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What Is Translucent Powder?

J. Gonzalez
J. Gonzalez

Translucent powder is a colorless powder that can be found in one of two ways: pressed or loose. It can be worn on its own, but it typically is used on top of foundation to complete a makeup routine. This powder has been in the makeup industry for years, and although it is not enough to transform a look on its own, many people believe that a beauty routine would not be complete without it. Makeup, especially translucent powder, has many uses in the world of cosmetics.

When applying translucent powder, one must be sure to choose the correct powder variation. This type of powder has a sheer and colorless finish, and it comes in light, medium and dark varieties to best match the skin's natural complexion. After applying a liquid foundation, one should apply the translucent powder over the foundation by using a makeup powder brush or the poof that is supplied within the powder container. The powder is meant to be applied lightly to simply set and finish the look.

Some translucent face powders are designed to counter oiliness or redness.
Some translucent face powders are designed to counter oiliness or redness.

People with all skin tones can wear powder, but for an uneven skin tone, translucent powder works wonders. Applying the translucent powder over the makeup will help to fill in and provide even texture and color to the facial skin. One can achieve this look with or without the use of a foundation, although foundation is recommended for use as a base underneath the loose or pressed powder.

People with all skin tones can wear translucent powder.
People with all skin tones can wear translucent powder.

The sun’s rays beating down during the daytime can become brutal on the skin. Many companies that make translucent powder have created variations with a sun protector built in. Sun protection factor (SPF) powders are applied in the same way as non-SPF powder, but wearing this powder will protect the skin from damage and the premature aging that is caused by exposure to the sun. Again, foundation is not necessary, but when used along with an SPF powder, it provides extra protection for the skin.

Translucent powder is considered especially effective for those with uneven skin tone.
Translucent powder is considered especially effective for those with uneven skin tone.

During the hotter months of the year, one might look for lighter makeup coverage by omitting the foundation. Pigmented powders work because they are meant to be worn as the base and powder all in one. Unlike the colorless powders, pigmented powders provide a lighter, full coverage without the feeling of having makeup caked on during the summertime. Powder also works to eliminate oil and shine that builds up on the face. With this powder, one can achieve the same fresh look as being fully made up.

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

@ocelot60- I use translucent powder on my face and I think that it is the best! While it helps to make your complexion look better, it also lets your natural skin tones show through for a healthy glow. I also like that it is not as heavy as colored powders, which makes it feel lighter on the face. I suggest that you give translucent powder a try, because I think that you will like it much better than what you are using now.

Heavanet

@ocelot60- I use to use a beige pressed powder on my face to set my foundation, but was never happy with it. I found that it would frequently clump around my nose and in fine lines on my face, especially on hot, humid days. Because of these issues, I decided to give translucent powder a try, and I love it!

From my experience, translucent face powder doesn't clump or cake, and looks very natural. It also keeps foundation in place without looking too heavy. Another benefit of using it is that helps to conceal small imperfections like redness and blemishes.

If you decide to switch to translucent powder, you should choose one in medium based on your complexion. If you apply it over foundation or concealer, you will get the best coverage, plus your makeup will stay in place all day long. I think you will be very happy with the results.

Ocelot60

I have always used a face powder that has color to match my medium skin tone. After reading this article though, I'm thinking about trying translucent powder. Can anyone who has also switched from colored face powder to translucent powder tell me if they prefer it and if so, why is it better?

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    • Some translucent face powders are designed to counter oiliness or redness.
      By: armina
      Some translucent face powders are designed to counter oiliness or redness.
    • People with all skin tones can wear translucent powder.
      By: micromonkey
      People with all skin tones can wear translucent powder.
    • Translucent powder is considered especially effective for those with uneven skin tone.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      Translucent powder is considered especially effective for those with uneven skin tone.
    • Failure to properly remove translucent powder may result in clogged pores and acne.
      By: Doruk Sikman
      Failure to properly remove translucent powder may result in clogged pores and acne.
    • Many translucent powders have a built-in sun protector to help prevent negative side effects from sun exposure.
      By: Liv Friis-larsen
      Many translucent powders have a built-in sun protector to help prevent negative side effects from sun exposure.
    • Translucent powder can be worn on top of foundation.
      By: Tanouchka
      Translucent powder can be worn on top of foundation.