingredients.
However, powder foundation can settle into fine lines and wrinkles. It also isn't ideal if you have dry skin since it doesn't offer any hydrating benefits. This type of foundation doesn't work for everyone. Liquid foundation, on the other hand, can work with any skin type. It’s especially beneficial for those with normal to dry skin since it is the most moisturizing. This formulation can also be blended out easily and can look like a second skin.
Choose Your Coverage
The next thing you have to consider is the amount of coverage you're looking for in a foundation. Generally, powder foundations give a sheerer level of coverage. Some powders are buildable and can offer more coverage.
However, go with a liquid foundation if you really want to hide your imperfections, from blemishes to scars. This formulation can offer a full coverage look without looking too cakey.
Select Your Finish
You can get a matte finish with both a powder or a liquid foundation. However, if you want a dewy or luminous finish, you can only get that from a liquid foundation. Even if you have a matte or semi-matte liquid foundation, you can adjust the finish by mixing in an illuminator. This versatility isn't something you have with a powder foundation.
In Summary
Choosing between a powder or liquid foundation can be simpler than you think once your break it all down. Unless you want a matte finish that you can't adjust, you're likely better going with a liquid foundation.
A liquid foundation works with every skin type and comes in a variety of different finishes. This formulation is more buildable than powder. However, it all comes down to your personal preference. HIDE foundation is an excellent option if you choose to go with a liquid formulation.
Sources:
All About Vitamin E: Benefits, RDA, and More | Healthline
Skin Types and Care: Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive | Web MD